Ratings Proliferate For Green Buyers

November 8th, 2007
What's in a certified 'green' home? Standards aim to help homes stand out, but buyers may not appreciate low-flow toilets as much as granite countertops.

A Week in Maui? Incentives in Minneapolis

November 8th, 2007
Listing agents hope these perks will lure buyers -- a look at three homes for sale near the city.

Futons Not Just For Dorms Anymore

November 8th, 2007
We try out the latest models -- and they are a lot fancier than what you had in your dorm room.

Dump This House: Unloading Your Property in a Slow Market

November 7th, 2007
Sellers are loath to cut their asking price even as the number of unsold homes remains high. Jonathan Clements on why many homeowners would be smart to slash their price and go for the quick sale.

House Panel Clears Bill On Mortgage Lending

November 7th, 2007
The House Financial Services Committee passed a measure that requires lenders to consider a borrower's ability to repay an adjustable-rate mortgage even after payments reset higher than introductory rates.

Mistakes Anxious Sellers Make, Getting More From Your Agent

November 6th, 2007
In this week's survey of news from across the Web Open House looks at what homeowners should and shouldn't do to increase the odds of selling, good and bad news for Phoenix's housing market and rising rents in Diego after the blaze.

Banks Hit Borrowers With Stricter Rules

November 6th, 2007
About 40% of lenders said in October that they've tightened terms for prime mortgages for people with the best credit records.

Interest Rates Defy Fed’s Recent Cuts

November 6th, 2007
The credit-market crunch has kept yields relatively high on savings, while some home-equity and other loans remain pricey.

Homeowner Looks to Slash Costs As Teardown Costs Double

November 5th, 2007
Columnist Nancy Keates planned to replace her aging cottage with a custom-built home for about $800,000, but now faces a $1.6 million bill. She examines her expenditures with the hopes of cutting the price.

Borrowers Find Help Only After Falling Behind on Mortgages

November 5th, 2007
Consumers seeking financial relief are receiving assistance only after missing loan payments. But defaulting brings all kinds of headaches.