Some HighlightsWith all the headlines circulating recently, you may be wondering what’s next for home prices? Here’s what the expert forecasts say.Home prices are still forecast to rise nationally this year, just at a much slower pace. But price trends are going to vary by area.To have a quick conversation about what's happening in your local market, connect with a real estate agent. … [Read more...]
Today’s Tale of Two Housing Markets
Depending on where you live, the housing market could feel red-hot or strangely quiet right now. The truth is, local markets are starting to move in different directions. In some places, buyers are calling the shots. In others, sellers still hold the power. It’s a tale of two markets.What’s a Buyer’s Market vs. a Seller’s Market?In a buyer’s market, there are more homes for sale and not as many buyers. That means homes sit longer, buyers have more negotiating power, and prices tend to soften as a result. It’s … [Read more...]
Housing Market Forecasts for the Rest of 2025
If you’ve been watching the market, you’ve likely noticed a few changes already this year. But what’s next? From home prices to mortgage rates, here’s what the latest expert forecasts suggest for the rest of 2025 – and what these shifts could mean for you.Will Home Prices Fall?Many buyers are hoping home prices will come down soon. And recent headlines about prices dipping in some areas are making some people believe it's just a matter of time before there’s a bigger drop. But here are the facts.While home price … [Read more...]
The U.S. Foreclosure Map You Need To See
Foreclosure headlines are making noise again – and they’re designed to stir up fear to get you to read them. But what the data shows is actually happening in the market tells a very different story than what you might be led to believe. So, before you jump to conclusions, it’s important to look at the full picture.Yes, foreclosure starts are up 7% in the first six months of the year. But zooming out shows that’s nowhere near crisis levels. Here’s why.Filings Are Still Far Below Crash LevelsEven with the recent … [Read more...]
The Latest Mortgage Rate Forecasts
Some HighlightsIf you’re tempted to delay your move in hope that mortgage rates will come down, you may want to rethink that strategy based on the latest forecast.Experts say mortgage rates are projected to stay in the 6s this year. So don’t expect a big drop.If you want to talk about what this means for your move, connect with a real estate agent. As forecasts change, having an expert who can keep you updated is essential. … [Read more...]
Don’t Make These Mistakes When Selling Your House
Are you thinking about selling your house? Some common mistakes today can make the process more stressful or even cost you money.Fortunately, they’re easy to avoid, as long as you know what to watch for. Let’s break down the biggest seller slip-ups, and how an agent helps you steer clear of them.1. Overpricing Your HouseIt’s completely natural to want top dollar for your house, especially if you’ve put a lot of work into it. But in today’s shifting market, pricing it too high can backfire. Investopedia … [Read more...]
Why a Newly Built Home Might Be the Move Right Now
Are you looking for better home prices, or even a lower mortgage rate? You might find both in one place: a newly built home. While many buyers are overlooking new construction, it could be your best opportunity in today’s market. Here’s why.There are more brand-new homes available right now than there were even just a few months ago. According to the most recent data from the Census and the National Association of Realtors (NAR), roughly 1 in 5 homes for sale right now is new construction. So, if you’re not looking … [Read more...]
Mortgage Rates Are Stabilizing – How That Helps Today’s Buyers
Over the past few years, affordability has been the biggest challenge for homebuyers. Between rapidly rising home prices and higher mortgage rates, many have felt stuck between a rock and a hard place.But, something pretty encouraging is happening. While affordability is still tight, mortgage rates have shown signs of stabilizing in recent months. And that may finally make it a bit easier to plan your move.Mortgage Rates Have Stabilized – For NowOver the past year, mortgage rates have had their share of ups and … [Read more...]
The 5-Year Rule for Home Prices
Some HighlightsIf recent home price headlines have you feeling worried, here’s some perspective.Home values almost always go up in the long run. And the long-term gains offset any short-term dips. Basically, if you plan to live there for 5 or more years, you should be able to buffer yourself against any short-term declines.Connect with an agent to have a conversation about what’s happening with prices in your market. … [Read more...]
The Advice First-Time Homebuyers Need To Hear
Buying your first home is a big milestone – and the right support is going to make it a whole lot easier.Because while this process might be brand new to you, it’s not new to your agent. They’ve helped plenty of first-time buyers through it. They know what works, what actually matters, and how you can move through the process with a lot less guesswork.Here are a few real-world tips based on that experience of helping other first-time buyers.Tip #1: Get Pre-Approved FirstRocket Mortgage says this is one of the most … [Read more...]