Jennifer Dorn's Blog Posts

Things to Avoid after Applying for a Mortgage [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights There are a few key things to make sure you avoid after applying for a mortgage to help make sure you still

Why Right Now May Be the Time to Sell Your HouseThe housing market made an incredible recovery in 2020 and is now positioned for an even stronger year in 2021. Record-low mortgage interest&

Will Forbearance Plans Lead to a Tsunami of Foreclosures?At the onset of the economic disruptions caused by the COVID pandemic, the government quickly put into place forbearance plans to allow

4 Reasons People Are Buying Homes in 2021According to many experts, the real estate market is expected to continue growing in 2021, and it’s largely driven by the lasting impact the pandemic

What Does 2021 Have in Store for Home Values?According to the latest CoreLogic Home Price Insights Report, nationwide home values increased by 8.2% over the last twelve months.

Reasons to Hire a Real Estate Professional [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Choosing the right real estate professional to work with is one of the most important decisions you can make in your

Is This the Year to Sell My House?If one of the questions you’re asking yourself is, “Should I sell my house this year?” consumer sentiment about selling today should boost your

The Importance of Home Equity in Building WealthHomeownership has always been the first rung on the ladder leading to household wealth. As Freddie Mac recently posted: �

Why Not to Wait Until Spring to Make a MoveThe housing market recovery coming into the new year has been nothing short of remarkable. Many experts agree the turnaround from the nation’s economic

3 Must-Do’s When Selling Your House This YearIt’s exciting to put a house on the market and to think about making new memories in new spaces. However, despite the anticipation of what’s to,

Why Selling Your House on Your Own in 2021 Is a MistakeThere are many benefits to working with a real estate professional when selling your house. During challenging times, like what we face today,

More Generations Are Living Under One Roof This YearThis year challenged us to reprioritize everything – from the way we use our time to where we work, how we socialize and gather together, and

Why It’s Important to Price Your House Right TodayEven in today’s sellers’ market, setting the right price for your house is one of the most valuable things you can do. According to the

Did You Outgrow Your Home in 2020?It 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

The Difference a Year Makes for HomeownershipOver the past year, mortgage rates have fallen more than a full percentage point, hitting a new historic low 15 times. This is a great driver

The Do’s and Don’ts after Applying for a MortgageOnce you’ve found the right home and applied for a mortgage, there are some key things to keep in mind before you close. You’re undoubtedly

2021 Housing Forecast [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Experts project an optimistic year for the 2021 housing market. With mortgage rates forecasted to remain low, high buyer demand is expected

Homeowner Equity Increases an Astonishing $1 TrillionIn a year that was financially devastating for many Americans, some good news for most homeowners is the dramatic gain in home equity over the

3 Reasons to Be Optimistic about Real Estate in 2021This year will be remembered for many reasons, and optimism is one thing that’s been in short supply since the spring. We’re experiencing a

The Holidays Aren’t Stopping Homebuyers This YearBlack Friday and Cyber Monday are behind us, yet finding the perfect holiday gifts for friends and family is certainly still top of mind for many

5 Steps to Follow When Applying for ForbearanceIf you’re currently feeling the stress of affording your mortgage payment, or if you know someone who is, there’s still time to get help. For

Winning as a Buyer in a Sellers’ Market [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Buying a home in today’s sellers’ market doesn’t have to feel like an uphill battle. Here are four ways to make

Why It Makes Sense to Sell Your House This Holiday SeasonIf you’re one of the many homeowners thinking about taking your house off the market for the holidays, hang on. You definitely don’t want

Are Home Prices Headed Toward Bubble Territory?Talk of a housing bubble is beginning to crop up as home prices have appreciated at a rapid pace this year. This is understandable since the

An Honest Look at Unemployment NumbersLast Friday, the Bureau of Labor Statistics released the November Jobs Report. It revealed that, though headed in the right direction, the�

How Remote Work Can Power Your Vacation Home SaleThis year, the opportunity to work remotely has increased the demand for vacation homes. Gay Cororaton, Senior Economist and Director of Housing

The Path to Homeownership [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights If you’re thinking of buying a home and not sure where to start, you’re not alone. Here’s a map with 10 simple steps to follow in

A New Way to Shop for Homes in a Virtual WorldIn a year when we’re learning to do so much remotely, homebuying is no exception. From going to work to attending school, grocery shopping, and even

With Home Values Surging, Is it Still Affordable to Buy Right Now?Housing inventory is at an all-time low. Realtor.com just reported that there are 39% fewer homes for sale

Knowledge Is Power on the Path to HomeownershipHomeownership is on the goal list for many young adults, but sometimes it’s hard to know exactly how to get there. From understanding the homebuying

5 Tips for Homebuyers Who Want to Make a Competitive OfferToday’s real estate market has high buyer interest and low housing inventory. With so many buyers competing for a limited

Key Terms to Know in the Homebuying Process [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Buying a home can be intimidating if you’re not familiar with the terms used throughout the process. To point you in

Your House May Be High on the Buyer Wish List This Holiday SeasonAround this time each year, many homeowners decide to wait until after the holidays to sell their houses. Similarly, others who

Is Buying a Home Today a Good Financial Move?There’s no doubt 2020 has been a challenging year. A global pandemic coupled with an economic recession has caused heartache for many. However, it has

Don’t Let Buyer Competition Keep You from Purchasing a HomeThis year’s record-low mortgage rates sparked high demand among homebuyers. Current homeowners, however, haven’t put their houses on

It Pays to Sell with a Real Estate Agent [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Today, it’s more important than ever to have an expert you trust to guide you as you sell your house. From your safety

Will Mortgage Rates Remain Low Next Year?In 2020, buyers got a big boost in the housing market as mortgage rates dropped throughout the year. According to Freddie Mac, rates hit all-time lows

Chances of Another Foreclosure Crisis? “About Zero Percent.”There seems to be some concern that the 2020 economic downturn will lead to another foreclosure crisis like the one we experienced

Homes for Sale Are Rapidly DisappearingThrough all the challenges of 2020, the real estate market has done very well, and purchasers are continuing to take advantage of historically low mortgage

Why Working from Home May Spark Your Next MoveIf you’ve been working from home this year, chances are you’ve been at it a little longer than you initially expected. Businesses all over

Tips to Sell Your House Safely Right Now [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Your agent now has over 6 months of experience selling houses during the pandemic and can make the process easier and safer

Winter Will Bring a Flurry of Activity to the Housing MarketIn the second half of this year, the housing market surged with activity. Today, real estate experts are looking ahead to the

Homeownership Is a Key to Building WealthFor years, real estate has been considered the best investment you can make. A major reason for this is due to the net worth a household gains

Is it Safe to Sell My House Right Now?In today’s real estate market, the buzz is all about how it’s a great time to sell your house. Buyer demand is high, and there simply aren’t

Making a Home for the Brave Possible [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights VA Home Loans provide unique opportunities for Veterans, active-duty personnel, and their families in recognition of their

Why the 2021 Forecast Doesn’t Call for a Foreclosure CrisisAs the current forbearance mortgage relief options come to an end, many are wondering if we’ll face a foreclosure crisis next

Real Estate Is a Driving Force in the EconomyAs the economy recovers from this year’s health crisis, the housing market is playing a leading role in the turnaround. It’s safe to say that what we

Rent vs. Buy: How to Decide What’s Best for YouAccording to the U.S. Census Bureau, median rent continues to rise. With today’s low mortgage rates, there’s great

4 Reasons Why the Election Won’t Dampen the Housing MarketTomorrow, Americans will decide our President for the next four years. That decision will have a major impact on many aspects of life in

Should I Renovate My House Before I Sell It? [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights In today’s hyper-competitive market, buyers are often willing to overlook cosmetic or minor repair needs if it means

Three Ways Low Inventory Is a Win for SellersThe number of houses for sale today is significantly lower than the high buyer activity in the current housing market. According to Lawrence,

Buyer Interest Is Growing among Younger GenerationsThe demand for homes this year is extraordinary as record-breaking numbers of hopeful buyers continue to shop for homes. In a normal year, the peak

How Down Payment Assistance Opens the Door to HomeownershipMany people are eager to buy a home right now while affordability continues to be a highlight of the current housing market.

Two Important Impacts of Home EquityEquity continues to rise, helping American homeowners secure a much more stable financial future. According to the most recent data from CoreLogic, the

Selling Your House Is the Right Move, Right Now [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Demand from homebuyers has skyrocketed this year, which means today’s sellers are poised to win big. This ideal

Home Values Projected to Keep RisingAs we enter the final months of 2020 and continue to work through the challenges this year has brought, some of us wonder what impact continued economic

Why Today’s Options Will Save Homeowners from ForeclosureMany housing experts originally voiced concern that the mortgage forbearance program (which allows families impacted financially by COVID

Americans Are Gaining Confidence in the EconomyThe September Jobs Report issued by the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the unemployment rate dropped to 7.9%. Though that

Real Estate Continues to Show Unprecedented Strength This YearThe 2020 housing market has surpassed all expectations and continues to drive the nation’s economic recovery. The question is, will

How to Prepare for a Bidding War [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights With so few houses available on the market today, being ready for a bidding war is essential for prospective homebuyers. From pre

Do You Need to Know More about Forbearance and Mortgage Relief Options?Earlier this year when the nation pressed pause on the economy and unemployment rates jumped up significantly, many homeowners

The #1 Reason Not to Wait to List Your House for SaleMany industries have been devastated by the economic shutdown caused by the COVID-19 virus. Real estate is not one of them.Mark,&

Do You Have Enough Money Saved for a Down Payment?One of the biggest misconceptions for first-time homebuyers is how much you’ll need to save for a down payment. Contrary to popular belief, 

6 Reasons You’ll Win by Selling with a Real Estate Agent This FallThere are many benefits to working with a real estate professional when selling your house. During challenging times, like what we

Thinking of Moving? [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights If you’re ready to sell your house but you’re worried about finding one to move into, why not invest in a brand-new home built just for?

Should You Buy a Retirement Home Sooner Rather than Later?Every day in the U.S., roughly 10,000 people turn 65. Prior to the health crisis that swept the nation in 2020, most people had to

A Homeowner’s Net Worth Is 40x Greater Than a Renter’sOne of the best ways to build your family’s financial future is through homeownership. Recent data from the Federal Reserve 

Is it Time to Move into a Single-Story Home?Once the kids have left the nest, you may be wondering what to do with all of the extra space in your home. Chances are, you don’t need four bedrooms

Why Pricing Your House Right Is EssentialIn today’s real estate market, setting the right price for your house is one of the most valuable things you can do.According to the U.S. Economic

Rising Home Equity Can Power Your Next Move [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights According to CoreLogic, homeowners across the country are gaining significant equity. Over the past year, the

Buyers Are Finding More Space in the Luxury Home MarketA year ago, additional space and extra amenities had a very different feel for homebuyers. Today, the health crisis has brought to light how

Why Selling this Fall May Be Your Best MoveIf you’re thinking about moving, selling your house this fall might be the way to go. Here are four highlights in the housing market that may make your

Where Are Home Values Headed Over the Next 12 Months?As shelter-in-place orders were implemented earlier this year, many questioned what the shutdown would mean to the real estate market.

Housing Market on Track to Beat Last Year’s SuccessBack in March, as the nation’s economy was shut down because of the coronavirus, many were predicting the real estate market would face a major

Why Pricing Your Home Right Matters This Fall [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights As a seller today, you may think pricing your home on the high end will result in a higher final sale price, but the

Home Equity Gives Sellers Options in Today’s MarketHomeownership is one of the best ways to invest in your financial future, especially as your home equity grows. Home equity is a form of forced

Home Builder Confidence Hits All-Time RecordLast week, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) reported their Housing Market Index (HMI) hit an all-time high 

The Cost of a Home Is Far More Important than the PriceHousing inventory is at an all-time low. There are 39% fewer homes for sale today than at this time last year, and buyer demand

Is the Economic Recovery Beating All Projections?Earlier this year, many economists and market analysts were predicting an apocalyptic financial downturn that would potentially rattle the U.S.

Homes Across the Country Are Selling Fast [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Buyers are actively searching for and purchasing homes at a record-breaking pace. According to the latest report from the

How Low Inventory May Impact the Housing Market This FallReal estate continues to be called the ‘bright spot’ in the current economy, but there’s one thing that may hold the housing market

The Surging Real Estate Market Continues to ClimbEarlier this year, realtor.com announced the release of the Housing Recovery Index, a weekly guide showing how the pandemic has

Is Now a Good Time to Move?How long have you lived in your current home? If it’s been a while, you may be thinking about moving. According to the latest Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers;

Two New Surveys Indicate Urban to Suburban LeanThere has been much talk around the possibility that Americans are feeling less enamored with the benefits of living in a large city and now may be

Virtual School Is Changing Homebuyer Needs [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights With remote learning sweeping the nation this academic year, organized spaces with enough room for kids to learn

Homebuyer Traffic Is on the RiseOne of the biggest surprises of 2020 is the resilience of the residential real estate market. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist of the National Association

The Latest Unemployment Rate Fell to 8.4%Last Friday, the Bureau for Labor Statistics released their Employment Report for August 2020. The big surprise was that the unemployment

Have You Ever Seen a Housing Market Like This?The year 2020 will certainly be one to remember, with new realities and norms that changed the way we live. This year’s real estate market is

Thank You, Essential WorkersTo all essential workers on this Labor Day, thank.

The 2020 Homebuyer Wish List [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights The word “home” is taking on a whole new meaning this year, and buyers are starting to look for new features as they re

Homebuyer Demand Is Far Above Last Year’s PaceHomebuying has been on the rise over the past few months, with record-breaking sales powering through the market in June and July. Buyers are actively

How Will the Presidential Election Impact Real Estate?The year 2020 will be remembered as one of the most challenging times of our lives. A worldwide pandemic, a recession causing historic

It’s Not Just About the Price of the HomeWhen most of us begin searching for a home, we naturally start by looking at the price. It’s important, however, to closely consider what else impacts

Three Ways to Win in a Bidding WarWith so few houses for sale today and low mortgage rates driving buyer activity, bidding wars are becoming more common. Multiple-offer scenarios are

The Cost of Renting Vs. Buying a Home [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights The percentage of income needed to afford a median-priced home today is declining, while that for renting is on the

Why Is It so Important to Be Pre-Approved in the Homebuying Process?You may have heard that pre-approval is a great first step in the homebuying process. But why is it so important? When

Should You Buy an Existing Home or New Construction?Finding the right home to purchase today is one of the biggest challenges for potential buyers. With so few homes for sale and

Forbearance Numbers Are Lower than ExpectedOriginally, some housing industry analysts were concerned that the mortgage forbearance program (which allows families to delay payments to a later date)

Just How Strong Is the Housing Recovery?The residential real estate market has definitely been the shining light in this country’s current economic situation. All-time low mortgage rates

Sellers Are Returning to the Housing MarketIn today’s housing market, it can be a big challenge for buyers to find homes to purchase, as the number of houses for sale is far below the

The Beginning of an Economic RecoveryThe news these days seems to have a mix of highs and lows. We may hear that an economic recovery is starting, but we’ve also seen some of the worst economic

Homes Are More Affordable Right Now Than They Have Been in YearsToday, home prices are appreciating. When we hear prices are going up, it’s normal to think a home will cost more as the trend

Why Foreclosures Won’t Crush the Housing Market Next YearWith the strength of the current housing market growing every day and more Americans returning to work, a faster-than

Current Buyer & Seller Perks in the Housing MarketToday’s housing market is making a truly impressive turnaround, and it’s also setting up some outstanding opportunities for buyers;

The Latest Unemployment Report: Slow and Steady ImprovementLast Friday, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) released its latest Employment Situation Summary. Going into the release,

2020 Homebuyer Preferences [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights A recent study from HarrisX shows the current health crisis isn’t slowing down today’s homebuyers. Many buyers

How Is Remote Work Changing Homebuyer Needs?With more companies figuring out how to efficiently and effectively enable their employees to work remotely (and for longer than most of us initially

Why Homeowners Have Great Selling Power TodayWe’re sitting in an optimal moment in time for homeowners who are ready to sell their houses and make a move this year. Today’s homeowners are, on

Today’s Buyers Are Serious about Purchasing a HomeToday’s homebuyers are not just talking about their plans, they’re actively engaged in the buying process – and they’re serious about it.

Experts Weigh-In on the Remarkable Strength of the Housing MarketAmerica has faced its share of challenges in 2020. A once-in-a-lifetime pandemic, a financial crisis leaving millions still,

Where Is the Housing Market Headed for the Rest of 2020? [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: The housing market is forecasted to finish the year with growing strength. Historically low mortgage

Will We See a Surge of Homebuyers Moving to the Suburbs?As remote work continues on for many businesses and Americans weigh the risks of being in densely populated areas, will more people start to

Homeownership Rate Continues to Rise in 2020So far, it’s been quite a ride this year, and our nation has truly seen its fair share of hurdles. From COVID-19 to record unemployment and then the

Guidance and Support Are Key When Buying Your First HomeIn June, the number of first-time homebuyers accounted for 35% of the existing homes sold, a trend that’s been building steadily throughout

Three of the Latest Reports Show Housing Market Is StrongThe residential real estate market is remaining resilient as the country still struggles to beat the COVID-19 pandemic. Three separate

A Real Estate Pro Is More Helpful Now than Ever [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights A recent study shared by NAR notes that both buyers and sellers think an agent is more helpful than ever

Home Sales Hit a Record-Setting ReboundWith a worldwide health crisis that drove a pause in the economy this year, the housing market was greatly impacted. Many have been eagerly awaiting some

Two Reasons We Won’t See a Rush of Foreclosures This FallThe health crisis we face as a country has led businesses all over the nation to reduce or discontinue their services altogether. This

A Remarkable Recovery for the Housing MarketFor months now the vast majority of Americans have been asking the same question: When will the economy turn around? Many experts have been

Thinking of Selling Your House? Now May be the Right TimeInventory is arguably the biggest challenge for buyers in today’s housing market. There are simply more buyers actively looking for homes

Mortgage Rates Fall Below 3% [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Mortgage rates hit another all-time low, falling below 3% this week. If you’re ready to buy a home, now is a great time to

Does Your Home Have What Buyers Are Looking For?There’s great opportunity for today’s homeowners to sell their houses and make a move, yet due to the impact of the ongoing health crisis, some

Mortgage Rates Hit Record Lows for Three Consecutive WeeksOver the past several weeks, Freddie Mac has reported the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate dropping to record lows, all the way

What Are Experts Saying about Home Prices?Last week, a very well-respected real estate analytics firm surprised many with their home price projection for the next twelve months. CoreLogic, in

Buyers: Are You Ready for a Bidding War?With businesses reopening throughout the country and some experts indicating early signs of a much-anticipated economic recovery, more homebuyers are

Americans Rank Real Estate Best Investment for 7 Years Running [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Real estate has outranked stocks, savings accounts, and gold as the best long-term investment

Not All Agents Are Created EqualIn today’s fast-paced world where answers are just a Google search away, there are some who may question the benefits of hiring a real estate professional when

Best Time to Sell? When Competition Is at an All-Time LowIn a recent survey of home sellers by Qualtrics, 87% of respondents said they were concerned their home won’t sell because

Taking Advantage of Homebuying Affordability in Today’s MarketEveryone is ready to buy a home at different times in their lives, and despite the health crisis, today is no exception. Understanding

Latest Unemployment Report: Great News…for the Most PartThe Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) released their latest Employment Situation Summary last Thursday, and it again beat

America Is Another Name for Opportunity ]

Is the Health Crisis Driving Buyers Out of Urban Areas?The pandemic has caused consumers to re-examine the components that make up the “perfect home.” Many families are no longer comfortable

A Historic Rebound for the Housing MarketPending Home Sales increased by 44.3% in May, registering the highest month-over-month gain in the index since the National Association of Realtors;(

Are New Homes Going to Be Available to Buy This Year?In today’s economy, everyone seems to be searching for signs that a recovery is coming soon. Many experts agree that it may actually already be

What Are Experts Saying About the Rest of 2020?One of the biggest questions on everyone’s minds these days is: What’s going to happen to the housing market in the second half of the year?

Think You Should For Sale By Owner? Think Again [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights  For Sale By Owner (FSBO) is the process of selling real estate without the representation of a real estate

New Index Reveals Impact of COVID-19 on Real EstateEarlier this month, realtor.com announced the release of their initial Housing Recovery Index, a weekly guide showing how the

Should We Be Looking at Unemployment Numbers Differently?The New York Times recently ran an article regarding unemployment titled: Don’t Cheer Too Soon. Keep an Eye on the

Homebuyers Are in the Mood to Buy TodayAccording to the latest FreddieMac Quarterly Forecast, mortgage interest rates have fallen to historically low levels this spring and they’re projected

7 Strategies for a 2020 Open House [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Buyer interest is high right now, so this summer is a great time to sell your house. Here are 7 strategies to help

Want to Make a Move? Homeowner Equity is Growing Year-Over-YearOne of the bright spots of the 2020 real estate market is the growth in equity homeowners are experiencing across the country.

Is the Economic Recovery Already Underway?The Wall Street Journal just released their latest monthly Survey of Economists. In an article on the findings, they: “

Three Reasons Homebuyers Are Ready to Purchase This YearA recent survey by Lending Tree tapped into behaviors of over 1,000 prospective buyers. The results indicated 53% of

Real Estate Tops Best Investment Poll for 7th Year RunningEvery year, Gallup conducts a survey of Americans to determine their choice for the best long-term investment.

Summer is the New Spring for Real Estate [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights The health crisis slowed the market this spring, so buyers are jumping back into the market to make their moves this.

Are You Ready for the Summer Housing Market?As the health crisis started making its way throughout our country earlier this spring, sellers have been cautious about putting their homes on the.

Is a Recession Here? Yes. Does that Mean a Housing Crash? No.On Monday, the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) announced that the U.S. economy is officially in a

Real Estate Will Lead the Economic RecoveryWith more U.S. states reopening for business this summer, and as people start to return to work, we can expect the economy to begin improving. Most expert

The Shocking News in the Unemployment ReportLast Friday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released their May Employment Situation Summary. Leading up to the release, most

National Homeownership Month [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights National Homeownership Month is a great time to reflect on how we can each promote stronger community growth. Homeownership helps

Three Things to Understand About Unemployment StatisticsTomorrow morning the Bureau of Labor Statistics will release the latest Employment Situation Summary, which will include the

Is it Time to Sell Your Vacation Home?The travel industry is one of the major sectors that’s been hit extremely hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, it’s hard to know how long it will take for

Home Prices: It’s All About Supply and DemandAs we enter the summer months and work through the challenges associated with the current health crisis, many are wondering what impact the economic

The Benefits of Homeownership May Reach Further Than You ThinkMore than ever, our homes have become an integral part of our lives. Today they are much more than the houses we live in. They’re

Top Reasons to Own Your Home [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights June is National Homeownership Month, and it’s a great time to consider the benefits of owning your own home. If you’re in a

Economists Forecast Recovery to Begin in the Second Half of 2020 With the U.S. economy on everyone’s minds right now, questions about the country’s financial outlook continue to come up

Why This Summer Is the 2020 Real Estate SeasonWith stay-at-home orders starting to gradually lift throughout parts of the country, data indicates homebuyers are jumping back into

Buying or Selling a Home? You Need an Expert Kind of GuideIn a normal housing market, whether you’re buying or selling a home, you need an experienced guide to help you navigate through the.

We Remember & Honor Those Who Gave AllWe remember, today and.

Interest Rates Hover Near Historic All-Time Lows [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Mortgage interest rates have dropped considerably this spring and are hovering at a historically low level.

Experts Predict Economic Recovery Should Begin in the Second Half of the YearOne of the biggest questions we all seem to be asking these days is:When are we going to start to see an economic?

6 Reasons Why Selling Your House on Your Own Is a MistakeThere are manybenefitsto working with a real estate professional when selling your house. During challenging times like the one we face,

Housing Market Positioned to Bring Back the EconomyAll eyes are on the American economy. As it goes, so does the world economy. With states beginning to reopen, the question becomes:which sectors of

#1 Financial Benefit of Homeownership: Family WealthWhile growing up, we were taught by our parents and grandparents that owning a home is a financially savvy move. They explained how a mortgage is

2020 Homeowner Wish List [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights In a recent study by realtor.com, homeowners noted some of the main things they would change about their homes to make them more.

Will the Housing Market Turn Around This Year?Today, many people are asking themselves if they should buy or sell a home in 2020. Some have shifted their plans or put them on hold over the past

A Surprising Shift to the ‘Burbs May Be on the RiseWhile many people across the U.S. have traditionally enjoyed the perks of an urban lifestyle, some who live in more populated city limits today

Unemployment Report: No Need to Be TerrifiedLast Friday, theBureau of Labor Statistics(BLS) released its latestjobs report. It revealed that the economic shutdown made necessary by COVID-19 caused

Will Home Values Appreciate or Depreciate in 2020?With the housing market staggered to some degree by the health crisis the country is currently facing, some potential purchasers are questioning

A Day When Americans Can Return to Work [INFOGRAPHIC] Some Highlights Taking a moment to reflect upon what we’ve heard from historical leaders can teach us a lot about

Unemployment: Hope on the HorizonTomorrow, the unemployment rate for April 2020 will be released by theU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.It will hit a peak this country has never seen before, with

Why Home Equity Is a Bright Spark in the Housing MarketGiven how we have seen more unemployment claims than ever before over the past several weeks, fear is spreading widely. Some good news,,

Confused About the Economic Recovery? Here’s Why.As we continue to work through the health crisis that plagues this country, more and more conversations are turning to economic recovery. While we

U.S. Homeownership Rate Rises to Highest Point in 8 YearsFor nearly two months, most of us have been following strict stay-at-home orders from our state and local governments. It is a whole new way

How to Test-Drive a Neighborhood While Sheltering in Place [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Staying at home doesn’t mean your search for a new place needs to come to a standstill. Check out&

Why the Housing Market Is a Powerful Economic DriverWith businesses starting to slowly open back up again in some parts of the country, it’s important to understand how housing can have a major

Buying a Home Right Now: Easy? No. Smart? Yes.Through all the volatility in the economy right now, some have put their search for a home on hold, yet others have not. According to ShowingTime,

Rise to the Top of the Pool by Selling Your House TodayWith the release of the latest Economic Pulse Flash Survey from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), results

What Impact Might COVID-19 Have on Home Values?A big challenge facing the housing industry is determining what impact the current pandemic may have on home values. Some buyers are hoping for major

Today’s Expert Insight on the Housing Market [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights According to Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at NAR, home prices are forecasted to rise. Results from

Uncertainty Abounds in the Search for Economic Recovery TimetableEarlier this week, we discussed how most projections from financial institutions are calling for a quick V-shaped recovery

Keys to Selling Your House VirtuallyIn a recent survey by realtor.com, people thinking about selling their homes indicated they’re generally willing to allow their agent and some

Will This Economic Crisis Have a V, U, or L-Shaped Recovery?Many American businesses have been put on hold as the country deals with the worst pandemic in over one hundred years. As the states are

The Pain of Unemployment: It Will Be Deep, But Not for LongThere are two crises in this country right now: a health crisis that has forced everyone into their homes and a financial crisis caused by

3041 Antrim Circle$289,999 Townhouse 4 Beds, 2 Baths, 1,555 Sqr Ft, Dumfries22026 - Why rent when you can own this charming starter home? TAKE THE 3D TOUR of this beautiful light-filled

How Technology is Helping Buyers Navigate the Home Search Process [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: A recent realtor.com survey revealed that buyers are still considering moving forward

Today’s Homebuyers Want Lower Prices. Sellers Disagree.The uncertainty the world faces today due to the COVID-19 pandemic is causing so many things to change. The way we interact, the way we do

Think This Is a Housing Crisis? Think Again.With all of the unanswered questions caused by COVID-19 and the economic slowdown we’re experiencing across the country today, many are asking if the

What If I Need to Sell My Home Now? What Can I Do?Every day that passes, people have a need to buy and sell homes. That doesn’t stop during the current pandemic. If you’ve had a major life

Recession? Yes. Housing Crash? No.With over 90% of Americans now under a shelter-in-place order, many experts are warning that the American economy is heading toward a recession, if it’s not in

What You Can Do to Get Your House Ready to Sell [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: Believe it or not, there are lots of things you can do to prep your house for a sale without even going to the.

Why Home Office Space Is More Desirable Than EverFor years, we’ve all heard about the most desirable home features buyers are looking for, from upgraded kitchens to remodeled bathrooms, master

How Technology Is Enabling the Real Estate ProcessToday’s everyday reality is pretty different than it looked just a few weeks ago. We’re learning how to do a lot of things in new ways, from how

How to Find the Perfect Real Estate AgentThere’s a ton of real estate information available in the news today and on the Internet. It can be extremely confusing, especially in times of uncertainty

Will Surging Unemployment Crush Home Sales?Ten million Americans lost their jobs over the last two weeks. The next announced unemployment rate on May 8th is expected to be in the double digits.

The Housing Market Is Positioned to Help the Economy Recover [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Expert insights are painting a bright future for housing when the economy bounces back – and it

Looking to the Future: What the Experts Are SayingAs our lives, our businesses, and the world we live in change day by day, we’re all left wondering how long this will last. How long will we feel

The #1 Thing You Can Do Now to Position Yourself to Buy a Home This YearThe last few weeks and months have caused a major health crisis throughout the world, leading to a pause in the U.S. economy

The Economic Impact of Buying a HomeWe’re in a changing real estate market, and life, in general, is changing too – from how we grocery shop and meal prep to the ways we can interact with our

The Best Advice Does Not Mean Perfect AdviceThe angst caused by the coronavirus has most people on edge regarding both their health and financial situations. It’s at times like these when we want

What You Can Do to Keep Your Dream of Homeownership Moving Forward [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: Don’t put your homeownership plans on hold just because you’re stuck inside. There are

Don’t Let Frightening Headlines Scare YouThere’s a lot of anxiety right now regarding the coronavirus pandemic. The health situation must be addressed quickly, and many are concerned about the

Is Now a Good Time to Refinance My Home?With interest rates hitting all-time lows over the past few weeks, many homeowners are opting to refinance. To decide if refinancing your home is

Why the Stock Market Correction Probably Won’t Impact Home ValuesWith the housing crash of 2006-2008 still visible in the rear-view mirror, many are concerned the current correction in the stock

Economic Slowdown: What the Experts Are SayingMore and more economists are predicting a recession is imminent as the result of the pullback in the economy caused by COVID-19. According to the 

A Recession Does Not Equal a Housing Crisis [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights The COVID-19 pandemic is causing an economic slowdown. The good news is, home values actually increased in 3 of the

Are We About to See a New Wave of Foreclosures?With all of the havoc being caused by COVID-19, many are concerned we may see a new wave of foreclosures. Restaurants, airlines, hotels, and many other

Three Reasons Why This Is Not a Housing CrisisIn times of uncertainty, one of the best things we can do to ease our fears is to educate ourselves with research, facts, and data. Digging into past

Two Big Myths in the Homebuying ProcessThe 2020 Millennial Home Buyer Report shows how this generation is not really any different from previous ones when it comes to homeownership:

5 Simple Graphs Proving This Is NOT Like the Last TimeWith all of the volatility in the stock market and uncertainty about the Coronavirus (COVID-19), some are concerned we may be headed for another

Buying a Home: Do You Know the Lingo? [INFOGRAPHIC]Highlights: Buying a home can be intimidating if you’re not familiar with the terms used throughout the process. To point you in the right

Yes, You Can Still Afford a HomeThe residential real estate market has come roaring out of the gates in 2020. Compared to this time last year, the number of buyers looking for a home is up 20%,

Confidence Is the Key to Success for Young HomebuyersBuying your first home can seem overwhelming. Thankfully, there’s a lot of great information out there to help you feel more confident as you

Equity Gain Growing in Nearly Every StateRising home prices have been in the news a lot lately, and much of the focus is on whether they’re accelerating too quickly and how sustainable the growth

New Homes Coming to the Housing Market This YearThe number of building permits issued for single-family homes is the best indicator of how many newly built homes will begin to come to market over

The Difference an Hour Makes [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: Don’t forget to set your clocks forward this Sunday, March 8 at 2:00 AM EST in observance of Daylight Saving Time, unless you�

Impact of the Coronavirus on the U.S. Housing MarketThe Coronavirus (COVID-19) has caused massive global uncertainty, including a U.S. stock market correction no one could have seen.

Real Estate Is Soaring, But Not Like 2008Unlike last year, the residential real estate market kicked off 2020 with a bang! In their latest Monthly Mortgage Monitor, Black Knight 

How Interest Rates Can Impact Your Monthly Housing PaymentsSpring is right around the corner, so flowers are starting to bloom, and many potential homebuyers are getting ready to step into the.

How Your Tax Refund Can Move You Toward Homeownership This YearIf you’re looking to buy a home in 2020, have you thought about putting your tax refund toward a down payment? Homeownership may be

10 Steps to Buying a Home [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: If you’re thinking of buying a home and you’re not sure where to start, you’re not alone. Here’s a guide with 10 simple steps to

How Much “Housing Wealth” Can You Build in a Decade?Earlier this month, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) released a special study titled Single-Family Home Price Gains

Thinking of Selling? Now May Be the Time.The housing market has started off much stronger this year than it did last year. Lower mortgage interest rates have been a driving factor in that

Entry-Level Homeowners Are in the Driver’s SeatOne thing helping homeowners right now is price appreciation, especially in the entry-level market. In the latest Home Price Insights ,

Opportunity in the Luxury Market This YearHomes priced in the top 25% of a price range for a particular area of the country are considered “premium homes.” At the start of last year, many

Interest Rates Over Time [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: With interest rates hovering at near historic lows, now is a great time to look back at where they’ve been, and how much they’ve changed

The #1 Misconception in the Homebuying ProcessAfter over a year of moderating home prices, it appears home value appreciation is about to reaccelerate. Skylar Olsen, Director of Economic

The Many Benefits of Aging in a CommunityThere’s comfort in being around people who share common interests, goals, and challenges. That comfort in a community doesn’t wane with age – it

How Trusted Professionals Make Homebuying Easier to UnderstandIn the spring, many excited buyers get ready to enter the housing market. Others continue dreaming about the homes they’d like to buy.

The Overlooked Financial Advantages of HomeownershipThere are many clear financial benefits to owning a home: increasing equity, building net worth, growing appreciation, and more. If you’re a

Reasons to Fall in Love with Homeownership [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: There are many benefits to love about homeownership, and they’re not all financial. Being a part of a neighborhood,

How the Housing Market Benefits with Uncertainty in the WorldIt’s hard to listen to today’s news without hearing about the uncertainty surrounding global markets, the spread of the coronavirus,

The #1 Reason to List Your House Right NowThe success of the U.S. residential real estate market, like any other market, is determined by supply and demand. This means we need to look at how many

Homeownership Rate on the Rise to a 6-Year HighRegardless of the lack of inventory on the market, the U.S. homeownership rate has climbed to a 6-year high. The United States Census Bureau 

How Pricing Your Home Right Makes a Big DifferenceEven though there’s a big buyer demand for homes in today’s low inventory market, it doesn’t mean you should price your home as high

The Top States Americans Moved to Last Year [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: Americans are on the move, and the most recent Atlas Van Lines Migration Patterns Survey tracked the 2019

Great News for Renters Who Want to Buy a HomeRents in the United States have been skyrocketing since 2012. This has caused many renters to face a tremendous burden when juggling their housing

Does “Aging in Place” Make the Most Sense?A desire among many seniors is to “age in place.” According to the Senior Resource Guide, the term means, “…that you will be remaining

How to Avoid a Gender Gap When Investing in the Housing MarketWhen buying a home, we all want to feel like we’re making the right decision, paying a fair price, and making the best

Three Reasons Why Pre-Approval Is the First Step in the 2020 Homebuying JourneyWhen the number of buyers in the housing market outnumbers the number of homes for sale, it’s called�

5 Reasons Homeowners Throw Better Parties During the Big Game [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: There’s more room to entertain a large crowd. The kitchen is big enough to whip up endless

Strength of the Economy Is Surprising the ExpertsWe’re currently in the longest economic recovery in U.S. history. That has caused some to ask experts to project when the next economic slowdown

Where Have All the Houses Disappeared To?If you’re following what’s happening in the current housing market, you’ve seen how the lack of newly constructed homes is a major reason there’s a

Should I Sell My House This Year?If one of the questions you’re asking yourself today is, “Should I sell my house this year?” the current Housing Opportunities and Market

First-Time Buyers Are Searching for Existing Homes This YearIn the latest Housing Trends Report, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) measured the share of adults planning

2020 Homebuying ChecklistSome Highlights: If you’re thinking of buying a home, plan ahead and stay on the right track, starting with pre-approval. Being proactive about the

The #1 Reason It Is Difficult to Find Your Dream HomeThe headlines in real estate today all revolve around one major point: there is a shortage of homes available for sale. Price appreciation

How Buyers Can Win By Downsizing in 2020Home values have been increasing for 93 consecutive months, according to the National Association of Realtors. If you’re a homeowner, particularly

The 2 Surprising Things Homebuyers Really WantIn a market where current inventory is low, it’s normal to think buyers might be willing to give up a few desirable features in their home

Make the Dream of Homeownership a Reality in 2020In 1963, Martin Luther King, Jr. led and inspired a powerful movement with his famous “I Have a Dream” speech. Through his passion and

Where Homebuyers Are Heading By Generation [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: Whether capitalizing on job opportunities, affordability, or warm-weather places to retire, Americans are making moves to

Housing Inventory Vanishing: What Is the Impact on You?The real estate market is expected to do very well this year as mortgage rates remain at historic lows. One challenge to the housing industry

Homes Are More Affordable Today, Not Less AffordableThere’s a current narrative that owning a home today is less affordable than it has been in the past. The reason some are making this claim is

2020 Luxury Market ForecastBy the end of last year, many homeowners found themselves with more equity than they realized, and at the same time their wages were increasing. When those two factors

Buying a Home Early Can Significantly Increase Future WealthAccording to an Urban Institute study, homeowners who purchase a house before age 35 are better prepared for retirement at age.

National Cut Your Energy Costs Day [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: On January 10th of each year, “National Cut Your Energy Costs Day” encourages consumers to reduce their overall energy

There’s a Long Line of Buyers Waiting for Your HouseIf you’re following what’s happening in the housing market right now, you know that many people believe the winter months aren’t a

The New Spring Real Estate Market is Here. Are You Ready?Which month do you think most people who are considering buying a home actually start their search? If you’re like most of us, you probably

Big Demand for Small HomesMovies, tv shows, and celebrities often have us dreaming of owning large homes, but the reality for most people is quite different.Since 2015, the square footage of newly

3 Benefits to Buying Your Dream Home This YearOutside of a strong economy, low unemployment, and higher wages, there are three more great reasons why you may want to consider buying your dream home

Top Renovations for Maximum ROI [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: If you’re planning on selling your house in 2020, these are the top renovations that will give you the highest Return on your

The 2020 Real Estate Projections That May Surprise YouThis will be an interesting year for residential real estate. With a presidential election taking place this fall and talk of a possible

Why You Shouldn’t “For Sale By Owner”Rising home prices coupled with the current inventory in today’s market may cause some homeowners to consider selling their homes on their own (known in

Where is the Housing Market Headed in 2020? [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: Interest rates will be lower than they have been since before 1980 at 3.8% and are projected to remain steady throughout

5,300 Reasons to Be Happy You’re a HomeownerStudies 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

The Biggest Issue Facing Housing Next YearThis coming year the housing market will be defined by 3 things- inventory, interest rates, and appreciation.  But the biggest issue the

3 Mistakes to Avoid When Selling a Home in 2020It’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

December 2019: The Buyer Stakes Are High Because Inventory Is LowThe reality of what we’re seeing this month is that homes are selling fast. In today’s strong seller’s market, bidding wars are

Get Your House Ready To Sell This WinterSome Highlights Winter is a great time to list a house, since inventory is traditionally low, and most sellers are holding off until spring to put their

Holiday Gifts Are Not the Only Hot Things Right NowBlack 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

Have You Outgrown Your Home?It 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

Have You Budgeted for Closing Costs?Saving 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

Millennials Are on the Move as First-Time Homebuyers [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: According to NAR’s latest Profile of Home Buyers & Sellers, the median age of all first-time

What is the Best Investment for Americans?Some are reporting that there is trepidation regarding the real estate market in the United States. Apparently, the American people are quite comfortable

Is A Bigger House Within Your Budget?At this time of year, many families come together to celebrate the season. It’s also the time when many realize their homes are just not quite big enough to

It’s ‘National Roof Over Your Head’ Day!Did you know that each year in the United States, we celebrate “National Roof Over Your Head Day” on December 3rd?As noted on the National

5 Reasons to Sell This WinterBelow are five compelling reasons to list your house this winter.1. Demand Is StrongThe latest Buyer Traffic Report from the National Association of

Buyers Are Looking For Your Home [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: Existing Home Sales are currently at an annual pace of 5.46 million. The inventory of existing homes for sale remains below the 6

Thank You for Your

Tips to Sell Your Home FasterWhen selling your house, there are a few key things you can prioritize to have the greatest impact for a faster sale:1. Make Buyers Feel at HomeDeclutter your home!

The True Cost of Not Owning Your HomeThere are great advantages to owning a home, yet many people continue to rent. The financial benefits are just some of the reasons why homeownership

7 Reasons to List Your House This Holiday SeasonAround this time each year, many homeowners decide to wait until after the holidays to list their houses. Similarly, others who already have their

The Cost Across Time [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: With interest rates around 3.66%, now is a great time to look back at where they’ve been over the past few decades. Comparatively, they’re

How Long Can This Economic Recovery Last?The economy is currently experiencing the longest recovery in our nation’s history. The stock market has hit record highs, while unemployment rates are at

Buyers Are Looking Now. Are You Ready to List Your Home?Inventory on the market today is low, especially among existing homes in the entry and middle-level tiers of the market. It is

Expert Advice: 3 Benefits to Owning a HomeSuccess is something often worth repeating, and Brent Sutherland, a Certified Financial Planner and Real Estate Investor, has certainly made

The Cost of Renting vs. Buying a Home [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: Historically, the choice between renting and buying a home has been a tough decision. Looking at the percentage of

This is Not 2008 All Over Again: The Mortgage Lending FactorSome are afraid the real estate market may be looking a lot like it did prior to the housing crash in 2008. One of the factors they’re

Buyer Demand Growing in Every RegionBuyers are out in full force this fall, increasing the demand for homebuying in all four regions of the country.According to the latest ShowingTime Showing

Homeownership Rate Remains on the RiseIn the third quarter of 2019, the U.S. homeownership rate rose again, signaling another strong indicator of the current housing market.The U.S. Census

75 Years of VA Home Loan BenefitsToday, on Veterans Day, we salute those who have served our country in war or peace, and we thank them for their sacrifice.This year marks the 75th anniversary

VA Home Loans by the Numbers [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: The Veterans Administration (VA) Home Loan is a benefit that is available to more than 22 million veterans and 2 million

Forget the Price of the Home. The Cost is What Matters.Home buying activity (demand) is up, and the number of available listings (supply) is down. When demand outpaces supply, prices appreciate.�

Millennials: Here’s Why the Process is Well Worth It.Millennials have waited longer than any other generation to become homeowners, but the wait for this cohort is just about over.According to;

Planning on Buying a Home? Be Sure You Know Your Options.When you’re ready to buy, you’ll need to determine if you prefer the charm of an existing home or the look and feel of a newer build.

The #1 Reason to List Your House in the WinterMany sellers believe spring is the best time to put their homes on the market because buyer demand traditionally increases at that time of year. What

The Difference an Hour Will Make This Fall [INFOGRAPHIC]Every Hour in the U.S. Housing Market:  614 Homes Are Sold 95 Homes Regain Positive Equity Median Home Values Go Up $1

Taking the Fear Out of the Mortgage ProcessA considerable number of potential buyers shy away from the real estate market because they’re uncertain about the buying process – particularly when

How to Determine If You Can Afford to Buy a HomeThe gap between the increase in personal income and residential real estate prices has been used to defend the concept that we are experiencing an

Thinking of Selling Your Home? The Waiting Is The Hardest Part.Tom Petty famously penned the words, “the waiting is the hardest part” in his early 80’s hit song The Waiting,;

4 Reasons to Buy a Home This FallHere are four great reasons to consider buying a home today, instead of waiting.1. Prices Will Continue to RiseCoreLogic’s latest Home Price Insights

Buying a home can be SCARY…Until you know the FACTS [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights:Many potential homebuyers believe they need a 20% down payment and a 780 FICO® score to qualify to buy a home.

Think Prices Have Skyrocketed? Look at Rents.Much has been written about how residential real estate values have increased since the housing market started its recovery in 2012. However, little has

5 Reasons to Consider Living in a Multigenerational HomeDid you know that 1 in 6 Americans currently live in a multigenerational household?According to Generations United, the number of

Depending on the Price, You’re Going to Need AdviceTo understand today’s complex real estate market, it is critical to have a local, trusted advisor on your side – for more reasons than you

5 Tips for Starting Your Home SearchIn today’s market, low inventory dominates the conversation in many areas of the country. It can often be frustrating to be a first-time homebuyer if you aren�

Homes Are Selling Quickly [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: The National Association of REALTORS® surveyed their members for the release of their Confidence Index. The �

3 Reasons This is NOT the 2008 Real Estate MarketNo one knows for sure when the next recession will occur. What is known, however, is that the upcoming economic slowdown will not be caused by a

3 Reasons to Use a Real Estate Pro in a Complex Digital WorldIf you’re searching for a home online, you’re not alone; lots of people are doing it. The question is, are you using all of your

Be on the Lookout for Gen Z: The Next Generation of HomebuyersYou’ve likely heard a ton about Millennials, but what about Gen Z? In the next 5 years, this generation will be between the ages of 23

Existing-Home Sales Report Indicates Now Is a Great Time to SellThe best time to sell anything is when demand for that item is high and the supply of that item is limited. The latest Existing

62% of Buyers Are Wrong About Down Payment NeedsAccording to the ‘2019 Home Buyer Report’ conducted by Nerdwallet, many first-time buyers still believe they need a 20% down

5 Homebuying Acronyms You Need to Know [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: Learning the lingo of homebuying is an important part of feeling successful when buying a home. From APR to P&I, you need

3 Signs the Housing Market Is on the ReboundThe residential real estate market has been plodding along for most of the year. However, three recent reports show the market may be on the verge of a

What to Expect from Your Home InspectionYou made an offer and it was accepted. Your next task is to have the home inspected prior to closing. Agents often recommend you make your offer contingent

How Does the Supply of Homes for Sale Impact Buyer Demand?The price of any item is determined by supply, as well as the market’s demand for the item. The National Association of REALTORS

What Is the Cost of Waiting Until Next Year to Buy? [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: The “cost of waiting to buy” is defined as the additional funds necessary to buy a home if prices and

Homeowners Are Happy! Renters? Not So Much.When people talk about homeownership and the American Dream, much of the conversation revolves around the financial benefits of owning a home. However, two

Are You Ready for the ‘Black Friday’ of Real Estate?Every year, ‘Black Friday’ is a highly anticipated event for eager shoppers. Some people prepare for weeks, crafting and refining a

Should You Fix Your House Up or Sell Now?With the fall season upon us, change is in the air. For many families, children are growing up and moving out of the house, maybe leaving for college or

Is Your House “Priced to Sell Immediately”?In today’s real estate market, more houses are coming to market every day. Eager buyers are searching for their dream homes, so setting the right

One of the Top Reasons to Own a HomeOne of the benefits of homeownership is that it is a “forced savings plan.” Here’s how it works: You make a mortgage payment each month. Part of

What Buyers Need to Know About HOAsWhen searching for a home, you may end up selecting a property in a community with a Homeowners Association (HOA). Before you buy, it’s important to know how an

Home Prices Increase in Every Price RangeCoreLogic’s Home Price Index (HPI) Report revealed, “National home prices increased 3.6% year over year in July 2019 and are forecast to

Things to Avoid After Applying for a MortgageCongratulations! You’ve found a home to buy and have applied for a mortgage! You’re undoubtedly excited about the opportunity to decorate your new

What Is the Probability That Home Values Sink?With the current uncertainty about the economy triggered by a potential trade war, some people are waiting to purchase their first home or move-up to

Millennial Buying Power Poised to Boost HomeownershipIn a recent article by Realtor Magazine, Mark Fleming, Chief Economist of First American Financial Corporation, notes, �

A+ Reasons to Hire a Real Estate Pro [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: Hiring a real estate professional to help you buy your dream home or sell your current house is one of the most powerful

Everybody Calm Down! This Is NOT 2008Last week realtor.com released the results of a survey that produced three major revelations: 53% of home purchasers (first-time and

How Property Taxes Can Impact Your Mortgage PaymentWhen buying a home, taxes are one of the expenses that can make a significant difference in your monthly payment. Do you know how much you might

5 Reasons to Sell This FallBelow are 5 compelling reasons listing your home for sale this fall makes sense.1. Demand Is StrongThe latest Buyer Traffic Report from the National

A Recession Does Not Equal a Housing Crisis [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: There is plenty of talk in the media about a pending economic slowdown. The good news is, home values actually

iBuyers: What Is the “Cost of Convenience” When Selling Your Home?When thinking about selling their house, homeowners have many options. A relatively new option is using an “iBuyer.” What is

Top Priorities When Moving with KidsAccording to the Pew Research Center, around 37% of U.S students will be going back to school soon and the rest have already started the new

What’s the Latest on Interest Rates?Mortgage rates have fallen by over a full percentage point since Q4 of 2018, settling at near-historic lows. This is big news for buyers looking to get more for

Experts Predict a Strong Housing Market for the Rest of 2019We’re in the back half of the year, and with a decline in interest rates as well as home price and wage appreciation, many are wondering

A Latte a Day Keeps Homeownership Away [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights:The pumpkin spice latte is launching soon, so you may be tempted to spend your extra cash on a daily caffeine fix, but that small

5 Easy Steps to Avoid Overwhelm from Media OverloadWhen someone is thinking about buying or selling a home, they want to be well-informed. They want to make the right decision for themselves and

Seniors Are on the Move in the Real Estate MarketDid you know August 21st is National Senior Citizens Day? According to the United States Census, we honor senior citizens today

Housing Supply Not Keeping Up with Population IncreaseMany buyers are wondering where to find houses for sale in today’s market. It’s a true dilemma. We see an increase in buyer demand, but the

A Great Way to Increase Your Family’s Net WorthEvery three years, the Federal Reserve conducts its Survey of Consumer Finances. Data is collected across all economic and social

Buying a Home: Do You Know the Lingo? [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: Buying a home can be intimidating if you’re not familiar with the terms used throughout the process. To point you in the

Busting the Myth About a Housing Affordability CrisisIt seems you can’t find a headline with the term “housing affordability” without the word “crisis” attached to it. That’s because

The Benefits of Growing Equity in Your HomeOver the last couple of years, we’ve heard quite a bit about rising home prices. Today, expert projections still forecast continued growth, just at a;

5 Real Estate Reality TV Myths ExplainedHave you ever been flipping through the channels, only to find yourself glued to the couch in an HGTV binge session? We’ve all been there, watching entire

Rent Vs. Own [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: Owning your own home vs. renting may lead to some great options, such as locking in your monthly payments and having the freedom to customize your

Why All the Chicken Littles Should Calm DownThe U.S. Census Bureau recently released their 2019 Q2 Homeownership Report. Some began to see the sky falling, believing the report showed Americans

Appreciation Is Strong: It Might Be Time to SellThere’s no doubt that today’s housing market is changing, and everything we see right now indicates it is time to sell. Here’s a look at why

How Much Do You Know About Down Payments?Whether you’ve owned a home before, or you’re ready to jump into homeownership for the first time, there are always a lot of questions swirling around

Millionaire to Millennials: The Costly Mistake of Not Buying NowOn his personal website, self-made millionaire David Bach makes a striking statement:  “Not prioritizing homeownership

Existing Home Sales Point Toward a Good Time to Sell [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: Existing Home Sales dropped 1.7% from May to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.27 million in June.

How to Judge the Impact of the Next Economic Slowdown on HousingWe’ve experienced economic growth for almost a decade, which is the longest recovery in the nation’s history. Experts know a

Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Sell Your HouseAs a homeowner, it’s always tempting to dream about the next big project you’re going to tackle. The possibilities are endless. Should I renovate?

How to Increase Your Equity Over the Next 5 YearsMany of the questions currently surrounding the real estate industry focus on home prices and where they are heading. The most recent Home Price

3 Expert Insights On Inventory In The Current MarketThe current housing landscape presents greater home values, low interest rates, and high buyer demand. All of these factors point to the 

Home Prices Up 5.05% Across the Country [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) recently released their latest Quarterly Home Price Index 

3 Powerful Reasons to Buy a Home NowWhether you are a first-time buyer or looking to move up to the home of your dreams, now is a great time to purchase a home. Here are three major reasons to buy

What Experts are Saying About the Current Housing MarketWe’re halfway through the year, and with a decline in interest rates as well as home price and wage appreciation, many are wondering what

Is Renting Right for Me?If you’re currently renting and have dreams of owning your own home, it may be a good time to think about your next move. With rent costs rising annually and many

The Cost of Waiting: Interest Rates Edition [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: Interest rates are projected to increase steadily heading into 2020. The higher your interest rate, the more

The Surprising Profile of the Real Estate InvestorOver 10% of all residential homes are purchased by investors, and that number continues to rise. Who are these investors?Many have speculated that

What a Difference a Year Makes for SellersOver the last few years, many sellers have been hesitant to put their houses on the market because they feared not being able to find another home to buy�

Should I Refinance My Home?With the recent lower interest rates, many homeowners are wondering if they should refinance.To decide if refinancing is the best option for your family, start by asking

Home Price Appreciation ForecastQuestions continue to come up about where home prices will head throughout the rest of this year, as well as where they may be going over the few years beyond.We’ve

Is Your First Home Now Within Your Grasp? [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: According to the US Census Bureau, “millennials” are defined as 18-36-year-olds. According to NAR’s

Americans’ Powerful Belief in Homeownership as an InvestmentThe Federal Reserve Bank (The Fed) recently released their 2019  Survey of Consumer Expectations Housing Survey. The

4 Tips to Sell Your Home FasterSince June of last year, we have seen an increase in the inventory of homes for sale month per month. Every spring and summer, the inventory increases because people

5 Powerful Reasons to Own Instead of RentOwning a home has great financial benefits.In a recent research paper, Homeownership and the American Dream, Laurie S. Goodman and Christopher Mayer of

Now’s the Time to Move-Up and Upgrade Your Current Home!Homes priced at the top 25% of the price range for a particular area of the country are considered “premium homes.” In today’s real

10 Steps to Buying a Home This Summer [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: If you are thinking of buying a home, you may not know where to start. Here is a simple list of 10 steps that you will go

Happy Independence Day!Wishing you & yours a safe & Happy 4th of!

Is Mortgage Debt out of Control?The housing crisis of the last decade was partially caused by unhealthy levels of mortgage debt. Homeowners were using their homes as ATMs by refinancing and swapping

Millennials Are Increasing the Demand for CondominiumsWhen deciding to buy a home, people are presented with many different options. The type of home you buy depends on your needs, budget, and in

Top 5 Reasons You Should NOT FSBORising home prices coupled with a lack of inventory in today’s market may cause some homeowners to consider selling their home on their own (known in the industry

Americans Rank Real Estate Best Investment for 6 Years Running! [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights:Real estate has outranked stocks/mutual funds, gold, savings accounts/CDs, and bonds as the best-

Know What to Expect at Your Home InspectionSo you made an offer and it was accepted. Now, your next task is to have the home inspected prior to closing. Agents oftentimes make your offer

Before You Look for Your Dream Home: Know What You Want vs. What You Need!In this day and age of being able to shop for anything anywhere, it is really important to know what you’re looking for

Having a Professional on Your Side Makes All the Difference!In today’s fast-paced world where answers are a Google search away, there are some who may wonder what the benefits of hiring

Stop Wondering What Your Budget Is & Get Pre-Approved!In many markets across the country, the number of buyers searching for their dream homes outnumbers the number of homes for sale. This

4 Reasons to Sell This Summer [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: Buyer demand continues to outpace the supply of homes for sale. This means that buyers are often competing with one another for the few

Young First-Time Buyers Are Saving for Their Dream HomesYoung buyers (Millennials & Gen Z) have waited longer than previous generations to enter the housing market for their first home. However,

Why Is So Much Paperwork Required to Get a Mortgage?When buying a home today, why is there so much paperwork mandated by the lenders for a mortgage loan application? It seems like they need to know

5 Reasons to Sell Your House This SummerHere are 5 compelling reasons listing your home for sale this summer makes sense.1. Demand Is StrongThe latest Buyer Traffic Index  from the

Top 4 Renovations for the Greatest Return on Investment! [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: If you are planning on listing your house for sale this year, these four home improvement projectswill

Time for Your Dream Home, Gen X!During the housing market crash, Gen X homeowners lost more wealth than other generations. However, things are changing now! A strong economy, increasing home prices,

3 Things to Know in the Housing Market Today!A lot is happening in the world, and it’s having a direct impact on the housing market. The reality is this: some of it is positive and some of it may

Renting or Owning, What Is Better for You?In a real estate market where home prices are rising, many have begun to reexamine the idea of buying a home, choosing instead, to rent for a while. But

2 Myths Holding Back Home BuyersFreddie Mac recently released a report entitled, “Perceptions of Down Payment Consumer Research.” Their research revealed, “

What is the Cost of Waiting Until Next Year to Buy? [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: The “cost of waiting to buy” is defined as the additional funds necessary to buy a home if prices & interest

What is Important to Boomers when Selling their House?If you are a “baby boomer” (born between 1946 and 1964), you may be thinking about selling your current home. Your children may have finally

The Feeling You Get from Owning Your HomeWe often talk about the financial reasons why buying a home makes sense. But, more often than not, the emotional reasons are the more powerful and compelling

How Homeownership Delivers Unsurpassed Family WealthThere are many financial benefits to homeownership, but probably none more important than its ability to create family wealth.How Housing Matters

4 Reasons to Buy A Home This SummerHere are four reasons to consider buying today instead of waiting.1. Prices Will Continue to RiseCoreLogic’s latest U.S. Home Price Insights 

The Top Reasons to Own Your Home [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: June is National Homeownership Month! Now is a great time to reflect on the many benefits of homeownership that go way beyond the

The Ultimate Truth about Housing AffordabilityThere have been many headlines decrying an “affordability crisis” in the residential real estate market. While it is true that buying a home is less

Multigenerational Homes Are on the RiseAs loved ones start to get older, we start to wonder: how long will they be able to live alone? Will they need someone there to help them with daily life?�

2 Things You Need to Know to Properly Price Your HomeIn today’s housing market, home prices are increasing at a slower pace (3.7%) than they have over the last eight years (6-7%). However, they

All Gave Some. Some Gave All.We remember, today and.

The Impact Staging Your Home Has On Your Sale Price [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: The National Association of Realtors surveyed their members & released the findings of their 

4 Most Popular Bottom Line Investments in AmericaEvery year, Gallup surveys Americans to determine their choice for the best long-term investment. Respondents are given a choice

Boomerang Buyers: Don’t Be Afraid to Buy a Home Again!According to CoreLogic, from 2006 to 2014 “there were 7.3 million housing foreclosures and 1.9 million short sales.” The hesitation

Are Older Generations Really Not Selling Their Homes?Many studies suggest one of the main reasons for the inventory shortage in today’s market of homes for sale is that older generations

Starting the Search for Your Dream Home? Here Are 5 Tips!In today’s real estate market, low inventory dominates the conversation in many areas of the country. It can often be frustrating to be a

Top Days to List Your Home for Sale [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: ATTOM Data Solutions conducted an analysis of more than 29 million single family home and condo sales over the

What is Really Happening with Home Prices?Home values have softened over the last twelve months. We are no longer seeing 6-7% annual appreciation levels for the national housing market. The current

4 Tips for Making a Competitive OfferSo, you’ve been searching for that perfect house to call ‘home,’ and you’ve finally found it! The price is right, and in such a competitive

New Research Shows Housing Is Affordable For First-Time BuyersHome prices have been on the rise for the last seven years, leading many housing market analysts to conclude that first-time homebuyers

A Lack of Inventory Continues to Impact the Housing MarketThe housing crisis is finally in the rear-view mirror as the real estate market moves down the road to a complete recovery. Home values are

A Tale of Two Markets [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights: An emerging trend for some time now has been the difference between available inventory and demand in the premium and luxury markets and that

Mainstream Concerns about an Economic Slowdown RevisitedRecently, we reported that many believe a recession could happen within the next two years. We explained that 70% of economists and

The Benefits of a 20% Down PaymentIf you are in the market to buy a home this year, you may be confused about how much money you need to come up with for your down payment. Many people you talk to

Home Buyers are Optimistic About Homeownership!When we consider buying an item, we naturally go through a research process prior to making our decision. We ask our friends and family members who