Interest rates on the rise... move fast!

Are you considering a home purchase? A refinance? The time is NOW. Why? Read THIS ARTICLE noting that rates are rising but also take into account that it is widely accepted that the FED will raise short-term rates this summer. Sure, those rates actually have nothing to do with Long-term (e.g. mortgage) rates BUT it will still affect the marketplace. If they do raise the "Federal Funds Rate" expect to see car loan interest rates to go up as well as 2nd Mortgage (HELOC) rates, which are based on the Prime rate AND don't forget credit card rates will likewise rise. SO as noted, while the Prime rate may have 'no affect' on mortgage rates, the factors allowing people to AFFORD a mortgage will definitely be affected (okay, if they don't have ANY car loans or ANY credit card debt or ANY other interest rate affected items, then you are correct, I am wrong ; )

In sum-if you want to buy a house or refinance, do it NOW and definitely before August 1st when the world ends, thanks to dear old blubbering Barney Frank. Cheers!

Most/Least expensive vehicles to insure

Interesting article on what vehicles to consider (or not) as it relates to cost to insure. To be honest, however, if I could actually afford a Porsche 911 Turbo, I would hope that I could afford the insurance on it... (well, until I got several speeding tickets!). Cheers, Bo