Some HighlightsWhile the number of homes for sale varies by local area, nationally we’re up over 36% year-over-year, but still down almost 29% compared to what’s normal.​Here’s what that means when you buy: more options for your search, more negotiation power for you, it’s more likely sellers will make select repairs, and more moderate price growth.If you want to talk more about what rising inventory means for you, connect with a local real estate agent.

Have you ever heard the phrase: don’t believe everything you hear? That’s especially true if you’re thinking about buying or selling a home in today’s housing market. There’s a lot of misinformation out there. And right now, making sure you have someone you can go to for trustworthy information is extra important.If you partner with a real estate agent, they can clear up some common misconceptions and reassure you by backing them up with research-driven facts. Here are just a few misconceptions they can help disprove.1. I’ll Get a Better Deal Once Prices CrashIf you’ve heard home prices are going to come crashing down, it’s time to look at what’s actually happening. While prices vary by local market, there’s a lot of data out there from numerous sources that shows a crash is not going to happen. Back in 2008, there was a dramatic oversupply of homes that led to prices crashing. Across the board, there’s an undersupply of homes for sale today. That makes this market a whole different scenario (see chart below):So, if you think waiting will score you a deal, know that data shows there’s not a crash on the horizon, and waiting isn’t going to pay off the way you’d hoped.2. I Won’t Be Able To Find Anything To BuyIf this nagging fear about finding the right home if you move is still holding you back, you probably haven’t talked with an expert real estate agent lately. Throughout the year, the supply of homes for sale has grown. Data from Realtor.com helps put this into context. While there are still fewer homes on the market than in a more normal year like 2019, inventory is still above where it was at this time last year (see graph below):So, if you’re remembering all that media coverage about record-low supply during the pandemic, you can rest a bit easier. While the market isn’t back to normal just yet, inventory is moving in a healthier direction. And that means as your options improve, you can let go of this now outdated myth because finding a home to buy won’t feel quite so impossible anymore.3. I Have To Wait Until I Have Enough for a 20% Down PaymentMany people still believe you need a 20% down payment to buy a home. To show just how widespread this myth is, Fannie Mae says:“Approximately 90% of consumers overstate or don’t know the minimum required down payment for a typical mortgage.”And if you look at the data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), you can see the typical homeowner isn’t putting down as much as you might expect (see graph below):First-time homebuyers are typically only putting down 6%. That’s far less than the 20% so many people think they need. And if you’re looking at that graph and you’re more focused on how the number for repeat buyers is closer to 20%, here’s what you need to realize. That’s only because they have so much equity built up in their current house that can be used to make a larger down payment for their next move.This goes to show you don’t have to put 20% down, unless it’s specified by your loan type or lender. Many people put down a lot less. Not to mention, depending on the type of home loan you get, you may only need to put 3.5% or even 0% down. So, if you’re buying your first home, you likely don’t need nearly as much for your down payment as you may think.An Agent’s Role in Fighting MisconceptionsIf you put your move on pause because you heard one or more of these myths yourself, it’s time to talk to a trusted agent. An expert agent has more data and the facts, just like this, to reassure you and help break through any misconceptions that may be holding you back.Bottom LineIf you have questions about what you’re hearing or reading, connect with a real estate agent. You deserve to have someone you can trust to get the facts.

In today's housing market, many sellers are making a critical mistake: overpricing their houses. This common error can lead to a home sitting on the market for a long time without any offers. And when that happens, the homeowner may have to drop their asking price to try to re-ignite buyer interest.Data from Realtor.com shows the number of homeowners realizing this mistake and doing a price reduction is climbing (see graph below):If you’re thinking about making a move yourself, here’s what you need to know. The best way to avoid making a costly mistake is to work with a trusted real estate agent to find the right price. Here’s a look at what’s at stake if you don’t.Not Paying Attention To Current Market ConditionsUnderstanding current market conditions is key to accurate pricing. You don’t want to set your asking price based on what happened during the pandemic. The market has moderated a lot since then, so it’s far better to align your price with today’s reality.Real estate agents stay updated on market trends and how they impact the pricing strategy for your house.Pricing It Based on What You Want To Make (Not What It’s Worth)Another misstep is pricing it based on what you want to make on the sale, and not necessarily current market value. You may see other homes in your neighborhood selling for top dollar and assume yours can do the same. But you may not be considering differences in size, condition, and features. For example, maybe that other house is waterfront or has a finished basement. To sum it up, Bankrate explains:“How do you find that sweet spot of pricing for profit but not overpricing? The expertise of your agent can be truly valuable here. A knowledgeable agent will understand fair market value in your area, how much your house is worth and how much you might reasonably expect to get for it in the current market.”An agent will do a comparative market analysis (CMA) to make sure your house is compared with truly similar properties to get an accurate look at how it should be priced.Pricing High to Leave Room for NegotiationAnother common, yet misguided strategy is to price your house high on purpose, so you have more room to negotiate down during the sale. But this can backfire. A price that seems too high often deters potential buyers from even considering the home. So rather than leaving room for negotiation, what you’ll actually be doing is turning buyers away. U.S. News Real Estate explains:“You want to sell your house for top dollar, but be realistic about the value of the property and how buyers will see it. If you've overpriced your home, chances are you'll eventually need to lower the number, but the peak period of activity that a new listing experiences is already gone.”An agent can help you set a fair price that attracts buyers and encourages more competitive offers.Bottom LineOverpricing your home can have serious consequences. A knowledgeable real estate agent brings an objective perspective, in-depth market knowledge, and a strategic approach to pricing.Connect with a local real estate professional to avoid making a pricing mistake that’ll cost you.

Selecting the right real estate agent can make a world of difference when buying or selling a home. But how do you find the best one? Here are some tips to help you make that big decision as you determine your partner in the process.Check Their ReputationStart by gathering information about agents in your area. From there, try to narrow down the list. Ask the people you trust if they have someone they’d recommend. You’ll want to find an agent with a strong online presence, plenty of positive reviews, and someone whose great reputation truly precedes them. As Freddie Mac explains:“. . . you may want to look for a real estate agent who specializes in the type of home you’re searching for. For example, if you are looking for an energy-efficient home, look for an agent who has experience with finding and negotiating offers for those homes. If you are looking for new construction, you’ll want to find an agent who has experience with new construction and isn’t affiliated with the builder . . .”Look for Local Market ExpertiseA great agent should have in-depth knowledge of what’s happening at the national and local level. That way they can clear up any misconceptions sparked by what you’re reading or hearing in the news. And they can tell you how your area compares to the national data. As an added perk, they’ll also be familiar with the neighborhoods you’re interested in and community amenities. As a recent article from Business Insider says:“Spend some time talking with prospective agents about the local real estate market and how it could impact your purchase or sale. You want to get an understanding of how knowledgeable they are about local market conditions. Whether they're helping you sell or buy, their strategy for you should account for those conditions.”Get a Feel for Their Communication Style and AvailabilityEffective communication is key in real estate transactions. Choose an agent who listens to your needs, answers your questions quickly, and keeps you informed throughout the process. If an agent is juggling too many clients, they might not be able to give you the attention you deserve. You want someone who will be readily available and responsive. So, what’s the best way to get a feel for their communication style and preferences? Bankrate offers this advice:“Interviews also give you a chance to find out the agent’s preferred method of communication and their availability. For example, if you’re most comfortable texting and expect to visit homes after work hours during the week, you’ll want an agent who’s happy to do the same.”Trust Your GutLast, rely on your instincts. If you feel like you do or don’t click with one of the agents you’re talking to, that matters. Choose an agent you feel at ease with and who inspires confidence. The right agent should be someone you trust to guide you through one of the most significant transactions of your life. As Business Insider says:“As long as you've properly vetted the agents you're considering and ensured they have the necessary expertise, it's ok to go with your gut . . . Maybe you have a better rapport with one of the agents you're considering, or you just feel like they're easier to approach. You're going to be working closely with this person, so it's important to choose an agent you're comfortable with.”Bottom LineBy following these tips, you can pick an agent who’ll provide the support and expertise you need to help make the process as smooth as possible. Connect with local agents to see if they’d be a good fit for working together.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home, you’ve probably got mortgage rates on your mind. That’s because you’ve likely heard that mortgage rates impact how much you can afford in your monthly mortgage payment, and you want to factor that into your planning. Here’s what you need to know.What’s Happening with Mortgage Rates?Mortgage rates have been trending down recently. While that’s good news for your homebuying plans, it’s important to know that rates can be unpredictable because they’re affected by many factors. Things like the economy, job market, inflation, and decisions made by the Federal Reserve all play a part. So, even as rates go down, they can still bounce around a bit based on new economic data. As Odeta Kushi, Deputy Chief Economist at First American, says:“The ongoing deceleration in inflation, coupled with the Federal Reserve’s recent indication of potential rate cuts [in 2024], suggests an environment supportive of modest declines in mortgage rates. Barring any unforeseen circumstances and resurgence in inflation, lower mortgage rates could be on the horizon, but the journey towards them might be slow and bumpy.”How Do These Changes Affect You?When mortgage rates change, it affects how much you pay each month for your home loan. Even a small rate change can make a big difference to your monthly bill.Take a look at the chart below to see how different mortgage rates impact your house payment each month for various loan amounts. Imagine you can afford a monthly payment of $2,600 for your home loan. The green part in the chart shows payments in that range or lower based on varying mortgage rates (see chart below):Understanding how mortgage rates impact your payment helps you make better decisions. How Can You Keep Track of the Latest on Rates?Real estate agents have the expertise to help you understand what’s happening and what it means for you. They can provide tools and visuals, like the chart above, to show how rate changes impact your buying power.You don’t need to be a mortgage expert; you just need a professional by your side. Someone who can help you make sense of the market and guide you through your homebuying or selling journey.Bottom LineIf you have questions about the housing market, reach out to a local real estate agent. They can help you understand what’s going on and how to navigate it.

Some HighlightsThe housing market is in a transition. And that gives you 3 key opportunities going into the fall.There are more homes actively for sale. Builders are motivated to sell, so a newly built home may be more achievable than you think. And mortgage rates have come down from their recent peak.If you’re ready and able to buy, you may find the housing market this fall a bit easier to navigate. Connect with an agent to get started.​

When you're thinking about buying a home, your credit score is one of the biggest pieces of the puzzle. Think of it like your financial report card that lenders look at when trying to figure out if you qualify, and which home loan will work best for you. As the Mortgage Report says:"Good credit scores communicate to lenders that you have a track record for properly managing your debts. For this reason, the higher your score, the better your chances of qualifying for a mortgage."The trouble is most buyers overestimate the minimum credit score they need to buy a home. According to a report from Fannie Mae, only 32% of consumers have a good idea of what lenders require. That means nearly 2 out of every 3 people don’t.So, here’s a general ballpark to give you a rough idea. Experian says:“The minimum credit score needed to buy a house can range from 500 to 700, but will ultimately depend on the type of mortgage loan you're applying for and your lender. Most lenders require a minimum credit score of 620 to buy a house with a conventional mortgage.”Basically, it varies. So, even if your credit isn't perfect, there are still options out there. FICO explains:“While many lenders use credit scores like FICO Scores to help them make lending decisions, each lender has its own strategy, including the level of risk it finds acceptable. There is no single “cutoff score” used by all lenders, and there are many additional factors that lenders may use . . .”And if your credit score needs a little TLC, don’t worry—Experian says there are some easy steps you can take to give it a boost, including:1. Pay Your Bills on Time Lenders want to see that you can reliably pay your bills on time. This includes everything from credit cards to utilities and cell phone bills. Consistent, on-time payments show you’re a responsible borrower.2. Pay Off Outstanding Debt Paying down what you owe can help lower your overall debt and make you less of a risk to lenders. Plus, it improves your credit utilization ratio (how much credit you're using compared to your total limit). A lower ratio means you’re more reliable to lenders.3. Don’t Apply for Too Much Credit While it might be tempting to open more credit cards to build your score, it's best to hold off. Too many new credit applications can lead to hard inquiries on your report, which can temporarily lower your score.Bottom LineYour credit score is crucial when buying a home. Even if your score isn't perfect, there are still pathways to homeownership. Let’s connect if you want to go over your options with an expert.

In recent years, there’s been a significant shift in how wealth is distributed among generations. It’s called the Great Wealth Transfer.Historically, the transfer of wealth from one generation to the next was a more gradual process, often limited to smaller amounts of inheritance or family savings. But today, the scale has increased in a big way. As a recent article from Bankrate says:“The biggest wave of wealth in history is about to pass from Baby Boomers over the next 20 years, and it’s going to have major impacts on many facets of life. Called The Great Wealth Transfer, $84 trillion is poised to move from older Americans to Gen X and millennials. If it’s managed smartly, Americans will be able to grow their wealth and ensure their financial security.”Basically, as more Baby Boomers retire, sell businesses, or downsize their homes, more substantial assets are being passed down to younger generations. And this creates a powerful ripple effect that’ll continue over the next few decades. The graph below uses data from Merrill and Cerulli Associates to give you an idea of how much inherited money is set to change hands through 2045:Impact on the Housing MarketOne of the most immediate effects of this wealth transfer is on the housing market. Home affordability has been a concern for many aspiring buyers, especially in high-demand areas. The increase in generational wealth is expected to ease some of these challenges by providing future homeowners with greater financial resources. As assets are passed down through generations, buyers may find themselves in a better position to afford homes. Merrill talks about that benefit in a recent article:“While millennials face steep barriers . . . to buying a first home in many markets, ‘that’s a for-now story, not a forever story’ . . . The Great Wealth Transfer should enable more of them to become homeowners — or trade up or add a second home — either through inherited property or the funds for a down payment.”Impact on the EconomyBut the Great Wealth Transfer doesn’t just impact housing. It’s also going to provide a new avenue for entrepreneurial spirits to fuel economic growth. If someone is looking to start a business and they’re receiving funds like this, that money can used as the necessary capital to start a new company. This helps the next generation of innovators and business owners bring their ideas to life.Bottom LineWhile affordability remains a challenge in today’s housing market, the ongoing Great Wealth Transfer is poised to unlock new opportunities. As wealth is passed down and put to use, it’s expected to ease some of the barriers to homeownership and fuel other entrepreneurial endeavors. 

Over the past couple of years, a lot of people have had a hard time buying a home. And while affordability is still tight, there are signs it's getting a little better and might keep improving throughout the rest of the year. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), says:“Housing affordability is improving ever so modestly, but it is moving in the right direction.”Here’s a look at the latest data on the three biggest factors affecting home affordability: mortgage rates, home prices, and wages. 1. Mortgage RatesMortgage rates have been volatile this year, bouncing around from the mid-6% to low 7% range. But there's some good news. Data from Freddie Mac shows rates have been trending down overall since May (see graph below):Mortgage rates have improved lately in part because of recent economic, employment, and inflation data. Moving forward, some rate volatility is to be expected. But if future economic data continues to show signs of cooling, experts say mortgage rates could keep going down. Even a small drop can help you out. When rates decline, it's easier to afford the home you want because your monthly payment will be lower. Just don’t expect them to go back down to 3%.2. Home PricesThe second big thing to think about is home prices. Nationally, they’re still going up this year, but not as fast as they did a couple of years ago. The graph below uses home price data from Case-Shiller to illustrate that point:If you're thinking about buying a home, slower price growth is good news. Home prices went up a lot during the pandemic, making it hard for many people to buy. Now, with prices rising more slowly, buying a home may feel less out of reach. As Odeta Kushi, Deputy Chief Economist at First American, says: “While housing affordability is low for potential first-time home buyers, slowing price appreciation and lower mortgage rates could help – so the dream of homeownership isn’t boarded up just yet.”3. WagesAnother factor helping with affordability is rising wages. The graph below uses data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to show how wages have increased over time:Look at the blue dotted line. It shows how wages usually go up in a typical year. On the right side of the graph, you'll see wages are rising even faster than normal right now – that's the green line.This helps you because if your income increases, it's easier to afford a home. That’s because you won't have to spend as much of your paycheck on your monthly mortgage payment.Bottom LineWhen you put all these factors together, you see mortgage rates are trending down, home prices are rising more slowly, and wages are going up faster than usual. Though affordability is still a challenge, these trends are early signs things might be starting to improve.

One of the biggest bright spots in today’s housing market is how much the supply of homes for sale has grown since the beginning of this year. Recent data from Realtor.com shows that nationally, there are 36.6% more homes actively for sale now compared to the same time last year. That’s a significant improvement. It gives you far more options for your move than you would’ve had just a year ago. And with supply improving, you’re also regaining a bit of negotiation power. So, if you’re someone who thought about buying a home over the last few years but was discouraged by how limited inventory was, this should be welcome news.As Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), says: “Increased housing supply spells good news for consumers who want to see more properties before making purchasing decisions.”But just so you have perspective, even though inventory has grown, that doesn’t mean we’ve suddenly flipped to an oversupply of homes on the market. There are nowhere near enough homes for sale to make prices crash. If you compare today’s inventory levels to more normal, pre-pandemic numbers (2017–2019), there are still roughly 29% fewer homes actively for sale now (see graph below):So, while we’re up by almost 37% year-over-year, we’re still not back to how much inventory there’d be in a normal market. As Bill McBride, Housing Analyst for Calculated Risk, explains: “ . . . currently inventory is increasing year-over-year but is still well below pre-pandemic levels.”But that’s okay. It’s to be expected. As a country, it’ll take a while to get back to the typical level of homes for sale. And the good news for buyers is, in some select markets, it’s closer to being a reality.Here’s a rundown of what today’s inventory growth looks like by region (see graph below):Real estate will always be hyper-local. If you want to find out what inventory numbers look like where you live, reach out to a local agent. They’ll be able to tell you what they’re seeing and how it stacks up to the national market. You may find you have even more opportunity to move where you are.Bottom LineThe supply of homes across the country is improving in a big way. As a buyer, that gives you more options for your home search, and ultimately, a better chance of finding what you like.So, what are you looking for in a home? And what’s your budget? Reach out to a local agent to go over that together to find the options that may be right for you.

Some HighlightsIf you’re thinking about selling your house, it’s important to know what the home inspection is and what inspectors look for.As supply grows and buyers regain negotiation power, you may find you want to do some select repairs with a good return on investment before listing to get ahead of things a buyer may ask you to fix.To decide what's worth tackling, you need expert advice. Reach out to a local real estate agent so you know what to prioritize.

If you’re planning to sell your house and move, you probably know there’s been a shortage of options available. But here’s the good news: the supply of homes for sale has grown in a lot of markets this year – and that’s not just existing, or previously-owned, homes. It’s true for newly built homes too. So how do you decide which route to go? Do you buy an existing home or a brand-new one? The choice is yours – you just need to figure out what’s most important to you.Perks of a Newly Built HomeHere are some benefits of buying a newly built home right now:Have brand new everything with never-been-used appliances and materialsUse energy efficient options to save money and leave a smaller footprintMinimize the need for repairs and benefit from builder warrantiesTake advantage of builder concessions that can help with affordabilityIn today’s market, a lot of builders are focusing on selling their current inventory before they add more homes to their mix. And some of them are offering concessions and are more willing to negotiate to make a sale happen. That, coupled with the fact builders are primarily building smaller, more affordable homes, has led to one other potential perk. The median price for a newly built home in today’s market is actually lower than the median price of an existing home – which isn’t usually the case. Ralph McLaughlin, Senior Economist at Realtor.com, shares: “Homebuyers who are looking for that ‘new-home smell’ may be in a relatively friendlier market than times past when new homes were considerably more expensive than used ones.” If you’re interested in seeing what builders nearby have to offer, lean on your real estate agent. Their knowledge of local builders, new communities, and builder contracts will be important in this process.Perks of an Existing HomeNow, let’s compare that to the benefits of buying an existing home. Join an established neighborhood that you can get a feel for before moving inChoose from a wider variety of floorplans and stylesAppreciate the lived-in charm that only an older home can provideEnjoy the privacy and curb appeal of mature trees and landscapingIn addition to these lifestyle benefits, there’s strategic value to buying an existing home, too. Remember, you can always make upgrades to an existing home down the road to give it some of the latest features available. This gives you the best of both worlds: you’ll get the charm, the neighborhood, and over time, you can still add those on-trend elements you may see in a brand-new home. And if you do, you’ll likely increase the home’s value too. An article from LendingTree explains:“. . . they can personalize it and possibly increase its potential resale value with cosmetic upgrades . . . Plus, if a home comes with physical details or stories that add charm, in some cases, these elements are attractive enough to add to a home’s resale value . . .”Want to see what’s available? Your real estate agent can show you what homes are for sale in your area, so you can see if there’s one that works for you and your needs.Bottom LineThere are a lot of factors that go into deciding whether to buy an existing home or a newly built one after you sell, but it’s essential in today’s market to understand the opportunities you can find in both. Work with a local housing market professional so you have expert guidance as you explore the options in your area.

Mortgage rates have been one of the hottest topics in the housing market lately because of their impact on affordability. And if you’re someone who’s looking to make a move, you’ve probably been waiting eagerly for rates to come down for that very reason. Well, if the past few weeks are any indication, you may be getting your wish.Mortgage Rates Trend Down in Recent WeeksThere’s big news for mortgage rates. After the latest reports on the economy, inflation, the unemployment rate, and the Federal Reserve’s recent comments, mortgage rates started dropping a bit. And according to Freddie Mac, they’re now at a level we haven’t seen since February. To help show the downward trend, check out the graph below:Maybe you’re seeing this and wondering if you should ride the wave and see how low they’ll go. If that’s the case, here’s some important perspective. Remember, the record-low rates from the pandemic are a thing of the past. If you’re holding out hope to see a 3% mortgage rate again, you’re waiting for something experts agree won’t happen. As Greg McBride, Chief Financial Analyst at Bankrate, says: “The hopes for lower interest rates need the reality check that 'lower' doesn't mean we're going back to 3% mortgage rates. . . the best we may be able to hope for over the next year is 5.5 to 6%.”And with the decrease in recent weeks, you’ve got a big opportunity in front of you right now. It may be enough for you to want to jump back in. The Relationship Between Rates and Demand If you wait for mortgage rates to drop further, you might find yourself dealing with more competition as other buyers re-ignite their home searches too.In the housing market, there’s generally a relationship between mortgage rates and buyer demand. Typically, the higher rates are, the lower buyer demand is. But when rates start to come down, things change. Buyers who were on the fence over higher rates will resume their searches. Here’s what that means for you. As a recent article from Bankrate says:“If you’re ready to buy, now might be the time to strike. Home prices have been rising primarily because of a longstanding shortage of homes for sale. That’s unlikely to change, and if mortgage rates do fall below 6%, it’s possible buyers would enter the market en masse, further pushing up prices and resurrecting bidding wars.”Bottom LineIf you’ve been waiting to make your move, the recent downward trend in mortgage rates may be enough to get you off the sidelines. Rates have hit their lowest point in months, and that gives you the opportunity to jump back in before all the other buyers do too.If you’re ready and able to start the process, reach out to a local real estate professional to get started.

If you haven’t already heard, homebuyers are regaining some negotiating power in today’s market. And while that doesn’t make this a buyer’s market, it does mean buyers may be able to ask for a little more. So, sellers need to be ready for that possibility and know what they’re willing to negotiate.Whether you’re looking to buy or sell a house, here’s a quick rundown of potential negotiations that may pop up during your transaction. That way, you’re prepared no matter which side of the deal you’re on.What Can You Negotiate?Most things in a home purchase are on the negotiation table. Here’s a list of just a few of those options, according to Kiplinger and LendingTree:Sale Price: The most obvious is the price of the home. And that lever is being pulled more often today. Buyers don’t want to overpay when affordability is already so tight. And sellers who aren’t realistic about their asking price may have to consider adjusting their price.Home Repairs: Based on the inspection, a buyer is within their rights to ask the seller to make reasonable repairs. If the seller doesn’t want to do that, they could offer to reduce the home price or cover some closing costs, so the buyer has the money to take them on themselves.Fixtures: Buyers can also ask for appliances or furniture to convey when the house changes hands. Having the seller throw in the washer and dryer cuts down on expenses the buyer would have when moving in. As the seller, you could leave your existing ones behind to sweeten the deal for your buyer, and get yourself new ones for your next place.Closing Costs: Closing costs typically run about 2-5% of the home’s purchase price. Buyers can ask the seller to pay for some or all of these expenses to offset the cash the buyer has to bring to the table. Home Warranties: Buyers can also ask the seller to pay for a home warranty. This is great for buyers worried about the maintenance costs that may pop up after taking possession of the home. And since this concession usually isn’t terribly expensive for the seller, it can be a good option for both parties.Closing Date: Buyers can ask for a faster or extended closing window based on their own timetable. The seller can also advocate for what they need based on their move to find the right compromise.One thing is true whether you’re a buyer or a seller, and that’s how much your agent can help you throughout the process. Your agent is your go-to for any back-and-forth. They’ll handle the conversations and advocate for your best interests along the way. As Bankrate says:“Agents have expert negotiating skills. Without one, you must negotiate the terms of the contract on your own.”They may also be able to uncover what the buyer or seller is looking for in their discussions with the other agent. And that insight can be really valuable at the negotiation table. Bottom LineBuyers are regaining a bit of negotiation power in today’s market. Buyers, knowing what levers you can pull will help you feel confident and empowered going into your purchase. Sellers, having a heads up of what they may ask for gives you the chance to think through what you’ll be willing to offer.Want to chat more about what to expect and the options you have? Connect with a local real estate agent.

Curious about selling your home? Understanding how much equity you have is the first step to unlocking what you can afford when you move. And since home prices rose so much over the past few years, most people have much more equity than they may realize.Here’s a deeper look at what you need to know if you’re ready to cash in on your investment and put your equity toward your next home.Home Equity: What Is It and How Much Do You Have?Home equity is the difference between how much your house is worth and how much you still owe on your mortgage. For example, if your house is worth $400,000 and you only owe $200,000 on your mortgage, your equity would be $200,000.Recent data from the Census and ATTOM shows Americans have significant equity right now. In fact, more than two out of three homeowners have either completely paid off their mortgages (shown in green in the chart below) or have at least 50% equity in their homes (shown in blue in the chart below):Today, more homeowners are getting a larger return on their homeownership investments when they sell. And if you have that much equity, it can be a powerful force to fuel your next move.What You Should Do NextIf you’re thinking about selling your house, it’s important to know how much equity you have, as well as what that means for your home sale and your potential earnings. The best way to get a clear picture is to work with your agent, while also talking to a tax professional or financial advisor. A team of experts can help you understand your specific situation and guide you forward.Bottom LineHome prices have gone up, which means your equity probably has too. Connect with a local real estate agent so you can find out how much equity you have in your home and move forward confidently when you sell.

Some HighlightsBack in 2008, there was an oversupply of homes for sale. Today, there’s an undersupply. The three main sources of inventory show this isn’t like the last time.Existing homes, new homes, and foreclosures are all way below the levels we saw during the housing crash.Inventory data shows there just aren’t enough homes available to have a repeat of what happened back in 2008. 

Are you a part of the Sandwich Generation? According to Realtor.com, that’s a name for the roughly one in six Americans who take care of their children and their parents or grandparents at the same time.If that sounds familiar to you, juggling all the responsibilities involved certainly must have its challenges. But it turns out there’s one pretty significant benefit: it can actually make it a bit easier for you to buy a home.How Can It Help You Buy a Home?Realtor.com asked members of the Sandwich Generation if they agree or disagree that taking care of children and parents at the same time is helping them afford a home. A third of respondents said their situation made it easier to buy (see graph below):Here are a few ways their caretaking situation might be helping those 33% buy a home:Sharing Expenses: If you live in a multi-generational household, you can pool your resources and split the costs. Your parents might contribute to the mortgage or help with other bills. This can make a big difference, especially in today’s housing market. It may help you afford a larger home than you could on your own.Built-In Childcare: Having grandparents in the home could also save you money on childcare. They can help watch your kids while you’re at work, which means you can save on daycare costs too.Beyond just the financial reasons, buying a multi-generational home has other advantages. The Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) highlights some of the most popular, including:Easier To Care for Aging Parents: It’s more convenient to take care of someone when you live with them. Also, your elderly parents may very well be happier and healthier, thanks to more social interaction and a feeling of connectedness.Spending More Time Together: Once you live together, you get to spend more time and create even more lasting memories with your loved ones.The Mortgage Reports sums it up this way:“Buying a house with your parents can be a great way to ease caregiving, support young children, or simply bring loved ones closer together. And considering the steep rise in home prices over the last few years, it can make homeownership a lot more affordable.”How a Real Estate Agent Can HelpIf you’re in the Sandwich Generation and thinking about buying a multi-generational home, working with a local real estate agent is essential. Finding a home that works for so many people can be tricky. An agent will use their expertise to help you find one that meets the needs of, and has enough space for, everyone who’s going to live there.Bottom LineBeing a part of the Sandwich Generation comes with its challenges – but it also might come with one truly great perk. If you’re looking to buy a home, your caregiving situation can actually make it a bit easier for you to afford a home. To learn more, reach out to a local real estate agent.

Figuring out what to do with your house when you're ready to move can be a big decision. Should you sell it and use the money for your next adventure, or keep it as a rental to build long-term wealth?It's a question many homeowners face, and the answer isn't always straightforward. Whether you're curious about the potential income from renting or worried about the responsibilities of being a landlord, there’s a lot to consider.Let’s walk through some key questions to ask to help you make the best decision for your situation.Is Your House a Good Fit for Renting?Even if you're interested in becoming a landlord, your current house might not be ideal for renting. Maybe you're moving far away, so keeping up with the ongoing maintenance would be a hassle, the neighborhood isn't great for rentals, or the house needs significant repairs before you could rent it out.If any of this sounds like it might apply, selling might be your best option.Are You Ready for the Realities of Being a Landlord?Managing a rental property isn't just about collecting rent checks. It's a time-consuming and sometimes challenging job.For example, you may get calls from tenants at all hours of the day with maintenance requests. Or you may find a tenant causes damage you have to repair before the next lease starts. You may even have to deal with people falling behind on payments or breaking their lease early. Investopedia highlights:"It isn’t difficult to find horror stories of landlords troubled with more headaches than profits. Before deciding to rent, consider talking to other landlords and doing a detailed cost analysis. You might find that selling your home is a better financial decision and less stressful.”Do You Have a Good Understanding of What It’ll Cost?If you're thinking about renting out your home primarily to generate extra income, remember that there are additional costs you’ll want to plan for. As an article from Bankrate explains:Mortgage and Property Taxes: You still need to pay these expenses, even if the rent doesn't cover all of it.Insurance: Landlord insurance costs about 25% more than regular home insurance, and it's necessary to cover damages and injuries.Maintenance and Repairs: Plan to spend at least 1% of the home's value annually, more if the home is older.Finding a Tenant: This involves advertising costs and potentially paying for background checks.Vacancies: If the property sits empty between tenants, you'll lose rental income.Management and HOA Fees: A property manager can ease the burden, but typically charges about 10% of the rent. HOA fees are an additional cost too, if applicable.Bottom LineTo sum it all up, selling or renting out your home is a personal decision that depends on your circumstances. Whatever you decide, taking the time to evaluate your options will help you make the best choice for your future.Make sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully and consult with professionals so you feel supported and informed as you make your decision. A real estate agent can be a great person to go to for advice.

The housing market is going through a transition. Higher mortgage rates are causing more moderate buyer activity at the same time the supply of homes for sale is growing.And if you aren’t working with an agent, you may not realize that. Here’s the downside. If you’re not informed, you can’t adjust your strategy or expectations to today’s market. And that can lead to a number of costly mistakes.Here’s a look at some of the most common ones – and how an agent will help you avoid them when you sell. 1. Overpricing Your HouseMany sellers set their asking price too high and that’s why there’s an uptick in homes with price reductions today. An unrealistic price will deter potential buyers, cause an appraisal issue, or lead to your house sitting on the market longer. An article from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) explains:“Some sellers are pricing their homes higher than ever just because they can, but this may drive away serious buyers and result in unapproved appraisals . . .”To avoid falling into this trap, partner with a pro. An agent uses recent sales of similar homes, the condition of your house, local market trends, and so much more to find the price that’ll attract more buyers and open the door for multiple offers and a faster sale.2. Skipping the Small StuffYou may try to skip important repairs, thinking you can pass the task on to your buyer. But visible issues (even if they’re small) can turn off potential buyers and result in lower offers or demands for concessions. As Money Talks News says:“Home shoppers like to turn on lights, flush toilets and run the water. If these basic things don’t work, they may assume you’ve skipped other maintenance. Homes that appear neglected aren’t likely to fetch top price.”If you want to get your house ready to sell, the best place to turn to for advice is your agent. They’ll be able to do a walk-through with you and point out anything you’ll need to tackle before the photographer comes in.3. Not Looking at Things ObjectivelyBuyers today are feeling the pinch of high home prices and mortgage rates. With affordability that tight, they may come in with an offer that’s lower than you’d want to see – especially if you didn’t stage, price, or market the house well.It’s important you don’t take this personally. Getting overly emotional can put the sale at risk. As an article from Ramsey Solutions says:“Remember, a buyer’s offer is not a reflection of their opinion of your home or your housekeeping abilities. . . The sale of your home is strictly a business transaction. If they start out with a low offer, don’t take it personally and get emotional. Instead, channel that energy toward negotiating. Work with your agent and make a counteroffer.”4. Being Unwilling To NegotiateThe supply of homes for sale has grown. That means buyers have more options, and with that comes more negotiation power. As a seller, you may see more buyers getting an inspection, requesting repairs, or asking for help with closing costs today. You need to be prepared to have those conversations. As U.S. News Real Estate explains:“If you've received an offer for your house that isn't quite what you'd hoped it would be, expect to negotiate . . . the only way to come to a successful deal is to make sure the buyer also feels like he or she benefits . . . consider offering to cover some of the buyer's closing costs or agree to a credit for a minor repair the inspector found.”An agent will walk you through what levers you may want to pull based on your own goals, budget, and timeframe.5. Not Using a Real Estate AgentNotice anything? For each of these mistakes, partnering with an agent helps prevent them from happening in the first place. That makes trying to sell your house without an agent’s help the biggest mistake of all.Real estate agents have experience and expertise in pricing, marketing, negotiating, and more. That knowledge streamlines the selling process and usually results in drumming up more interest and ultimately can get you a higher final price.Bottom LineIf you want to avoid making mistakes like these, you need to work with a real estate agent.

Today’s headlines and news stories about home prices are confusing and make it tough to know what’s really happening. Some say home prices are heading for a correction, but what do the facts say? Well, it helps to start by looking at what a correction means.Here’s what Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, says: “In stock market terms, a correction is generally referred to as a 10 to 20% drop in prices . . . We don't have the same established definitions in the housing market.”In the context of today’s housing market, it doesn’t mean home prices are going to fall dramatically. It only means prices, which have been increasing rapidly over the last couple years, are normalizing a bit. In other words, they’re now growing at a slower pace. Prices vary a lot by local market, but rest assured, a big drop off isn’t what’s happening at a national level.The Real Estate Market Is NormalizingFrom 2020 to 2022, home prices skyrocketed. That rapid increase was due to high demand, low interest rates, and a shortage of homes for sale. But, that kind of aggressive growth couldn’t continue forever.Today, price growth has started to slow down, which is a sign the market is beginning to normalize. The most recent data from Case-Shiller shows that after being basically flat for a couple of months last year, prices are going up at a national level – just not as quickly as before (see graph below):The big takeaway? So far this year, there’s been a much healthier pace of price growth compared to the pandemic.Of course, that’s what’s happening now, but you may be wondering what’s next for prices. Marco Santarelli, the Founder of Norada Real Estate Investments, says:“Expert forecasts lean towards a moderation in home price growth over the next five years. This translates to a slower and more sustainable pace of appreciation compared to the breakneck speed witnessed in recent years, rather than a freefall in prices.”It’s all about supply and demand. Increasing inventory plus limited buyer demand, due to relatively high mortgage rates, will continue to ease some of the upward pressure on prices. What This Means for You If you’re thinking about buying a home, slowing price growth is welcome news. Skyrocketing home prices during the pandemic left many would-be homebuyers feeling priced-out. While it’s still a good thing to know the value of the home you buy will likely continue to go up once you own it, slowing price gains are making things feel more manageable. Odeta Kushi, Deputy Chief Economist at First American, says:“While housing affordability is low for potential first-time home buyers, slowing price appreciation and lower mortgage rates could help — so the dream of homeownership isn't boarded up just yet.”Bottom LineAt the national level, home prices are not going down. And most experts forecast they’ll continue growing moderately moving forward. But prices vary a lot by local market. That’s where a trusted real estate agent comes into play. If you have questions about what’s happening with prices in your area, reach out to an agent.