Rob St. Onge's Blog Posts

82,338 Great Reasons to Buy a Home TodayThe financial benefits of buying a home as compared to renting one are always up for debate. However, one element of the equation is often ignored – the

How Much Time Do You Need To Save for a Down Payment?One of the biggest hurdles homebuyers face is saving for a down payment. As you’re budgeting and planning for your home purchase, you&rsquo

Some Buyers Prefer Smaller HomesOver the past year, we’ve had plenty of opportunities to reflect on what we consider most important in our lives. The place we call home is one of the

4 Major Reasons Households in Forbearance Won’t Lose Their Homes to ForeclosureThere has been a lot of discussion as to what will happen once the 2.3 million households currently in

Your Tax Refund and Stimulus Savings May Help You Achieve Homeownership This YearIf you’re planning to buy a home this year, saving for a down payment is one of the most important steps in the

Buyer Competition Is Good News for Sellers [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsWith so many buyers looking for homes to purchase and so few houses available today, there’s a substantial increase in

There’s No Reason To Panic Over Today’s Lending StandardsToday, some are afraid the real estate market is starting to look a lot like it did in 2006, just prior to the housing crash. One

Is Homeownership Still Considered Part of the American Dream?Since the birth of our nation, homeownership has always been considered a major piece of the American Dream. As Frederick Peters 

How a Change in Mortgage Rate Impacts Your Homebuying BudgetMortgage rates are on the rise this year, but they’re still incredibly low compared to the historic average. However,

Why You Should Think About Listing Prices Like an Auction’s Reserve PriceFor generations, the homebuying process never really changed. The seller would try to estimate the market value of the

Should We Fear the Surge in Cash-Out Refinances?Freddie Mac recently released their Quarterly Refinance Statistics report which covers refinances through 2020. The report explains

What Credit Score Do You Need for a Mortgage?According to data from the most recent Origination Insight Report by Ellie Mae, the average FICO® score on closed loans

To Renovate or Not To Renovate Before You SellWhen thinking about selling, homeowners often feel they need to get their house ready with some remodeling to make it more appealing to buyers. However,

What Is the Strongest Tailwind to Today’s Recovering Economy?Last year started off with a bang. Unemployment was under 4%, forecasters were giddy with their projections for the economy,

What Is the #1 Financial Benefit of Homeownership?There are many financial and non-financial benefits of homeownership, and the greatest financial one is wealth creation. Homeownership has

5 Reasons to Sell Your House This SpringWhen selling a house, most homeowners hope for a quick and profitable transaction that puts them in a position to make a great move. If you’re waiting

Is It a Good Time to Sell My House?Last year, many homeowners thought twice about selling their houses due to the onset of the health crisis. This year, however, homeowners are beginning to regain

How Smart Is It to Buy a Home Today?Whether you’re buying your first home or selling your current house, if your needs are changing and you think you need to move, the decision can be

Home Prices: What Happened in 2020? What Will Happen This Year?The real estate market was on fire during the second half of 2020. Buyer demand was way up, and the supply of homes available for sale

It’s a Sellers’ Market [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsOver the past year, homeowners have gained an unprecedented opportunity to sell with great success while buyer demand is soaring.With

Are There Going to Be More Homes to Buy This Year?If you’re looking for a home to purchase right now and having trouble finding one, you’re not alone. At a time like this when there are

Where Have All the Houses Gone?In today’s housing market, it seems harder than ever to find a home to buy. Before the health crisis hit us a year ago, there was already a shortage of homes for

Home Mortgage Rates by Decade [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsMortgage interest rates have dropped considerably over the past year, and compared to what we’ve seen in recent decades, it’s a

Will Low Mortgage Rates Continue through 2021?With mortgage interest rates hitting record lows so many times recently, some are wondering if we’ll see low rates continue throughout

3 Ways Home Equity Can Have a Major Impact on Your LifeThere have been a lot of headlines reporting on how homeowner equity (the difference between the current market value of your home and the

3 Ways You’ll Win When You Buy a Home This YearThere are so many great reasons to purchase a home, and over the past year, we’ve realized more of them than we ever thought possible. If

3 Reasons We’re Definitely Not in a Housing BubbleHome values appreciated by about ten percent in 2020, and they’re forecast to appreciate by about five percent this year. This has some

6 Foundational Benefits of Homeownership TodayOver the past year, our homes have become an integral part of our lives more than ever. They’re much more than the houses we live in. They&rsquo

Why Owning a Home Is a Powerful Financial DecisionIn today’s housing market, there are clear financial benefits to owning a home: increasing equity, the chance to build your net,

Do I Really Need a 20% Down Payment to Buy a Home?Is the idea of saving for a down payment holding you back from buying a home right now? You may be eager to take advantage of today’s low

Want to Build Wealth? Buy a Home This Year.Every year, households across the country make the decision to rent for another year or take the leap into homeownership. They look at their earnings and

Is Right Now the Right Time to Sell? [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsIf you’re on the fence about selling your house, now is a great time to take advantage of sky-high demand, low supply, and

What Record-Low Housing Inventory Means for YouThe real estate market is expected to do very well in 2021, with mortgage rates that are hovering at historic lows and forecasted by 

What’s the Difference between an Appraisal and a Home Inspection?If you’re planning to buy a home, an appraisal is an important step in the process. It’s a

Why Moving May Be Just the Boost You NeedAs we look back over the past year, we’ve certainly lived through one of the most stressful periods in recent history. After spending so much more time

Financial Fundamentals for Homebuyers [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsWhen you’re thinking about buying a home, there are a few key steps to take before you even start to look at houses.From

What Experts Are Saying about the 2021 Job MarketEarlier this month, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) released their most recent Jobs Report. The report revealed that the economy

Owning a Home Is Still More Affordable Than Renting OneIf spending more time at home over the past year is making you really think hard about buying a home instead of renting one, you;

Should I Wait for Lower Mortgage Interest Rates?Historically low mortgage rates are a big motivator for homebuyers right now. In 2020 alone, rates hit new record-lows 16 times, and the

How to Make the Dream of Homeownership a Reality This YearIn 1963, Martin Luther King, Jr. inspired a powerful movement with his famous “I Have a Dream” speech. Through his passion and

Things to Avoid after Applying for a Mortgage [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsThere 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

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 HighlightsChoosing the right real estate professional to work with is one of the most important decisions you can make in your homebuying

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

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:&ldquo

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

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

Here’s to a Wonderful!

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 our

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.

Turning a House into a Happy HomeWe talk a lot about why it makes financial sense to buy a home, but more often than not, we’re drawn to the emotional reasons for homeownership.No

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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,&

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Top Reasons People Are Moving This YearToday, Americans are moving for a variety of different reasons. The current health crisis has truly re-shaped our lifestyles and our needs. Spending extra

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

Mortgage Rates & Payments by Decade [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsSometimes it helps to see the dollars and cents you’ll save when you purchase a home while mortgage rates are low.Today;

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

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 rates are

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

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

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

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

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

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

What Are the Experts Saying About Future Home Prices?A worldwide pandemic and an economic recession have had a tremendous effect on the nation. The uncertainty brought about by both has made

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

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 reported:;

Down below are some "Quick Links" that show you specific lists of "Propertunities" in the Inland Empire. If you're looking to score a deal in this hot Inland Empire market, bookmark this page to

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 HighlightsThe health crisis slowed the market this spring, so buyers are jumping back into the market to make their moves this summer.Check

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

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

Top Reasons to Own Your Home [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsJune 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 2020With the U.S. economy on everyone’s minds right now, questions about the country’s financial outlook continue to come up

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

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

#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 HighlightsIn a recent study by realtor.com, homeowners noted some of the main things they would change about their homes to make them more livable.Not

Unemployment Report: No Need to Be TerrifiedLast Friday, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) released its latest jobs report. It revealed that the economic shutdown made necessary by

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

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

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,,

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

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

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 HighlightsAccording to Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at NAR, home prices are forecasted to rise.Results from the

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

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

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

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

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 store.Your

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,

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

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 HighlightsExpert insights are painting a bright future for housing when the economy bounces back – and it

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

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

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

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 CrisisSome HighlightsThe COVID-19 pandemic is causing an economic slowdown.The good news is, home values actually increased in 3 of the last 5 U.S. recessions

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 goals:

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%,

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

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

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

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 ;

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Working with a Local Real Estate Professional Makes All the Difference [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights:Choosing the right real estate professional is one of the most impactful decisions you can make in

Year-Over-Year Rental Prices on the RiseLooking ahead, 2020 is projected to be a strong year for homeownership. According to the Freddie Mac Forecast,“We expect rates to remain low,

Thank You for All Your

When a House Becomes a Happy HomeWe talk a lot about why it makes financial sense to buy a home, but more often than not we’re drawn to the emotional reasons for homeownership.No

2020 Forecast Shows Continued Home Price AppreciationQuestions continue to rise around where home prices will head in 2020. The latest forecast from CoreLogic shows continued

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 2020

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

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

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,

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

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

A 365 Day Difference in HomeownershipOver the past year, mortgage rates have fallen more than a full percentage point. This is a great driver for homeownership, as today’s low rates provide

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&rsquo

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

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 months

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&rsquo

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

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

2 Myths Holding Back Home BuyersIn a recent article, First American shared how millennials are not really any different from previous generations when it comes to the goal 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&rsquo

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 active

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

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 Sold95 Homes Regain Positive EquityMedian Home Values Go Up $1.38;

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 –

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What You Need to Know About the Mortgage Process [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights:Many buyers are purchasing homes with down payments as little as 3%.You may already qualify for a loan, even if you don

Homeownership is the Top Contributor to Your Net WorthMany people plan to build their net worth by buying CDs or stocks, or just having a savings account. Recently, however, Economist 

What FICO® Score Do You Need to Qualify for a Mortgage?While a recent announcement from CNBC shares that the average national FICO® score has reached an all-time high of 706,

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%

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 to

4 Tips to Improve Your Home and Save on Your Energy BillAs a homeowner, it’s important to keep your home running efficiently, not only to save money, but also to help the environment thrive.

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

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

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

4 Reasons to Sell This Fall [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights:Buyers are active in the market and often competing with one another for available listings.Housing inventory is still under the 6-month

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.

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

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

6 Graphs Showing the Strength of the Current Housing Market [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights:Keeping an eye on the current status of the housing market is one of the best ways to make powerful and

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,&ldquo

Home Sales Expected to Continue Increasing In 2020Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, and the Mortgage Bankers Association are all projecting home sales will increase nicely in 2020

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 decisions

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 repeat

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

Homeownership Will Always Be a Part of the American DreamOn Labor Day we celebrate the hard work that helps us achieve the American Dream.Growing up, many of us thought about our future lives with

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 increased in 3

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 &ldquo.&

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

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

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 right

DID YOU KNOW?A 2017 Zillow survey of 10,000 American adults found that two-in-three people who were then renting identified saving for a down payment as their biggest obstacle to homeownership