Good Morning! Today is Friday, Aug. 13. The Taliban is sweeping across Afghanistan in the wake of the U.S. troop withdrawal. The FDA has approved a third COVID vaccine shot for vulnerable patients. COVID hospitalizations continue to increase. The U.S. Census showed a decline in white Americans for the first time in the country’s history. A heat wave continues to scorch large parts of the country.
And in mortgage and housing news…
Rates Up: Mortgage rates increased for the first time in nearly two months following promising economic news.
Rocket Offers New Home Services: Rocket Companies is offering a new ‘Homes’ tool that seeks to integrate the buying/selling process.
Getting Ahead of the Crisis: Massachusetts is considering a law that would offer renters more protection before being evicted.
Roots of the Housing Shortage: The 2008-2009 Great Recession may be partly responsible for the current housing shortage.
No Easy Solutions: There are no “magic bullets” to solve the housing crunch, according to one top economist.
Big City Blues: Nearly 100% of metro areas in the U.S. saw double-digit price growth last quarter.
Setback in New York: The Supreme Court has partially struck down a state-level eviction moratorium in New York.
All Aboard: Ever wanted to live in a boxcar? Would you consider paying $1.2 million for the experience?