Maybe you spent some of the best years of your life in a college town, but living there long-term can present some challenges. U.S News and World Report has some points to consider before you make a decision. More, here.

 

Housing starts have rebounded to their second-highest rate since the recession. Overall starts are 5.6% higher when compared to a year ago. Also, the National Association of Home Builders said builder sentiment rose slightly in August. More, here.

 

Mortgage rates have risen slightly, but are still historically low. Sean Becketti, chief economist at Freddie Mac, said “A surprisingly strong July jobs report showed 255,000 jobs added and 0.3 percent wage growth from last month, exceeding many experts’ expectations.” More, here.

 

Jack M. Guttentag, Professor of Finance Emeritus at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, has a piece on The Huffington Post offering tips on paying off a 30-year loan within 15 years. More, here.

 

Laura Kusisto writing for the Wall Street Journal explores the current challenges with home financing. Rentals are up, and there are a number of reasons why a portion of the middle class can’t qualify to buy a house. More, here.

 

Brena Swanson has shared an infographic on HousingWire showing phone usage statistics, and reiterating the importance of being mobile friendly in real estate. More, here.

 

ABC News shared 5 questions to ask yourself when considering refinancing. It’s mostly common sense, but always good to have a refresher. More, here.

 

National Mortgage News has a piece on down-payment assistance programs. The article features Jeb Hensarling, the House Financial Services Committee Chairman, among others criticizing the current state of affairs. More, here.

 

The Seattle Times has an informative piece on the pros and cons of setting up an escrow account, here.

 

CBS News has some ideas for first-time homebuyers to overcome obstacles when it comes to financing. More, here.