Trying to decide between renting or buying a home? One key factor that could help you choose is just how much homeownership can grow your net worth.Every three years, the Federal Reserve Board shares a report called the Survey of Consumer Finances (SCF). It shows how much wealth homeowners and renters have – and the difference is significant.On average, a homeowner’s net worth is nearly 40 times higher than a renter’s. Check out the graph below to see the difference for yourself:Why Homeowner Wealth Is So HighIn the previous version of that report, the average homeowner’s net worth was about...
Looking to buy a home but feeling like almost everything is out of reach? Here’s the thing. There’s still a way to become a homeowner, even when affordability seems like a huge roadblock – and it might be with a fixer upper. Let’s dive into why buying a fixer upper could be your ticket to homeownership and how you can make it work.What Is a Fixer Upper?A fixer upper is a home that’s in livable condition but needs some work. The amount of work varies by home – some may need cosmetic updates like wallpaper removal and new flooring, while others might require more extensive repairs like replacing...
Feeling a bit unsure, or even afraid, to move with everything going on right now? The decision to move shouldn’t be scary, it should be exciting. And the best way to eliminate any fear is to work with a pro. Real estate agents are so much more than just transaction facilitators; they’re trusted guides to help you navigate the complexities of the housing market with confidence and ease. And a great agent can turn what may feel like a daunting process into a manageable—and even enjoyable—experience.That’s why, in a Bright MLS survey, respondents agreed partnering with an agent is essential and...
No one likes making mistakes, especially when they happen in what’s likely the biggest transaction of your life – buying a home.That’s why partnering with a trusted agent is so important. Here’s a sneak peek at the most common missteps buyers are making in today’s market and how a great agent will help you steer clear of each one.Trying To Time the MarketMany buyers are trying to time the market by waiting for home prices or mortgage rates to drop. This can be a really risky strategy because there’s so much at play that can have an impact on those things. As Elijah de la Campa, Senior Economist...
With the 2024 Presidential election fast approaching, you might be wondering what impact, if any, it’s having on the housing market. Let’s break it down.Election Years Bring a Temporary SlowdownIn any given year, home sales slow down slightly in the fall. It’s a typical, seasonal trend. However, according to data from BTIG, in election years there’s usually a slightly larger dip in home sales in the month leading up to Election Day (see graph below):Why? Uncertainty. Many consumers hold off on making major decisions or purchases while they wait to see how the election will play out. It’s a pattern...
Some HighlightsThere are a number of scary myths about homebuying in today’s market. Here’s what you need to know.Prices are not expected to crash, it is possible to buy even with student loan debt, and there are programs that can help you save for a down payment.Don’t let scary myths delay your homebuying plans. Connect with an agent so you have a pro to help you separate the facts from your fears.
Curious about where the housing market is headed in 2025? The good news is that experts are offering some promising forecasts, especially when it comes to two key factors that directly affect your decisions: mortgage rates and home prices.Whether you’re thinking of buying or selling, here’s a look at what the experts are saying and how it might impact your move.Mortgage Rates Are Forecast To Come Down One of the biggest factors likely affecting your plans is mortgage rates, and the forecast looks positive. After rising dramatically in recent years, experts project rates will ease slightly...
Some HighlightsYou may be torn between buying a home now or waiting. But don’t forget to factor in the equity you’ll gain as prices rise.Experts forecast prices will climb over the next 5 years – and based on those forecasts, you could gain about $90k in equity in that time.So, you could wait, but you’ll miss out on a lot of equity if you do. If you’re ready and able to buy, let’s connect so you can start growing your wealth now.
Homeowners typically slow down their moving plans as the summer months wrap up, and as a result, fewer homes are listed for sale in the fall. It’s a predictable, seasonal trend in real estate. But this year, mortgage rates came down at the same time the number of homes on the market usually starts to decline. So, what happened? More homeowners decided to sell, so more homes came to the market.The most recent data from Realtor.com reveals that in September, the number of homes put up for sale increased by 11.6% compared to this time last year.As the green circle in the graph below shows, the...
Did you know? Homeowners are often able to put more money down when they buy their next home. That’s because, once they sell, they can use the equity they have in their current house toward their next down payment. And it’s why as home equity reaches a new height, the median down payment has too.According to the latest data from Redfin, the typical down payment for U.S. homebuyers is $67,500—that’s nearly 15% more than last year, and the highest on record (see graph below):Here’s why equity makes this possible. Over the past five years, home prices have increased significantly, which has led...