The Federal Reserve held key interest rates at 4.25%-4.5% despite Trump’s calls for immediate cuts.Inflation remains at 2.9%, with steady job growth and strong consumer spending supporting the economy.The Fed’s next policy meeting is scheduled for March 18-19, 2025.
A bill in Utah aims to address the impact of investors on first-time homebuyers by requiring buyers of single-family homes in Salt Lake County to sign an affidavit stating their intent to live in the home for at least a year if purchased within the first 30 days on the market. While supporters argue it could increase home ownership, opponents express concerns about disrupting the real estate market and potential violations of fair housing laws. The bill was held in committee after mixed feedback from lawmakers and the public.
A first-time home buyer hasn’t owned a primary residence in the past three years.
Renters, even those with no prior homeownership, qualify for first-time buyer assistance programs.
International Women's Day, also known as IWD for short, grew out of the labour movement to become a recognized annual event by the UN.It all started in 1908 when 15K women marched through NYC demanding shorter working hours, better pay and the right to vote.
Things were made official in 1975 when the United Nations started celebrating the day.
International Women's Day has become a date to celebrate how far women have come in society, in politics and economics.
While the political roots of the day mean, strikes and protests are organized to raise awareness of continued inequality.
As 2025 approaches, many are exploring the best states for homeownership in the U.S. Key contenders include Iowa, known for its low cost of living and stable housing market; Indiana, offering affordability and a blend of urban and rural living; and Utah, with a strong job market and beautiful scenery. Other notable states are New Hampshire, Nebraska, Minnesota, Idaho, Vermont, Washington, and Florida, each presenting unique advantages like safety, community, and investment potential. Thorough research is essential for prospective buyers.
Purpose: A whole life insurance policy providing $2,000–$35,000 in coverage to cover funeral and end-of-life costs.
Eligibility: Requires no medical exams; approval based on answering basic health questions, making it accessible for most individuals.
Mortgage rates may stay elevated at 6-7% due to inflation and monetary policy.
Proposed tax changes could boost homeownership through mortgage deductions and capital gains adjustments.
Utah lawmakers are struggling to tackle the state's housing affordability crisis, as recent bills promoting smaller housing types have stalled. HB88 and HB90, which proposed mandatory accessory dwelling units and smaller lot sizes, faced local government resistance over control issues. Lawmakers prefer incremental changes and partnerships with local leaders. Critics fear these mandates could disrupt local planning, while supporters argue they're essential for boosting housing supply and affordability.
A Utah House committee did not vote on two housing bills, HB 88 and HB 90, aimed at addressing the state's housing shortage, despite support from the governor's office. HB 88 would allow detached accessory dwelling units in urban residential zones, while HB 90 would permit single-family homes on smaller lots. The bills faced opposition from the Utah League of Cities and Towns, which argued they would undermine local land authority. Utah's housing shortfall continues to grow, with a need for 153,000 new units by 2030.