Morning Roundup (7/22/21) — Mortgage Applications and Building Permits Down

Good Morning! Today is Thursday, July 22. Democrats and Republicans are clashing on Capitol Hill over the Jan. 6 Capitol Riot congressional commission. Some experts are urging widespread mask usage once more amid a modest spike in COVID cases. The wildfires in the western U.S. are so large that smoke from them has reached New York City. Netflix lost nearly half a million subscribers over the last quarter. 

And in mortgage and housing news…

Mortgage Applications Down From Last Week: The Mortgage Bankers Association says mortgage applications dropped four percent from last week.

…And From Last Year: The number of buyers filing new home purchase mortgage applications decreased by nearly 25% last month compared to last year.

Building Permits Dip: The number of building permits requested by contractors dipped by five percent last month amid still-tight stock throughout the country.

Rules for Building: Some municipalities are struggling to address zoning codes that artificially depress housing stock.

A New Homebuying Tool for Shoppers: Customers at warehouse shopping chain BJ’s Wholesale will have access to a new suite of mortgage and moving tools from service firm SIRVA, Inc. 

Want to Rent? Go West: The top five most rent-friendly cities in the country are all located in midwestern states.

Analysis: As the Pandemic Recedes, Is Buyer’s Remorse on the Rise?

Take a Dip: Buyers of an old Bellefonte, Pa. mill should be prepared to deal with the “creepy” pool in the basement.