ConsumerAffairs.Com Homeowners News http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news_index/homeowners.html Homeowner scams, lawsuits, prosecutions, company info and warnings from ConsumerAffairs.Com en-us Copyright 2004 ConsumerAffairs.Com info@consumeraffairs.com (Truman Lewis) jhood@consumeraffairs.com (Jim Hood) http://backend.userland.com/rss Fireworks-Related Injuries Decline http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/06/fireworks_safety.html CPSC urges Independence Day safety Wed, 01 Ju1 2009 21:50:02 GMT Mortgage Applications Plunge http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/07/mortgage_rates_drop02.html Drop coincides with sharp rise in rates Wed, 01 Ju1 2009 18:59:02 GMT Home Prices Fall, But News Is Less Bad for Homeowners http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/06/home_prices_goodnews.html Housing market could be nearing bottom Tue, 30 Jun 2009 22:05:02 GMT Banks Must Obey State Fair Housing Laws, Court Rules http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/06/scotus_housing.html Scalia joins liberals in overturning "bizarre" rule Mon, 29 Jun 2009 22:20:02 GMT Save on Electricity with Off-Peak Rates http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/pf/20090626_frugal_electricity_goel_a1.asp This month's Frugal Sense winner saves on electric costs by taking advantage of off-peak rates. Sat, 27 Jun 2009 21:50:02 GMT Marketing Analysis Shows Housing Bottom http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/06/mortgage_rates_bottom.html Direct mailing onslaught for products trails off Fri, 26 Jun 2009 22:45:02 GMT Mortgage Rates Edge Up Slightly http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/mtga/Jun2509_mortgage_analysis_a1.asp The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage moved to 5.80 percent, according to Bankrate's weekly survey. Thu, 25 Jun 2009 15:30:02 GMT Good Times, Bad Times for First-Time Buyers http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/realestateguide2009/first-time-buyer-a1.asp Buying a home was made very easy for first-timers several years ago. With prices at such low levels, are those loan packages still out there? Tue, 23 Jun 2009 21:01:02 GMT What Can the Fed Do About Mortgage Rates? http://www.bankrate.com/caf/story_content.asp?story_uid=28445&prodtype=chksav Will the Fed continue to target long-term interest rates at this week's meeting? Tue, 23 Jun 2009 14:45:02 GMT 5 Rules for the Empty Home Next Door http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/mortgages/20090615_abandoned_homes_a1.asp Ways to prevent a vacant home from damaging your community. Sun, 21 Jun 2009 16:20:02 GMT Low CD Rates Shouldn't Derail Savings http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/DrDon/20090617_low_cd_rates_a1.asp A man with $500,000 to invest shouldn't let the money languish simply because CD rates are low Wed, 17 Jun 2009 19:05:01 GMT Paying for Assisted Living http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/pf/20090617-paying-for-assisted-living-a1.asp Medicare doesn't cover the cost of long-term care, but there are several ways to help finance it Wed, 17 Jun 2009 19:05:01 GMT Chinese Drywall Actions Consolidated http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/06/chinese_drywall06.html Louisiana court to hear multidistrict proceeding Mon, 15 Jun 2009 23:55:01 GMT TV Switcheroo Leaves Millions with No Free TV http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/06/dtv_delay14.html Signals disappear as broadcasters move to new frequency band. Sun, 14 Jun 2009 17:35:01 GMT Foreclosure Activity Still Strong http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/06/foreclosures_high.html Slower pace of defaults than April, according to industry report Fri, 12 Jun 2009 01:10:01 GMT New York Sues Foreclosure Rescue Companies http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/06/ny_mortgage_fraud.html Attorney General targets 14 operations for failure to fulfill bargains Wed, 10 Jun 2009 23:35:01 GMT Have Mortgage Rates Hit Bottom? http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/06/mortgage_rates_stall.html Applications for loans stall as interest rates increase Wed, 10 Jun 2009 22:35:01 GMT 10 Ways to Turn Off a Homebuyer http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/mortgages/20090608_10_homebuyer_turnoffs_a1.asp Homeowners hoping to sell their homes in a tough market should avoid these 10 buyer turnoffs. Mon, 8 Jun 15:35:10 8 Freebies Builders May Give Away http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/realestateguide2009/new-homes-freebies-a1.asp Home builders are hurting big time. That gives you a great chance to buy a brand new home and get a slew of extras thrown in. Mon, 8 Jun 15:30:10 Mortgage Rates Shoot Up http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/mtga/Jun0409_mortgage_analysis_a1.asp The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage rose to 5.65 percent, according to Bankrate's weekly survey. Thu, 4 Jun 16:10:00 Small Homes the New Big Thing http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/realestateguide2009/keep-current-home-a1.asp Welcome to the new realty reality. Ostentation is passé. Size is so not cool. Wed, 3 Jun 16:55:00 Real Estate Agent Takes On Banks Over Short Sales http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/06/short_sales.html Banks say the right thing in public but often don't follow through. Wed, 3 Jun 16:20:00 Pending Home Sales Surge in April http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/06/home_sales_april02.html More signs of life in the housing market Tue, 2 Jun 18:15:00 Foreclosure Starts Hit 1 Million For the Year http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/06/foreclosure_starts.html Mortgage delinquencies also at all-time high. Tue, 2 Jun 14:40:00 Feds Look at Tougher Foreclosure 'Rescue' Rules http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/06/ftc_foreclosures.html Desperate homeowners often victimized by con artists. Tue, 2 Jun 14:10:00 Texas Charges Conn's Failed to Honor Warranties http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/05/tx_conns.html Suit charges appliance chain deceived customers, engaged in false advertising. Sun, 31 May 2009 19:50:00 Mortgage Rates Sky-Rocket http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/mtga/May2809_mortgage_analysis_a1.asp The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage increased to 5.45 percent, according to Bankrate's weekly survey. Thu, 28 May 2009 14:28:10 My House is Worth How Much? http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/mtg/20090528-whats-my-house-worth-a1.asp Appraisers have the last word on a home's value, but homeowners can provide some input. Thu, 28 May 2009 14:27:10 Video: Reappraising Appraisers http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/mortgages/2008_video_reappraising_appraisers_a1.asp Proposed new rules may not solve the problem of appraisers being influenced by lenders. Thu, 28 May 2009 14:25:10 Existing Home Sales Rise in April http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/05/home_sales_april.html Falling prices trigger new round of buyouts from deal seekers Wed, 27 May 2009 21:20:10 Homeowners' Associations Face Tough Times http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/05/home_values02.html Lack of payments leads to loss of shared services Mon, 25 May 2009 20:25:10 U.S. Home Values Now 32 Percent Below Their Peak http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/05/home_values02.html Steady declines continue across all metro regions Mon, 25 May 2009 19:01:10 Another Chinese Drywall Suit Filed http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/05/chinese_drywall06.html Senate ponders what to do next. Fri, 22 May 2009 16:15:10 GMT GE Microwaves Prone to Spontaneous Fire, Suit Claims http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/05/ge_fires.html Alleges failure of control panel and magnetron. Fri, 22 May 2009 15:58:10 GMT Mortgage Rates Up Slightly http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/mtga/May2109_mortgage_analysis_a1.asp The benchmark 30-year fixed mortgage rose to 5.24 percent, according to Bankrate's weekly survey. Thu, 21 May 2009 16:05:10 GMT What Will $400,000 Buy Today? http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/realestateguide2009/buy-home-400000-dollars-a1.asp Bankrate's annual interactive looks at how much home you can buy today for $400,000. In 2009? Quite a lot. Wed, 20 May 2009 14:50:10 GMT Staying put? Stimulus Plans May Help http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/realestateguide2009/stimulus-homeowners-a1.asp Here's how the stimulus plans may help homeowners who are not planning to buy or sell. Wed, 20 May 2009 14:45:10 GMT Teflon Suit Slides Off DuPont http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/05/dupont_cookware.html Cookware contains likely carcinogen Tue, 19 May 2009 19:55:10 GMT New Study Highlights Dangers in the Water http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/05/pool_safety_cdc.html Chemicals in pools injure over 5,000 people yearly Tue, 12 May 2009 19:05:10 GMT Know Your Goals Before You Refinance http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/DrDon/20090512_problem_refinance_a1.asp Before refinancing, properly identify your financial goals so you chase the right solution. Tue, 12 May 2009 12:55:59 GMT One in Five Homeowners Underwater http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/05/homes_underwater.html Bad real estate news persists, despite signs of life in market Wed, 6 May 2009 18:55:59 GMT Lower Mortgage Rate Not Always Best http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/DrDon/20090505_low_rate_refinance_a1.asp When deciding whether to refinance, weigh the costs against the savings from a lower rate. Tue, 5 May 2009 15:35:59 GMT Consumer Reports: Best Gas Grills http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/05/cr_gas_grills.html Manufacturers move away from stainless to maintain pricing; Advice on how to choose Mon, 4 May 2009 1:50:59 GMT Consumer Reports: Five Repairs Homeowners Shouldn't Ignore http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/05/cr_home_repairs.html June issue offers tips to spot trouble areas and avoid costly repairs Mon, 4 May 2009 1:01:59 GMT Today's Realty Reality http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/realestateguide2009/home-sell-buy-market-condition-a1.asp The U.S. real estate market has changed and the true value of homes has been reset. Mon, 4 May 2009 16:20:59 GMT Pending Home Sales Turn Around In March http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/05/home_sales.html Low interest rates, fire sale prices trump recession fears. Mon, 4 May 2009 16:04:59 GMT Video: 5 Cheap Ways to Go Solar http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/pf/Dec08-cheap-solar-video-a1.asp Don't have $50,000 to invest in solar? Here are ways that the rest of us can harness energy from the sun. Wed, 29 Apr 2009 15:10:59 GMT Weigh Costs Before Buying Down Loan http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/DrDon/20090427_refinance_loan_buy_a1.asp The costs associated with buying down a loan may put the brakes on a mortgage refinance. Mon, 27 Apr 2009 15:30:59 GMT Mortgage Rates Keep Falling http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/04/mortgage_rates_fall.html This may be the time to refinance. Mon, 27 Apr 2009 15:20:59 GMT Scam Artists Profit from Chinese Drywall Fears http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/04/chinese_drywall04.html Bogus tests, phony remedies being widely promoted, Florida warns. Fri, 24 Apr 2009 14:20:59 GMT Foreclosures Not the Only Drag on Appraisals http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/realestateadviser/20090125-foreclosures-hurt-appraisals-a1.asp New, devalued homes and foreclosures are a double whammy on owners hoping to refinance. Mon, 20 Apr 2009 16:25:59 GMT Video: Forestalling Foreclosure http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/mtg/200809-forestalling-foreclosure-video.asp When you're in mortgage trouble, the best thing to do is make a phone call. Mon, 20 Apr 2009 16:20:59 GMT Senator: Florida Faces Chinese Drywall 'Hysteria' http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/04/chinese_drywall03.html Pressure builds for quick action on complaints of contaminated drywall. Sun, 19 Apr 2009 22:15:59 GMT Should You Skip Your Mortgage Payment? http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/mtg/20090416-skip-mortgage-payment-a1.asp Being delinquent on your mortgage won't necessarily improve your odds of a loan modification. Sat, 18 Apr 2009 16:10:59 GMT Beware the 'Property Fraud' Scam http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/04/property_fraud.html Seniors are often targets of this fast-growing scam. Fri, 17 Apr 2009 14:25:59 GMT Buying a Home That's Not For Sale http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/realestateadviser/20090405-RE-adviser-unsolicited-offer-a1.asp An unsolicited offer may spook owners, and they're unlikely to negotiate an overly favorable deal. Mon, 7 Apr 2009 16:06:59 GMT FHA Loan Can Save Home Dream http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/small-business-guide-2009/20090406-FHA-home-loan-a1.asp An FHA 203(k) loan can provide money to buy a home and rehabilitate it in one transaction. Mon, 6 Apr 2009 16:05:59 GMT Senators Call For Halt To Drywall Importation http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/04/chinese_drywall02.html Additional suits filed as problem spreads to five states Fri, 3 Apr 2009 23:10:59 GMT Banks Cut Off Mortgage Brokers http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/mortgages/20090402-banks-cut-off-brokers-a1.asp The fallout from the war between brokers and bankers could result in fewer loan choices and higher fees. Fri, 3 Apr 2009 15:11:59 GMT Video: Questions to Ask Before Refinancing http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/mortgages/Jan09-key-refinance-questions-video.asp With mortgage rates near record low, is it time to refinance? Mon, 30 Mar 2009 15:52:59 GMT Green Mortgages Offer Savings http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/mortgages/20090330-green-mortgage-save-money-a1.asp Make your home energy-efficient and get a break on your mortgage at the same time. Mon, 30 Mar 2009 15:51:59 GMT Get Help Appealing Home Tax Assessment http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/mortgages/20090319_tax_assessment_help_a1.asp Think your home's assessed value is too high? A third party can handle the grievance process for you. Sun, 29 Mar 2009 16:11:59 GMT Mortgage Rates Drop to Lowest Since the '50s http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/mortgages/mortgage_rate_changes_a1.asp The benchmark 30-year rate mortgage fell to 5.19 percent, according to Bankrate's weekly survey. Thu, 26 Mar 2009 15:40:59 GMT Walking Away from Mortgage is Costly http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/mortgages/20090324_voluntary_foreclosure_a1.asp Abandoning a mortgage simply to get a fresh financial start may hurt your credit and trigger taxes. Thu, 26 Mar 2009 15:35:59 GMT Renters Get Foreclosure Relief http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/mortgages/20090323-renter-foreclosure-relief-a1.asp Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac's new programs let renters stay in homes that are foreclosed. Sat, 21 Mar 2009 15:10:59 GMT Second-Home Market Offers Bargains http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/mortgages/20090317_second_home_market_a1.asp Careful shoppers may find that many popular U.S. second-home markets are on sale right now. Tue, 17 Mar 2009 15:30:00 GMT Rate Trend Index -- Mortgages http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/mtga/Mar1209_mortgage_rate_trend_index_b1.asp Which way are the rates headed? Bankrate surveys the experts. Thu, 12 Mar 2009 15:20:00 GMT Mortgage Rates Fall; Borrowers Wait http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/mtga/Mar1209_mortgage_analysis_a1.asp The benchmark 30-year fixed-rate loan fell to 5.37%, according to Bankrate's weekly survey. Thu, 12 Mar 2009 15:15:00 GMT 4 Ways Stimulus Helps Homeowner, Buyer http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/mortgages/20090223_housing_stimulus_a1.asp The stimulus package offers four key financial breaks for new homebuyers and current homeowners. Mon, 23 Feb 2009 14:35:00 GMT Chinese Drywall a Threat to Homeowners? http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/02/chinese_drywall.html Drywall emits harmful sulfuric odors, homeowner lawsuits charge. Sun, 22 Feb 2009 23:05:00 GMT Non-Profits Can Help Solve Foreclosure Crisis http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/02/foreclosure_npos.html If corporate mortgage holders won't help, they should get out of the way. Sun, 22 Feb 2009 18:38:00 GMT Work History is Key to Refinance Approval http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/DrDon/20090220_refinance_work_history_a1.asp Lenders scrutinize work history before deciding whether to approve new loans. Sun, 22 Feb 2009 16:48:00 GMT Video: How to Lower Your Property Taxes http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/real-estate/Oct08_lower_property_tax_video_a1.asp The only upside of declining real estate values may be lower property taxes. Sun, 22 Feb 2009 16:40:00 GMT Obama's Foreclosure Plan Wins Early Support http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/02/foreclosure_obama_cfa.html Mortgage rescue plan aims to help responsible, troubled homeowners. Thu, 19 Feb 2009 16:29:00 GMT How Can You Benefit From The Obama Mortgage Plan? http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/02/foreclosure_obama.html Mortgage rescue plan aims to help responsible, troubled homeowners. Wed, 18 Feb 2009 21:50:00 GMT Refinance May Be Worth Paying Penalty http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/DrDon/20090218_prepayment_penalty_refinance_a1.asp In some cases, it makes sense to refinance even if you have to pay a mortgage prepayment penalty. Tue, 18 Feb 2009 16:56:00 GMT Bankrupt Builder Burns Buyers http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/realestateadviser/20090215-RE-adviser-bankrupt-builder-a1.asp When a builder files for bankruptcy, it's only the beginning of bad news for buyers. Mon, 16 Feb 2009 16:52:00 GMT Property Tax Reduction Scams Spreading, California Warns http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/02/ca_prop_tax_scam.html Scam targets homeowners with declining property values. Fri, 13 Feb 2009 21:25:00 GMT Homeowner Bailout May Be In The Works http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/02/bailout30.html Stock market surges on report of mortgage workout plan. Fri, 13 Feb 2009 13:37:00 GMT Mortgage Rates Remain Below 6 Percent http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/mtga/Feb0509_mortgage_analysis_a1.asp The benchmark 30-year fixed rate rose this week to 5.70 percent. Thu, 5 Feb 2009 15:25:00 GMT Kenmore Dryer Suit Hung Out to Dry http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/02/kenmore_class.html Failed class action may dampen attorneys' enthusiasm for consumer cases. Wed, 4 Feb 2009 17:00:00 GMT How Miraculous is the Amish Fireplace? http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/02/amish_heaters.html 'Free' 1500-watt made-in-China space heater costs $300. Wed, 4 Feb 2009 01:01:00 GMT Fannie, Freddie Put Off Evictions until March http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/01/foreclosure_moratorium.html Moratorium applies to owners and renters in single-family homes. Fri, 30 Jan 2009 20:12:00 GMT Weigh Taxes Before Prepaying Mortgage http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/DrDon/20090130_prepay_mortgage_taxes_a1.asp It may or may not make good tax sense to prepay. Fri, 30 Jan 2009 16:12:00 GMT Foreclosure Tax Double-Whammy Eased http://www.bankrate.com/caf/itax/news/taxguide/foreclosure_tax_eliminated_a1.asp Congress eases taxation on home lost to debt or forgiveness. Thu, 29 Jan 2009 19:50:50 GMT Mortgage Rates Fall Below 5.5% http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/mtga/Jan2909_mortgage_analysis_a1.asp Rates are low but home inventories high. How come? Thu, 29 Jan 2009 19:49:50 GMT Fed To Modify Some Troubled Mortgages http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/01/fed_mortgages.html Bail-out funds trickle down to troubled homeowners. Wed, 28 Jan 2009 15:39:00 GMT Appraisals Taking a Double Hit http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/realestateadviser/20090125-foreclosures-hurt-appraisals-a1.asp New, devalued homes and foreclosures are a double whammy on owners hoping to refinance. Tue, 27 Jan 2009 21:16:00 GMT Home Sales Rise As Prices Fall http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/01/home_sales30.html Prices plunged a record 15.3 percent in December. Mon, 26 Jan 2009 20:00:00 GMT Home Depot to Close Expo Chain http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/01/expo.html Company plans to cut 7,000 jobs as sales slump. Mon, 26 Jan 2009 15:20:00 GMT Flipping Homes Profitable But Can Be Risky http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/real-estate/20081113-flipping-homes-for-profit-a1.asp Investing in real estate requires more capital and patience these days. Sun, 25 Jan 2009 17:20:00 GMT What Do Builder Warranties Cover? http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/realestateadviser/20090118-builder-warranties-a1.asp There's much to be wary of these days in the world of new-home warranties. Sun, 25 Jan 2009 17:19:00 GMT Home Bargains on the Auction Block http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/mtg/20081211-buying-home-at-auction-a1.asp More homes are being sold at auction. Here's what to know before bidding. Sun, 18 Jan 2009 16:23:00 GMT Homes Lose More Value In Third Quarter http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/12/home_sales21.html Largest annual fall in 39 years, according to Freddie Mac Tue, 2 Dec 2008 17:15:00 GMT Lower "Scorching" Winter Heat Bills http://www.bankrate.com/caf/news/pf/081126-home-heating-costs-a1.asp Despite the recent drop in crude oil prices, keeping warm this winter is likely to have a chilling effect on your household budget. Tue, 2 Dec 2008 16:40:00 GMT How to Appeal Your Property Tax Bill http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/10/property_tax.html Make sure you're not paying more than your house is worth. Administration Considers More Help for Homeowners http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/10/bailout18.html FDIC chair advocates standards for modifying endangered mortgages. 'Hope for Homeowners' Program Offers Faster Relief than Wall Street Bailout http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/10/bailout12.html Rescue plan gives Uncle Sam an equity stake in troubled mortgages. Lawn Mower Horsepower Overstated, Class Action Claims http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/09/lawnmower_suit.html Mower manufacturers clipped Texas consumers, plaintiffs charge. Pending Home Sales Rise In June http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/08/home_sales06.html Buyers take advantage of foreclosures to get bargains. Storm Season is Time to Review Insurance Policies http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/06/storms_insurance.html Out-of-date policy can lead to financial ruin. Federal Home Price Index Drops at Record Pace http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/05/home_price_index.html Biggest quarterly drop since record-keeping began. Gardeners' Choice Complaints Sprout Annually http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/05/gardeners_choice.html Company insists it has a 'no questions asked' guarantee. Consumers Having Problems with Digital TV Converter Coupons http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/04/dtv_coupons.html Latest snag in government's attempt to move TV broadcasters to new frequency band. Home Warranties Not Always What They Seem http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/03/home_warranties.html Pre-existing conditions not covered, response time often lengthy. 23 Million TV Sets May Go Dark In DTV Switchover http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/02/dtv_switchover.html Midwest and West may be hardest hit. Don't Take Mattress 'Blowouts' Lying Down http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/02/mattress_warehouse.html Irate consumers lose sleep over problems with mattress discount chains. ACORN, Countrywide Tweak Subprime Relief Plan http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/02/acorn_countrywide.html Plan helps distressed homeowners avoid foreclosure. Feds Propose New Furniture Fire Rule http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/02/cpsc_fires.html Safety agency has been struggling with the proposal for years. Homeowners Associations Face More Regulation http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/02/va_hoa.html Virginia the latest to put HOAs under scrutiny. Retiring Boomers Flock to Rural Areas http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2008/01/boomer_retire.html Many move to quieter regions of their home state. Home Values Plunge At Record Rate http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/12/home_prices2.html Biggest drop since 1991; Miami leads price decreases. National Home Values Fall in Third Quarter http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/12/home_values.html Largest quarterly drop in 25 years; West Coast hardest hit. Fireman's Fund Offers 'Green' Policy http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/11/firemen_socal.html Wildfire victims get the chance to go green when they rebuild. Consumer Energy Costs Skyrocketing http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/11/cfa_energy.html Poll shows strong support for Congressional action. Existing Home Sales Crater In September http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/10/home_sales_september.html Sales plunged 8 percent as subprime meltdown worsened. Insurers Dumping Customers Along East Coast http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/10/hurricane_insurance.html Hurricane fears lead to rash of cancellations. September Foreclosures Double Year-Ago Levels http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/10/foreclosure_stats.html Defaults driven by higher payments on adjustable-rate loans. Noxious Tile Sealer Stayed on Home Depot Shelves http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/10/stand_seal.html At least two consumers died from inhaling Stand 'n Seal fumes. Winter Heating Costs Projected To Hit Record Highs http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/09/winter_heat.html Bush Administration urged to release funds to help low-income families. Biofuels Moving to the Suburbs http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/09/biofuels_home.html They're environmentally friendly but may be rather expensive. Consumers Warned about Killer Stoves http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/06/killer_stoves.html Newer stoves are lighter and can tip over, causing serious injury or death. May Home Sales Take A Dive http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/06/home_sales_may.html Sales of existing homes dropped to their lowest level in nearly four years. Manufacturer of Martha Stewart Tables Declares Bankruptcy http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/06/jra_bankrupt.html Companies slither away as consumer class action moves forward. Home Depot Sells Supply Unit As Home Construction Sags http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/06/home_depot_construction.html Ex-CEO Nardelli's pet project scuttled. Foreclosures Surge 90% In May http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/06/foreclosures.html California, Nevada, Colorado, among the hardest-hit states. Home Prices Fall Again, Sabotaging Recovery Hopes http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/05/home_prices_decline.html Prices may not return to previous levels til 2011, analyst warns. GE Tries to Get It Right in Latest Dishwasher Recall http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/05/ge_recall_lesson_learned.html But company could do more, Consumers Union argues. GAO: Consumers Still Held Hostage by Movers http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/05/gao_movers.html Congress protects big moving companies at expense of consumers. New Energy Standards May Reduce Washers' Cleaning Power http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/05/cr_washing_machines.html Top-loaders perform better but cost more, Consumer Reports finds. Builders, Contractors Hammer Consumer Sites http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/05/builders_suits.html Three builders sue consumers and the Web sites that post their comments. Massachusetts Warns Against Rising Mortgage Fraud http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/04/ma_mortgage_fraud.html Attorney general urges legislature to tighten regulations, require licensing of all loan originators. Buying a Home in Foreclosure: What You Need to Know http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/04/buying_foreclosure.html With foreclosures climbing, there is opportunity as well as tragedy. Seniors Bear Brunt Of Predatory Lending http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/04/seniors_predatory.html Seniors losing their homes to predatory refinance scams. H&R Block Sells Subprime Mortgage Unit http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/04/block_option_one.html Option One sold to hedge fund giant Cerberus. Consumer Nail Gun Injuries Spike http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/04/nail_guns.html More do-it-yourselfers winding up in emergency rooms on weekends, CDC finds. Realtors: Home Prices May Dip This Year http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/04/home_sales_dip.html First time since the Great Depression that U.S. home prices have declined. CPSC Ignores Kitchen Range Tip-Over Threat http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/04/cpsc_range_tipover.html Millions of poorly-designed ranges can tip over, causing severe injury or death. Home Price Growth Last Year was Slowest Since 1999 http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/03/home_prices.html Sales off 11 percent in last quarter of 2006 from a year earlier. Illinois Probes Ameren's "All-Electric Home" Promotion http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/03/il_ameren.html Customers converted to all-electric power only to find the discount soon ended. Payback: State Farm Writes Off Mississippi http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/02/state_farm_ms.html Insurer walks away after losing Katrina-related lawsuits. Mortgage Crisis? Act Now to Avoid Foreclosure http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/02/arm_mortgage.html Steps you can take to avoid losing your home and ruining your credit. Home Values Sink in Fourth Quarter http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/02/home_values.html Slight dip is the first year-over-year decline in many years. Consumer Safety Agency In Limbo http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/02/cpsc_adrift.html White House fails to fill vacancy; remaining commissioners' powers expire. Michigan Realtors Open Listing Services to All http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/02/ftc_mi_realtors.html Realtors settle anti-trust charges brought by Federal Trade Commission. Judge Rules Against State Farm in Katrina Case http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2007/01/katrina_state_farm.html Judge rules company is liable for damage to home destroyed during hurricane. Jury deliberating damages. A First: Consumer Gets Restitution for Martha Stewart Table http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/12/martha_canada.html Sears Canada pays up but in the U.S., Kmart and Martha keep their purse zipped shut. Two Million Homeowners Facing Foreclosure http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/12/crl_foreclosures.html Report finds many minority homeowners in trouble because of subprime mortgages. More Homeowners Falling Behind On Mortgage Payments http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/12/mortgage_delinquencies.html Subprime and ARM mortgages most often in the delinquent column. Realtors See Only Slight Improvement In 2007 http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/12/realtors_outlook.html New home sales likely to remain flat for much of next year. Home Prices Fall In Third Quarter http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/11/home_prices.html Recent home buyers see their equity shrink as sales of existing homes and condos fall nearly 13 percent. Rent-A-Center Pays $7 Million to Settle California Complaints http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/11/ca_rentacenter.html Nation's largest rent-to-own business promises to reform its business practices. 14 Years Late, Feds Agree to Require More Efficient Appliances http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/11/appliance_efficiency.html States had to sue the U.S. Energy Department to get it to follow Congress' directives. Internet Furniture Seller Slapped With Court Order http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/11/ncbuydirect.html North Carolina Furniture Buy Direct accused of collecting money but not shipping furniture. KB Home Executives Quit Over Stock Options http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/11/kb_home_stock.html Probe CEO may have to pay back $13 million in improperly granted stock options. California Class Action Throws Cold Water on Whirlpool http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/11/whirlpool_class_action.html Gas water heaters fail frequently; company does nothing to correct the problem. Fed Keeps Interest Rate Steady As Home Sales Fall http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/10/fed_rate.html Fed cites chilly housing market as sign inflation isn't imminent.