
Market Update
Struggling to save for a Down Payment?
Saving for a mortgage down payment can be a daunting challenge. With home prices steadily rising, it’s increasingly difficult for many buyers to accumulate enough funds for even the minimum required down payment. Traditional financial wisdom suggests putting down 20% to avoid private mortgage insurance (PMI), but even a smaller percentage can still be a significant sum. If you’re struggling to reach your savings goal, one potential solution is using gift money to help fund your mortgage down payment.
Avoiding Common Homebuyer Mistakes Post-Election
Election cycles can shake up the housing market, creating a mix of uncertainty and opportunity for homebuyers. With the recent election behind us, many are wondering how the changes might influence interest rates, incentives, and market stability.
How Savvy Homebuyers Can Thrive in Today's Market
Get ready for a big change. Next year, we’re expecting a 13% increase in home loans, hitting $1.45 trillion. Plus, with interest rates likely dropping to 5.9%, it’s a golden time for buying a home or refinancing the one you have. This is the moment you’ve been waiting for if you’re looking to step into the homebuying arena.
The Importance of Pre-Approval in Your Homebuying Journey
Are you eyeing the housing market because you've noticed more homes for sale and falling mortgage rates? If you're thinking about buying a home, getting pre-approved for a mortgage should be at the top of your list.
Interest Rates Cut: Find Out What This Really Means for Homebuyer
The Federal Reserve recently announced a reduction in its benchmark short-term federal funds rate by 0.5%, marking the first such cut in four years. While this news might sound like all borrowing costs will tumble—including mortgage rates—it's important to understand that the reality is a bit more complex than that.
Finding Your Ideal Mortgage Rate: What Number Are You Waiting For?
If you’ve been keeping an eye on the housing market the last few years, you likely already know how much the mortgage rates have significantly impacted the industry. Many people (maybe yourself included) have found it extremely challenging to afford jumping into the market. However, recent developments offer some encouraging news—mortgage rates have begun to decline, reaching some of the lowest levels we’ve seen so far in 2024.
Is Now the Right Time to Buy? Navigating Lower Mortgage Rates with Confidence
As mortgage rates dip to their lowest levels in over a year, both potential homebuyers and current homeowners find themselves at a crossroads; is it time to enter the market, or is it time to refinance an existing loan?
Keep reading as we break down what you need to know about the current state of mortgage rates and how it affects your home buying or refinancing decisions.
What is cash-out refinancing?
Have you heard about cash-out refinancing? It's a powerful financial tool that allows you to leverage the equity in your home to meet various needs. Even with today's average mortgage rates, it can be a smart move. Keep reading to learn why!
1% Less, 5 Million More:
The Significant Impact of Dropping Mortgage Rates. While the allure of lower future rates is strong, the current economic indicators and market conditions suggest that taking action now, with a strategy to refinance later, is a prudent decision. This proactive approach ensures that prospective homeowners can navigate the market effectively, avoiding the pitfalls of waiting for a "perfect rate" that may not return in the near future.
Why Home Prices Are Rising
The housing market has been a hot topic of discussion lately, with many experts and online commentators predicting an imminent crash.
Despite these gloomy predictions, residential home prices have hit a new all-time median price record high in May and have been on an upward trend for 11 consecutive months. How is this possible? Let’s break it down.
When Will The Widely Anticipated Housing Crash Finally Arrive?
Despite widespread skepticism, home prices continue to move higher in 2024. February witnessed an unexpected surge in home prices, climbing by 0.6%, which is considerably higher than the typical seasonal February slowdown observed in previous years.