thinkportland

[thinkportland]

As we enter the new year, tax season is upon us.  Did you purchase your first home this year? If so, you'll likely face some changes when filing your taxes this year.

Here are some great sources for tax help: Houselogic.com: 9 Easy Mistakes Homeowners Make on Their Taxes SFGate: First Time Homebuyer's Guide to Taxes Investopia: Credits For First-Time Home Buyers

Doing a little research can save you big bucks!  If you're not sure whether to file your own taxes, or enlist the help of a professional, Dave Ramsey has some tips: Tax Software vs. Tax Pro: Which Is Right for You?

You have until April 15 to file, but it's best to get started early.  If you're due a refund you want it as soon as possible, right? And if you owe money, having a few months to save up the balance is much easier than paying it all at once right before the deadline!

[thinkportland]

2015 Housing Predictions

Is 2015 this the year to buy a home? It just might be.  With employment on the rise, consumer confidence is is almost 20% higher than this time last year.  Combine that with high rents in many markets (including Portland) and younger, first-time buyers have incentives to take the plunge.

Read More: NPR.org: Housing In 2015: Four Reasons For Optimism (And One For Worry) 

[thinkportland]

Interest Rates Fall Again

Freddie Mac is reporting US mortgage rates have fallen again.  The 30-year fixed rate fell to 3.73%, a drop of .13% from last month and a new 20-month low.  This time last year the 30-year fixed rate averaged 4.51%.  The 15-year fixed rate fell to 3.05%, a .08% decline from last month and the lowest seen since May of 2013.

Despite today's report, interest rates are expected to rise this year.

Source: 

[thinkportland]

Security Properties' 4-bldg mixed-use development at N. Williams & N Mason.

Bolstered by increasing rents and a growing population, new apartment and multi-family construction is booming in and around Portland.

http://www.think-portland.com/more-apartments-on-the-way/