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Rocket Promises a “Fast 15 Guarantee”
/in SE Michigan /by Tracy WillisRocket Pro TPO launched a program that guarantees financing to close in 15 days. The move is meant to convince brokers to choose them over the rival United Wholesale Mortgage. Called the “Fast 15 Guarantee,” Rocket Pro TPO plans to run the promotion until the end of the month and promises to award a $2,500 lender credit to borrowers whose loan does not close on its promised due date. Government, FHA and VA loads do not apply, and the program isn’t available in 16 states, including New York, Massachusetts and Rhode Island.
U.S. Pending Home Sales Decline
/in National, SE Michigan /by Tracy WillisLimited home inventory is restricting the real estate market, causing U.S. pending home sales to fall 4.1 percent in February for a fourth straight month. With a limited number of properties for sale, home price tags remain elevated. When combined with 30-year fixed mortgage rates at a three-year high, homes are less affordable. The increase in home prices and rising mortgage rates can add up to another $200 to $300 in mortgage payments per month. According to the NAR, these factors have pushed up mortgage payments by 28 percent from February of last year.
Skilled Labor Shortage Complicates Construction Projects
/in Detroit, SE Michigan /by Tracy WillisPrior to the COVID-19 pandemic, there was not enough skilled labor to meet construction demands. That’s even more true now that development has almost returned to pre-pandemic levels in metro Detroit. According to metro Detroit’s largest general contractors, that means less skill on job sites. That, along with continuing supply chain and inflation issues, is causing project managers to scramble to meet demands. The number of Michigan construction workers has rebounded to pre-pandemic levels, but it’s still down almost 20% from 20 years ago. The number is not growing fast enough to meet the increasing demand. It’s anticipated that skill trades will account for 47,000 annual job openings through 2026.