Low mortgage rates will push home lending to 12-year high - HousingWire

 

Low mortgage rates will push home lending this year to a 12-year high of $2.07 trillion, the Mortgage Bankers Association said in a forecast.

The volume for mortgages to purchase homes probably will total $1.27 trillion, the highest since the peak of the housing bubble in 2006, according to the group’s Nov. 20 forecast.

Refinancing probably will reach $796 billion, the most since 2016, MBA said.

Mortgage rates unexpectedly tumbled for the first nine months of 2019 as a slowing economy sent investors flocking to bonds. The monthly average rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage dropped to 3.61% in September before rising eight basis points in October, according to Freddie Mac data.

Even at 3.69%, the October rate is more than a percentage point lower than a year earlier.

Sales of existing homes probably will total 5.36 million in 2019, up from 5.34 million last year, the trade group said. New-home sales probably will reach 681,000, up from 615,000 in 2018, MBA said.

The average U.S. rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage likely will remain low at 3.7% in 2019 and 2020, the trade group said. That’s more than a percentage point lower than the 4.8% average in 2018, MBA said.

Home prices probably will gain 4.3% in 2019 from a year earlier, the group said. That’s a slower pace than the 6.1% annual increase in 2018.

MBA bases its home-price forecast on the Federal Housing Finance Agency’s index that measures sales of single-family homes with mortgages backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

The homebuilding industry this year will have the highest output in more than a decade, according to the forecast. Builders probably will break ground on 878,000 new single-family homes, up from 873,000 last year, MBA said. That would be the most since 2007, according to data from the Department of Commerce.

Source: Low mortgage rates will push home lending to 12-year high – HousingWire

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Harvest Festival, Pineapple Festival, holiday events top things to do this weekend

 

These are the best events and things to do in Vero Beach, Stuart, Jensen Beach, Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie.

Indian River County

The 55th annual St. Helen’s Harvest Festival is 5-9:30 p.m. Thursday, 5-11 p.m. Friday, noon to 11 p.m. Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday at the Jackie Robinson Training Complex, formerly Historic Dodgertown, 3901 26th St., Vero Beach. It has carnival rides, games, bingo and hand-crafted gifts. Food options include fried pickles, chicken and beef kabobs, chicken tenders, chicken Parmesan, hamburgers, fries, turkey drums, pulled pork, pizza, Philly cheesesteak sandwiches, cotton candy, fried dough, corn-on-the-cob, fried apple turnovers, tacos, ice cream and homemade soups, as well as sweet tea and soda. Admission is free. Ride tickets are $1.25 each. For more information, call 772-567-5457 or go to facebook.com/shharvestfestival.

The 22nd annual Festival of Trees is 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at Riverside Theatre, 3250 Riverside Park Drive, Vero Beach.Buy Photo

The 22nd annual Festival of Trees is 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at Riverside Theatre, 3250 Riverside Park Drive, Vero Beach. (Photo: LEAH VOSS/TCPALM)

The 22nd annual Festival of Trees is 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at Riverside Theatre, 3250 Riverside Park Drive, Vero Beach. It features decorated trees in the Festival Forest, gingerbread houses, wreaths, vendor booths, arts and crafts, live performances, children’s activities in Santa’s Village and a synthetic ice skating rink for ages 2-11. The rental fee is $3. Socks are required. Family night, which includes free pizza for kids and a DJ dance party, is 4-8 p.m. Saturday. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children. Dine with Santa, which includes admission, is $22 for adults, $18 for children and free for kids younger than 3 for breakfast at 9 a.m. or brunch at noon. Proceeds benefit Children’s Theatre programming and scholarships. For more information, call 772-231-6990 or go to riversidetheatre.com/festival-of-trees.

The 36th annual Vero Beach Fall Boat Show is 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at Riverside Park, 3200 Riverside Park Drive. It features boat dealers and suppliers displaying standup paddleboards, kayaks, deck boats, pontoon boats, shallow-water skiffs, personal watercraft, offshore fishing machines, cruisers, marine accessories, services and nautical items. Admission is free. For more information, call 772-562-7922 or go to verobeachboatshow.com.

The “Frozen 2” VIP Family Event is 1-4 p.m. Saturday at The Majestic 11, 940 14th Lane, Vero Beach. It includes snacks, drinks, raffles, prizes, catered food from Dagwoods Deli & Sub Shop and a private viewing of the new movie. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for children, plus tax. For more information, go to facebook.com/majesticvero.

The third annual Vero Vino Wine & Food Festival is 4-6 p.m. Saturday at The Heritage Center, 2140 14th Ave., Vero Beach. Tickets are $50 and include food, wine, beer, a concert and a keepsake wine glass. Proceeds benefit the Education Foundation of Indian River County. For more information, go to verovinofestival.com.

 

 

Martin County

The 32nd Jensen Beach Pineapple Festival is 6-11 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday in downtown Jensen Beach. It features carnival rides and food along the midway, pineapple-inspired food and drinks from downtown restaurants; a history presentation about the “Pineapple Capital of the World” at Pineapple Jack’s Bistro; live music by local musicians and bands at the Pineapple Field concert venue next to Tako Tiki; pineapple-inspired art on display at downtown galleries and shops; an arts-and-crafts show from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday; a pineapple-eating contest; a Bahamian market; and Junkanoo parades at 8 p.m. Friday, 8:30 p.m. Saturday and 4 p.m. Sunday. Admission is free. One-day wristbands for unlimited carnival rides are $20 for 6-10 p.m. Friday and noon to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. All rides have height restrictions. Road closures include Northeast Jensen Beach Boulevard and Northeast Ricou Terrace from Northeast Pineapple Avenue to Northeast Indian River Drive starting at noon Thursday and reopening by 6 a.m. Monday. For more information, go to pineapplefestival.info.

Laurie’s Stories: Jensen Beach Pineapple Festival is revamped with homegrown theme

The 32nd Jensen Beach Pineapple Festival is 6-11 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday in downtown Jensen Beach.Buy Photo

The 32nd Jensen Beach Pineapple Festival is 6-11 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday in downtown Jensen Beach. (Photo: JEREMIAH WILSON/TCPALM)

The Sunday Funday 3 at 901hub is noon to 7 p.m. Sunday at 901 Johnson Ave., Stuart. It includes live music by eight local musicians and bands, vendors, food trucks, raffles and children’s activities. Admission is free. Donations are accepted. Proceeds benefit the Treasure Coast Autism Project. For more information, go to facebook.com/sundayfundayfl.

The Play Money Pinball Fundraiser is 5-8 p.m. Sunday at 876 S.W. Federal Highway, Stuart. It has more than 30 pinball machines — mostly from the 1970s, ’80s and ’90s — as well as old-school arcade games, air hockey, Skee-Ball, table shuffleboard and video game consoles. Admission is $15 to play unlimited games, and $5 of admission is donated to the Arruda Animal Wellness Clinic. For more information, go to facebook.com/playmoneyfl.

Laurie’s Stories: Play Money Pinball features retro pinball machines and arcade games, sells beer and wine

The Mandala Sand Painting opening ceremony at Marker 23 Gallery is 11 a.m. to noon Sunday at Marker 23 Gallery, 4745 Desoto Ave., Port Salerno. The monks from the Drepung Loseling Monastery are creating a Buddhist mandala sand painting, grain by grain. Tickets are $15 each. Cash only. For more information, go to facebook.com/marker23gallery.

The final weekend of the 12th annual Festival of Trees & Lights is 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at Flagler Place, 201 S.W. Flagler Ave., Stuart. It has about 80 trees, wreaths and holiday decor items on display and available for raffle, silent or live auction. Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive on a fire truck for breakfast and photos from 8:30-10:30 a.m. Saturday. Admission is free. For more information, call 772-220-3439 or go to tykesandteens.org.

 

 

St. Lucie County

The fourth annual Brews & Cruise Car Show is noon to 5 p.m. Saturday at Islamorada Beer Company, 3200 Saint Lucie Blvd., Fort Pierce. It features antiques, new cars, trucks, live music and food vendors. Registration is $15 at the door. Proceeds benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee Counties. For more information, go to facebook.com/islamoradabeernorth.

Comedy with a Cause is 6-8 p.m. Saturday at Side Door Brewing Company, 1419 S.E. Village Green Drive, Port St. Lucie. Admission is free to the stand-up comedy show. Proceeds benefit Mike Glover’s medical expenses. For more information, go to gofundme.com/f/mike-glover039s-heart-recovery.

Laurie’s Stories: Laugh it up at adults-only comedy shows in Vero Beach, Fort Pierce

The Fall Beach Cleanup of South Causeway Park and Museum Pointe Park is 8-10 a.m. Saturday after meeting at the St. Lucie Aquarium at the Smithsonian Marine Station and Ecosystems Exhibit, 420 Seaway Drive, Fort Pierce. Gloves, buckets and pickers are provided. For more information, call 772-465-3271 or go to facebook.com/smithsoniansms.

Celebrate 11 Years at Vine & Barley from 1-11 p.m. Sunday at 1680 S.W. St. Lucie West Blvd., Suite 101, Port St. Lucie. It features 22 beers from two breweries tapped from 1-4 p.m., as well as live music. Tickets are $30 for unlimited tastings. For more information, go to facebook.com/vineandbarley.

Laurie K. Blandford is TCPalm’s entertainment reporter and columnist dedicated to finding the best things to do on the Treasure Coast. Follow her on Twitter at @TCPalmLaurie or Facebook at faceboook.com/TCPalmLaurie.

Source: Harvest Festival, Pineapple Festival, holiday events top things to do this weekend

Building permits at highest level in over 12 years

 

U.S. homebuilding rebounded in October and permits for future home construction jumped to a more than 12-year high.

U.S. homebuilding rebounded in October and permits for future home construction jumped to a more than 12-year high, pointing to strength in the housing market amid lower mortgage rates.

The report from the Commerce Department on Tuesday also showed an increase in home completions and the stock of homes under construction, which could help to ease a supply squeeze that has plagued the housing market.

“This is an important report for future homebuyers since one of the largest deterrents to entering the market right now is the lack of robust housing options,” said Bill Banfield, executive vice president of Capital Markets at Quicken Loans in Detroit.

October housing starts rebound, rising 3.8%

Housing starts increased 3.8% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.314 million units last month, with single-family construction rising for a fifth straight month and activity in the volatile multi-family sector rebounding solidly.

Data for September was revised to show homebuilding declining to a pace of 1.266 million units, instead of decreasing to a rate of 1.256 million units as previously reported. Economists polled by Reuters had forecast housing starts increasing to a pace of 1.320 million units in October.

Housing starts advanced 8.5% on a year-on-year basis in October. Building permits surged 5.0% to a rate of 1.461 million units in October, the highest level since May 2007. Permits were driven by the single-family housing segment, which increased 3.2% to the highest level since August 2007.

Building permits in the populous South region scaled their highest level in more than 12-1/2-years last month.

The housing market, the most sensitive sector to interest rates, has perked up in recent months, catching up to the Federal Reserve’s easy monetary policy stance, which has pushed down mortgage rates from last year’s multi-year highs.

The sector, which accounts for about 3.1% of the economy, however, continues to be hobbled by land and labor shortages.

A survey on Monday showed confidence among homebuilders hovering near a more than 1-1/2-year high in November. Builders, however, complained about “a lack of labor and regulatory constraints,” adding that “lot shortages remain a serious problem, particularly among custom builders.”

U.S. financial markets were little moved by the data.

Broad gains

Housing starts shot up to a more than 12-year high in August. But momentum could slow, with mortgage rates backing up in the last two months.

The Fed last month cut rates for the third time this year and signaled a pause in the easing cycle that started in July when it reduced borrowing costs for the first time since 2008.

While fears of a recession have ebbed in recent months amid a de-escalation in trade tensions between the United States and China, the economy is still slowing amid a deceleration in consumer spending and persistent weakness in business investment and manufacturing.

Homebuilder confidence edges lower in September

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate is currently at 3.75%, still below its peak of 4.94% in November 2018, according to data from mortgage finance agency Freddie Mac.

Residential investment rebounded in the third quarter after contracting for six straight quarters, the longest such stretch since the 2007-2009 recession.

Single-family homebuilding, which accounts for the largest share of the housing market, increased 2.0% to a rate of 936,000 units in October, the highest in nine months. Single-family housing starts rose in the West, Midwest and the South last month. They fell in the Northeast.

Starts for the volatile multi-family housing segment soared 8.6% to a rate of 378,000 units in October. Permits for the construction of multi-family homes increased 8.2% to a rate of 552,000 units last month.

Housing completions vaulted 10.3% to 1.256 million units last month. Realtors estimate that housing starts and completion rates need to be in a range of 1.5 million to 1.6 million units per month to close the inventory gap.

The stock of housing under construction gained 0.1% to 1.161 million units, the most since January.

Source: US housing starts rebound; building permits at highest level in over 12 years

Bacon Fest, Rally for the River, TC Wine & Ale Trail Festival top events this weekend

 

Here are the best things to do in Vero Beach, Sebastian, Stuart, Hobe Sound, Jensen Beach, Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie.

It’s still a couple weeks until Thanksgiving, and some Christmas and holiday events are starting to pop up on the Treasure Coast.

But this weekend is packed with a wide variety of things to do in Indian River, Martin and St. Lucie counties.

Here’s What To Do in 772.

Indian River County

The Treasure Coast Bacon Fest is 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at Riverside Park, 3200 Riverside Park Drive, Vero Beach. It includes interactive bacon games, live entertainment, a children’s fun zone, vendors and bacon-infused drinks and food for sale, including thick-cut, deep-fried bacon, chocolate-covered bacon strips, bacon-wrapped scallops, bacon macaroni and cheese and bacon-wrapped pickles. Admission is free. For more information, call 561-792-9260 or go to facebook.com/treasurecoastbaconfest.

The Treasure Coast Bacon Fest is 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at Riverside Park, 3200 Riverside Park Drive, Vero Beach.Buy Photo

The Treasure Coast Bacon Fest is 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at Riverside Park, 3200 Riverside Park Drive, Vero Beach. (Photo: JEREMIAH WILSON/TCPALM)

The Medieval and Renaissance Fair is 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at Indian River Charter High School, 6055 College Lane, Vero Beach. It features music, interactive events, jousting, games, feasting, mythical beasts, a scavenger hunt, dancing and photo booths. Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for children older than 3 and free for ages 3 and younger. Also, a sponsor night with medieval-inspired small plates is 7-9 p.m. Friday for $35 per person. To get tickets, go to irchs.org.

The Schacht Groves Farm Festival is 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at 6100 12th St., Vero Beach. It has bounce houses, a food truck, a petting zoo, packinghouse tours, a fire truck, hayrides, children’s crafts and farm store demonstrations and samples. Bring non-perishable food items to donate to the Treasure Coast Food Bank. For more information, go to facebook.com/schachtgroves.

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The Screen on the Green featuring “Happy Gilmore” is 5:30-9:30 p.m. Saturday at Sandridge Golf Club, 5300 73rd St., Vero Beach. It includes food trucks, glow golf at 5:30 p.m. and the movie at 6:30 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, go to facebook.com/ircrec.

The Friends of St. Sebastian River 30th anniversary picnic is 1-4 p.m. Saturday at Dale Wimbrow Park, 11805 Roseland Road, Sebastian. It has live music, games and kayaks for rent. Cooked turkey, water and soda are provided. Bring a dish or dessert to share and lawn chairs. For more information, call 772-202-0501 or go to fssr.org.

Florida Oceanographic Society’s Rally for the River is 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at Flagler Park, 201 S.W. Flagler Ave., Stuart.Buy Photo

Florida Oceanographic Society’s Rally for the River is 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at Flagler Park, 201 S.W. Flagler Ave., Stuart. (Photo: MOLLY BARTELS/SPECIAL TO TCPALM)

Martin County

Florida Oceanographic Society’s Rally for the River is 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at Flagler Park, 201 S.W. Flagler Ave., Stuart. It features oyster shell bagging, mangrove planting, educational booths, water quality demonstrations, a marine mammal rescue ambulance, children’s activities, face painting, Executive Director Mark Perry’s “Florida’s Water Story” program at 10:30 a.m. and noon, oyster reef tours at 11 a.m. and 12:30 pm., and shoreline cleanups at 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, call 772-225-0505 or go to floridaocean.org. Also, two special Schooner Lily guided nature sails leave at 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. from the Riverwalk dock. Tickets are $35 for adults and $20 for children. To get tickets, go to treasurecoastsailingadventures.com.

Laurie’s Stories: Explore St. Lucie River with Schooner Lily sailing tour in Stuart

The weeklong 12th annual Festival of Trees & Lights kicks off Sunday at Flagler Place, 201 S.W. Flagler Ave., Stuart. The hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday through Nov. 22 and 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 23. It has about 80 trees, wreaths and holiday decor items on display and available for raffle, silent or live auction. On Nov. 23, Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive on a fire truck for breakfast and photos from 8:30-10:30 a.m. Admission is free. For more information, call 772-220-3439 or go to tykesandteens.org.

The 12th annual Festival of Trees & Lights kicks off this weekend at Flagler Place, 201 S.W. Flagler Ave., Stuart.Buy Photo

The 12th annual Festival of Trees & Lights kicks off this weekend at Flagler Place, 201 S.W. Flagler Ave., Stuart. (Photo: HOBIE HILER/SPECIAL TO TCPALM)

PineFest, The Pine School’s 50th anniversary celebration, is noon to 4 p.m. Saturday at 12350 S.E. Federal Highway, Hobe Sound. It includes field games, bounce houses, food trucks and a time capsule. For more information, go to facebook.com/thepineschool.

The Wild West Children’s Ball is 6-9 p.m. Saturday at The Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast, 1707 N.E. Indian River Drive, Jensen Beach. It features western-themed crafts, games, activities, a dessert bar, silent and live auctions and a performance. Tickets are $40 for adults and $30 for children. They include a barbecue buffet, and adults get two drink tickets to the saloon bar. For more information, call 772-225-7575 or go to childrensmuseumtc.org.

The St. John Chrysostom Greek Festival is 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday at 10605 S.E. Federal Highway, Hobe Sound. It features Greek food, desserts, vendors, handmade crafts, dancing and entertainment. Admission is free. For more information, call 772-546-8180 or go to facebook.com/stjohnchrysostomhobesound.

Welcome Santa to Treasure Coast Square from 6-8 p.m. Friday at the Old Navy court, 3174 N.W. Federal Highway, Jensen Beach. It also has face painting, crafts, music, cookies and hot chocolate. Admission is free. For more information, go to facebook.com/treasurecoastsquare.

St. Lucie County

The second annual Treasure Coast Wine & Ale Trail Festival is 1-5 p.m. Saturday at Summer Crush Vineyard & Winery, 4200 Johnston Road, Fort Pierce. It features live music, food trucks, arts and crafts vendors, lawn games and local beer, wine and cider. Breweries include Side Door; Hop Life; Sailfish; Islamorada; Pareidolia; Mash Monkeys; Orchid Island; American Icon; Walking Tree; and Ocean Republic, as well as Pierced Ciderworks and Summer Crush Vineyard & Winery. Admission is free. Tickets for unlimited tastings are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. To get tickets, go to summercrushwine.com. For more information, go to tcwineandaletrail.com/festival.

Laurie’s Stories: Treasure Coast Wine & Ale Trail Festival first to feature only local beer

The second annual Treasure Coast Wine & Ale Trail Festival is 1-5 p.m. Saturday at Summer Crush Vineyard & Winery, 4200 Johnston Road, Fort Pierce.Buy Photo

The second annual Treasure Coast Wine & Ale Trail Festival is 1-5 p.m. Saturday at Summer Crush Vineyard & Winery, 4200 Johnston Road, Fort Pierce. (Photo: XAVIER MASCAREÑAS/TCPALM)

The 39th annual Indian River State College Holiday Bazaar is 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at 3209 Virginia Ave., Fort Pierce. It includes food trucks, live music and more than 100 vendors selling crafts, gifts, holiday decorations, toys and fabric. Proceeds benefit the President’s Challenge Scholarship Fund through the IRSC Foundation. For more information, call 866-792-4772 or go to irsc.edu.

The Port St. Lucie Holiday Arts & Crafts Expo is 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday outside the Port St. Lucie Civic Center, 9221 S.E. Civic Center Place. It has more than 200 booths, live music and food and drinks for sale. Admission is free. For more information, go to artandcraftexpo.com.

The Mac ‘N’ Cheese Fest is 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at Renaissance Charter School of St. Lucie, 300 N.W. Cashmere Blvd., Port St. Lucie. It features carnival-style games, inflatable rides, vendors, entertainment and food. Admission is free. Wristbands for inflatable rides are $8 in advance and $10 at the door. Tickets for games are $1 for five in advance and $1 for three at the door. Macaroni-and-cheese samples are $1 each. For more information, go to facebook.com/stluciecharter.

Santa’s Arrival at Bass Pro Shops is 5-8 p.m. Saturday at 2250 Gatlin Blvd., Port St. Lucie. It includes stocking decorating, photos, hot chocolate, giveaways, a tree lighting and the unveiling of Santa’s Wonderland. For more information, go to facebook.com/bassproshopsportstluciefl.

Laurie K. Blandford is TCPalm’s entertainment reporter and columnist dedicated to finding the best things to do on the Treasure Coast. Follow her on Twitter at @TCPalmLaurie or Facebook at faceboook.com/TCPalmLaurie.

Source: Bacon Fest, Rally for the River, TC Wine & Ale Trail Festival top events this weekend

Fort Pierce: $85M development project proposed!

 

FORT PIERCE, Fla. — An $85 million development is being proposed on a 7-acre site of coveted land in Fort Pierce- the same site Virgin Trains is eyeing for their own potential use.

The CEO of Audubon Development, Dale Matteson, is proposing a mixed-use property for the H.D King site along Indian River Drive in Fort Pierce, calling it King’s Landing.

“Fort Pierce has that beautiful little downtown that’s just waiting to happen. So, we’d like to build an infrastructure, we like the spirit of fort pierce, we like the location of the land,” Matteson said.

Matteson said their upscale project would include the following:

• 40,000 square feet of retail space

• A 120 room Marriott Hotel

• 60 condominiums

• Multi-Family rental units

• Public Park

• Banquet Hall

• Pedestrian Walkway

The city of Fort Pierce and the Fort Pierce Redevelopment Agency sent out Requests for Qualifications in November of 2018. They received five responses by Jan. 23, 2019. Then, the FPRA created a shortlist to ask to submit Request for Proposals. The RFP shortlist consisted of Audubon Development, BH3 Management, Marina View Partners Holding and Virgin Trains USA.

 

Source: $85M development project proposed in Fort Pierce

Navy SEAL Muster, TC Brew Fest, Sebastian Clambake, bonfire, car shows top this weekend

 

Here are the best events in Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, Vero Beach, Sebastian, Stuart, Jensen Beach and Palm City this Veterans Day weekend.

Source: Navy SEAL Muster, TC Brew Fest, Sebastian Clambake, bonfire, car shows top this weekend

12 Most-Bang-for-Your-Buck Home Improvement Projects

 

Home improvement projects don’t always have to have big-budget price tags. Here are 12 of the most bang-for-your-buck home improvement projects.

Home improvement projects don’t always have to have big-budget price tags. If you’re looking to sell or just want to make your home more comfortable, there are several updates you can do, big and small. Here are 12 of the most bang-for-your-buck home improvement projects.

1 / 12

Bathroom Remodel Projects

Update the Bathroom

When it comes to projects that will give you a great return when you sell your home, look no further than a minor bathroom remodel. Give your bathroom vanity a makeover, replace the toilet and faucet if needed, update the showerhead for a better shower experience and re-caulk the bathroom tub.

2 / 12

Upgrade Flooring Hardwood install

Upgrade Flooring

If the carpet in your living room is looking worn, remove it and install some hardwood flooring. Quality hardwood flooring can cost anywhere from $3 to $8 per square foot and you can save some money by installing it yourself. Try tile in the mudroom and give bedroom carpet a good cleaning.

3 / 12

blue painting

Add Paint

Choose a paint color and give a room a fresh look. Be sure to choose a high-quality paint which will cost you $30 to $60 a gallon, but is totally worth it. While you have the painting supplies out, brighten trim with a light-colored, high-gloss paint.

4 / 12

finish attic vaulted ceiling kitchen

Finish the Attic

If you have an accessible attic that is unfinished, try turning it into a bedroom or an awesome man cave. If the attic is connected through a stairway and has a ceiling height of at least 7 feet, it is one way to add livable space to your home without breaking the bank.

5 / 12

landscaping

Improve the Landscape

If you’re not sure where to start when it comes to outdoor projects, here are 12 great tips for landscaping your backyard. Build a wooden planter box to add some color to the front of your home, plant some strikingly colorful shrubs and add some bee-friendly plants to your yard.

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kitchen remodel update

Give the Kitchen a Simple Update

You don’t have to go big when it comes to kitchen projects. Install new kitchen cabinets or give current cabinets a refresh. Upgrade old kitchen countertops and add a kitchen backsplash for a new look.

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Replace Windows

Replace Windows

When it comes to home improvement projects, window replacement will help your home’s energy efficiency throughout the year. In addition, if you live in a colder climate, you’ll recoup nearly all your costs when it’s time to sell your home.

 

Do This Instead of Buying Expensive Solar Panels in Port Saint Lucie (it’s Genius)

By top.solar — Do This Instead of Buying Expensive Solar Panels in $city$ (it’s Genius)

8 / 12

kitchen lighting colander bowls

Update Your Decor

Take a good look around—could some of your fixtures use an update? Hang a new light fixture, replace electrical outlets and covers, install crown molding for a classic look and upgrade any outdated window treatments.

9 / 12

repair concrete

Make Exterior Improvements

One of the easiest projects you can do is give your front door a fresh coat of paint. Replace vinyl siding that is cracked or broken, paint exterior trim and window shutters and fix any sidewalks that are chipped or pitted.

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brick and stone patio

Add a Deck or Patio

The addition of a deck or patio is a project that will pay off in 2018. Build a deck with these modern deck building tips and shortcuts or build a stone or brick patio. A DIY fire pit will give you a great place to relax and enjoy the great outdoors.

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outdoor deck lighting

Add Outdoor Lighting

Outdoor lighting projects don’t have to be complicated. Check out these DIY outdoor lighting tips for beginners. Try some solar lights along a path or add some smart security lights.

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Remodel the Basement unfinished basement

Remodel the Basement

Consider finishing the basement (if it’s not already), which will add living space. Here are 15 things to consider before you start your basement finishing project. If your basement is finished, build a bar!

Source: 12 Most-Bang-for-Your-Buck Home Improvement Projects

Homeownership Is Primary Driver of U.S. Household Wealth

Homeownership Is Primary Driver of U.S. Household Wealth

As the nation’s home builders celebrate National Homeownership Month in June, new research shows a household’s primary residence is its largest asset and continues to provide an important building block for long-term financial security.

The latest edition of the Survey of Consumer Finances, published by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, reports that the primary residence accounts for about one-quarter of all assets held by households in 2016, ahead of other financial assets, business interests and retirement accounts.

“Homeownership is a primary source of net worth for many Americans, and is an important step in accumulating personal financial assets over the long term,” said Randy Noel, chairman of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and a custom home builder from LaPlace, La.

Building equity and accruing wealth when the value of your home appreciates are among the longer-term financial benefits of homeownership. Americans had a record-high $14.4 trillion of equity in their homes in the fourth quarter of 2017.

The national homeownership rate of 64.2 percent shows signs of sustained growth after bottoming out to a cycle low of 62.9 percent in the second quarter 2016. Yet, this number is still down from the peak of 69.2 percent in 2004, and remains below the 25-year average rate of 66.3 percent.

“We must continue to address the obstacles that remain for many potential home buyers, including factors that increase the cost to build new homes. Skyrocketing costs for lumber is the number one challenge for builders right now,” Noel said.

Since January 2017, rising lumber costs have increased the price of an average single-family home by nearly $9,000 and the market value of an average new multifamily housing unit by over $3,000. While there are many reasons for increasing lumber costs, the primary factor is the 20% effective tariff rate placed on Canadian softwood lumber.

NAHB has been fighting back against the rising prices by urging the president to resume talks with Canada to find a long-term solution to this trade dispute.

“These tariffs are making housing less affordable for American families,” Noel said. “NAHB will continue working on all fronts to find solutions that will ensure a lasting and stable supply of lumber imports into the U.S. at a competitive price.”

Source: Homeownership Is Primary Driver of U.S. Household Wealth

Stuart Air Show, Jake Owen, Treasure Coast Seafood Festival top things to do this weekend

 

Here are the best events and things to do in Stuart, Vero Beach, Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, Sebastian, Hobe Sound and Indiantown.

Martin County

The 30th anniversary Stuart Air Show is 5-9:30 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at Witham Field, 2011 S.E. Airport Road. Featured performers include the F-16 Viper Demo Team, Aeroshell Aerobatic Team and John Klatt Airshows’ Screamin’ Sasquatch Jet Waco. New acts include Nathan Hammond of GhostWriter Airshows, Mohawk Air Shows and the B-25 Killer B. Children in grades K-10 can explore the interactive and education STEAM tent focused on aviation and flight-related topics. The Fun Zone has mountain climbing, games and a stunt jump. The opening night fireworks display starts at 7:58 p.m. Friday. Check out the static displays Saturday and Sunday only. A classic car show is 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. General admission is $30 per day for adults and $5 per day for ages 6-12 and military members. The Race the Runway 5K is 6-9 a.m. Sunday before the show. The cost to register is $45 and includes general admission for Saturday or Sunday. Flights in rare and historical aircraft, including a C-47, B-17, UH-1 Huey Helicopter and Bell 47, are available for sale. For more information, call 877-577-9463 or go to stuartairshow.com.

More: STEAM World: Stuart Air Show inspires the future with new exhibit in 2019

The Night Explorers Program at the Hobe Sound Nature Center is 6-8 p.m. Friday at the Nathaniel P. Reed Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge, 13640 U.S. 1. The program returns 5:30-7:30 p.m. Dec. 13 and 6-8 p.m. Jan. 31, Feb. 7 and March 6. Experience wildlife at night, including how artificial light can influence animal behavior. A naturalist leads the group on an outdoor exploration to view the sky through telescopes after a brief indoor presentation. Bring chairs and bug spray. Reservations are required. To make a reservation, call 772-546-2067. For more information, go to hobesoundnaturecenter.com.

The first First Friday Creek Walk is 5-11 p.m. Friday and begins at NOTES Music Room & Wine Bar, 872 S. Colorado Ave., Stuart. Stroll and stop at local businesses and retailers for light refreshments and visual and performing artists. For more information, go to facebook.com/creekartsentertainment.

The Martin Artisans Guild’s Fall Festival of The Arts is 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 1-4 p.m. Sunday at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Treasure Coast, 21 S.E. Central Parkway, Stuart. It features paintings, mixed media, ceramics, pottery, fibers, jewelry, sculptures, glass and photography. For more information, go to mcost.org.

The Evening at the Barn is 5-7 p.m. Saturday at the JAG Bar Corral, 9600 S.W. Fox Brown Road, Indiantown. It has pony rides, games and a fire for roasting marshmallows. The cost is $20 per carload. Cash only. Bring chairs and blankets. Outside food and drinks permitted. No alcohol allowed. For more information, go to facebook.com/jagbarcorral.

The Bahama Benefit at Sailor’s Return is 1-7:30 p.m. Sunday at 625 S.W. Anchorage Way, Stuart. It features live music from 14 artists and bands, a raffle and Bahamian food and drinks. Admission is a $25 donation or a $50 donation to include a dinner buffet from 3-6 p.m. Proceeds benefit 25 United Disaster Relief. For more information, go to facebook.com/thesailorsreturn.

Indian River County

The Wave 92.7 Country Kickball Bash to benefit the Jake Owen Foundation is 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Jake Owen Field, Michael Field Baseball Complex, 12th Avenue, next to Vero Beach Elks Lodge, 1350 26th St. Watch the “Wave 92.7 Country Allstars” take on the “Hometown Heroes of the Treasure Coast.” Jake Owen kicks off the game at noon. Admission is free. It’s part of the Jake Owen Foundation Benefit weekend, which includes a golf tournament Friday; the sold-out ninth annual Homemade Concert with Owen, Jimmy Buffet and others Saturday; and a fishing tournament Sunday. For more information, go to jakeowenfoundation.org.

More: Jake Owen announces special guests for annual Vero Beach benefit concert

More: Vero Beach native Jake Owen won’t be at this year’s Indian River Grapefruit Pro-Am

The Wave 92.7 Country Kickball Bash to benefit the Jake Owen Foundation is 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Jake Owen Field in Vero Beach. It’s part of the Jake Owen Foundation Benefit weekend, which includes a golf tournament Friday; the sold-out ninth annual Homemade Concert with Owen, Jimmy Buffet and others Saturday; and a fishing tournament Sunday. (Photo: LEAH VOSS/TCPALM)

Flashlight Nights at the Countryside Family Farms Fall Festival are 6:30-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday at 6325 81st St., north of Vero Beach. Bring your own flashlight to explore the corn maze in the dark. The festival is 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, but most of the attractions are open for Flashlight Nights. Admission online is $11.95, plus tax, and includes all activities except the air cannon. Admission at the gate is $14.95, plus tax. Children ages 2 and younger get in free. For more information, call 772-581-0999 or go to countrysidefamilyfarms.com.

More: Corn maze returns to Countryside Family Farms Fall Festival

Laurie’s Stories: Find your way through the only corn maze on the Treasure Coast

Source: Stuart Air Show, Jake Owen, Treasure Coast Seafood Festival top things to do this weekend