Interest rates for 30 year mortgages fell to a record low of 4.71% this week.  This is a decline from 4.78%, which was last week's rate.  Historically this is the lowest recorded rate since Freddie Mac began issuing a weekly survey.

The 15 year fixed rate fell to 4.27% from 4.29%.

Now is the time to take advantage of these low interest rates, as we don't know how long they will last.  Word is that rates will probably begin to rise in the spring when the Federal Reserve is expected to start phasing out the program by which it has been heavily investing in mortgage securities.

This is the perfect time use these low interest rates to refinance or for a new home purchase.  The First Time Home Buyers Tax Credit has been extended until April 30 and a $6,500 Tax Credit has been added for existing homeowners who are purchasing a new home.

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While the rest of the world is busy "decking the halls" and decorating their homes, horse lovers may be concentrating on their barns as well. This is Christmas on a Charlottesville horse farm. 

My barn always had wreaths on the double doors.  Inside many of the stalls had stockings hanging on the doors filled with treats for each particular horse.  Some lucky horses had wreaths of pepermint candies, although the ponies often had to share with the children and my favorite veterinarian.  The were usually treats for the barn kitties so that none of the critters was left out.  And there might be a tree decorated outside with edible ornaments for the birds.

Of course Christmas wasn't complete without riders from the neighboring stable caroling on horseback around the farms in the area.  There was usually a group of about ten riders of all ages on horses and ponies sharing music, laughter and Christmas cheer.

When you live on a Charlottesville VA horse farm the holidays are the perfect time to gather with friends who all share the love of these wonderful animals.  If your barn has any special holiday traditions, we would love to hear from you.

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