Buying and owning your home can make a big difference by bringing you joy and a sense of belonging. And with June being National Homeownership Month, it’s the perfect time to think about all the benefits homeownership provides. Of course, there are financial reasons to buy a house, but it’s essential to consider the non-financial benefits… [Read More]
First-Time Homebuyer Success Keys
Buying your first home is an exciting decision and a significant milestone that can change your life for the better. As a first-time homebuyer, it’s a vision you can bring to life, but, as the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shares, you’ll have to overcome some factors that have made it more challenging in recent years: “Since 2011,… [Read More]
Owning Home Shields Against Inflation
You’re probably feeling the impact of high inflation daily as prices have increased on groceries, gas, and more. If you’re a renter, you’re likely experiencing it a lot as your rent rises. Between all those elevated costs and uncertainty about a potential recession, you may wonder if it still makes sense to buy a home today…. [Read More]
Expert Agent: Essential for Homebuyers
Buying a home can be intimidating, especially in today’s atypical market. With a few homes for sale, bidding wars have become common, driving home prices as buyers fiercely compete for available properties. Navigating this can be daunting if you’re trying to do it alone. That’s why having a skilled expert to guide you through homebuying… [Read More]
Why Buying Beats Renting Today
Are you wondering if you should continue renting or buying a home this year? If so, consider this. Rental affordability is still a challenge and has been for years. That’s because, historically, rents trend up over time. Data from the Census shows rents have been climbing pretty steadily since 1988. And data from the latest rental report from Realtor.com shows rents… [Read More]
Factors Affecting Home Affordability
The attention has been on the impact of rising mortgage rates on home affordability for current homebuyers. Rates have escalated significantly compared to the record lows experienced during the pandemic. Nonetheless, affordability depends not only on mortgage rates but also on a blend of mortgage rates, home prices, and wages. Considering how each of these… [Read More]
The Power of Pre-Approval
If you’re buying a home this spring, today’s housing market can be challenging. With so few houses on the market right now, plus higher mortgage rates, it’s essential to have a firm grasp on your homebuying budget. You’ll also need a sense of determination to find the right house and act quickly when you go… [Read More]
Inspection vs. Appraisal in Home-Buying
Are you buying a home? First, you need an inspection to assess the house’s condition before finalizing the transaction. On the other hand, an appraisal evaluates the home’s market value. Lenders usually order an appraisal to verify the house’s value before lending money to buyers. Both steps are critical, and your real estate agent can… [Read More]
Reconsider Waiting for Lower Prices
Are you looking to buy a home but holding off until prices drop significantly? You may want to reconsider. While home prices have come down a bit since peaking last June, recent data suggests they have already bottomed out and are now on the rise again. Waiting for a significant price drop may not be… [Read More]
Tax Refund for Homebuying Goals
Are you planning to purchase a home this year and have been diligently saving for it? You are probably aware of the numerous expenses that come with it, including the down payment and closing costs. However, the good news is that your tax refund can serve as financial aid toward achieving your goals by covering… [Read More]