Mortgage News
Rates are creeping up, but the feds have 3 rate drops scheduled for this year. This is most likely due to the anticipation of economic data that will be released this week, reviewing the first quarter of 2024.
How we go forward will depend on what is stated on those data sheets. At least we can be thankful that the feds met last week and didn't make any changes to the plan!
My top 5 things to do in April!
1. April 5th - John Ball Zoo presents, Crafts and Critters: A Time of Ecological Exploration . The John Ball Zoo will bring animals to Cascade as they host meet and greet stations that allow visitors to learn about live zoo animals and wildlife conservation. Craft stations focused on ecology and nature exploration will be featured throughout the library, encouraging families to explore their local environment.
2. April 8th - The Solar Eclipse! West Michigan will experience the eclipse between 2:11 - 3:45 pm. To safely view, here are some tips.
3. April 13-14 - Michigan Alpaca Fest. Free to the public at Allegan Fairgrounds (no dogs allowed). Alpaca Farms from all around the Midwest will be bringing their best alpacas to compete for top awards. Saturday is the costume competition and obstacle course!
4. John Ball Zoo's Lantern Festival returns April 10th - June 16th! The lantern festival will feature handcrafted Asian lantern displays that will illuminate the Zoo and tell the intersecting story of wildlife and Asian culture.
5. Taste of GR Walking Tour April 11, April 20th - Knowledgeable guides will show you Grand Rapids like you’ve never seen before. Tours highlight 4-6 different eateries where you can taste the food and learn about the restaurants. In between you’ll hear fun facts about the city's art and history leaving the tour pleasantly full and feeling more connected to the city and its culture.
The 'Tea' in Realty
We are setting up for some big changes in the real estate market. While the changes affect buyers AND sellers, it will be the buyers who have the most to lose; namely representation paid for through the life of the loan. While we hope to see a continued spirit of cooperation for buyers and sellers alike, recognizing the benefit of having an experienced agent on both sides of the deal, sellers who opt to withdraw from the commonality of providing a buyer's commission finder fee, currently paid through their agents commission split, may find it difficult to compete with those that wish to cover the commission yet in support of more buyers qualifying and offering on their home. While all of the news surrounding broker commissions is fluid, one thing is not. We are in a severe housing crisis and the president stating the changes will save buyers $10,000 is just not true. If anything, this will likely make home prices soar as buyers find creative ways to build in a commission for representation.