Before mortgage refinancing know the real cost of renovation - 2003-08-04
As mortgage rates touch historic lows, many home owners are refinancing with the goal of taking newfound, ready cash to convert their dated kitchens, baths and master suites into showcases they may have dreamed of for years.

High-end appliances in enlarged kitchens, attached family rooms, walk-in closets and multispray body showers now seem not only affordable, but necessary as investments in the strategy to diversify beyond recently depressed equities markets.
Read the full story at Columbus Business First

FHFC commits $50M for first-time home buyers - 2003-08-04
Florida Housing Finance Corp. declared it will make $50 million in low-interest rate mortgages available to first-time home purchasers.

Because it is becoming harder for first-time home buyers to save up enough money for a down payment and closing costs, the corporation said it will provide up to $15,000 to eligible applicants through participating vendors statewide.
Read the full story at South Florida Business Journal