Home Prices at 31-Month Peak

January was the fifth straight month of record-setting home prices in the U.S, according to S&P CoreLogic Case-Schiller Indices. The national index rose 5.9 percent in January, hitting its highest point in 31 months. The 20-city index rose 5.7 percent in a three-month period that ended in January, compared to one year ago. In Chicago, January was the eighth consecutive month of price increases that outpaced growth in the prior year. 

Mortgage Rates Remain at Favorable Levels for Buyers

After several months of modest increases, mortgage rates fell for the second consecutive week on March 30^th, getting closer to 4%. The rate on a 30-year fixed rate declined to 4.14 percent from 4.23 percent the previous week. Rates remain favorable for buyers and are at historic lows, compared to the 7-9% range that was common in the 1990’s. 

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices KoenigRubloff Realty Group Ranked #3 in Entire Network

At the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices national convention in Phoenix, Arizona, KoenigRubloff Realty Group was honored as the #3 brokerage firm in the national network and #1 in the Midwest region. Close to 400 KoenigRubloff agents were recognized for their sales accomplishments in 2016. To read more about the awards, please click here.

Deep Clean in Less Than an Hour

As the weather begins to warm up and the new season swings into full force, many are looking to do some spring cleaning! HGTV.com has 11 tips on how to deep clean your home in less than an hour! Suggestions include wiping down your cabinets with vegetable oil and baking soda, refreshing your microwave with vanilla extract, vinegar and lemon juice, and renewing your shower fixtures with vinegar. To read more about deep cleaning, please click here.

Refreshing Your Décor for Spring

Springtime signals a time of brighter colors and blooming greenery, and also a time to refresh the décor of your home! Designs that are comforting during fall and winter may not have the same effect in Spring and Summer. DIY network has 10 ways you can lighten up your home that include interior plants, incorporating the color lilac in fabrics, and setting your table with bold colored table runners and sparking glasses. To read the tips, please click here.

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