WVBT August Newsletter

What's New This Month

As the warm days of August embrace us, we want to express our gratitude for your continued trust in West Virginia Bankers Title. Your support has been instrumental in our success as a full-service Title Insurance Agency.

We value our working relationships with our lending, banking and real estate attorney partners and remain dedicated to delivering exceptional service and support every step of the way. Thank you for choosing us as a business partner.

Wishing you a successful August!

Rachel Showalter, Agency Manager of West Virginia Bankers Title

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Upgrade Your Compliance Standards With a Free Webinar

by Investors Title

Join industry experts Jon Briggs, Lori Dorman and Jennifer Vaughn from Investors Title as they guide you through the enhanced ALTA Best Practices “Framework” and practical steps for financial and data security. Stay at the forefront of technology and professionalism in the industry. Register now for the Thursday, August 24th webinar from 10 - 11 a.m. Attorneys, agents, paralegals and iTracs® users will find this webinar invaluable!

Two West Virginia Metros Named Housing ‘Hidden Gems'

Charleston ranked second and Huntington fourth as hidden gem housing markets, according to a recent study. The study analyzed 142 metro areas outside the nation’s 50 largest metros, using population, median home value, homeownership rate and more. These findings highlight the potential for homebuyers and investors to discover affordable and attractive options in the Mountain State.

F.A.S.T. - Fast Action Stops Theft

Taking immediate action is crucial in the event of a breach or loss of data or money. It’s imperative to have a Cyberfraud Response Plan to respond and minimize further damage effectively. The ability to act quickly, supported by documented evidence of the steps taken, is important. This brochure outlines plan essentials, including effectively responding if you become a victim and minimizing further damage.

Innovation

Remote online notarization (RON) has transformed real estate transactions with convenience, efficiency and enhanced security. Despite rare instances of fraud, RON is gaining popularity for its many benefits and advanced identity verification safeguards. Recognizing the success of RON transactions and its similarity to the transition to electronic medical records, embracing RON can bring increased efficiency, convenience and security to the industry's

digital future.

Make Your Office More Eco-Friendly—and Save Money

Here’s What the Future of the American House Looks Like

Navigating the Wild, Wild West of Digital Closing Providers

Mortgage Trends

Even with mortgage rates exceeding 7%, there's good news in the housing market. The Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) found a 0.9% increase in mortgage loan applications, driven by more people applying for home purchases. The rise in rates can be attributed to mixed economic data and expectations of the Federal Reserve's response to inflation.

Economist: Mortgage Rates Matter Less Than You Think

FHA and VA Purchase Apps on the Rise

Professional Development

Self-awareness is the most underrated skill successful people use at work. A Harvard-trained neuroscientist says it’s the secret weapon for career success. Contrary to common misconceptions, self-awareness is not just about understanding one’s feelings and flaws; it also involves reflecting on strengths and aligning them with goals. Check this article for three tips to cultivate self-awareness.

‘Take One Risk a Day’: 3 CEOs on How to Succeed at Work

How Streamlining Meetings Boosts Employees’ Strength and Productivity

How to Deal With Frustrating Coworkers When Working Remotely

Market Highlights

The housing market remains resilient despite challenges such as a decline in inventory and rising removals. Price cuts have decreased compared to last year, and both listed and closed prices saw positive year-over-year growth in June. Although market activity is expected to remain relatively low in the coming months, overall, the housing market has shown resilience regardless of

economic uncertainties.

Eastern and Midwestern Growth Spurs Q2 Migration Trends

Contract Signings Slow, But Buyer Demand Is Still High

Measuring the Resiliency of the U.S. Housing Market

Get a True Taste of ‘Almost Heaven’ Along This Memorable Route

Discover the natural wonders of our extraordinary home state along the remarkable New River Gorge. Just a short drive from Roanoke, this area offers breathtaking views, exciting outdoor adventures and abundant riverside activities. Immerse yourself in the region's rich history and vibrant small towns for a truly memorable experience. Check out this brochure published by our Department of Tourism for details on this stunning route, and start planning a quick getaway or an extended staycation where beauty knows no bounds!

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