
Keys to the Market
Unlocking Insights, One Door at a Time
Thinking About Renting Your House Instead of Selling? Read This First.
More homeowners are becoming “accidental landlords” when their listings don’t sell, but renting isn’t always the easy fix it seems. From repair costs and higher insurance premiums to midnight maintenance calls and tenant gaps, the risks can outweigh the rewards. Before renting, revisit your pricing strategy with your agent to get your home sold.
Builder Incentives Reach 5-Year High
Homebuilders are offering record-high incentives—66% providing deals like price cuts, rate buydowns, and closing cost help—to move unsold inventory. With discounts averaging 5% off, new construction is more affordable than it’s been in years, making now a smart time for buyers to explore their options.
What Mortgage Delinquencies Tell Us About the Future of Foreclosures
Foreclosures are rising slightly, but today’s mortgage delinquencies remain far below 2008 levels. While FHA borrowers show higher sensitivity to economic shifts, overall loan performance is strong. With record homeowner equity and stable delinquency rates, experts agree a foreclosure wave isn’t on the horizon.
Over two-thirds of homeowners have at least 50% equity or own their home free and clear.
Over two-thirds of homeowners have at least 50% equity or own their home free and clear. If you want to find out how much you have, let’s connect.
How To Afford the Home You Love When the Numbers Don’t Quite Work
Buying a home is more than just the list price—taxes, insurance, closing costs, and down payments all add up. The good news? With smart strategies like shopping for better loan rates, exploring down payment assistance, negotiating seller concessions, or refinancing later, you may still be able to land the home you love without stretching beyond your budget.
Builders Have Been Playing Catch-Up for 15 Years
After the 2008 crash, builders cut back so drastically that new construction lagged behind demand for over a decade. That underbuilding created today’s housing shortage, and even with rising activity, it would take years to close the gap. Unlike 2008, more new homes now doesn’t mean a crash—it means builders are finally catching up.
History Shows the Housing Market Always Recovers
Housing slowdowns may feel discouraging, but history proves the market always recovers. From the 1980s to 2008 to COVID, each downturn was followed by a rebound. With experts forecasting more sales by 2026 as rates ease, today’s dip is only temporary—making now the time to prepare for the next wave of buyers.
What's Really Happening with Home Prices Right Now?
Wondering what's really going on with home prices? The truth is: it depends on where you live.
In the 50 largest metros, nearly half are still seeing prices climb. The other half are seeing slight declines.
It's a clear reminder that real estate is hyper-local. And understanding what's happening in your specific market is key.
Let's talk about what's unfolding in our area, and how that impacts the strategy for your next move.
Should You Still Expect a Bidding War?
Bidding wars are far less common than they were just a couple of years ago, with only 1 in 5 homes nationally seeing multiple offers. While hot spots like the Northeast still see more competition, many markets are cooling, giving buyers more time, negotiation power, and even seller concessions. Local trends matter, so connect with an agent for insight.
From Frenzy to Breathing Room: Buyers Finally Have Time Again
After years of bidding wars and rushed decisions, homes now spend an average of 58 days on the market—giving buyers more time to think, negotiate, and make confident moves. While pace varies by location, today’s slower market offers less stress, more leverage, and better opportunities with the right local guidance.
Condos Could Be a Win for Today’s Buyers
With condo inventory up, prices cooling, and sellers more open to negotiation, buyers have more options and leverage than they’ve had in years. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to downsize, condos offer affordability, flexibility, and the chance to be selective in today’s market.
Even a Small Change in Rates Can Lower Your Monthly Payment Chart
Mortgage rates recently hit their lowest point of the year, and even small shifts can mean big savings on your monthly payment. While major drops aren’t expected in 2025, smaller declines are still possible. Want to see how different rates affect your loan? DM me and I’ll run the numbers for you.
More Contracts Are Falling Through. Here’s How To Get Ahead.
More contracts are falling through today, with 15% of pending sales canceled this June—often due to inspection issues. A pre-listing inspection helps sellers get ahead of surprises, avoid last-minute renegotiations, and build buyer trust. Investing upfront can save thousands later and keep your deal on track.
Is It Better To Buy Now or Wait for Lower Mortgage Rates? Here’s the Tradeoff
Mortgage rates have dipped to their lowest point this year, but experts predict no major drop until next year. Waiting for 6% could mean more competition, fewer choices, and higher prices. Right now, buyers have more inventory, slower price growth, and stronger negotiating power—an opportunity that may not last.
Are These Myths About Buying a Newly Built Home Holding You Back?
Many buyers skip new construction due to outdated myths about price, negotiation, quality, and the need for an agent. In reality, new homes can be competitively priced, come with incentives, offer solid craftsmanship, and still benefit from expert agent guidance. Don't overlook this opportunity.
Why Nearly Half of Sellers Are Offering Concessions to Win Buyers
Almost 50% of home sellers are sweetening the deal with concessions like covering closing costs or repairs. With prices up 55% in 5 years, sellers can negotiate and still profit. Learn which concessions move homes fastest in today's market.
Online Home-Buying Search Terms Recently Hit 2-Year High
Google search trends show home-buying interest is climbing, hitting a 2-year high in July. Despite high rates, motivated buyers are still browsing and ready to act. If you've been waiting to sell, now may be the time to list and capture this growing demand.
Why Selling Without an Agent Can Cost You More Than You Think
Selling your home without an agent might seem like a money-saver, but stats show FSBO homes sell for nearly 15% less. With more listings and buyer competition today, professional pricing, marketing, and negotiation are essential to avoid leaving money on the table.
A Second Home Might Be the Missing Piece in Your Retirement Plan
A second home might be your secret weapon for a better retirement—offering rental income, long-term value growth, and portfolio diversification. With market conditions favoring buyers, now could be the right time to explore this powerful wealth-building strategy.
2 Advantages of Buying a Newly Built Home Today
Since there are more new homes on the market, builders are motivated to sell and that's leading to two great perks: price cuts and lower rates. Let's connect if you want to see what builders are offering in our area.