Government + Policy | ProBuilder

Economics

January Was The Best Month For Economic Confidence

Americans were more optimistic than pessimistic about the economy last month. Gallup's U.S. Economic Confidence Index averaged +11 in...

Financing

Tax Deductions That Benefit Homeowners And Recent Buyers

Homeowners can save a few bucks during tax season with two energy-related breaks. The nonbusiness energy property credit provides $500 for...

Sales

First-Time Buyers More Likely To Make Down Payment Of Less Than 20 Percent

A December survey of REALTORS found that 81 percent of first-time buyers who closed a house in Q4 2016 made a down payment of less than 20...

Codes + Standards

Media Seemed To Misread President Trump's Action On Mortgages

Since President Obama's policy had not yet gone into effect, Trump’s action essentially kept the existing policy in place and did not raise rates or mortgage premiums, National Mortgage Professional Magazine says

Economics

Overall Mortgage Volume Falls Last Week

In an uncertain political climate, the mortgage industry took a few hits last week. CNBC reports that mortgage applications fell 3.2...

Codes + Standards

California Legislator Proposes Statewide Solar Mandate For New Buildings

If the proposal were to become law, it would be the first such requirement in U.S. history

Home Technology

Louisville Works To Bring Connected Technology Into Homes

With the goal of becoming a smart city, the local government in Louisville, Ky., is proactively pushing devices and platforms that are part...

Sales

Advocates Push For Home Construction To Alleviate Affordability Woes In California

Between environmental regulations and stubborn local homeowner groups, it’s very difficult to build in California. Skyrocketing house prices...

Sales

Cities Where Homeowners Save The Most On Taxes

You have to spend money to save money. According to SmartAsset, the nation’s most expensive cities offer residents the best homeownership...

Economics

New Jersey Leads The U.S. In Property Taxes

The average annual real estate tax bill in New Jersey is $8,180, which is more than 12 times what the average Alabama homeowner pays each...

Home Builders Institute's Schools to Skills Grant Application Open Through December

As Mortgage Rates Rise, Buyers Lose Purchasing Power

Renters Are Choosing Single-Family Homes for These Features