Cross the border: A new survey found that Vancouver was the world’s easiest city to live in, while Harare, Zimbabwe, ranked last, according to the AFP. The Economist Intelligence Unit’s livability poll ranked cities on five factors: health care, culture and environment, stability, education and infrastructure. European and Canadian cities made up six of the top 10. Washington, D.C., which came in 35th, was the highest-ranking U.S. city.
Move expected to increase renovation projects: The city of Denver is temporarily waiving building permit fees for simple home renovation projects. The move is designed to give cash-strapped homeowners a break and encourage building activity. According to the Associated Press, nearly 300 homeowners have taken advantage of the program, saving nearly $18,000 in fees. The projects represent $1.4 million in construction for simple projects, such as basement remodeling and roof repairs.
Rates up for second week in a row: The national average for a 30-year fixed mortgage rose for the second consecutive week, going from 5.25% to 5.48%. Zillow.com, which tracks mortgage rates, says the 15-year rate saw a smaller increase over the past week, going from 4.78% to 4.95%.
