Affordability

Waiting for perfect market conditions often means missing out. Because what you may not realize is, if you’re ready and able to buy, this time of year could actually give you an edge. Here’s why. As the weather cools down, the housing market can too – and that works in your favor. You Likely Won’t Feel as Rushed Homes tend to take a little longer to sell during this time of year. Data from...

What Homebuyers Need To Know About Credit Scores   Some Highlights Data shows 7 out of 10 prospective homebuyers don’t know the minimum credit score required by lenders or that it varies by lender and loan type. According to Experian, the range is anywhere from 500 to 700 for the minimum credit score. That means you don’t need perfect credit to buy a home. Your credit...

The Big Difference Between Renter and Homeowner Net Worth Affordability, Buying Tips, For Buyers Some HighlightsIf you’re torn between renting or buying, don’t forget to factor in the wealth-building power of homeownership.Unlike renters, homeowners gain equity as they pay their...

Why Owning a Home Is Worth It in the Long Run Affordability, Buying Tips, Economy, For Buyers, Home Prices, Inventory, Mortgage Rates Today’s mortgage rates and home prices may have you second-guessing whether it's still a good idea to buy a home right now. While market factors are...

With the holidays right around the corner, homeowners planning to move have a decision to make: sell now or wait? Some may even consider taking their house off the market until next spring. But is that the best choice? Because at this time of year, your home can really stand out. Here's the thing: there are plenty of buyers out there who want to be in a new home by the holidays, and your house...

Buying a home in today’s market can feel like an uphill battle – especially with home prices and mortgage rates putting pressure on your budget. If you’re feeling stuck - co-buying could be one way to help you get your foot in the door. Freddie Mac says: “If you are an aspiring homeowner - buying a home with your family or friends could be an option.” But there are some things you'll want...

One major reason why we’re not heading toward a foreclosure crisis is the high level of equity homeowners have today. Unlike in the last housing bubble - where many homeowners owed more than their homes were worth - today’s homeowners have far more equity than debt. That’s a big part of the reason why even though mortgage debt is at an all-time high - this isn’t 2008 all over again. As Bill...

Some Highlights If you’re planning to list your house in 2025 - it’s already time to start working on any repairs. But where do you start? Your local agent will be able to help you prioritize projects that will help you get the best return on your investment and appeal to what today’s buyers really want. If your goal is to sell your house next year - connect with an agent so you...

Don’t Miss Out on the Growing Number of Down Payment Assistance Programs-post-19058-2 With rising home prices and volatile mortgage rates - it’s important you know about every resource that could help make buying a home possible. And one thing you’ll want to be aware of is just how much the number of down payment assistance (DPA) programs has grown lately. Take a look at the graph below to...

What’s Behind Today’s Mortgage Rate Volatility? If you’ve been keeping an eye on mortgage rates lately - you might feel like you’re on a roller coaster ride. One day rates are up; the next they dip down a bit. So - what’s driving this constant change? Let’s dive into just a few of the major reasons why we’re seeing so much volatility - and what it means for you. The Market’s Reaction to...