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 size or shape of living space, the feeling of a home means different things to different people. Whether it’s a certain scent ...
Continue ReadingStudies have shown that, in many cases, the largest asset a family owns is the house they live in. Over the last twelve months, that asset has gained substantial value. CoreLogic just released its 2019 3rd Quarter Homeowner Equity Insights Report. The report revealed that: “U.S. homeowners with mortgages (roughly 64% of ...
Continue ReadingThis coming year the housing market will be defined by 3 things- inventory, interest rates, and appreciation. But the biggest issue the housing market will face in 2020 is an inventory shortage. There aren’t enough homes on the market for buyers, especially on the lower end of the market. This is a topic ...
Continue ReadingIt’s exciting to put a house on the market and to think about making new memories in new spaces, but we can have deep sentimental attachments to the homes we’re leaving behind, too. Growing emotions can help or hinder a sale, depending on how we manage them. When it comes ...
Continue ReadingThe reality of what we’re seeing this month is that homes are selling fast. In today’s strong seller’s market, bidding wars are common and expected with a starter or entry-level homes. In most areas of the country, first-time buyers have been met with fierce competition throughout their homebuying experience. Some have been ...
Continue ReadingBlack Friday is behind us and holiday gifts are flying off the shelves in stores and online. Unlike last year, however, there’s another type of buyer that is very active this winter – the homebuyer. Each month, ShowingTime releases its Showing Index, which tracks the average number of appointments received on active U.S. house ...
Continue ReadingIt may seem hard to imagine that the home you’re in today – whether it’s your starter home or just one you’ve fallen in love with along the way – might not be yours forever home. The good news is, it’s okay to admit if your house no longer fits ...
Continue ReadingOver the past year, mortgage rates have fallen more than a full percentage point. This is a great driver for homeownership, as today’s low rates provide consumers with some significant benefits. Here’s a look at three of them: Refinance: If you already own a home, you may want to decide if ...
Continue ReadingSaving for a down payment is a key step in the homebuying process, and it’s not the only piece you need to include in your budget. Another factor that’s important to plan for is the closing costs required to obtain a mortgage. What Are Closing Costs? According to Trulia, “When you ...
Continue ReadingSome are reporting that there is trepidation regarding the real estate market in the United States. Apparently, the American people are quite comfortable. Porch.com, a major network helping homeowners with their renovation projects, recently conducted a survey which asked Americans: “What do you believe is the safest investment over the next 10 ...
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