If you’re looking to buy a home, the recent downward trend in mortgage rates is good news because it helps with affordability. But there’s another way this benefits you – it may inspire more homeowners to put their houses up for sale.The Mortgage Rate Lock-In EffectOver the past year, one factor tha

Even though home prices are going up nationally, some people are still worried they might come down. In fact, a recent survey from Fannie Mae found that 24% of people think home prices will actually decline over the next 12 months. That means almost one out of every four people are dealing with that

The 2023 housing market in Sarasota and Manatee Counties has offered some fascinating insights, presenting a scenario that seems to herald a more balanced market, a welcome change from the frenzied pace of previous years. This trend is crucial not only for the local real estate industry but also for

If one of the goals on your list is selling your house and making a move this year, you’re likely juggling a mix of excitement about what’s ahead and feeling a little sentimental about your current home.A great way to balance those emotions and make sure you’re confident in your decision is to keep

Some HighlightsBuying a home is a big deal and can feel especially complicated if you don't know the terms used during the process.If you want to become a homeowner this year, it's a good idea to learn these key housing terms and understand how they relate to the current housing market. That will he

Over the past year, a lot of people have been talking about housing affordability and how tight it’s gotten. But just recently, there’s been a little bit of relief on that front. Mortgage rates have gone down since their most recent peak in October. But there’s more to being able to afford a home th

If you’ve been holding off on selling your house to make a move because you felt mortgage rates were too high, their recent downward trend is exciting news for you. Mortgage rates have descended since last October when they hit 7.79%. In fact, they’ve been below 7% for over a month now (see graph be

Are you putting off your plans to sell because you’re worried you won’t be able to find a home you like when you move? If so, it may be time to consider a newly built home and the benefits that come with one. Here’s why.Near-Record Percentage of New Home InventoryNewly built homes are becoming an in

The workforce dynamics in America are currently undergoing a significant shift, with more people moving towards the South, particularly Florida. This trend is most evident in areas such as Northport-Sarasota, which have experienced significant migration as per LinkedIn's Workforce Report. This movem

Buying a home is a powerful decision, and it remains at the heart of the American Dream. Unlike renting, owning a home means more than just having a place to live – it offers a sense of belonging, stability, and freedom. According to Nicole Bachaud, Senior Economist at Zillow:“The American Dream is

Some HighlightsIf you’re worried about what’s next for home prices, know the HPES shows experts are projecting they’ll continue to rise at least through 2028.Based on that forecast, if you bought a $400,000 house this year, experts say it could gain over $72,000 in equity over the next five years. I

If you're trying to decide whether to rent or buy a home this year, here's a powerful insight that could give you the clarity and confidence you need to make your decision.Every three years, the Federal Reserve releases the Survey of Consumer Finances (SCF), which compares net worth for homeowners a

Navigating the path to homeownership is a journey that requires preparation and understanding, especially when it comes to financing your dream home. For first-time home buyers, a critical part of this journey involves understanding the importance of credit scores and how they impact the pre-approva

If you’re getting ready to buy a home, it’s exciting to jump a few steps ahead and think about moving in and making it your own. But before you get too far down the emotional path, there are some key things to keep in mind after you apply for your mortgage and before you close. Here’s a list of thin

If you’ve owned your house for at least a couple of years, there’s something you’re going to want to know more about – and that’s home equity. If you’re not familiar with that term, Freddie Mac defines it like this:“. . . your home’s equity is the difference between how much your home is worth and h

If you want to buy a home, it's important to know how mortgage rates impact what you can afford and how much you’ll pay each month. Fortunately, rates for 30-year fixed mortgages have come down significantly since the end of October and are currently under 7%, according to Freddie Mac (see graph bel

Florida isn't just a state; it's a state of bliss for winter escapees. Pack your flip-flops and sunscreen, and prepare to bask in the endless summer of the Sunshine State. Whether you're in it for the long haul or just a seasonal switch, the perfect winter haven is out there waiting for you. Start y

Some HighlightsPlanning to buy a home in 2024? Here’s what to focus on.Improve your credit score, plan for your down payment, get pre-approved, and decide what’s most important to you.Partner with a trusted real estate agent so you have expert advice on how to achieve your homebuying goals this year

If you’re thinking about buying a home, pre-approval is a crucial part of the process you definitely don’t want to skip. So, before you start picturing yourself in your new living room or dining on your future all-season patio, be sure you’re working with a trusted lender to prioritize this essentia

Welcome to the exciting world of homeownership! If you're a first-time homebuyer, the journey ahead is filled with opportunity and, yes, a fair bit of paperwork. One of the most important elements you'll encounter is the mortgage process. Understanding mortgages is crucial, but it doesn't have to be