If you’re a homeowner, odds are your equity has grown significantly over the last few years. Equity builds over time as home values grow and as you pay down your home loan. And, since home prices skyrocketed during the ‘unicorn’ years, you’ve likely gained more than you think. According to the latest Equity Insights … [Read more...] about Four Ways You Can Use Your Home Equity
For Buyers
Don’t Fall for the Next Shocking Headlines About Home Prices
If you’re thinking of buying or selling a home, one of the biggest questions you have right now is probably: what’s happening with home prices? And it’s no surprise you don’t have the clarity you need on that topic. Part of the issue is how headlines are talking about prices. They’re basing their negative news … [Read more...] about Don’t Fall for the Next Shocking Headlines About Home Prices
Lending Standards Are Not Like They Were Leading Up to the Crash
Source: keepingcurrentmatters.com 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, the Mortgage Bankers … [Read more...] about Lending Standards Are Not Like They Were Leading Up to the Crash
Real Estate Is Still Considered the Best Long-Term Investment
Source: simplifyingthemarket.com With all the headlines circulating about home prices and rising mortgage rates, you may wonder if it still makes sense to invest in homeownership right now. A recent poll from Gallup shows the answer is yes. In fact, real estate was voted the best long-term investment for the … [Read more...] about Real Estate Is Still Considered the Best Long-Term Investment
What You Need To Know About Home Price News
Source: simplifyingthemarket.com The National Association of Realtors (NAR) will release its latest Existing Home Sales Report tomorrow. The information it contains on home prices may cause some confusion and could even generate some troubling headlines. This all stems from the fact that NAR will report the median sales … [Read more...] about What You Need To Know About Home Price News
Your Tax Refund Can Help You Achieve Your Homebuying Goals
Source: simplifyingthemarket.com Have you been saving up to buy a home this year? If so, you know there are a variety of expenses involved – from your down payment to closing costs. But there’s good news – your tax refund can help you achieve your goals by paying for some of these expenses. SmartAsset estimates the … [Read more...] about Your Tax Refund Can Help You Achieve Your Homebuying Goals
Why It’s Easy To Fall in Love with Homeownership
Source: simplifyingthemarket.com No matter how the housing market changes, there are some things about owning a home that never change—like the personal benefits it can provide. When you own your home, you likely feel a sense of attachment because of the comfort it gives and also because it’s a space that’s truly … [Read more...] about Why It’s Easy To Fall in Love with Homeownership
What Homebuyers Should Know About Solar Panels
Source: realestate.usnews.com Buying a home has always been a complicated process. There are a lot of parts to a house that contribute to its ultimate fit to your personal needs, including the intangibles like the general vibe that the neighborhood puts out. You’ll be making important decisions about whether or not you want … [Read more...] about What Homebuyers Should Know About Solar Panels
Wondering How Much You Need To Save for a Down Payment?
Source: simplifyingthemarket.com If you’re getting ready to buy your first home, you’re likely focused on saving up for everything that purchase involves. One cost that’s likely top of mind is your down payment. But don't let a common misconception about how much you need to save make the process harder than it could … [Read more...] about Wondering How Much You Need To Save for a Down Payment?
Three Things Buyers Can Do in Today’s Housing Market
It’s clear the 2022 housing market has been defined by rising mortgage rates. With rates on the rise, it’s also become more costly to purchase a home. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR): “Compared to one year ago, the monthly mortgage payment rose to $1,944 from $1,265, an increase of 53.7%.” If you’re … [Read more...] about Three Things Buyers Can Do in Today’s Housing Market