Home Buying

July 26, 2023

Why the Median Home Price Is Meaningless in Today’s Market



The National Association of Realtors (NAR) will release its latest Existing Home Sales (EHS) report later this week. This monthly report provides information on the sales volume and price trend for previously owned homes. In the upcoming release, it’ll likely say home prices are down. This may feel a bit …

View More
July 24, 2023

Two Questions To Ask Yourself if You’re Considering Buying a Home



If you’re thinking of buying a home, chances are you’re paying attention to just about everything you hear about the housing market. And you’re getting your information from a variety of channels: the news, social media, your real estate agent, conversations with friends and loved ones, overhearing someone chatting …

View More
July 21, 2023

The Benefits of Downsizing for Homeowners



Some Highlights

  • Downsizing is a popular choice for homeowners when they retire or when their needs change, but with inflation still high, it’s also a way to reduce costs.
  • Downsizing could help cut down on your expenses and your equity can fuel your move.
  • If you’re thinking about moving to …
View More
Posted in Home Buying
July 14, 2023

Evaluating Your Wants and Needs as a Homebuyer Matters More Today



When it comes to buying a home, especially with today’s affordability challenges, you’ll want to be strategic. Mortgage rates impact how much it costs to borrow money for your home loan. And, to help offset the higher borrowing costs today, some homebuyers are taking a close look at their …

View More
Posted in Home Buying
July 12, 2023

Lending Standards Are Not Like They Were Leading Up to the Crash



You might be worried we’re heading for a housing crash, but there are many reasons why this housing market isn’t like the one we saw in 2008. One of which is how lending standards are different today. Here’s a look at the data to help prove it. 

Every month, …

View More
July 10, 2023

Why Homeownership Wins in the Long Run



Today’s higher mortgage ratesinflationary pressures, and concerns about a potential recession have some people questioning: should I still buy a home this year? While it’s true this year has unique challenges for homebuyers, it’s important to think about the long-term benefits of homeownership when making your decision. …

View More
July 7, 2023

Saving for a Down Payment? Here’s What You Need To Know



If you're planning to buy your first home, then you're probably focused on saving for all the costs involved in such a big purchase. One of the expenses that may be at the top of your mind is your down payment. If you’re intimidated by how much you need …

View More
July 3, 2023

How Owning a Home Grows Your Wealth with Time



Some Highlights

  • If you’re thinking of buying a home this year, be sure to factor in the long-term benefits of homeownership.
  • Over time, homeownership allows you to build equity. On average, nationwide home prices appreciated by 290.2% over the last 32 years.
  • That means your net worth can grow significantly …
View More
June 30, 2023

What Homebuyers Need To Know About Credit Scores



If you’re thinking about buying a home, you should know your credit score’s a critical piece of the puzzle when it comes to qualifying for a home loan. Lenders review your credit to assess your ability to make payments on time, to pay back debts, and more. It’s also …

View More
Posted in Home Buying
June 28, 2023

A Drop in Equity Doesn’t Mean Low Equity



You may see media coverage talking about a drop in homeowner equity. What’s important to understand is that equity is tied closely to home values. So, when home prices appreciate, you can expect equity to grow. And when home prices decline, equity does too. Here’s how this has played out …

View More