Keeping You Informed 

One factor that directly impacts the housing market is interest rates. When rates rise, mortgage costs for new applicants rise as well, affecting everything from loan qualification to the volume of home sales. The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is now back above 7% after falling toward 6% at the start of the year. While mortgage rates have been volatile in recent years, they have not been sustainably at these levels in nearly 25 years. What could these housing market pressures mean for households and the broader economy?

Housing activity has been mixed in recent years across a number of measures. For new buyers, the biggest challenge with affordability is mortgage rates. The 30-year fixed mortgage rate is around 6.3%, well above the lows of 3% or less in 2020 and 2021, and the average of 4.6% since 2008. This means that the monthly cost of purchasing a home is significantly higher than it was just a few years ago, even for buyers with substantial down payments.

A look at what you need to think about when buying a home.

Energy-efficient home upgrades are good for the environment and your wallet. Learn more about how to calculate the ROI of your home upgrades.

Your home is your safe space, so receiving notice that your home insurance policy is being dropped can be incredibly unsettling. There are ways to ensure you don’t have a lapse in coverage and that you get all your questions answered. Learn more here.

Home renovations are expensive, but is it worth it? Well, that depends on how you calculate the ROI of the renovations. Here, we share some factors to consider and the invaluable aspects of doing your homework.

This blog explains what real estate investment trusts (REITs) are and includes information on the types of REITs, their benefits and drawbacks, and how to invest in REITs.

Heading south to avoid the winter chill? Before adopting the snowbird status take into consideration these financial tips and hidden costs.

As you approach your retirement years, your living situation may change. Let's look at the benefits and considerations of both downsizing and upsizing in retirement to help you decide what's best for you.

This blog will celebrate American Housing Month, give an outline of the holiday's history, and talk about how important home ownership has been in our country’s history.

Do you really need to put 20% down to buy a house? We've got the answer to this common question plus everything you need to know about mortgages as you begin your house hunt.

If your clients want to escape the harsh winter weather, show them how with this article.

A clear explanation of this valuable exclusion and how it helps most homeowners.

This article provides high-level details about what a 1031 Exchange is and when a person should consider one for their investment and real estate strategies.

The western United States has been hit hard by wildfires this summer. If your home or business has experienced devastation due to wildfires, here’s what you need to know about filing an insurance claim.

Is it better to buy or rent? This decision can vary for everyone, consider these advantages and disadvantages for each.