Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.

  • Cities with the fastest-growing home prices in South Carolina

    The real estate market in the U.S. remains competitive, with home values rising despite slowing growth due to increasing mortgage rates. As of December, the typical home value was $358,461, a 2.6% increase from the previous year. In South Carolina, cities like Newberry and Columbia saw significant price increases, with typical home values rising by…

  • Home Renovation Spending to Rise 1.2%

    Home Renovation Spending to Rise 1.2%

    Home Improvement Spending: Spending on home renovations is projected to grow by 1.2% through Q3 2025. Market Growth: New home construction and existing home sales are rising, supporting home improvement demand.

  • 5 Credit Score Myths for First-Time Home Buyers

    5 Credit Score Myths for First-Time Home Buyers

    1: Shopping around dents your credit score. Shopping for mortgage rates won't hurt your credit and can save you thousands. 2: Paying off long-term debt increases credit score. Paying off long-term debt may slightly lower your credit score

  • Happy Lunar New Year

    Happy Lunar New Year

    恭喜發財. Wishing you prosperity. Lunar New Year, is the most important celebration observed in China, with cultural and historic significance.The New Year celebration is centered around removing the bad and the old, and welcoming the new and the good. Traditional activities include reunion dinner, cleaning houses, visiting family members, setting off firecrackers and fireworks, and…

  • 150 townhomes between 2 projects planned in Greenville County

    Two developments for over 150 townhomes are under consideration in Greenville County. A smaller project with 62 units on an 8-acre site near U.S. 123 received no opposition, aligning with local housing plans. In contrast, a larger 90-townhome development on 15 acres near Travelers Rest faced resistance from residents concerned about traffic impacts. Council Chairman…

  • 2026 Interest Rate Forecast: Continued Adjustments

    2026 Interest Rate Forecast: Continued Adjustments

    Federal funds rate projected to fall from 3.7% (Q1) to 3.1% (Q4), marking consistent quarterly reductions. Rate adjustments aim to stabilize the economy, setting the stage for long-term equilibrium.

  • The Best Beach Towns in South Carolina

    South Carolina boasts stunning beach towns with white sand beaches, delicious seafood, and over 2,876 miles of coastline. Popular destinations include Myrtle Beach, known for its attractions, and Hilton Head Island, famous for its luxurious resorts and golf courses. Other notable towns are Pawleys Island, Bluffton, and Folly Beach, each offering unique experiences like historic…

  • Mortgage Refinancing Requirements: Quick Tips

    Mortgage Refinancing Requirements: Quick Tips

    Refinancing replaces your mortgage with a new one, often offering different interest rates or payoff schedules.Reasons to Refinance Lower interest rates. Switch loan type or term. Access equity or remove mortgage insurance.

  • How Rate Cuts Could Fuel Homebuying Competition

    How Rate Cuts Could Fuel Homebuying Competition

    The Fed influences mortgage rates indirectly through its policy on inflation and labor market data. Mortgage rates generally drop with Fed rate cuts, making borrowing cheaper for consumers.

  • Top Tips for Avoiding High Mortgage Rates

    Top Tips for Avoiding High Mortgage Rates

    Feeling trapped by high interest rates? Take charge with these effective strategies to secure better mortgage rates. Review and improve your credit report and score to enhance lender confidence and secure favorable rates.

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