Keys to the Market

Unlocking Insights, One Door at a Time

Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Are We Heading into a Balanced Market?

Explore whether the housing market is transitioning from a seller's to a more balanced market. This article analyzes recent changes in inventory levels, the implications for buyers and sellers, and what a balanced market entails. Learn about the current housing supply trends and how they impact market dynamics, pricing strategies, and negotiation power. With expert insights and data-driven analysis, understand how this shift could affect your home buying or selling decisions. Connect with a local real estate agent to navigate the evolving market landscape effectively.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Here’s an early 2025 housing market forecast.

Experts project mortgage rates will come down slightly, which should lead more buyers and sellers to move. And that'll create a moderate increase in sales as activity ticks up. It'll also likely push prices up a little bit nationwide, though price changes will vary by location.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

What's the Impact of Presidential Elections on the Housing Market?

Wondering about the impact of Presidential elections on the housing market? This article delves into decades of data to reveal that while there's typically a temporary slowdown in home sales leading up to an election, the overall effects are minimal. Learn how historical trends show a quick recovery in home sales and consistent growth in home prices post-election, with mortgage rates often decreasing during these periods. Understand the facts and move forward confidently with your home buying or selling decisions during an election year.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

What Mortgage Rate Are You Waiting For?

With mortgage rates recently hitting the lowest point of 2024, potential homebuyers are questioning how much lower they could go. This article examines expert projections on mortgage rates, suggesting a continued downward trend influenced by economic conditions and Federal Reserve decisions. Learn why waiting for the perfect rate might mean missing out on current opportunities. Discover how defining your ideal mortgage rate can help you determine the right time to re-enter the housing market.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Understanding the Impact of Rising Housing Inventory on Homebuyers

As housing inventory increases nationally by over 36% year-over-year, prospective homebuyers are experiencing more favorable market conditions. This article explores what a 29% shortfall from normal inventory levels still means for you: enhanced search options, increased negotiating leverage, a greater likelihood of sellers making repairs, and moderated price growth. Learn how these factors can benefit your homebuying journey and why now might be the right time to engage in the market. Connect with us to discuss how rising inventory affects your real estate goals.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Today’s Biggest Housing Market Myths

Misconceptions can cloud judgment in the real estate market. This article clears up prevalent myths, providing data-driven insights to inform your home buying or selling decisions. Learn why waiting for a market crash may not be beneficial, discover the realities of current housing inventory, and understand the flexible options for down payments. Arm yourself with factual information and expert advice to navigate the market confidently. Connect with a trusted real estate agent to discuss your specific needs and dispel any myths that might be holding you back.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

The Number One Mistake Sellers Are Making: Overpricing Their House

Overpricing is a common error that can leave homes languishing on the market, often leading to necessary price reductions. This article explains the risks of setting your price too high and how it can deter potential buyers. Learn how working with a real estate agent can provide you with a realistic valuation based on current market conditions, comparative market analysis, and a strategic approach to pricing. Avoid the pitfalls of overpricing with expert guidance and ensure your home attracts serious offers.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

How To Choose a Great Local Real Estate Agent

Finding the perfect real estate agent is crucial for a successful home buying or selling experience. This guide outlines key factors to consider when choosing an agent, including their reputation, local market expertise, communication style, and your personal comfort level with them. Learn how to assess an agent's experience with specific types of homes, understand local market trends, and ensure their availability matches your needs. Follow these tips to find a trustworthy agent who can expertly navigate the real estate process with you.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

How Mortgage Rate Changes Impact Your Homebuying Power

Understand how changes in mortgage rates affect your homebuying budget and monthly payments. This article explains the relationship between mortgage rates and your financial capacity to purchase a home, highlighting recent trends and economic factors that influence rates. Learn how even minor rate adjustments can significantly alter your monthly mortgage costs, and discover tools and insights that can help you make informed decisions in any market condition. Connect with a real estate professional to navigate these changes effectively.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

3 Reasons To Move in Today’s Shifting Market

If you’re thinking about buying a home, there are 3 reasons you may want to make your move this fall. 1) Inventory is growing, giving you more options 2) Newly built homes may be more budget-friendly than you’d expect 3) Mortgage rates have come down from their peak last October.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

What Credit Score Do You Really Need To Buy a House?

When you're thinking about buying a home, your credit score is one of the biggest pieces of the puzzle. Think of it like your financial report card that lenders look at when trying to figure out if you qualify, and which home loan will work best for you. As the Mortgage Report says:

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

The Great Wealth Transfer: A New Era of Opportunity

Explore the transformative impact of the Great Wealth Transfer, where $84 trillion is expected to shift from Baby Boomers to younger generations over the next 20 years. This article delves into how this unprecedented transfer of wealth could ease the challenges of home affordability and fuel entrepreneurial ventures. Learn how inherited wealth and assets are poised to reshape the housing market, providing new opportunities for homeownership and economic growth.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Getting Your House Inspection Ready

Getting ready to sell your house? Here’s the scoop on home inspections and how to prep for them. As more homes hit the market, buyers are regaining some negotiating power. That means it might be a good idea to tackle some key repairs before listing. But how do you know which ones are worth it? Expert advice is key. Let's chat so you know what to prioritize.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Where Will You Go After You Sell?

Deciding between a newly built home and an existing property is a crucial choice for homeowners planning to move. This article compares the benefits of each, from the appeal of brand new features and builder concessions in new homes to the charm and established neighborhoods of existing homes. Discover how market dynamics, including increased home supply, affect your options and how leveraging a real estate agent's expertise can guide you in making the best decision for your needs and lifestyle.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Mortgage Rates Down a Full Percent from Recent High

Mortgage rates have recently dropped to their lowest in months, presenting a unique opportunity for potential homebuyers. This article discusses the significance of the current rate decrease and its impact on affordability and buyer competition. Learn why acting now could be advantageous before rates stabilize or other buyers return to the market, potentially driving up prices and competition. If you've been waiting for the right moment to enter the housing market, this might be your chance.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Helpful Negotiation Tactics for Today’s Housing Market

In the evolving real estate landscape, understanding key negotiation tactics can significantly enhance your position, whether you're buying or selling. This article outlines practical strategies for negotiating sale prices, home repairs, fixtures, closing costs, and more. Discover how leveraging these aspects effectively can lead to a successful transaction. Gain insights into how working with a skilled real estate agent can provide the expertise needed to navigate negotiations smoothly and ensure your interests are well-represented.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

What Every Homeowner Should Know About Their Equity

Discover the power of home equity in today’s real estate market. This article delves into what home equity is, how to determine how much you have, and the significant role it plays when selling your home. With home values rising sharply in recent years, many homeowners may find themselves with more equity than expected, providing a substantial financial boost for their next purchase. Learn how to assess your equity and use it to your advantage as you plan your move.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Why Today’s Housing Inventory Prevents a Repeat of the 2008 Crash

Explore the differences in today's housing market compared to 2008, focusing on the current undersupply of homes. This article breaks down inventory levels across existing homes, new constructions, and foreclosures, demonstrating why a housing crash like 2008 is unlikely under today’s conditions. Understand the dynamics that keep the market stable and what this means for buyers and sellers in the housing landscape.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Why the Sandwich Generation Is Buying Multi-Generational Homes

For the Sandwich Generation, caring for both children and aging parents, multi-generational homes offer practical and financial benefits. This article explores how pooling resources and sharing responsibilities can make home buying more accessible and affordable. Discover the advantages of living together, such as built-in childcare and enhanced family bonding.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Should You Rent Out or Sell Your House?

Deciding whether to rent out or sell your house is a significant decision with long-term financial implications. This article provides essential questions to consider, such as property suitability for renting, the realities of being a landlord, and the costs involved. Gain insights into the advantages and challenges of each option, helping you assess what best aligns with your financial goals and lifestyle needs. Get expert advice to navigate this decision confidently.

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