For Buyers

The Personal Joys of Having a Home To Call Your Own

The Personal Joys of Having a Home To Call Your Own

There’s no doubt that owning a home comes with significant financial benefits. And this time of year is a great time to reflect on the other reasons why owning a home is so meaningful. A house is more than four walls and a roof – it’s a place where memories are made, connections are built, and life happens. From the sense of accomplishment that comes with owning your own home to the joy of...

The #1 Reason People Move: To Be Closer to Family and Friends

The #1 Reason People Move: To Be Closer to Family and Friends

Have you ever thought about packing up and moving to be closer to the people who mean the most to you? Maybe you’re tired of long drives to see your family or wish your kids could spend more time with their grandparents. Clearly, a lot of other people feel the same way. According to recent data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the desire to be near family and friends is the #1...

Infographic titled 'The Truth About Down Payments,' debunking the misconception that buyers need to put 20% down. It highlights that median down payments are 9% for first-time homebuyers and 18% for all buyers. The infographic explains that some loans require as little as 3.5% or 0% down and features stats on down payment assistance programs, with the average benefit being $17,000. Includes resources for more information.

The Truth About Down Payments

There’s a misconception going around that you have to put 20% of the purchase price down when you buy a home. But the truth is, many people don’t put down that much unless they’re trying to make their offer more competitive. And if you want to give your savings a boost, look into down payment assistance. There are thousands of programs that offer an average benefit of nearly $17,000. To learn more...

The Biggest Perks of Buying a Home This Winter

The Biggest Perks of Buying a Home This Winter

Waiting for perfect market conditions often means missing out. Because what you may not realize is, if you’re ready and able to buy, this time of year could actually give you an edge. Here’s why. As the weather cools down, the housing market can too – and that works in your favor. You Likely Won’t Feel as Rushed Homes tend to take a little longer to sell during this time of year. Data from...

What Homebuyers Need To Know About Credit Scores

What Homebuyers Need To Know About Credit Scores

Data shows 7 out of 10 prospective homebuyers don’t know the minimum credit score required by lenders or that it varies by lender and loan type. According to Experian, the range is anywhere from 500 to 700 for the minimum credit score. That means you don’t need perfect credit to buy a home. Your credit score is important – but that doesn’t mean it needs to be perfect. Work with a lender to learn...

The Top 2 Reasons To Look at Newly Built Homes

The Top 2 Reasons To Look at Newly Built Homes

When planning a move, a newly built home might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But with more brand-new homes on the market and builders focusing on smaller, more affordable options, this type of home may just be the key to crossing the homebuying finish line. Here's why a new build is worth considering – and how an agent can help you find one that meets your needs and your budget. 1....

Investors Are Not Buying Up All the Homes

Investors Are Not Buying Up All the Homes

There’s a misconception Wall Street is buying all the homes on the market. But data proves that isn’t true. Experts agree the share of homes bought by investors is declining – and most are smaller investors, like your neighbor who owns a second home, not Wall Street. No matter what you’ve heard, the majority of homes are still being purchased by everyday homebuyers like you – not big investors....

How Co-Buying a Home Helps with Affordability Today

How Co-Buying a Home Helps with Affordability Today

Buying a home in today’s market can feel like an uphill battle – especially with home prices and mortgage rates putting pressure on your budget. If you’re feeling stuck, co-buying could be one way to help you get your foot in the door. Freddie Mac says: “If you are an aspiring homeowner, buying a home with your family or friends could be an option.” But there are some things you'll...

Don’t Miss Out on the Growing Number of Down Payment Assistance Programs

Don’t Miss Out on the Growing Number of Down Payment Assistance Programs

With rising home prices and volatile mortgage rates, it’s important you know about every resource that could help make buying a home possible. And one thing you’ll want to be aware of is just how much the number of down payment assistance (DPA) programs has grown lately. Take a look at the graph below to see how many new programs have been added in the last year, according to data from Down...

Is Wall Street Really Buying All the Homes?

Is Wall Street Really Buying All the Homes?

Let’s be real – buying a home right now is tough. You’re scrolling through listings, rushing to open houses, and maybe even losing out to more competitive offers. Somewhere along the way, you might’ve heard the reason it’s so hard to find a home is because big Wall Street investors are swooping in and snatching up everything in sight. But here’s the thing: that’s mostly a myth. While...