Historically low mortgage rates are a big motivator for homebuyers right now. In 2020 alone, rates hit new record-lows 16 times, and the trend continued into the early part of this year. Many hopeful homebuyers are now wondering if they should put their plans on hold and wait for the ... » Learn More about Should I Wait for Lower Mortgage Interest Rates?
Buyers
Owning a Home Is Still More Affordable Than Renting One
If spending more time at home over the past year is making you really think hard about buying a home instead of renting one, you’re not alone. You may be wondering, however, if the dollars and cents add up in your favor as home prices continue to rise. According to the experts, in ... » Learn More about Owning a Home Is Still More Affordable Than Renting One
Will Forbearance Plans Lead to a Tsunami of Foreclosures?
At the onset of the economic disruptions caused by the COVID pandemic, the government quickly put into place forbearance plans to allow homeowners to remain in their homes without making their monthly mortgage payments. Today, almost three million households are actively in a forbearance plan. ... » Learn More about Will Forbearance Plans Lead to a Tsunami of Foreclosures?
4 Reasons People Are Buying Homes in 2021
According to many experts, the real estate market is expected to continue growing in 2021, and it’s largely driven by the lasting impact the pandemic is having on our lifestyles. As many of us spend extra time at home, we’re reevaluating what “home” means and what we may need in one going ... » Learn More about 4 Reasons People Are Buying Homes in 2021
How to Make the Dream of Homeownership a Reality This Year
In 1963, Martin Luther King, Jr. inspired a powerful movement with his famous “I Have a Dream” speech. Through his passion and determination, he sparked interest, ambition, and courage in his audience. Reflecting on his message encourages many of us to think about our own dreams, goals, beliefs, and ... » Learn More about How to Make the Dream of Homeownership a Reality This Year
Why Not to Wait Until Spring to Make a Move
The housing market recovery coming into the new year has been nothing short of remarkable. Many experts agree the turnaround from the nation’s economic pause is playing out extremely well for real estate, and the current market conditions are truly making this winter an ideal time to make a move. ... » Learn More about Why Not to Wait Until Spring to Make a Move
The Importance of Home Equity in Building Wealth
Homeownership has always been the first rung on the ladder leading to household wealth. As Freddie Mac recently posted: “Homeownership has cemented its role as part of the American Dream, providing families with a place that is their own and an avenue for building wealth over time. ... » Learn More about The Importance of Home Equity in Building Wealth
Turning a House into a Happy Home
We talk a lot about why it makes financial sense to buy a home, but more often than not, we’re drawn to the emotional reasons for homeownership. No matter the living space, the feeling of a home means different things to different people. Whether it’s a certain scent or a favorite ... » Learn More about Turning a House into a Happy Home
A New Way to Shop for Homes in a Virtual World
In a year when we’re learning to do so much remotely, homebuying is no exception. From going to work to attending school, grocery shopping, and even seeing our doctors online, digital practices have changed the way we live. This year, rather than delaying their home purchases, buyers – alongside ... » Learn More about A New Way to Shop for Homes in a Virtual World
The Do’s and Don’ts after Applying for a Mortgage
Once you’ve found the right home and applied for a mortgage, there are some key things to keep in mind before you close. You're undoubtedly excited about the opportunity to decorate your new place, but before you make any large purchases, move your money around, or make any major life changes, ... » Learn More about The Do’s and Don’ts after Applying for a Mortgage