Morning Roundup (7/28/21) — Home Prices Spike, New Opportunities for Veterans

Good Morning! Today is Wednesday, July 28. The House select committee on the Jan. 6 Capitol riot held its first hearing yesterday. The CDC says that even vaccinated people should wear masks indoors if the regional spread of COVID-19 is “substantial.” U.S. olympian Simone Biles generated controversy this week when she pulled out of her team’s gymnastic final prior to its conclusion. San Francisco is considering a “congestion tax” on high-earning drivers.

And in mortgage and housing news…

Home Prices Soar: The average home price in the U.S. soared by nearly 20 percent over the past year, according to the Fair Housing Finance Agency.

When Will Housing Boom End? When mortgage rates rise next year, according to one expert.

Opportunities for Veteran Homeowners: The VA is offering veterans two programs to help with mortgage payments.

Refinancers Ahead? Nearly 80 percent of homeowners did not refinance in the past year, but that may change under current favorable conditions. 

Continued Concerns of COVID resurgence: The “Delta variant” of COVID-19 may be partly responsible for low interest rates.

Important Housing Date Ahead: Check and see if your state has an extended eviction moratorium past the federal deadline. 

Analysis: Governments Scramble to Help Homeowners, Renters Make Payments, Stay in Homes. Will it be Enough?”

Check the Bathroom Before You Sign: In the current cutthroat market, some sellers are making over-the-top demands, including taking their toilets with them.