Tuesday,
March 19, 2024
Market recap
Dow Jones
38,790.43
+75.66 (+0.20%)
S&P 500
5,149.42
+32.33 (+0.63%)
Nasdaq
16,103.45
+130.27 (+0.82%)
Top Story
A landmark settlement could change the way we buy (and sell) homes
The homebuying process might never be the same again. Last week, the National Association of Realtors settled a class action antitrust lawsuit and agreed to change its broker fee rules. Here’s what that means.
US stocks finished higher on Monday thanks to a rally in tech stocks
• Real estate stocks moved following the National Association of Realtors’ move to change commission standards.
• Homebuilder sentiment turned positive this month for the first time since July 2023 as demand outlook improves.
What to be on the lookout for today
• Building permits and housing starts for February.
• The Federal Reserve’s two-day policy meeting kicks off in Washington.
Spring Cleaning: Giving your home a makeover without breaking the bank
Spring has sprung, and what better moment than the start of a new season to look for a refresh in your home. But as always, we want to do so without breaking the bank.
Declutter: It’s the quintessential spring cleaning activity, and it’s amazing what getting rid of stuff you don’t use or need can do to your space. You might even be able to sell some of the things you want to rid yourself of.
Spruce up the walls: A fresh coat of paint, adding framed photos or art, or simply a few new plants can change the feel of a room with limited cost.
Work with what you have: Maybe it's as simple as rearranging the furniture. If a room flows according to how you’re using it, it can give it a whole new feel. Resources online can help you get to the right floor plan.
Funding bigger renovations: Bigger upgrades, like creating the ultimate chef’s kitchen or finally finishing the basement, are going to come with a different price tag. But loans, including a home equity loan, a home equity line of credit (HELOC) or a home improvement loan, may help you pay for them. Make sure to understand the difference between the loan types and what best fits your situation.
Today’s top stories
Who run the world? Millennial women, according to this studyWorkforce participation among prime-age women hit record highs in several developed economies last year.
Read more >> What are we going to do about Boeing?The premier U.S. plane maker is in a bout of trouble, and some are starting to ask whether nationalizing the manufacturer could be part of the solution. We explain this argument.
Read more >> Can you deduct your home office from your taxes?It’s tax season, and it’s key to know the deductions you qualify for.
Read more >>Other news that caught our eye
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United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby said the airline will step up its safety training, and that recent incidents served as reminders of the importance of safety.
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Cocoa prices surged to a record high of more than $8,000 per metric ton amid weather-related shortages in West Africa, which produces about two-thirds of the global supply.
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Housing costs in Austin, Texas have fallen more than any other U.S. city in recent years due to an oversupply following the pandemic-era real estate boom.
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Minute Media signed a 10-year licensing deal with Sports Illustrated for digital and print rights.
Financial planner tip of the day
“When budgeting for a remodel, it can be helpful to have a dedicated fund for renovation expenses. This can help you streamline your savings approach and portion of the appropriate amount of money so you’re prepared.”
Brian Walsh, CFP® at SoFi