5 Hidden Deck Dangers to Watch For


Decks are a selling point in real estate. But decks can take a pounding during an active summer. Since this tends to happen mostly beneath the boards, homeowners may overlook the warning signs until it’s too late and becomes costly damage.

Beware of these common issues when assessing an outdoor deck…

Buying and Selling a Home at the Same Time: How Bridge Loans Can Help


One of the biggest stressors for home buyers and sellers is the prospect of being financially responsible for two homes. To avoid that possibility, many buyers make their offer contingent on the sale of their existing home. But contingencies can weaken buyers’ chances of landing the home they want. So, some buyers lean on personal loans, piggyback loans or even their 401(k) savings.

Find out why more borrowers are temporarily tapping the equity in their current home to avoid making a contingency offer on their next home.

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What Percentage of Your Paycheck Should Go To Your Mortgage Payment?


The road to homeownership has been a challenge for many Americans—stubborn mortgage rates and inflation keep this dream out of reach for many. And for those who can afford a home, not ending up “house poor” is also key.

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The Five-Year Rule for Home Price Perspective


Headlines are saying home prices are starting to dip in some markets. And if you’re beginning to second guess your plans based on what you’re hearing in the media, here’s what you need to know.




Buying a Home May Help Shield You from Inflation



It feels like everything is getting more expensive these days. That’s because inflation has remained higher than normal for longer than expected – and that’s impacting the costs of goods, services, and more. And with rising costs all around you, you’re probably questioning: is now really the right time to buy a home?

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Updated Forecast for 2025



Analysts are now anticipating just one rate cut in 2025, versus the two previously forecast. Some have even suggested that the Fed may not cut rates at all this year. This means that new homeowners and prospective buyers shouldn’t expect mortgage rate relief anytime soon. Also, with the lack of housing supply and demand expected to increase, housing prices are expected to continue to increase.





Final Walk-Through Red Flags


Final walk-throughs can uncover problems that could delay closing. Most walk-throughs go smoothly, but it’s useful to know what to watch for and how to resolve issues quickly.

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Flashback to 1995 in the Housing Market vs Today



The housing market of 2024 mirrored some striking similarities to 1995, marking the lowest existing-home sales in nearly 30 years. However, the real estate landscape has changed dramatically.

Read how…




90% of Markets Saw Home Price Gains in Fourth Quarter



Home prices finished 2024 strong, NAR data shows. But in the last five years alone, median home prices have jumped 50%.

Property owners are getting richer as home prices prove resilient against lower home sales. Nearly 90% of metro areas registered home price increases in the final quarter of 2024, according to the latest housing data from the National Association of REALTORS®. Fourteen percent of the 226 metros NAR tracks posted double-digit price gains, up from 7% in the third quarter.

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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.

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