Thinking about an Adjustable-Rate Mortgage? Read This First.

 

Thinking about an Adjustable-Rate Mortgage? Read This First.

If you’ve been house hunting lately, you’ve probably felt the sting of today’s mortgage rates. And it’s because of those rates and rising home prices that many homebuyers are starting to explore other types of loans to make the numbers work. And one option that’s gaining popularity? Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs).

If you remember the crash in 2008, this may bring up some concerns. But don’t worry. Today’s ARMs aren’t the same. Here’s why.

Back then, some buyers were given loans they couldn’t afford after the rates adjusted. But now, lenders are more cautious, and they evaluate whether you could still afford the loan if your rate increases. So, don’t assume the return of ARMs means another crash. Right now, it just shows some buyers are looking for creative solutions when affordability is tough. 

You can see the recent trend in this data from the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA). More people are opting for ARMs right now (see graph below):

And while ARMs aren’t right for everyone, in certain situations they do have their benefits.

How an Adjustable-Rate Mortgage Works

Here’s how Business Insider explains the main difference between a fixed-rate mortgage and an adjustable-rate mortgage:

“With a fixed-rate mortgage, your interest rate remains the same for the entire time you have the loan. This keeps your monthly payment the same for years . . . adjustable-rate mortgages work differently. You'll start off with the same rate for a few years, but after that, your rate can change periodically. This means that if average rates have gone up, your mortgage payment will increase. If they've gone down, your payment will decrease.”

Of course, things like taxes or homeowner’s insurance can still have an impact on a fixed-rate loan, but the baseline of your mortgage payment doesn’t change much. Adjustable-rate mortgages don't work the same way.

Pros and Cons of an ARM

Here’s a little more information on why some buyers are giving ARMs another look. They offer some pretty appealing upsides, like a lower initial rate. As Business Insider explains:

"Because ARM rates are typically lower than fixed mortgage rates, they can help buyers find affordability when rates are high. With a lower ARM rate, you can get a smaller monthly payment or afford more house than you could with a fixed-rate loan."

On the flip side, just remember, if you have an ARM, your rate will change over time. As Barron’s explains there’s the potential for higher costs later:

"Adjustable-rate loans offer a lower initial rate, but recalculate after a period. That is a plus for borrowers if rates come down in the future, or if a borrower sells before the fixed period ends, but can lead to higher costs if they hold on to their home and rates go up."

So, while the upfront savings can be helpful now, you'll want to think through what could happen if you're still in that home when your initial rate ends. Because while projections show rates are expected to ease a bit over the next year or two, no forecast is guaranteed. 

That’s why it’s essential to talk with your lender and financial advisor about all your options and whether an ARM aligns with your financial goals and your comfort with risk.

Bottom Line

For the right buyer, ARMs can offer some big advantages. But they’re not one-size-fits-all. The key is understanding how they work, weighing the pros and cons, and thinking through if they’d be something that would work for you financially. And that’s why you need to talk to a trusted lender and financial advisor before you make any decisions.

More Homes for Sale Isn’t a Warning Sign – It's Your Buying Opportunity

 

More Homes for Sale Isn’t a Warning Sign – It's Your Buying Opportunity

Maybe you’ve heard the number of homes for sale has reached a recent high. And it might make you question if this is the start of another housing market crash.

But the reality is, the data proves that’s just not the case. In most areas, more inventory isn’t bad news. It’s actually a sign of the market returning to a more stable, healthy place.

What’s Going on With Inventory?

Based on the latest data from Realtor.com, inventory just hit its highest point since 2020, shown with the white line in the graph below.

But what you need to realize is, at the same time, inventory levels still haven’t returned to pre-pandemic norms (shown in gray):

That means there are more homes for sale now than there have been in quite some time.

And while it’s true inventory is up significantly compared to where it was over the last few years, the number of homes on the market is still well below typical levels. And that’s important context.

Why This Isn’t the Problem A Lot of People Think It Is

Some people hear inventory’s rising and immediately think about 2008. Because back then, inventory spiked just before the market crashed. But today’s situation is very different.

Here’s the key reason why. We don’t have a surplus of homes; we have a deficit to climb out of. What we’re dealing with is a long-term housing shortage – and it’s a big one.

The red bars in the graph below show all the years where housing starts (new builds) didn’t keep up with household formation, going all the way back to 2012. The deeper the bars in the graph, the more the housing deficit grew (see graph below):

And one of the reasons this housing shortage kept growing is because new home construction just didn’t keep up with the number of people who need to buy homes. In fact, the U.S. is actually short millions of homes at this point, and it will take years to overcome that gap. Realtor.com says:

“At a 2024 rate of construction relative to household formations and pent-up demand, it would take 7.5 years to close the housing gap.”

That means, in most areas, there isn’t a risk of having too many houses on the market right now. It’s quite the opposite – a vast majority of markets actually need more homes.

Which is why, even though inventory is rising, it’s not a problem on a national scale. It’s just helping to fill a gap that’s been growing for years.

Bottom Line

Don’t let the headlines scare you. Rising inventory isn’t a sign of a crash. It’s a step toward a more normal, stable housing market.

What You Really Need To Know About Down Payments

 

What You Really Need To Know About Down Payments

Some Highlights

• There’s a misconception going around that you have to put 20% of the purchase price down when you buy a home. But the truth is, many people don’t put down that much unless they’re trying to make their offer more competitive.
• And if you want to give your savings a boost, look into down payment assistance. Most first-time buyers qualify and the typical benefit is $17,000.
• To learn more about your loan options or down payment assistance programs, connect with a trusted lender and check out downpaymentresource.com.

Why Buying Real Estate Is Still the Best Long-Term Investment

 

Why Buying Real Estate Is Still the Best Long-Term Investment

Lately, it feels like every headline about the housing market comes with a side of doubt. Are prices going up or down? Are we headed for a crash? Will rates ever come down? And all the media noise may leave you wondering: does it really make sense to buy a home right now?

But here’s one thing that doesn’t get enough airtime. Real estate has always been about the long game. And when you look at the big picture, not just the latest clickbait headlines, it’s easy to see why so many people say it’s still the best investment you can make – even now.

According to the just-released annual report from Gallup, real estate has been voted the best long-term investment for the 12th year in a row. That’s over a decade of beating out stocks, gold, and bonds as America’s top pick.

And this isn’t new. Real estate usually claims the #1 title. But here’s what’s really interesting. This year’s results came in just after a rocky April for the stock and bond markets. It shows that, even as other investments had wild swings, real estate has held its ground. That’s likely because it gains value in a steadier, more predictable way. As Gallup explains:

"Amid volatility in the stock and bond markets in April, Americans' preference for stocks as the best long-term investment has declined. Gold has gained in appeal, while real estate remains the top choice for the 12th consecutive year."

That says a lot. Even though things may feel a bit uncertain in today’s economy, real estate can still be a powerful investment.

Yes, home values are rising at a more moderate pace right now. And sure, in some markets, prices may be flat in the year ahead or even dip a little – but that’s just the short-term view. Don’t let that cloud the bigger picture.

Real estate has a long track record of gaining value over time. That’s the kind of growth you can count on, especially if you plan to live in that home for a long time.

That’s part of why Americans continue to buy-in to homeownership – even when the headlines may sound a little uncertain. As Sam Williamson, Senior Economist at First American, says:

“A home is more than just a place to live—it’s often a family’s most valuable financial asset and a cornerstone to building long-term wealth.”

Bottom Line

Real estate isn’t about overnight wins. It’s about long-term gains. So, don’t let the uncertainty in a shifting market make you think it’s a bad time to buy.

If you’re feeling unsure, just remember: Americans have consistently said real estate is the best long-term investment you can make. And if you want more information about why so many people think homeownership is worth it, let’s chat.

Pending Home Sales Declined 6.3% in April

Pending Home Sales Declined 6.3% in April: Despite an increase in housing inventory, without lower mortgage rates, home sales are not rising.

Is It Better To Rent or Buy a Home?

 

Is It Better To Rent or Buy a Home?

You’ve probably asked yourself lately: Is it even worth trying to buy a home right now?

With high home prices and stubborn mortgage rates, renting can seem like the safer choice right now. Or maybe your only choice. That’s a very real feeling. And perhaps buying today isn’t your best move; it’s not for everyone right away. You should only buy a home when you’re ready and able to do it, and if the timing is right for you.

But here’s the thing you need to know about renting.

While it may feel like a safer bet today – and in some areas might even be less expensive month-to-month than owning – it can really cost you more over time.

In fact, a recent Bank of America survey found that 70% of aspiring homeowners worry about what long-term renting means for their future. And they’re not wrong.

Owning a home may seem way out of reach, but if you make a plan now and steadily work toward it, homeownership comes with serious long-term financial benefits.

Homeownership Builds Wealth Over Time

Buying a home isn’t just about having a place to live – it’s a step toward building your future wealth.

Why? Home prices typically rise over time, which means the longer you wait, the more expensive it is to buy. And even in some markets where home prices are softening today, the overall long-term trend speaks for itself (see graph below):

And as home values rise, so does your equity when you’re a homeowner. That’s the difference between what your home is worth and what you owe. So, with every mortgage payment, that equity grows. Over time, that becomes part of your net worth.

Today, the average homeowner’s net worth is nearly 40X greater than that of a renter. That’s a shocking difference, and the dollars in the visual below don’t lie (see graph below):

And it’s one of the big reasons why Forbes says:

“While renting might seem like [the] less stressful option . . . owning a home is still a cornerstone of the American dream and a proven strategy for building long-term wealth.”

The Biggest Downside of Renting

So, short-term, why does renting feel like a simpler choice? Lower monthly payments, less responsibility, no strings attached. But long-term? It can sting.

For decades, while home prices have been rising, rent has gone up too. And while rent has held rather steady more recently, history shows the overall trend is up and to the right. That makes saving for a home more complicated than ever (see graph below):

That kind of financial uncertainty has a real impact. In the same Bank of America survey, 72% of potential buyers said they worry rising rent could affect their current and long-term finances.

Because rent doesn’t build wealth. It doesn’t come back to you later. It pays your landlord’s mortgage – not yours.

So, whether you rent or own, you’re paying a mortgage. The question is: whose mortgage do you want to pay?

Renting vs. Buying: What Really Matters

Think of it this way. Renting means your money is gone once you pay it. Owning means your payment builds equity – like a savings account you can live in. Sure, buying comes with responsibility. But it also comes with the kind of reward that grows over time. And that’s why you need a solid plan to get there.

As Joel Berner, Senior Economist at Realtor.com, explains:

“Households working on their budget will find it much easier to continue to rent than to go through the expenses of homeownership. However, they need to consider the equity and generational wealth they can build up by owning a home that they can’t by renting it. In the long run, buying a home may be a better investment even if the short-run costs seem prohibitive.”

Bottom Line

Renting may feel more do-able today. But over time, it could cost you more – without helping you build anything for your future.

If homeownership feels out of reach today, you’re not alone. And the first step toward getting out of the rental trap is to set a plan. Let’s connect, set your specific goals, and explore your options – so you’re ready when the time is right.

Existing-Home Sales Edged Lower by 0.5% in April

Existing-Home Sales Edged Lower by 0.5% in April: With the highest inventory levels in nearly five years, consumers are in a better situation to negotiate for better deals.

America's Housing Affordability Gap Persists: Households Earning $75,000 Annually Can Afford Less Than a Quarter of For-Sale Home Listings

America's Housing Affordability Gap Persists: Households Earning $75,000 Annually Can Afford Less Than a Quarter of For-Sale Home Listings: For-sale housing inventory increased nearly 20% nationwide in March 2025 from one year earlier, and while this gain marks progress, it remains far from pre-pandemic conditions.

Housing Market Forecasts for the Second Half of the Year

 

Housing Market Forecasts for the Second Half of the Year

From rising home prices to mortgage rate swings, the housing market has left a lot of people wondering what’s next – and whether now is really the right time to move. There is one place you can turn to for answers you want the most. And that’s the experts.

Leading housing experts are starting to release their projections for the rest of the year. These insights will give you clarity – and a little more optimism than you might expect. Business Insider sums up the forecasts (and why they’re good news for you):

“As mortgage rates go down this year, affordability may improve slightly for homebuyers. Inventory is also expected to grow, which should help moderate price growth and make finding a home easier.”

Let’s break it down.

1. Mortgage Rates Should Come Down (Slightly)

While a major drop isn’t on the table, forecasters are calling for a modest decline in rates in the months ahead as the economic outlook becomes more certain. Based on the information we have right now, here’s a look at where they say rates should be by year-end (see graph below):

Even this slight decrease is a welcome change. A seemingly small decline can still help bring down your future mortgage payment and give you a bit more breathing room in your budget.

Just remember, everything from inflation to employment and broader economic shifts will have an impact on where rates go from here. So, don’t try to time the market. And do expect some volatility along the way.

2. Inventory Will Continue To Grow

Inventory has already improved a lot this year. A big portion of the growth the market has already seen is because homeowners are getting tired of sitting on the sidelines. They’ve tried the wait and see approach with rates, and it hasn’t really paid off. And at a certain point, you need to move no matter what the market is doing. This is one reason more homes have been listed lately. And experts say that should continue. As Lance Lambert, Co-founder of ResiClub, says:

“The fact that inventory is rising year-over-year . . . strongly suggests that national active housing inventory for sale is likely to end the year higher.”

If rate forecasts pan out as the experts say, that could be enough to tip some more sellers off the fence and back into the market – giving you even more options for your move.

3. Home Prices Are Moderating

As more homes hit the market, there will also be less upward pressure on home prices. Expert forecasts are still calling for growth, but the pace of that growth is slowing down as inventory climbs. The average of all 7 forecasts shows prices will rise about 2% this year (see graph below):

That means you could finally get a little bit of relief from rapidly rising home prices. When you combine the forecast for healthier price growth with projections for slightly lower mortgage rates, that could mean more buying power in the months ahead.

Keep in mind, though, the housing market is hyper-local. So, this is going to vary by area. Some markets will see prices climbing higher. And some may even see prices dip a little if inventory is up significantly in that location. So, lean on a local agent for insights into what’s happening in your area.

Bottom Line

So, if you want or need to move this year, know that the experts say things should start looking up. Let’s connect so you can take advantage of any market shifts that work in your favor.

Inventory Is Rising But Not Enough, a New Report Warns

Inventory Is Rising But Not Enough, a New Report Warns: A new report from the National Association of REALTORS® and realtor.com® calls out where bottlenecks and housing affordability remain the most challenging.

Pending Home Sales Jumped 6.1% in March

Pending Home Sales Jumped 6.1% in March: The solid rise in pending home sales implies a sizable build-up of potential home buyers, fueled by ongoing job growth.

Top Remodeling Projects for Homeowner Satisfaction and Cost Recovery Revealed in NAR Report

Top Remodeling Projects for Homeowner Satisfaction and Cost Recovery Revealed in NAR Report: Top remodeling projects for homeowner satisfaction and cost recovery continue to vary as individuals remodel their homes for diverse reasons.

NAR and Realtor.com® Recognize 2025 Fair Housing Champions

NAR and Realtor.com® Recognize 2025 Fair Housing Champions: The Fair Housing Champion Award recognizes Realtors® for going above and beyond to support buyers and communities, advocating for accessible and affordable housing opportunities, and promoting consumer and Realtor® fair housing education.

Townhomes: A Smart Solution for Today’s First-Time Buyers

 

Townhomes: A Smart Solution for Today’s First-Time Buyers

Buying your first home in today’s market can feel tough. Between high home prices and mortgage rates, affordability is still a big challenge. And some buyers are making one simple trade-off that’s getting them in the door faster: square footage.

According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), 35% of buyers are willing to purchase something smaller to make homeownership happen. And one place you can usually find a smaller footprint (and sometimes better affordability) is in townhomes.

Why Townhomes Are Gaining Popularity

Townhomes typically cost less than single-family homes due to their more limited size. And that’s a big plus for today’s budget-conscious buyer. As Realtor.com says:

"In today's market, affordability remains a key priority for homebuyers, making townhomes an attractive option because they are often priced more reasonably than single-family homes. It makes them especially appealing to first-time homebuyers on a tighter budget . . ."

So, if you're trying to buy but feeling stuck because of rising prices, shifting your focus to townhomes could be one way to get into homeownership without maxing out your budget.

Builders Are Responding to the Demand

Builders have seen buyers’ appetite shift to smaller homes, and they’re adjusting to meet the demand. As Joel Berner, Senior Economist at Realtor.com, explains:

"Builders are making a concerted effort to provide smaller, more affordable inventory to the market in a way that the existing-home market cannot. Townhomes are a significant portion of that effort."

And the numbers back it up. According to data from Realtor.com, townhomes now make up a bigger share of new construction listings than they did just a couple of years ago (see graph below):

That means, if you’re interested in this type of house, you have more choices than you would have had over the last few years. And more options that are potentially more affordable are definitely a good thing. It should make your search for your first home a bit easier.

Is a Townhome Right for You?

If you’ve been focused only on more traditional homes with their own yards, an agent can help you explore whether a townhome could work for you. Who knows, you may find out you love the lifestyle. A lot of people do. As an article from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) explains:

“Townhomes tend to cost less than single-family detached homes and can be appealing to young professionals who may desire medium-density, walkable neighborhoods.”

That’s because they’re lower maintenance, they can provide a sense of community with other residents, and they have their own unique amenities. Not to mention, they give you the chance to start building wealth through homeownership without the upkeep that comes with having your own detached, single-family home. And that can be great for first-time buyers who are a bit worried about the maintenance anyway.

But they also come with some other considerations, like dealing with noise through shared walls. If you’re a renter right now, maybe you’re used to that already. But these are the types of things you’ll want to think about. And that’s where an agent’s expertise comes in. They’ll help you weigh the pros and cons, so you understand how a townhome fits into your lifestyle and long-term goals before making your decision.

Bottom Line

If you're struggling to find a home within your budget, it may be time to expand your search and consider options you haven’t before, like townhomes. Sometimes, compromising a little bit on space is worth it to get your foot in the door.

What matters most to you — space, location, or budget? Let’s figure out where you can flex to make homeownership happen.

Baby Boomers Regain Top Spot as Largest Share of Home Buyers

Baby Boomers Regain Top Spot as Largest Share of Home Buyers: Baby boomers have overtaken millennials—the largest U.S. population—to become the top generation of home buyers.

NAR Introduces New MLS Policy to Expand Choice for Consumers

NAR Introduces New MLS Policy to Expand Choice for Consumers: The new policy will provide sellers and their agents more options and choice when marketing a property, while also supporting fair housing.

Home Sales Thaw as Contract Signings Jump 2% in February

Home Sales Thaw as Contract Signings Jump 2% in February: Still, sales are down from a year ago, but moderately lower mortgage rates this year could accelerate the market, says NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun.

Existing-Home Sales Accelerated 4.2% in February

Existing-Home Sales Accelerated 4.2% in February: For both monthly and year-over-year sales, two major U.S. regions experienced growth, one region remained stable and the other registered a decline.

Real Estate Pros Can Discuss Home Equity to Motivate Buyers, Sellers

Real Estate Pros Can Discuss Home Equity to Motivate Buyers, Sellers: Send this message to clients and prospects: Soaring property appreciation means sellers make a windfall and buyers build wealth in the fast lane.

Greater Inventory Brings Home Buyers Back to the Real Estate Market

Greater Inventory Brings Home Buyers Back to the Real Estate Market: As the spring thaw sets in, new housing momentum is “flashing encouraging signs” for the market, says NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun.

NAR Race and Home Buying Report: Black Homeownership Surges But Still Lags Whites

NAR Race and Home Buying Report: Black Homeownership Surges But Still Lags Whites: Americans from all racial backgrounds are seeing higher homeownership rates, but some barriers remain. Real estate professionals are stepping in to help buyers overcome those challenges.

Why a Pre-Listing Inspection May Be Worth It in Today’s Market

 

Why a Pre-Listing Inspection May Be Worth It in Today’s Market

Selling a house comes with a lot of moving pieces, and the last thing you want is a deal falling apart over unexpected repairs uncovered during the buyer’s inspection. That’s why it pays to anticipate potential issues before buyers ever step through the door. And one way to do that is with a pre-listing inspection.

What Is a Pre-Listing Inspection? 

A pre-listing inspection is essentially a professional home inspection you schedule before putting your house on the market. Just like the inspections your buyer will do after making an offer, this process identifies any issues with the condition of your house that could have an impact on the sale – like structural problems, faulty or outdated HVAC systems, or other essential repairs.

While it’s a great option if you’re someone who really doesn’t like surprises, Bankrate explains this may not make sense for all sellers:

“While it can be beneficial for a seller to do, a pre-listing inspection isn’t always necessary. For example, if your home is relatively new and you’ve been the only owner, you’re most likely already aware of any big issues that could impact a sale. But for an older home, a pre-listing inspection can be very insightful and help you get ahead of any potential problems.”

The key is deciding whether the benefits outweigh the costs for your situation. Sometimes a few hundred dollars now can get you information that’ll save you a lot of time and hassle later on.

Why It May Be Worth Considering in Today’s Market

Right now, buyers are more cautious about how much money they’re spending. And they want to be sure the home they’re buying is worth the expense. In a market like this, a pre-listing inspection can be your secret weapon to make sure your house shows well. Here are just a few ways it can help:

• Gives You Time To Make Repairs: When you know about issues ahead of time, it gives you the chance to fix them on your schedule, rather than rushing to make repairs when you’re under contract.
• Avoid Surprises During Negotiations: When buyers discover issues during their own inspection, it can lead to last-minute negotiations, price reductions, or even a deal falling through. A pre-listing inspection gives you a chance to spot and address any problems ahead of time, so they don’t turn into last-minute headaches or negotiation roadblocks.
• Sell Your House Faster: According to Rocket Mortgage, if your house is listed in the best shape possible, there won’t be as many reasons for buyers to ask for concessions. That means you should be able to cut down on negotiation timelines and ultimately sell faster.

How Your Agent Will Help

But before you think about reaching out to any inspectors to get something scheduled, be sure to talk to an agent. Your agent will be able to give you advice on whether a pre-inspection is worthwhile for your house and the local market. Because it may not be as important if sellers still have the majority of the negotiation power where you live.

If your agent does recommend moving forward and getting one done, here’s how they’ll support you throughout the process.

• Offer Advice on How To Prioritize Repairs: If the inspection uncovers problems, your agent will sit down with you and offer perspective on what’s going to be a sticking point for buyers so you know what to prioritize.
• Knowledge of How To Handle Any Disclosure Requirements: After talking to your agent, you may decide not all of the repairs are worth it right now. Just be ready to disclose what you’re not tackling. Some states require disclosures as a part of a listing – lean on your agent for more information.

Bottom Line

While they’re definitely not required, pre-listing inspections can be especially helpful in today’s market. By understanding your home’s condition ahead of time, you can take control of the process and make informed decisions about what to fix before you list and what to disclose.

If you choose to skip this step, you may be just as surprised as your buyer by what pops up in their inspection. And that could leave you scrambling. Would you rather fix issues now or risk trying to save the deal later?

Let’s connect so you can see if this is a step that makes sense in our market.

Mortgage Rates Ease Slightly, But Are Buyers Waiting for More?

Mortgage Rates Ease Slightly, But Are Buyers Waiting for More?: Mortgage rates are at the lowest level in two months, but home buyers appear to be brushing it off.

Pending Home Sales Waned 4.6% in January

Pending Home Sales Waned 4.6% in January: The Midwest, South, and West saw month-over-month losses in transactions, while the Northeast saw a modest gain.

Do You Know How Much Your Home Is Worth?

 

Do You Know How Much Your Home Is Worth?

Over the past few years, you’ve probably seen a whole lot of headlines about how home prices keep going up. But have you ever stopped to think about what that actually means for your home?

Home prices have risen dramatically over the past five years — far more than usual. And if selling has been on your mind, this could mean a bigger-than-expected payday when you list. So, how much has your home’s value really changed? Let’s break it down.

The Rapid Rise of the Past 5 Years

Typically, home prices go up by about 2-5% a year. But in 2021-2022, there were double-digit increases. And at the peak, prices rose by a staggering 20% or more nationally. Why? There were way more buyers than homes available, which sent prices soaring. While things have normalized since then, you still get to reap the benefits of those massive increases.

Your house has gained way more value than it normally would in such a short period of time – and that means a lot more wealth for you, too.

The map below uses data from the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) to show that, nationally, prices have gone up by nearly 60% in just the past 5 years alone. Here’s a breakdown that takes that one step further and gives you the numbers by state:

If you’ve been holding off on selling because you were worried about buying your next home at today’s rates and prices, let that sink in. It may be more than enough to help close the affordability gap and get you into your next house.

And what if you’ve been there for longer? That means your home’s value is probably even higher now. You get to stack the abnormal gains of the past 5 years on top of five years of more normal appreciation too. And an agent can help you figure out what that really looks like.

How To Find Out What Your House Is Really Worth

While a percentage is great, you probably want more specific numbers. The only way to get an accurate look at what your house is really worth is to talk to a local real estate agent.

While the map above gives you the average appreciation rate by state, it doesn’t take your local market into consideration. Like, is inventory still low where you live? That may drive prices higher, and faster. Or maybe you’ve done renovation that’ll add even more value to your house. Those are insights you’ll need an agent to provide.

An agent will know what’s happening where you live and can stack that up against the data and the condition of your home to give you the best estimate of its value possible. Only they have the data and expertise to find out your real number today.

Bottom Line

Home values have climbed — maybe more than you expected. Are you curious about what your house is worth in today’s market? Let’s connect so you can find out.

Should I Update My House Before I Sell It?

 

Should I Update My House Before I Sell It?

Some Highlights

• With more homes for sale and buyers being more selective, it’s smart to make strategic updates.​ But how do you decide what’s worth doing? ​You lean on an agent.
• An agent will be able to tell you what buyers want, quick wins that’ll have a big impact, and what projects have the best ROI.
• What projects are on your to-do list before selling? With only a month left before spring, let’s connect so you know what’s worth the time and effort. 

How To Buy a Home Without Waiting for Lower Rates

 

How To Buy a Home Without Waiting for Lower Rates

Many people are hoping mortgage rates will come down before they buy a home. But will that actually happen? According to the latest forecasts, experts say rates will decline, but not by as much as a lot of people want.

The good news? Even if they don’t drop substantially, there are still ways to make buying a home more affordable.

How Much Will Rates Drop?

A few months ago, experts were forecasting mortgage rates could dip below 6% by the end of the year. But recent projections suggest that may not happen after all.

While mortgage rates are still expected to decline some later this year, projections from Fannie Mae, the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), and Wells Fargo now show them stabilizing closer to the 6.5% to 7% range (see below):

That means if you’re holding off on buying a home in hopes of much lower mortgage rates, you may be waiting a while. And if you need to move because something in your life has changed, like a new job, a new baby, or a marriage – waiting that long may not be an option.

Creative Financing Options in Today’s Market

Since rates aren’t expected to decline as much as originally expected, it may be worth considering alternative financing options that could help you get into a home sooner rather than later. Here are three strategies to discuss with your lender to see if any of these make sense for you:

1. Mortgage Buydowns

A mortgage buydown allows you to pay an upfront fee to lower your mortgage rate for a set period of time. This can be especially helpful if you want or need a lower monthly payment early on. In fact, 27% of agents say first-time homebuyers are increasingly requesting buydowns from sellers in order to buy a home right now.

2. Adjustable-Rate Mortgages

Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) typically start with a lower mortgage rate than a traditional 30-year fixed mortgage. This makes them an attractive option, especially if you expect rates to drop in the coming years or plan to refinance later.

And if you remember the housing crash, know that today's ARMs aren’t like the risky ones back then. Lance Lambert, Co-Founder of ResiClub, helps drive this point home by saying:

“. . . ARM products today are different from many of the products issued in the mid-2000s. Before 2008, lenders often approved ARMs based on borrowers ability to pay the initial lower interest rates. And sometimes they didn’t even check that (remember Ninja loans). Today, adjustable-rate borrowers qualify based on their ability to cover a higher monthly payment, not just the initial lower payment.”

In simple terms, banks used to give loans without checking to see if buyers could afford them. Now, lenders verify income, assets, and jobs, reducing the risks associated with ARMs compared to the past.

3. Assumable Mortgages

An assumable mortgage allows you to take over the seller’s existing loan — including its lower mortgage rate. And with more than 11 million homes qualifying for this option according to U.S. News, it’s worth exploring if you want or need a better rate.

Bottom Line

Waiting for a big decline in mortgage rates may not be the best strategy. Instead, options like buydowns, ARMs, or assumable mortgages could make homeownership more affordable right now. Connect with a local lender to explore what works for you.

How does this impact your homebuying plans this year?