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August Shows Rise in Mortgage Credit Availability Recent news shows that mortgage credit availability increased in August, moving 0.5 percent to 126.1, which suggests a national loosening of credit. This news comes from the Mortgage Credit Availability Index (MCAI), a study from the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) which reports that the index was benchmarked to 100 in March 2012. Of the four component indices, the Jumbo MCAI saw the greatest loosening (up 0.7 percent over the month) followed by the Conventional MCAI (up 0.5 percent), the Government MCAI (up 0.4 percent), and the Conforming MCAI (up 0.3 percent).

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(BPT) - If you're planning to take on a home improvement project, you're in good company. A recent report by the Joint Center of Housing Studies at Harvard University predicts that the home improvement industry is expected to post record-level spending this year. As you prepare for your renovation, it’s important to review your financing options based on the size of the project, your intended repayment plan and whether you plan to use a contractor or do it yourself.  6 ways to finance a renovation to consider: Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) - A HELOC can provide ongoing access to funds using the equity in your home, which typically results in lower interest rates than unsecured credit. This type of credit may also provide you potential tax benefits. Consult your tax advisor regarding the deductibility of interest. Mortgages with Built-In Renovation Financing - These loans help homeowners complete renovations with a loan amount that is based on an appraiser's estimate of what the property value will be with completed improvements. This is also an option for aspiring homeowners who purchase properties that need repair. Whether a home purchase or a refinance, this option finances the renovations and mortgage in one loan.

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Memorial Day Events- 2015 Fort Lauderdale, Fl This weekend, May 23-25 we celebrate the Memorial Day, a three-day holiday weekend. We will all agree, it is great to have this type of “mini vacation” ahead of us. Most folks plan family outings including traditional barbecues and trips to the glorious beaches of the Atlantic Ocean. It is good to take a break from the hustle of life in South Florida. It is celebration time! But I ask that you take a step back in quiet reflection. What is the true meaning of Memorial Day?

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By Suzanne De Vita Signaling growing confidence in the housing recovery, a majority of Americans once again named real estate the best long-term investment – a trend now continued for two consecutive years, according to a recently released Gallup poll. Real estate edged out long-term investment options like stocks/mutual funds, gold, savings accounts/CDs and bonds, with 31 percent of Americans favoring housing for long-term gains. Twenty-five percent of Americans named stocks/mutual funds as the best investment long-term. Gold dropped from frontrunner in 2011 and 2012 to third, while savings accounts/CDs fell to 15 percent. Bonds dipped to just six percent. The findings represent a significant change in consumer sentiment akin to the ongoing recovery. Notably, more Americans preferred savings accounts/CDs in 2012, as financial security remained critical for many in the wake of the crash.

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The 25th Annual Riverwalk Blues and Music Festival Fort Lauderdale, FL February 14th - 15th Looking for an opportunity to come out with your neighbors and friends and share the passion of the Blues?  Well Saturday, February 14th and Sunday, February 15th, Fort Lauderdale will be hosting their 25th Annual Riverwalk Blues and Music Festival, a little music for the soul!  Presented by Mosher Street Records.

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Blue Moon Fish Company Lauderdale by the Sea, Florida September 12th Looking to try out a new restaurant that the whole family will love? The Blue Moon Fish Company is located in Lauderdale by the Sea at 4405 West Tradewinds Avenue. This restaurant is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday 10:30 am to 10 pm. The restaurant is open a little later on Friday’s and Saturday’s, 10:30 am to 10:30 pm. Blue Moon Fish Company is known for “the freshest seafood by the waterway.” This restaurant is unique, because of its beautiful waterfront view. The Blue Moon Fish Company has been open for over 16 years.