More people are taking steps to buy a home. And if you’ve been waiting for the right time to move, this may be the sign you’ve been looking for.

For the past few years, many would-be homebuyers have paused their plans. With rising mortgage rates and affordability challenges, buying didn’t seem doable. But now, more of them are getting back out there. That’s because they’re getting used to the fact that this may be the new normal for the market – especially as forecasts show that mortgage rates may be starting to stabilize. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR):

“Home buyers seem to be getting over the shock of mortgage rates in the mid- to upper-6% range.”

And that’s good for you and your plans to sell. While there isn’t going to be a big rush of buyers flooding the market all at once, this does mean motivated buyers are re-starting their searches. And here’s the data to prove it.

3 Signs Buyers Are Ready To Make Their Move

1. Mortgage Applications Are on the Rise: According to the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), mortgage applications are up 37% since the start of the year. That’s a big jump and a sign that more buyers are active lately. Don’t miss out on that. Serious buyers who are getting their finances in order are great potential buyers for your house.

2. Buyer Demand Is Picking Up: The Homebuyer Demand Index from Redfin shows demand is up 3% since late January. While that’s not a huge spike, momentum is building.

3. More Home Showings: ShowingTime data says home showings are up 13% since the beginning of the year. This added foot traffic is exactly what you want to see if you’re about to sell your house. It signals a more serious interest in buying. More buyers out there looking means more potential eyes on your home. And more eyes could translate to more offers.

And chances are, this activity will only pick up from here. We’re headed into the busiest season of the year for housing. Spring is when more people buy or sell than any other time of year. So, now is a great time to list and get in on the action.

Bottom Line

As buyers re-enter the market, you can do the same thing. And the increase in buyer activity is something you’ll want to take advantage of. Let’s connect to ensure your house gets in front of these motivated buyers.

Would you be ready to sell if the right buyer walked through your door tomorrow?

When searching for a home, you don’t want to skip over new builds as an option. There are now more newly built homes to choose from than there would normally be in the market. And those added choices come with some pretty incredible benefits. Talking to your agent is the best way to see if this type of home makes sense for you.

Here’s a quick rundown of some things your agent will walk you through – including a few of the top perks of buying a newly built home today and some potential things you’ll want to consider before you ink any contracts.

The Perks of Buying a Newly Built Home 

Customization Options: Many builders allow buyers to choose finishes, layouts, and upgrades so that they can personalize their homes to their unique sense of style. This is obviously more of a draw if the home is still under construction, but sometimes, a builder will agree to some tweaks even after it’s completed.

Less Maintenance and Fewer Repairs: Everything from the roof to the appliances is brand new, saving you on any upfront maintenance or repair costs — for at least the first few years. Many builders also offer warranties on structural components and major systems to give you extra peace of mind. And not having to worry about this sort of thing is a big perk when everything feels so expensive.

Eco-Friendly and Energy-Efficient Features: With stricter building codes, newly built homes tend to be more environmentally friendly. This can include energy-efficient upgrades like smart thermostats and high-efficiency HVAC systems or eco-friendly tech. And all of these features can save you money on your future energy bills – again a welcome relief while inflation is stubbornly high.

Builder Incentives: Some builders are also offering incentives to homebuyers. While this will vary by builder, it could include rate buy-downs or other ways to offset today’s affordability challenges. As Bankrate says:

“Some builders offer financial incentives, including flexible financing options, to encourage buyers to purchase. These incentives — especially if they get the buyer a lower interest rate — could make a new-construction home more affordable in the long run.”

Other Considerations When Buying a Newly Built Home

On the other side of the coin, there are some things that you’ll want to at least consider before making your choice.

Longer Timelines: If you’re purchasing a home that’s still under construction, you may have to wait several months — or longer — before you can move in. As Realtor.com puts it:

“For homebuyers who have a short time frame to move into a new home, buying new construction could be challenging if the house isn’t built yet. This is not always the case, since a community may have some quick move-in homes or spec homes that are already complete (or nearly so) and ready for a buyer to move in. But if not, a buyer may have to wait.”

Potential Price Changes: Keep an eye on costs, too. It’s easy to go over budget if you keep tacking on upgrades or add-ons as you customize your build. At the same time, building materials, like lumber, can be affected by the economy, inflation, and changing trade policies. And unfortunately, if the cost of supplies climbs, builders will pass at least some of that increase on to people like you. As HousingWire explains:

“Upgrades and add-ons, unforeseen delays due to weather, supply chain issues or labor shortages, and expenses like landscaping and fencing not included in the builder’s cost can significantly affect the final price.”

Bottom Line

New builds can be a great choice today, but you want to be sure you have all the information you need to make an informed decision on such a big purchase. That’s where my expertise and experience are extra necessary.

Would you consider a newly built home? Why or why not? 

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 thinking about what that 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 changed? Let’s break it down.

The Rapid Rise of the Past 5 Years

Home prices increase by about 2-5% a year. But in 2021-2022, there were double-digit increases. 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 reap the benefits of those massive increases.

Your house has gained way more value than it usually would in such a short period, which 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:

Let that sink in if you’ve been holding off on selling because you were worried about buying your next home at today’s rates and prices. It may be 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. An agent can help you figure out what that looks like.

How To Find Out What Your House Is Worth

While a percentage is excellent, you probably want more specific numbers. The only way to get an accurate estimate of your house’s 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 consider your local market. Like, is inventory still low where you live? That may drive prices higher and faster. Or maybe you’ve done renovations to add 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 possible estimate of its value. Only they have the data and expertise to find your actual 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.

Are you having a hard time finding the right home in your budget? Or maybe you already own a home but could use some extra income or a designated space for aging loved ones. Either way, accessory dwelling units (ADUs) could be the innovative solution you’ve been looking for in today’s market.

What Is an ADU?

According to Fannie Mae, an ADU is a small, separate living space on the same lot as a single-family home. It must include areas for living, sleeping, cooking, and bathrooms independent of the main house. And they can take shape in a few different ways. Fannie Mae adds an ADU can be:

• Within a primary home, such as a basement apartment
• Attached to a primary home, such as a living area over a garage
• Detached from the home entirely, it could even be a manufactured home

The Benefits of ADUs

ADUs are gaining popularity as more people discover why they’re so practical. A recent survey shows that 24% of agents say an ADU, such as a mother-in-law house, is one of buyers’ most desired features.

The growing appeal makes sense. With rising costs all around you, an ADU can help supplement your income and ease some of the strain on your wallet. Whether you buy a home with one already or add one on, it gives you the option to rent out that portion of your home to help pay your mortgage.

Here are some of the other top benefits of ADUs, according to Freddie Mac and the AARP:

• Living Close, But Still Separate: You get the best of both worlds — more quality time together, plus privacy when you want it. If that sounds like a win, it might be worth looking for a home with an ADU or adding one to your home.
• Aging in Place: Similarly, ADUs allow older people to be close to loved ones who can help them if they need it as they age. It’s a sweet spot that offers independence and support from loved ones. For example, if your parents are getting older and you want them nearby, this could be an excellent option for you.
• Built-In Childcare: If your family lives in the ADU, you may be able to use them for childcare, which can also result in significant cost savings. Plus, it gives your kids more time with their grandparents.

It’s worth noting that since an ADU exists on a single-family lot as a secondary dwelling, it typically can’t be sold separately from the primary residence. And while that’s changing in some states, regulations vary by location. So, connect with a local real estate expert for the most up-to-date guidance.

Bottom Line

In today’s market, buying a home with an ADU or adding one to your current house could be worth considering. Be sure to talk with a real estate agent who can explain local codes and regulations for this type of housing and what’s available in your area.

What’s your motivation for exploring ADUs?

Are you trying to buy a home but feel like you’re up against deep-pocketed Wall Street investors snatching up everything in sight? Many people believe mega investors are driving up prices and buying up all the homes for sale, making it hard for regular buyers like you to compete.

But here’s the truth. Investor purchases are declining, and the big players aren’t nearly as active as you think. Let’s dive into the facts and put this myth to rest.

Most Investors Are Small, Not Mega Investors

A common misconception is that massive institutional investors are dominating the market. In reality, that’s not the case. The Mortgage Reports explains:

“On average, small investors account for around 18% of the market, while mega investors represent only about 1%.”

Most real estate investors are mom-and-pop investors who own just a few properties — not large corporations buying up entire neighborhoods. They’re people like your neighbors who have another home they rent or a vacation getaway.

Investor Home Purchases Are Dropping

But what about the big investors you hear about in the news? Lately, those institutional investors who make headlines have pulled back and aren’t buying as many homes.

According to John Burns Research and Consulting (JBREC), at their all-time peak in Q2 2022, institutional investors (those owning 1,000+ single-family homes) only made up 2.4% of home sales. And that number has only come down since then. By Q3 2024, that number had fallen to just 0.3% (see graph below):

That’s a significant shift, meaning fewer investors are competing in the market now than just a few years ago.

Investors are more reluctant to buy in today’s market, but why? The answer is mainly because higher mortgage rates and home prices have made it less attractive for them.

The idea that Wall Street investors are buying up all the homes and making it impossible for you to compete is a myth. While some investors are still in the market, they’re less active than in past years.

Bottom Line

Big institutional investors aren’t buying all the homes – if anything, they’re buying less than they have been. Let’s connect and talk about what’s happening in our local market. There could be more opportunities than you think.

How does knowing investors are buying fewer homes change how you see your chances in today’s market?

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?

After years of suburban and rural migration during the pandemic, cities have been making a comeback in the past couple of years. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the percentage of people moving to cities has risen to 16%. While that may not sound like a big number to you, it is the highest level in a decade – and that’s a big deal (see graph below):

And data from BrightMLS seems to confirm this trend. In a recent survey, 1 in 5 (20.6%) people looking to buy say they want to live in the city.

So, what’s behind this ongoing shift back to urban living? Let’s break down the top three reasons why people are trading quiet suburbs for bustling cityscapes. You may find out you want to sell your house with a big yard and move to an urban oasis.

1. Vibrant Culture

Cities have always been hubs of culture, entertainment, and community. They’re packed with energy, and there are always endless things to do. During the pandemic, a lot of that excitement was put on pause. But in the last couple of years, cities have been buzzing again.

There’s nothing quite like walking to your favorite coffee shop, popping into a local gallery, seeing a live concert or show, or grabbing a last-minute dinner at a great spot down the street. It’s an easy-to-lovea lifestyle—and one that many people want today.

2. Being Close to Work

Remote work is still a thing, but most companies are moving to hybrid schedules or bringing employees back to the office. That makes living closer to work way more convenient. Whether cutting down a long commute or having more chances to network in person, being close to the office is a big plus — especially for industries that thrive on face-to-face connections.

3. Easy Access To Everything You Need or Want

One of the best things about living in a city? The convenience. Public transportation, top-notch healthcare, and much more are all within easy reach. For many people, having everything nearby makes life easier — and it’s a big reason they’re drawn to urban living.

What To Do If You Want To Move To the City

Let’s say you moved to a suburban area during the pandemic and are missing the excitement of living off city streets. You’re probably thinking: how can I afford to move back into the heart of things with how mortgage rates and home prices are? Here’s how other people are doing it.

According to data from the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), home values have increased by 57.4% in the last 5 years alone. And that means your house will probably sell for more than you bought it for.

If you own a home in the suburbs, you may be able to sell that house and use the equity you get back to fuel your move. Sure, you may have to compromise and be happy with a smaller, urban space – but if it’s the lifestyle you’re craving – that trade-off will be worth it. To find out what’s possible and what it costs to live in an urban area, lean on a local real estate professional.

Bottom Line

The urban renaissance is real. Whether it’s the vibrant culture, being close to work, or having easy access to everything you need, cities are calling again — and people are answering.

What’s your favorite thing about life in the city? Let me know.

I’d love to find you a home you love where all the hustle and bustle makes life a bit more exciting.

It feels like everything is getting more expensive these days. That’s because inflation has remained higher than normal for longer than expected, impacting the costs of goods, services, and more. And with rising costs all around you, you’re probably questioning: is now the right time to buy a home?

Here’s the good news. Owning a home is one of the best ways to protect yourself from the rising costs that come with inflation.

A Fixed Mortgage Protects You from Rising Housing Costs

One of the key benefits of homeownership is that when you buy a home with a fixed-rate mortgage, your most significant monthly expense — your mortgage payment — stabilizes. Your payment could rise slightly as your homeowner’s insurance and property taxes shift. But no matter what happens with inflation, your principal and interest payments won’t change.

That’s not the case if you rent. Rent tends to rise over time and usually goes up even faster than the inflation rate. Just look at the data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) and the Census Bureau (see graph below):

So, while renters face higher costs year after year, homeowners with a fixed mortgage rate lock in their monthly payments, making it easier to budget no matter what happens with inflation.

Home Prices Typically Rise Faster Than Inflation

Another big reason homeownership is an excellent hedge against inflation is that home values tend to appreciate over time — often at a higher rate than inflation, according to data from the BEA and Fannie Mae (see graph below):

That makes real estate one of the strongest long-term investments during rising prices. While inflation can chip away at the value of cash savings, real estate typically holds or grows in value, allowing you to build wealth.

On the other hand, renting offers no protection against inflation. It does the opposite — when inflation drives up costs, landlords often pass those increases onto tenants through higher rents.

That means as a renter, you’re continually paying more without gaining any financial benefit. But as a homeowner, rising prices work in your favor by increasing the value of your home and growing your equity over time.

And with experts forecasting continued home price growth, you’re making an investment that usually grows in value and should outperform inflation in the years ahead.

In short, a fixed-rate mortgage protects your budget, and home price appreciation grows your net worth. That’s why homeownership is a strong hedge against inflation.

Bottom Line

Inflation can make everyday expenses unpredictable, but owning a home gives you stability. Unlike rent, your monthly mortgage payment stays the same over time. Plus, the value of your home is likely to increase after you buy.

How would having a fixed housing payment change how you budget for the future?