Keys to the Market

Unlocking Insights, One Door at a Time

Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Planning To Sell in 2026? Start the Prep Now

Thinking about selling your home in 2026? Start prepping now to maximize your sale price and reduce stress later. From repairs to decluttering, early preparation gives you time to budget, hire quality contractors, and follow expert advice from a local agent—ensuring your home shines in next spring’s competitive market.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

The $280 Shift in Affordability Every Homebuyer Should Know

Home affordability is improving across most major markets, with monthly mortgage payments dropping by about $283 since summer. That savings—nearly $3,400 a year—means buyers can now afford roughly $22,000 more home than before. Lower rates and slower price growth are giving buyers fresh opportunities to make their move.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

2026 Housing Market Outlook

Experts predict 2026 will mark a turning point for real estate as lower mortgage rates and steady home prices encourage more buyers and sellers to make a move. With rates easing toward the low 6s and home price growth staying moderate, expect a healthier, more active housing market and renewed opportunities for both buyers and sellers.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

1 in 5 Sellers Are Dropping Their Price Today

Have you heard? 1 in 5 sellers are dropping their asking price right now. And that opens the door for buyers like you to negotiate for a better price. You've got more leverage than you've had in years. Want to know which negotiation tactics are actually working for buyers here in our local market? DM me and I'll give you the details.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Why More Buyers Are Turning to New Construction This Year

More buyers are turning to new construction this year as builders offer major incentives like mortgage rate buydowns, price cuts, and closing cost help. With new home sales at a two-year high and inventory still strong, now may be the best time to buy before builders scale back production.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Why Home Prices Aren’t Actually Flat

National headlines say home prices are flat—but that’s only half the story. In reality, prices are still rising in some areas and dipping in others, depending on local inventory. Whether you’re buying or selling, understanding your market’s unique trend gives you the edge in today’s housing landscape.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

The Minimum Down Payment Required

Here's why the right answer is so important for you to know.

A lot people overestimate how much they really need to save for a down payment.

The most common answers? 10 or 20%. The truth: you may be able to put down as little as 3%.

According to FirstHomeIQ, only 8 out of 100 people actually get this right.

Don't let misinformation hold you back.

What did you guess? Drop a comment below. And if you want more information, talk to a trusted lender.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Why Experts Say Mortgage Rates Should Ease Over the Next Year

Experts predict mortgage rates will continue easing through 2026 as the 10-year Treasury yield and its spread normalize. With market uncertainty fading and long-term rates trending lower, forecasts suggest mortgage rates could dip into the upper 5% range by late next year—making now the time to start planning your next move.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Why October Is the Best Time To Buy a Home in 2025

October 2025 is shaping up to be the best month for homebuyers, with more inventory, softer prices, and greater negotiating power than any other time this year. Experts from Realtor.com, NAR, and Redfin agree—buyers now have their strongest position in over five years. If you’re ready to move, prepping this fall could be your smartest play yet.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

What Buyers Say They Need Most (And How the Market’s Responding)

Affordability is the top concern for buyers, and the market is finally showing some relief. Home prices are moderating from the rapid spikes of recent years, and mortgage rates have eased into the mid-6% range, giving buyers a more manageable path forward. These shifts could make 2026 the right time to re-engage with your homebuying plans.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Closing Costs Unpacked: State-by-State Breakdowns for Today’s Buyers

Closing costs aren’t one-size-fits-all—they vary widely depending on where you buy. While national averages range from 2–5% of the purchase price, state taxes, fees, and service costs can swing your total from just a few thousand to over $10K. Knowing your local numbers (and strategies to lower them) helps you budget smart and buy with confidence.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Inventory Growth Varies by State Map

The housing market is split—some areas favor buyers with more inventory and negotiating power, while others still give sellers the upper hand due to limited listings. Knowing which side your local market is on is key, and the right strategy depends on it. DM me to find out where our market stands today.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Why Buyers and Sellers Face Very Different Conditions Today

Housing market conditions vary widely across the U.S., with some states favoring buyers and others still leaning toward sellers. Inventory growth, price shifts, and time on market all play a role, creating very different experiences depending on location. Local expertise is key to navigating your neighborhood’s market dynamics.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

3 Reasons Affordability Is Showing Signs of Improvement This Fall

After years of rising rates and prices, affordability is finally easing. Mortgage rates have dipped, home price growth has slowed, and wages are rising faster than prices. Together, these shifts are making monthly payments about $290 lower than earlier this year, giving more buyers a chance to jump back into the market this fall.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Do You Know How Much Your House Is Really Worth?

Your home is likely your biggest financial asset—and it may be worth more than you think. With equity gains from rising prices and years of mortgage payments, many homeowners now hold record wealth in their properties. Discover how much equity you’ve built and explore smart ways to put it to work for your next move.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Why Now May Be a Key 2025 Moment To Sell Your House

Mortgage rates just hit their lowest point since October 2024, sparking a 23% jump in loan applications and bringing buyers back into the market. If you’ve been waiting to sell, this window may give you a head start before more sellers list. Act now to capture renewed demand and position your home for a faster, stronger sale.

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