July 17, 2026

U.S. Mortgage Rates Reach Yearly Peak, Affecting Homebuyers

The average long-term mortgage rate in the U.S. increased this week to its highest level in almost a year, impacting borrowing costs for homebuyers. Freddie Mac reported that the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage rose to 6.55% from 6.49% the previous week. Last year, the rate was 6.75%. Higher mortgage rates mean additional monthly expenses for borrowers, […]

Evanston City Council Approves Controversial Apartment Complex on Emerson Street

The Evanston City Council has approved the construction of a five-story, 30-unit apartment complex on Emerson Street, despite opposition from a nearby historic Black church. The decision to proceed with the project was made through a 5-1 vote by the aldermen on July 13. This approval allows for significant zoning variations to accommodate the development […]

July 16, 2026

Shift in U.S. Housing Market Gives Buyers the Upper Hand

In June, U.S. home prices reached a new peak, impacting sales negatively, yet certain areas are proving advantageous for buyers. Miami, Florida stands out as a prime example, with data from real estate brokerage Redfin showing approximately 140 percent more home sellers than buyers. This high supply gives buyers in Miami the leverage to negotiate […]

July 16, 2026

California Housing Affordability: A Detailed Analysis

California is known for its high-priced housing. From expansive compounds in the hills above Stanford University to beachside properties in Malibu, the state offers diverse options. Yet, in many of California’s elite communities, high prices are not a barrier due to equally high salaries. Conversely, homes in gentrifying urban areas are priced lower. However, these […]

July 13, 2026

Impact of Rent Freezes in New York City

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani recently announced the Rent Guidelines Board’s decision to implement a rent freeze. This move affects many rental properties in the city. While the mayor celebrates this decision, landlord Humberto Lopes raises concerns about its impact on property owners. Lopes sees the rent freeze as a challenge for landlords who […]

July 13, 2026

Making the Most of Gold’s Price Dip

The price of gold has dropped significantly, falling over 25% since earlier this year. As of July 9, gold stands at $4,122 per ounce, down from its peak of $5,589.38 in January. This substantial decrease presents a unique opportunity for those who have found gold previously inaccessible due to high prices. Now is the moment […]

July 7, 2026

Empowering Renters: Understand and Protect Your Rights

In 2019, approximately 36% of America’s 122.8 million households were headed by renters. Whether you’re in a single-family house in a small town or a studio apartment in a bustling high-rise, you might feel disadvantaged as a renter. Lisa Bates, a professor at the Toulan School of Urban Studies and Planning at Portland State University […]

July 6, 2026

Asian Markets Show Mixed Performance Amid Expanded Oil Production by OPEC+

Asian markets exhibited mixed outcomes Monday while U.S. futures increased following the extended Wall Street weekend. Technology share sales impacted benchmarks in Tokyo and Seoul, leading to a decrease in these regions. Oil prices experienced a decline after the announcement by OPEC+ on Sunday. Seven member states intend to elevate oil production by an aggregate […]