Alison Blake's Blog Posts

Housing Wealth: The Missing Piece of the Affordability EquationThe real estate market is soaring today. Residential home values are rising, and that’s a big win for homeowners. In 2020, there was

Don’t Wait To Sell Your HouseWe’re in the ultimate sellers’ market right now. If you’re a homeowner thinking about selling, you have a huge advantage in today’s housing market. High buyer

Owning a Home Has Distinct Financial Benefits Over Renting [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights When you rent, you build your landlord’s wealth, your monthly payment depends on ever-rising

5 Things Homebuyers Need To Know When Making an OfferWhen it comes to buying a house, you’re looking for the perfect place to call home. The problem is, in today’s market there just aren’t

In Today’s Market, Listing Prices Are Like an Auction’s Reserve PriceFor generations, the process of buying and selling a home never really changed. A homeowner would try to estimate the market

Why You May Want To Cash in on Your Second HomeWhen stay-at-home mandates were enforced last year, many households realized their homes didn’t really fulfill their new lifestyle needs. An office

Why This Is Not Like 2008 AgainDuring the Great Recession, just over a decade ago, the financial systems the world depended on started to collapse. It created a panic that drove some large companies

Have Your Day in the Sun by Moving Up This Summer [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Longer days and sunny weather mean summer is upon us, and what better conditions than right now to upgrade 

Americans See Real Estate as a Better Investment Than Stocks or GoldLast month, in a post on the Liberty Street Economics blog, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York noted that

Americans Choose Real Estate as the Best Investment [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights For the eighth year in a row, real estate maintained its position as the preferred long-term investment

Should I Move or Refinance?The level of equity homeowners have is at an all-time high. According to the U.S. Census, over 38% of owner-occupied homes are owned free and clear, meaning

Sellers Are Ready To Enter the Housing MarketOne of the biggest questions in real estate today is, “When will sellers return to the housing market?” An ongoing shortage of home supply has

Don’t Forget to Budget for Closing CostsWhen buying a home, it’s important to have a budget and make sure you plan ahead for certain homebuying expenses. Saving for a down payment is

Experts Say Home Prices Will Continue to AppreciateIt’s clear that consumers are concerned about how quickly home values are rising. Many people fear the speed of appreciation may lead to a crash

3 Graphs Showing Why You Should Sell Your House NowThere’s no doubt that 2021 is the year of the seller when it comes to the housing market. If you’re a homeowner thinking of moving to

It’s Not Too Late To Apply For ForbearanceOver the past year, the pandemic made it challenging for some homeowners to make their mortgage payments. Thankfully, the government initiated a 

Your House Could Be the Oasis in an Inventory DesertHomebuyers are flooding the housing market right now to take advantage of record-low mortgage rates. Many have a sense of urgency to find a

When It Comes To Selling a House, Your Time Is Money [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Selling a house is no small task. If you decide to try to do it on your own, keep in mind you’ll be

Americans Find the Nonfinancial Benefits of Homeownership Most ValuableHomeownership is a foundational part of the American Dream. As we look back on more than a year of sheltering in our,

4 Big Incentives for Homeowners to Sell NowThe housing market keeps sailing along. The only headwind that could take it off course is the lack of inventory for sale. The National Association of

Are Interest Rates Expected to Rise Over the Next Year?So far this year, mortgage rates continue to hover around 3%, encouraging many hopeful homebuyers to enter the housing market. However, there�

Why Waiting to Buy a Home Could Cost You a Small Fortune Many people are sitting on the fence trying to decide if now’s the time to buy a home. Some are renters who have a strong desire to

The Power of Mortgage Pre-Approval [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights  Mortgage pre-approval means a lender has reviewed your finances and, based on factors like your income, debt, and credit

Will the Housing Market Maintain Its Momentum?Last week’s Existing Home Sales Report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows sales have dropped by 3.7% compared

Patience Is the Key to Buying a Home This YearThe question many homebuyers are facing this year is, “Why is it so hard to find a house?” We’re in the ultimate sellers’ market,

Is Home Price Appreciation Accelerating Again?At the beginning of the year, industry forecasts called for home price appreciation to slow to about half of the double-digit increase we saw last year.

Should I Buy Now or Wait? [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights If you’re thinking that waiting a year or two to purchase a home might mean you’ll save some money, think again. Mortgage interest

Planning to Move? You Can Still Secure a Low Mortgage Rate on Your Next HomeThis year, mortgage rates have started to slowly climb above recent record-breaking lows. Many homeowners planning to 

82,338 Great Reasons to Buy a Home TodayThe financial benefits of buying a home as compared to renting one are always up for debate. However, one element of the equation is often ignored – the

This Isn’t a Bubble. It’s Simply Lack of Supply. [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights In a recent article, Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist for the National Association of Realtors

4 Tips to Maximize the Sale of Your HouseHomeowners ready to make a move are definitely in a great position to sell today. Housing inventory is incredibly low, driving up buyer competition. This

93% of Americans Believe a Home Is a Better Investment Than StocksA recent Survey of Consumer Finances study released by the Federal Reserve reveals the net worth of homeowners&

Why This Is a Great Year to Sell Your Vacation HomeAs vaccines are administered and travel resumes, many of us are beginning to plan for those long-awaited vacations we missed out on over the past

Home Is Where the Heart Is [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights There’s no doubt about it: homeowners love their homes, and that feeling has become even more important over the past year. The vast

Homeownership Is Full of Financial BenefitsA Fannie Mae survey recently revealed some of the most highly-rated benefits of homeownership, which continue to be key drivers in today’s

Latest Jobs Report: What Does It Mean for You & the Housing Market?Last Friday, the Bureau of Labor Statistics released a very encouraging jobs report. The economy gained 916,000 jobs

Multigenerational Housing Is Gaining Momentum [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights If your house is feeling a little cramped with the addition of adult children or aging parents, it might be time to

Is It a Good Time to Sell My House?Last year, many homeowners thought twice about selling their houses due to the onset of the health crisis. This year, however, homeowners are beginning to regain

5 Reasons to Sell Your House This SpringWhen selling a house, most homeowners hope for a quick and profitable transaction that puts them in a position to make a great move. If you’re waiting for

How to Prepare Your House for a Winning Sale This Spring [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights With so few homes available to buy today, houses are in high demand, and they’re selling fast.

How Upset Should You Be about 3% Mortgage Rates?Last Thursday, Freddie Mac announced that their 30-year fixed mortgage rate was over 3% (3.02%) for the first time since last July.

6 Simple Graphs Proving This Is Nothing Like Last TimeLast March, many involved in the residential housing industry feared the market would be crushed under the pressure of a once-in-a-lifetime

Will Low Mortgage Rates Continue through 2021?With mortgage interest rates hitting record lows so many times recently, some are wondering if we’ll see low rates continue throughout 2021,

3 Ways Home Equity Can Have a Major Impact on Your LifeThere have been a lot of headlines reporting on how homeowner equity (the difference between the current market value of your home and the

Millennials: Is It Time to Buy a Bigger Home?In today’s housing market, all eyes are on millennials. Not only are millennials the largest generation, but they’re also currently between 25 and 40

Home Mortgage Rates by Decade [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights Mortgage interest rates have dropped considerably over the past year, and compared to what we’ve seen in recent decades, it’s a

3 Ways You’ll Win When You Buy a Home This YearThere are so many great reasons to purchase a home, and over the past year, we’ve realized more of them than we ever thought possible. If you’re

47% of New Buyers Surprised by How Affordable Homes Are TodayHeadlines matter. Right now, it’s hard to read about real estate without seeing a headline that suggests homes have become unaffordable

Where Have All the Houses Gone?In today’s housing market, it seems harder than ever to find a home to buy. Before the health crisis hit us a year ago, there was already a shortage of homes for.

6 Foundational Benefits of Homeownership TodayOver the past year, our homes have become an integral part of our lives more than ever. They’re much more than the houses we live in. They’re our

Thinking about Building a New Home? Your Agent Is Critical. [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights A real estate professional is an expert who can advocate on your behalf throughout the process when

Why Owning a Home Is a Powerful Financial DecisionIn today’s housing market, there are clear financial benefits to owning a home: increasing equity, the chance to build your net worth,

Do I Really Need a 20% Down Payment to Buy a Home?Is the idea of saving for a down payment holding you back from buying a home right now? You may be eager to take advantage of today’s low;

Want to Build Wealth? Buy a Home This Year.Every year, households across the country make the decision to rent for another year or take the leap into homeownership. They look at their earnings and

Turn to an Expert for the Best Advice, Not Perfect AdviceAs we approach the anniversary of the hardships we’ve faced through this pandemic and the subsequent recession, it’s normal to reflect on

Is Right Now the Right Time to Sell? [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights If you’re on the fence about selling your house, now is a great time to take advantage of sky-high demand, low supply, and

What Record-Low Housing Inventory Means for YouThe real estate market is expected to do very well in 2021, with mortgage rates that are hovering at historic lows and forecasted by 

What Happens When Homeowners Leave Their Forbearance Plans?According to the latest report from Black Knight, Inc., a well-respected provider of data and analytics for mortgage

What’s the Difference between an Appraisal and a Home Inspection?If you’re planning to buy a home, an appraisal is an important step in the process. It’s a professional

How to Make the Dream of Homeownership a Reality This YearIn 1963, Martin Luther King, Jr. inspired a powerful movement with his famous “I Have a Dream” speech. Through his passion and

Should I Wait for Lower Mortgage Interest Rates?Historically low mortgage rates are a big motivator for homebuyers right now. In 2020 alone, rates hit new record-lows 16 times, and the

Owning a Home Is Still More Affordable Than Renting OneIf spending more time at home over the past year is making you really think hard about buying a home instead of renting one, you’re

What Experts Are Saying about the 2021 Job MarketEarlier this month, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) released their most recent Jobs Report. The report revealed that the economy

Financial Fundamentals for Homebuyers [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights When you’re thinking about buying a home, there are a few key steps to take before you even start to look at houses. From

Why Moving May Be Just the Boost You NeedAs we look back over the past year, we’ve certainly lived through one of the most stressful periods in recent history. After spending so much more time at

The Difference a Year Makes for HomeownershipOver the past year, mortgage rates have fallen more than a full percentage point, hitting a new historic low 15 times. This is a great driver

Why It’s Important to Price Your House Right TodayEven in today’s sellers’ market, setting the right price for your house is one of the most valuable things you can do. According to the

Turning a House into a Happy HomeWe talk a lot about why it makes financial sense to buy a home, but more often than not, we’re drawn to the emotional reasons for homeownership.No matter

Did You Outgrow Your Home in 2020?It may seem hard to imagine that the home you’re in today – whether it’s your starter home or just one you’ve fallen in love with along the way – might

Thank You for All Your

Should I Renovate My House Before I Sell It? [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights In today’s hyper-competitive market, buyers are often willing to overlook cosmetic or minor repair needs if it means

Rent vs. Buy: How to Decide What’s Best for YouAccording to the U.S. Census Bureau, median rent continues to rise. With today’s low mortgage rates, there’s great

Real Estate Is a Driving Force in the EconomyAs the economy recovers from this year’s health crisis, the housing market is playing a leading role in the turnaround. It’s safe to say that what we

4 Reasons Why the Election Won’t Dampen the Housing MarketTomorrow, Americans will decide our President for the next four years. That decision will have a major impact on many aspects of life in

Why the 2021 Forecast Doesn’t Call for a Foreclosure CrisisAs the current forbearance mortgage relief options come to an end, many are wondering if we’ll face a foreclosure crisis next

Making a Home for the Brave Possible [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights VA Home Loans provide unique opportunities for Veterans, active-duty personnel, and their families in recognition of their

Is it Safe to Sell My House Right Now?In today’s real estate market, the buzz is all about how it’s a great time to sell your house. Buyer demand is high, and there simply aren’t

Real Estate Continues to Show Unprecedented Strength This YearThe 2020 housing market has surpassed all expectations and continues to drive the nation’s economic recovery. The question is, will

Americans Are Gaining Confidence in the EconomyThe September Jobs Report issued by the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the unemployment rate dropped to 7.9%. Though that

Why Today’s Options Will Save Homeowners from ForeclosureMany housing experts originally voiced concern that the mortgage forbearance program (which allows families impacted financially by COVID

Home Values Projected to Keep RisingAs we enter the final months of 2020 and continue to work through the challenges this year has brought, some of us wonder what impact continued economic

Two Important Impacts of Home EquityEquity continues to rise, helping American homeowners secure a much more stable financial future. According to the most recent data from CoreLogic, the

How Down Payment Assistance Opens the Door to HomeownershipMany people are eager to buy a home right now while affordability continues to be a highlight of the current housing market.

The demand for homes this year is extraordinary as record-breaking numbers of hopeful buyers continue to shop for homes. In a normal year, the peak homebuying season comes to a close by early fall.

Should You Buy a Retirement Home Sooner Rather than Later?Every day in the U.S., roughly 10,000 people turn 65. Prior to the health crisis that swept the nation in 2020, most people had to

One of the best ways to build your family’s financial future is through homeownership. Recent data from the Federal Reserve indicates the net worth of a homeowner is actually over

Once the kids have left the nest, you may be wondering what to do with all of the extra space in your home. Chances are, you don’t need four bedrooms anymore, and it may be a great time to 

55+ Over Communities In Boise, Meridian, and EagleSearch for Listings

Ever heard of Star, Idaho? It is a star in most people eyes! Located a couple miles after Eagle on State street, Star has it all. It has a great rodeo, great downtown, and booming housing industry.

There are many benefits to working with a real estate professional when selling your house. During challenging times, like what we face today, it becomes even more important to have an expert you

If you’re thinking about moving, selling your house this fall might be the way to go. Here are four highlights in the housing market that may make your decision to sell this fall an easy one.1.

Back in March, as the nation’s economy was shut down because of the coronavirus, many were predicting the real estate market would face a major collapse. Some forecasts called for a 15-20% decline

In today’s real estate market, setting the right price for your house is one of the most valuable things you can do.According to the U.S. Economic Outlook by the National

There has been much talk around the possibility that Americans are feeling less enamored with the benefits of living in a large city and now may be longing for the open spaces that suburban and

Some Highlights With remote learning sweeping the nation this academic year, organized spaces with enough room for kids to learn effectively are high on buyer wish lists. If you’re

One of the biggest surprises of 2020 is the resilience of the residential real estate market. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist of the National Association of Realtors (NAR), is now

Last Friday, the Bureau for Labor Statistics released their Employment Report for August 2020. The big surprise was that the unemployment rate fell to 8.4%, a full percent lower

The year 2020 will certainly be one to remember, with new realities and norms that changed the way we live. This year’s real estate market is certainly no exception to that shift, with historic

Some Highlights The word “home” is taking on a whole new meaning this year, and buyers are starting to look for new features as they re-think their needs and what’s truly.

Homebuying has been on the rise over the past few months, with record-breaking sales powering through the market in June and July. Buyers are actively purchasing homes, and the momentum is

Our market is doing amazing and here is a little insight into why....https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-8683709/Americans-fleeing-New-York-New-Jersey-search-remote-pastures-Vermont-Idaho

The year 2020 will be remembered as one of the most challenging times of our lives. A worldwide pandemic, a recession causing historic unemployment, and a level of social unrest perhaps never seen

When most of us begin searching for a home, we naturally start by looking at the price. It’s important, however, to closely consider what else impacts the purchase. It’s not just the price of

With so few houses for sale today and low mortgage rates driving buyer activity, bidding wars are becoming more common. Multiple-offer scenarios are heating up, so it’s important to get

You may have heard that pre-approval is a great first step in the homebuying process. But why is it so important? When looking for a home, the temptation to fall in love with a house’

Some Highlights The percentage of income needed to afford a median-priced home today is declining, while that for renting is on the rise. This is making buying a home an increasingly

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Finding the right home to purchase today is one of the biggest challenges for potential buyers. With so few homes for sale and construction of newly built homes ramping up, you may be

When shelter-in-place orders brought the economy to a screeching halt earlier this year, many believed the residential housing market would follow suit. Countless analysts predicted buyer demand

Today, Americans are moving for a variety of different reasons. The current health crisis has truly re-shaped our lifestyles and our needs. Spending extra time where we currently live is enabling

https://boise.kwboisere.com/20Boise-AlisonBlakeGroup.pdfWant specific information on an area?  Let me know and we will shoot it off to!

Originally, some housing industry analysts were concerned that the mortgage forbearance program (which allows families to delay payments to a later date) could lead to an increase in foreclosures

The news these days seems to have a mix of highs and lows. We may hear that an economic recovery is starting, but we’ve also seen some of the worst economic data in the history of our country. The

The residential real estate market has definitely been the shining light in this country’s current economic situation. All-time low mortgage rates coupled with a new appreciation of what

In today’s housing market, it can be a big challenge for buyers to find homes to purchase, as the number of houses for sale is far below the current demand. Now, however, we’re seeing

Today’s housing market is making a truly impressive turnaround, and it’s also setting up some outstanding opportunities for buyers and sellers. Whether you’re thinking of

Last Friday, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) released its latest Employment Situation Summary. Going into the release, the expert consensus was for 1.58 million jobs to

With the strength of the current housing market growing every day and more Americans returning to work, a faster-than-expected recovery in the housing sector is already well

With more companies figuring out how to efficiently and effectively enable their employees to work remotely (and for longer than most of us initially expected), homeowners throughout the country are

We’re sitting in an optimal moment in time for homeowners who are ready to sell their houses and make a move this year. Today’s homeowners are, on average, staying in their homes longer;

Today’s homebuyers are not just talking about their plans, they’re actively engaged in the buying process – and they’re serious about it. A recent report by the National

America has faced its share of challenges in 2020. A once-in-a-lifetime pandemic, a financial crisis leaving millions still unemployed, and an upcoming presidential election that may prove to be one

As remote work continues on for many businesses and Americans weigh the risks of being in densely populated areas, will more people start to move out of bigger cities? Spending extra time at home

So far, it’s been quite a ride this year, and our nation has truly seen its fair share of hurdles. From COVID-19 to record unemployment and then the resulting recession, just to name a few, the

In June, the number of first-time homebuyers accounted for 35% of the existing homes sold, a trend that’s been building steadily throughout the year. According to the National Association of

The residential real estate market is remaining resilient as the country still struggles to beat the COVID-19 pandemic. Three separate reports recently revealed how the housing market is still

With a worldwide health crisis that drove a pause in the economy this year, the housing market was greatly impacted. Many have been eagerly awaiting some bright signs of a recovery. Based on the

The health crisis we face as a country has led businesses all over the nation to reduce or discontinue their services altogether. This pause in the economy has greatly impacted the workforce and as

For months now the vast majority of Americans have been asking the same question: When will the economy turn around? Many experts have been saying the housing market will lead the way to a

Inventory is arguably the biggest challenge for buyers in today’s housing market. There are simply more buyers actively looking for homes to purchase than there are sellers selling them, so the

There’s great opportunity for today’s homeowners to sell their houses and make a move, yet due to the impact of the ongoing health crisis, some sellers are taking their time coming back to the

Over the past several weeks, Freddie Mac has reported the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate dropping to record lows, all the way down to 3.03%. Last week’s reported rate reached

Last week, a very well-respected real estate analytics firm surprised many with their home price projection for the next twelve months. CoreLogic, in their latest Home Price Index :

With businesses reopening throughout the country and some experts indicating early signs of a much-anticipated economic recovery, more homebuyers are actively entering the housing market this

In today’s fast-paced world where answers are just a Google search away, there are some who may question the benefits of hiring a real estate professional when selling a house. The reality is,

When Competition Is at an All-Time LowIn a recent survey of home sellers by Qualtrics, 87% of respondents said they were concerned their home won’t sell because of the pandemic and

Everyone is ready to buy a home at different times in their lives, and despite the health crisis, today is no exception. Understanding how affordability works and the main market factors that impact

Great News…for the Most PartThe Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) released their latest Employment Situation Summary last Thursday, and it again beat analysts’ expectations in a

The pandemic has caused consumers to re-examine the components that make up the “perfect home.” Many families are no longer comfortable with the locations and layouts of their existing homes.

Pending Home Sales increased by 44.3% in May, registering the highest month-over-month gain in the index since the National Association of Realtors (NAR) started tracking this metric in

In today’s economy, everyone seems to be searching for signs that a recovery is coming soon. Many experts agree that it may actually already be in motion or will be starting by the 3rd

One of the biggest questions on everyone’s minds these days is: What’s going to happen to the housing market in the second half of the year? Based on recent data on the economy,

Earlier this month, realtor.com announced the release of their initial Housing Recovery Index, a weekly guide showing how the pandemic has impacted the residential real estate market.

The New York Times recently ran an article regarding unemployment titled: Don’t Cheer Too Soon. Keep an Eye on the Core Jobless Rate. The piece suggests we should look at

A worldwide pandemic and an economic recession have had a tremendous effect on the nation. The uncertainty brought about by both has made predicting consumer behavior nearly impossible. For that

According to the latest FreddieMac Quarterly Forecast, mortgage interest rates have fallen to historically low levels this spring and they’re projected to remain low. This means there’s a

One of the bright spots of the 2020 real estate market is the growth in equity homeowners are experiencing across the country. According to the recently released Homeowner Equity Insights&

The Wall Street Journal just released their latest monthly Survey of Economists. In an article on the findings, they reported: “The U.S. economy will be in recovery by

A recent survey by Lending Tree tapped into behaviors of over 1,000 prospective buyers. The results indicated 53% of all homebuyers are more likely to buy a home in the

Every year, Gallup conducts a survey of Americans to determine their choice for the best long-term investment. Respondents are asked to select real estate, stocks/mutual funds,

Some Highlights The health crisis slowed the market this spring, so buyers are jumping back into the market to make their moves this summer. Check these 10 items off your to-do list so your

As the health crisis started making its way throughout our country earlier this spring, sellers have been cautious about putting their homes on the market. This hesitation stemmed primarily from

Yes. Does that Mean a Housing Crash? No.On Monday, the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) announced that the U.S. economy is officially in a recession. This did not come

With more U.S. states reopening for business this summer, and as people start to return to work, we can expect the economy to begin improving. Most expert forecasts indicate this economic recovery

Last Friday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released their May Employment Situation Summary. Leading up to the release, most experts predicted the unemployment rate would

Some Highlights National Homeownership Month is a great time to reflect on how we can each promote stronger community growth. Homeownership helps families build financial freedom, find greater

Tomorrow morning the Bureau of Labor Statistics will release the latest Employment Situation Summary, which will include the most current unemployment rate. It will be a horrific

The travel industry is one of the major sectors that’s been hit extremely hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, it’s hard to know how long it will take for summer travelers to be back in action

As we enter the summer months and work through the challenges associated with the current health crisis, many are wondering what impact the economic slowdown will have on home prices. Looking at the

More than ever, our homes have become an integral part of our lives. Today they are much more than the houses we live in. They’re evolving into our workplaces, schools for our children, and safe

Some Highlights June is National Homeownership Month, and it’s a great time to consider the benefits of owning your own home. If you’re in a position to buy, homeownership might help

With stay-at-home orders starting to gradually lift throughout parts of the country, data indicates homebuyers are jumping back into the market. After many families put their

In a normal housing market, whether you’re buying or selling a home, you need an experienced guide to help you navigate through the process. You need someone you can turn to who will tell you how

Some Highlights In a recent study by realtor.com, homeowners noted some of the main things they would change about their homes to make them more livable. Not surprisingly, more space, an

While many people across the U.S. have traditionally enjoyed the perks of an urban lifestyle, some who live in more populated city limits today are beginning to rethink their current neighborhoods.

With the housing market staggered to some degree by the health crisis the country is currently facing, some potential purchasers are questioning whether home values will be impacted. The price of

Tomorrow, the unemployment rate for April 2020 will be released by theU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.It will hit a peak this country has never seen before, with data representing real families and

Some Highlights Taking a moment to reflect upon what we’ve heard from historical leaders can teach us a lot about getting through the many challenges we face today. We’re all eager for the

Given how we have seen more unemployment claims than ever before over the past several weeks, fear is spreading widely. Some good news, however, shows that more than 4 million initial unemployment

For nearly two months, most of us have been following strict stay-at-home orders from our state and local governments. It is a whole new way of life that has put our daily lives on pause. On the

With the release of the latest Economic Pulse Flash Survey from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), results show that people selling their houses today are holding

A big challenge facing the housing industry is determining what impact the current pandemic may have on home values. Some buyers are hoping for major price reductions because the health crisis is

Many American businesses have been put on hold as the country deals with the worst pandemic in over one hundred years. As the states are deciding on the best strategy to slowly and safely reopen,

In a recent survey by realtor.com, people thinking about selling their homes indicated they’re generally willing to allow their agent and some potential buyers inside if done under the

There are two crises in this country right now: a health crisis that has forced everyone into their homes and a financial crisis caused by our inability to move around as we normally would. Over

For years, we’ve all heard about the most desirable home features buyers are looking for, from upgraded kitchens to remodeled bathrooms, master suites, and more. The latest on the hotlist,,

Some Highlights: A recent realtor.com survey revealed that buyers are still considering moving forward with the homebuying process, even if they can’t see the home in-person. While

Every day that passes, people have a need to buy and sell homes. That doesn’t stop during the current pandemic. If you’ve had a major life change recently, whether with your job or your family

The uncertainty the world faces today due to the COVID-19 pandemic is causing so many things to change. The way we interact, the way we do business, even the way we buy and sell real estate;

With over 90% of Americans now under a shelter-in-place order, many experts are warning that the American economy is heading toward a recession, if it’s not in one already. What does that mean to

Today’s everyday reality is pretty different than it looked just a few weeks ago. We’re learning how to do a lot of things in new ways, from how we work remotely to how we engage with our

There’s a ton of real estate information available in the news today and on the Internet. It can be extremely confusing, especially in times of uncertainty like we’re facing right now. If

Ten million Americans lost their jobs over the last two weeks. The next announced unemployment rate on May 8th is expected to be in the double digits. Because the health crisis brought the

Some Highlights Expert insights are painting a bright future for housing when the economy bounces back – and it will. We may be facing challenging economic times today, but the housing

As our lives, our businesses, and the world we live in change day by day, we’re all left wondering how long this will last. How long will we feel the effects of the coronavirus? How deep will the

The angst caused by the coronavirus has most people on edge regarding both their health and financial situations. It’s at times like these when we want exact information about anything we’re

With the housing crash of 2006-2008 still visible in the rear-view mirror, many are concerned the current correction in the stock market is a sign that home values are also about to tumble. What’s

More and more economists are predicting a recession is imminent as the result of the pullback in the economy caused by COVID-19. According to the National Bureau of Economic:

In times of uncertainty, one of the best things we can do to ease our fears is to educate ourselves with research, facts, and data. Digging into past experiences by reviewing historical trends and

The 2020 Millennial Home Buyer Report shows how this generation is not really any different from previous ones when it comes to homeownership goals: “The majority of

With all of the volatility in the stock market and uncertainty about the Coronavirus (COVID-19), some are concerned we may be headed for another housing crash like the one we experienced from 2006

The residential real estate market has come roaring out of the gates in 2020. Compared to this time last year, the number of buyers looking for a home is up 20%, and the number of home sales

Buying your first home can seem overwhelming. Thankfully, there’s a lot of great information out there to help you feel more confident as you learn about the process. For those in younger

The number of building permits issued for single-family homes is the best indicator of how many newly built homes will begin to come to market over the next few months. According to the latest

Spring is right around the corner, so flowers are starting to bloom, and many potential homebuyers are getting ready to step into the market. If you’re thinking of buying this season, here’s

Unlike last year, the residential real estate market kicked off 2020 with a bang! In their latest Monthly Mortgage Monitor, Black Knight proclaimed: “The housing market is

Some Highlights: If you’re thinking of buying a home and you’re not sure where to start, you’re not alone. Here’s a guide with 10 simple steps to follow in the homebuying process.

Earlier this month, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) released a special study titled Single-Family Home Price Gains by Years of Tenure. The study estimates median home price

The housing market has started off much stronger this year than it did last year. Lower mortgage interest rates have been a driving factor in that change. The average 30-year rate in 2019,

After over a year of moderating home prices, it appears home value appreciation is about to reaccelerate. Skylar Olsen, Director of Economic Research at Zillow, explained in a 

There’s comfort in being around people who share common interests, goals, and challenges. That comfort in a community doesn’t wane with age – it actually deepens. Whether it’s proudly

There are many clear financial benefits to owning a home: increasing equity, building net worth, growing appreciation, and more. If you’re a renter, it’s never too early to make a plan for how

In the spring, many excited buyers get ready to enter the housing market. Others continue dreaming about the homes they’d like to buy. The truth is, many potential buyers continue to dream longer

It’s hard to listen to today’s news without hearing about the uncertainty surrounding global markets, the spread of the coronavirus, and tensions in the Middle East, just to name a few. These

The success of the U.S. residential real estate market, like any other market, is determined by supply and demand. This means we need to look at how many potential purchasers are in the market

Regardless of the lack of inventory on the market, the U.S. homeownership rate has climbed to a 6-year high. The United States Census Bureau reported that it increased to 65.1% in the

Rents in the United States have been skyrocketing since 2012. This has caused many renters to face a tremendous burden when juggling their housing expenses and the desire to save for a down payment

A desire among many seniors is to “age in place.” According to the Senior Resource Guide, the term means, “…that you will be remaining in your own home for the later years of

When the number of buyers in the housing market outnumbers the number of homes for sale, it’s called a “seller’s market.” The advantage tips toward the seller as low inventory

When buying a home, we all want to feel like we’re making the right decision, paying a fair price, and making the best investment of our lives. According to a recent gender-based

If you’re following what’s happening in the current housing market, you’ve seen how the lack of newly constructed homes is a major reason there’s a shortage of housing inventory 

We’re currently in the longest economic recovery in U.S. history. That has caused some to ask experts to project when the next economic slowdown (recession) could occur. Two years ago, 67% of the

If one of the questions you’re asking yourself today is, “Should I sell my house this year?” the current Housing Opportunities and Market Experience (HOME) Survey 

The headlines in real estate today all revolve around one major point: there is a shortage of homes available for sale. Price appreciation is accelerating again because there is a

In 1963, Martin Luther King, Jr. led and inspired a powerful movement with his famous “I Have a Dream” speech. Through his passion and determination, he sparked interest, ambition, and courage

There’s a current narrative that owning a home today is less affordable than it has been in the past. The reason some are making this claim is because house prices have substantially increased

According to an Urban Institute study, homeowners who purchase a house before age 35 are better prepared for retirement at age 60.The good news is, our younger generations are strong

If you’re following what’s happening in the housing market right now, you know that many people believe the winter months aren’t a good time to sell a home. As realtor.com 

Are You Ready?Which month do you think most people who are considering buying a home actually start their search? If you’re like most of us, you probably think the surge happens in the spring,

Outside of a strong economy, low unemployment, and higher wages, there are three more great reasons why you may want to consider buying your dream home this year instead of waiting.1. Buying a Home

This will be an interesting year for residential real estate. With a presidential election taking place this fall and talk of a possible recession occurring before the end of the year, predicting

When closing out another year, it’s normal to wonder what’s ahead for the housing market. Though there will be future inventory issues, we expect interest rates to stay low and appreciation

Rising home prices coupled with the current inventory in today’s market may cause some homeowners to consider selling their homes on their own (known in the industry as a For Sale By Owner).

Some Highlights: Choosing the right real estate professional is one of the most impactful decisions you can make in your home buying or selling process. A real estate professional can explain

Questions continue to rise around where home prices will head in 2020. The latest forecast from CoreLogic shows continued appreciation at 5.4% over the next year:Additionally,

Some Highlights: Interest rates will be lower than they have been since before 1980 at 3.8% and are projected to remain steady throughout 2020! According to CoreLogic, home prices will

Studies have shown that, in many cases, the largest asset a family owns is the house they live in. Over the last twelve months, that asset has gained substantial value.CoreLogic just released

This coming year the housing market will be defined by 3 things- inventory, interest rates, and appreciation.  But the biggest issue the housing market will face in 2020 is an

It’s exciting to put a house on the market and to think about making new memories in new spaces, but we can have deep sentimental attachments to the homes we’re leaving behind, too. Growing

The reality of what we’re seeing this month is that homes are selling fast. In today’s strong seller’s market, bidding wars are common and expected with starter or entry-level homes

Some Highlights Winter is a great time to list a house, since inventory is traditionally low, and most sellers are holding off until spring to put their homes on the market. Waiting for

Black Friday is behind us and holiday gifts are flying off the shelves in stores and online. Unlike last year, however, there’s another type of buyer that is very active this winter – the

Over the past year, mortgage rates have fallen more than a full percentage point. This is a great driver for homeownership, as today’s low rates provide consumers with some significant benefits.

It may seem hard to imagine that the home you’re in today – whether it’s your starter home or just one you’ve fallen in love with along the way – might not be your forever home.The good

Some Highlights: According to NAR’s latest Profile of Home Buyers & Sellers, the median age of all first-time homebuyers is 32. With more millennials entering a homebuying phase of

At this time of year, many families come together to celebrate the season. It’s also the time when many realize their homes are just not quite big enough to host all of their guests and loved.

Did you know that each year in the United States, we celebrate “National Roof Over Your Head Day” on December 3rd?As noted on the National Calendar, it was “created as a day to be

Below are five compelling reasons to list your house this winter.1. Demand Is StrongThe latest Buyer Traffic Report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows that

Some Highlights: Existing Home Sales are currently at an annual pace of 5.46 million. The inventory of existing homes for sale remains below the 6 months needed for a normal market and is now

There are great advantages to owning a home, yet many people continue to rent. The financial benefits are just some of the reasons why homeownership has been a part of the long-standing

Around this time each year, many homeowners decide to wait until after the holidays to list their houses. Similarly, others who already have their homes on the market remove their listings until the

Inventory on the market today is low, especially among existing homes in the entry and middle-level tiers of the market. It is hovering well below the 6-month supply typically found

Success is something often worth repeating, and Brent Sutherland, a Certified Financial Planner and Real Estate Investor, has certainly made his way in a momentum-driving direction.

Some are afraid the real estate market may be looking a lot like it did prior to the housing crash in 2008. One of the factors they’re pointing at is the availability of mortgage money. Recent

In the third quarter of 2019, the U.S. homeownership rate rose again, signaling another strong indicator of the current housing market. The U.S. Census Bureau announced, “The

Some Highlights: The Veterans Administration (VA) Home Loan is a benefit that is available to more than 22 million veterans and 2 million active duty service members to help them

Today, on Veterans Day, we salute those who have served our country in war or peace, and we thank them for their sacrifice.This year marks the 75th anniversary of VA Home Loan Benefit offerings

Home buying activity (demand) is up, and the number of available listings (supply) is down. When demand outpaces supply, prices appreciate. That’s why firms are beginning to increase their

Millennials have waited longer than any other generation to become homeowners, but the wait for this cohort is just about over.According to National Mortgage News,  “Millennials,

When you’re ready to buy, you’ll need to determine if you prefer the charm of an existing home or the look and feel of a newer build. With limited existing home inventory available

Many sellers believe spring is the best time to put their homes on the market because buyer demand traditionally increases at that time of year. What they don’t realize is if every homeowner

A considerable number of potential buyers shy away from the real estate market because they’re uncertain about the buying process – particularly when it comes to qualifying for a mortgage.For

The gap between the increase in personal income and residential real estate prices has been used to defend the concept that we are experiencing an affordability crisis in housing today.It is true

Tom Petty famously penned the words, “the waiting is the hardest part” in his early 80’s hit song The Waiting, and his thought process can surprisingly also be applied to

Here are four great reasons to consider buying a home today, instead of waiting.1. Prices Will Continue to RiseCoreLogic’s latest Home Price Insights Report shows that home

Much has been written about how residential real estate values have increased since the housing market started its recovery in 2012. However, little has been shared about what has taken place with

Some Highlights:Many potential homebuyers believe they need a 20% down payment and a 780 FICO® score to qualify to buy a home. This stops many people from even trying to jump into homeownership!

To understand today’s complex real estate market, it is critical to have a local, trusted advisor on your side – for more reasons than you may think.In real estate today, there are essentially

Did you know that 1 in 6 Americans currently live in a multigenerational household?According to Generations United, the number of multigenerational households rose from 42.4 million in

In today’s market, low inventory dominates the conversation in many areas of the country. It can often be frustrating to be a first-time homebuyer if you aren’t prepared. Here are five tips from

Some Highlights: The National Association of REALTORS® surveyed their members for the release of their Confidence Index. The REALTORS® Confidence Index 

No one knows for sure when the next recession will occur. What is known, however, is that the upcoming economic slowdown will not be caused by a housing market crash, as was the case in 2008.

You’ve likely heard a ton about Millennials, but what about Gen Z? In the next 5 years, this generation will be between the ages of 23 and 28, and they’re eager to become homeowners faster than

The best time to sell anything is when demand for that item is high and the supply of that item is limited. The latest Existing-Home Sales Report released by the National

Some Highlights: Many buyers are purchasing homes with down payments as little as 3%. You may already qualify for a loan, even if you don’t have perfect credit. Your local professionals

In a normal housing market, whether you’re buying or selling a home, you need an experienced guide to help you navigate the process. You need someone you can turn to who will tell you how to price

While a recent announcement from CNBC shares that the average national FICO® score has reached an all-time high of 706, the good news for potential buyers is that you don’t need a

Some Highlights: Learning the lingo of homebuying is an important part of feeling successful when buying a home. From APR to P&I, you need to know the acronyms that will come up

According to the ‘2019 Home Buyer Report’ conducted by Nerdwallet, many first-time buyers still believe they need a 20% down payment to buy a home in today’s market: “More

The residential real estate market has been plodding along for most of the year. However, three recent reports show the market may be on the verge of a rebound:1. Existing Home Sales (closed

As a homeowner, it’s important to keep your home running efficiently, not only to save money, but also to help the environment thrive. October 2nd is Energy Efficiency Day, a

 The price of any item is determined by supply, as well as the market’s demand for the item. The National Association of REALTORS (NAR) surveys “over 50,000 real

When people talk about homeownership and the American Dream, much of the conversation revolves around the financial benefits of owning a home. However, two recent studies show that the non-financial

Every year, ‘Black Friday’ is a highly anticipated event for eager shoppers. Some people prepare for weeks, crafting and refining a strategic shopping agenda, determining exactly when to arrive

With the fall season upon us, change is in the air. For many families, children are growing up and moving out of the house, maybe leaving for college or taking a jump into the working world. Parents

In today’s real estate market, more houses are coming to market every day. Eager buyers are searching for their dream homes, so setting the right price for your house is one of the most important

Some Highlights: Buyers are active in the market and often competing with one another for available listings. Housing inventory is still under the 6-month supply found in a normal housing

One of the benefits of homeownership is that it is a “forced savings plan.” Here’s how it works: You make a mortgage payment each month. Part of that payment is applied to the

CoreLogic’s Home Price Index (HPI) Report revealed, “National home prices increased 3.6% year over year in July 2019 and are forecast to increase 5.4% from July 2019 to July

Some Highlights: Keeping an eye on the current status of the housing market is one of the best ways to make powerful and confident decisions when buying or selling a home. Mortgage rates

With the current uncertainty about the economy triggered by a potential trade war, some people are waiting to purchase their first home or move-up to their dream house because they think or hope

In a recent article by Realtor Magazine, Mark Fleming, Chief Economist of First American Financial Corporation, notes, “The largest group of millennials by birth

So, you’ve decided to sell your house. You’ve hired a real estate professional to help you with the entire process and you’ve been asked what level of access you want to provide to

Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, and the Mortgage Bankers Association are all projecting home sales will increase nicely in 2020.Below is a chart depicting the projections of each

Some Highlights: Hiring a real estate professional to help you buy your dream home or sell your current house is one of the most powerful decisions you can make. A real estate professional has

When buying a home, taxes are one of the expenses that can make a significant difference in your monthly payment. Do you know how much you might pay for property taxes in your state or local?

Below are 5 compelling reasons listing your home for sale this fall makes sense.1. Demand Is StrongThe latest Buyer Traffic Report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR)

On Labor Day we celebrate the hard work that helps us achieve the American Dream.Growing up, many of us thought about our future lives with great ambition. We drew pictures of what jobs we wanted to

When thinking about selling their house, homeowners have many options. A relatively new option is using an “iBuyer.” What is an iBuyer?According to Jovio, the definition is: “A company

Some Highlights: There is plenty of talk in the media about a pending economic slowdown. The good news is, home values actually increased in 3 of the last 5 U.S. recessions, and decreased by

Some Highlights: The pumpkin spice latte is launching soon, so you may be tempted to spend your extra cash on a daily caffeine fix, but that small expense can add up to a big number – fast!

Mortgage rates have fallen by over a full percentage point since Q4 of 2018, settling at near-historic lows. This is big news for buyers looking to get more for their money in the current housing

We’re in the back half of the year, and with a decline in interest rates as well as home price and wage appreciation, many are wondering what the predictions are for the remainder of 2019.

When someone is thinking about buying or selling a home, they want to be well-informed. They want to make the right decision for themselves and their family. They scour the internet for any

Did you know August 21st is National Senior Citizens Day? According to the United States Census, we honor senior citizens today because,  “Throughout our history, older

Every three years, the Federal Reserve conducts its Survey of Consumer Finances. Data is collected across all economic and social groups. The latest survey data covers 2013-2016.The

Many buyers are wondering where to find houses for sale in today’s market. It’s a true dilemma. We see an increase in buyer demand, but the supply available for purchase isn’t keeping up.

It seems you can’t find a headline with the term “housing affordability” without the word “crisis” attached to it. That’s because some only consider the fact that residential real estate

Over the last couple of years, we’ve heard quite a bit about rising home prices. Today, expert projections still forecast continued growth, just at a slower pace. One of the often

Have you ever been flipping through the channels, only to find yourself glued to the couch in an HGTV binge session? We’ve all been there, watching entire seasons of shows like “Property

Fannie Mae just released the July edition of their Home Purchase Sentiment Index (HPSI). The HPSI takes information regarding consumers’ confidence in the real estate market from

The U.S. Census Bureau recently released their 2019 Q2 Homeownership Report. Some began to see the sky falling, believing the report showed Americans may be stepping back from their belief in

Whether you’ve owned a home before, or you’re ready to jump into homeownership for the first time, there are always a lot of questions swirling around about what is truly required for a down

On his personal website, self-made millionaire David Bach makes a striking statement:  “Not prioritizing homeownership is the single biggest mistake millennials are.

Some Highlights: Existing Home Sales dropped 1.7% from May to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.27 million in June. Low inventory levels are still a factor in the market. The current

We’ve experienced economic growth for almost a decade, which is the longest recovery in the nation’s history. Experts know a recession can’t be too far off, but when will this economic

As a homeowner, it’s always tempting to dream about the next big project you’re going to tackle. The possibilities are endless. Should I renovate? Should I refinance? Should I stay? Should I?

Many of the questions currently surrounding the real estate industry focus on home prices and where they are heading. The most recent Home Price Expectation Survey (HPES) helps target

The current housing landscape presents greater home values, low interest rates, and high buyer demand. All of these factors point to the strong market forecasted to continue throughout the

Whether you are a first-time buyer or looking to move up to the home of your dreams, now is a great time to purchase a home. Here are three major reasons to buy today.1. AffordabilityMany people

Shifting trends and industry-leading research are pointing toward some valuable projections about the status of the housing market for the rest of the year.If you’re thinking of buying or selling,

If you’re currently renting and have dreams of owning your own home, it may be a good time to think about your next move. With rent costs rising annually and many helpful down payment

We’re halfway through the year, and with a decline in interest rates as well as home price and wage appreciation, many are wondering what the experts predict for the second half of 2019.Here’s

Some Highlights: Interest rates are projected to increase steadily heading into 2020. The higher your interest rate, the more money you will end up paying for your home and the

Over 10% of all residential homes are purchased by investors, and that number continues to rise. Who are these investors?Many have speculated that the large institutional conglomerates such as

With the recent lower interest rates, many homeowners are wondering if they should refinance.To decide if refinancing is the best option for your family, start by asking yourself these questions:Why

Questions continue to come up about where home prices will head throughout the rest of this year, as well as where they may be going over the few years beyond.We’ve gathered current data from the

Some Highlights: According to the US Census Bureau, “millennials” are defined as 18-36-year-olds. According to NAR’s latest Profile of Home Buyers & Sellers, the

The Federal Reserve Bank (The Fed) recently released their 2019  Survey of Consumer Expectations Housing Survey. The survey reported that 65% of Americans believe homeownership is a

Owning a home has great financial benefits.In a recent research paper, Homeownership and the American Dream, Laurie S. Goodman and Christopher Mayer of the Urban Land Institute explained: �

Homes priced at the top 25% of the price range for a particular area of the country are considered “premium homes.” In today’s real estate market, there are deals to be had at the higher end!

Some Highlights: If you are thinking of buying a home, you may not know where to start. Here is a simple list of 10 steps that you will go through to purchase a home. Make sure to ask your

The housing crisis of the last decade was partially caused by unhealthy levels of mortgage debt. Homeowners were using their homes as ATMs by refinancing and swapping their equity for cash.When

When deciding to buy a home, people are presented with many different options. The type of home you buy depends on your needs, budget, and in many cases, the desired maintenance level. For many

Rising home prices coupled with a lack of inventory in today’s market may cause some homeowners to consider selling their home on their own (known in the industry as a For Sale By Owner).

Some Highlights: Real estate has outranked stocks/mutual funds, gold, savings accounts/CDs, and bonds as the best long-term investment among Americans for the last 6 years. Stock

In this day and age of being able to shop for anything anywhere, it is really important to know what you’re looking for when you start your home search. If you’ve been thinking about buying

In today’s fast-paced world where answers are a Google search away, there are some who may wonder what the benefits of hiring a real estate professional to help them in their home search

In many markets across the country, the number of buyers searching for their dream homes outnumbers the number of homes for sale. This has led to a competitive marketplace where buyers

Whether it is your first time or your fifth, it is always important to know all the facts when it comes to buying a home. With the large number of mortgage programs available that allow buyers to

Young buyers (Millennials & Gen Z) have waited longer than previous generations to enter the housing market for their first home. However, this hasn’t stopped them from dreaming about the home

When buying a home today, why is there so much paperwork mandated by the lenders for a mortgage loan application? It seems like they need to know everything about you. Furthermore, it

Here are 5 compelling reasons listing your home for sale this summer makes sense.1. Demand Is StrongThe latest Buyer Traffic Index  from the National Association of Realtors(NAR)

Some Highlights: If you are planning on listing your house for sale this year, these four home improvement projects will net you the most Return on Investment (ROI). Minor

During the housing market crash, Gen X homeowners lost more wealth than other generations. However, things are changing now! A strong economy, increasing home prices, and the recovery of the housing

A lot is happening in the world, and it’s having a direct impact on the housing market. The reality is this: some of it is positive and some of it may be negative. Some we just don’t know yet

In a real estate market where home prices are rising, many have begun to reexamine the idea of buying a home, choosing instead, to rent for a while. But often, there is a dilemma: should you keep

Freddie Mac recently released a report entitled, “Perceptions of Down Payment Consumer Research.” Their research revealed that, “For many prospective,

Some Highlights: The “cost of waiting to buy” is defined as the additional funds necessary to buy a home if prices & interest rates were to increase over a period of time. Freddie

If you are a “baby boomer” (born between 1946 and 1964), you may be thinking about selling your current home. Your children may have finally moved out. Your large, four-bedroom house with three

We often talk about the financial reasons why buying a home makes sense. But, more often than not, the emotional reasons are the more powerful and compelling ones.No matter what shape or size your

Here are four reasons to consider buying today instead of waiting.1. Prices Will Continue to RiseCoreLogic’s latest U.S. Home Price Insights reports that home prices have

Some Highlights: June is National Homeownership Month! Now is a great time to reflect on the many benefits of homeownership that go way beyond the financial. What reasons do you have to own

There have been many headlines decrying an “affordability crisis” in the residential real estate market. While it is true that buying a home is less affordable than it had been over the last ten

As loved ones start to get older, we start to wonder: how long will they be able to live alone? Will they need someone there to help them with daily life? There’s a reason to ask those questions

In today’s housing market, home prices are increasing at a slower pace (3.7%) than they have over the last eight years (6-7%). However, they are still are above historical norms. Low supply of

We remember, today and always.#alisonblakegroup #blakeonboise #allgavesomesomegaveall #weremember

Some Highlights: The National Association of Realtors surveyed their members & released the findings of their Profile of Home Staging. 62% of seller’s agents say that staging

Every year, Gallup surveys Americans to determine their choice for the best long-term investment. Respondents are given a choice between real estate, stocks, gold, and savings.

According to CoreLogic, from 2006 to 2014 “there were 7.3 million housing foreclosures and 1.9 million short sales.” The hesitation some Americans feel after experiencing a foreclosure

Many studies suggest one of the main reasons for the inventory shortage in today’s market of homes for sale is that older generations have chosen to “age in place” over moving.The

In today’s real estate market, low inventory dominates the conversation in many areas of the country. It can often be frustrating to be a first-time homebuyer if you aren’t prepared.In a 

Some Highlights: ATTOM Data Solutions conducted an analysis of more than 29 million single family home and condo sales over the past eight years to determine the top days to list

Home values have softened over the last twelve months. We are no longer seeing 6-7% annual appreciation levels for the national housing market. The current numbers are closer to 4%. Some have

So, you’ve been searching for that perfect house to call ‘home,’ and you’ve finally found it! The price is right, and in such a competitive market, you want to make sure you make a

If you're on the fence about listing your home, now is the perfect time to take the dive. According to a recent ATTOM Data Solutions analysis, 19 of the 20 best days to sell during the calendar

Home prices have been on the rise for the last seven years, leading many housing market analysts to conclude that first-time homebuyers are being shut out of the market due to affordability concerns

The housing crisis is finally in the rear-view mirror as the real estate market moves down the road to a complete recovery. Home values are up and distressed sales (foreclosures and short sales)

Some Highlights: An emerging trend for some time now has been the difference between available inventory and demand in the premium and luxury markets and that in the starter and trade-up markets

Recently, we reported that many believe a recession could happen within the next two years. We explained that 70% of economists and market analysts surveyed last year believe that a

If you are in the market to buy a home this year, you may be confused about how much money you need to come up with for your down payment. Many people you talk to will tell you that you need to save

When we consider buying an item, we naturally go through a research process prior to making our decision. We ask our friends and family members who have made similar purchases about their,

So, you’ve decided to sell your house. You’ve hired a real estate professional to help you through the entire process, and they have asked you what level of access you want to provide

Some Highlights: Historically, the choice between renting or buying a home has been a tough decision. Looking at the percentage of income needed to rent a median-priced home today .

Over the last several years, many “baby boomers” have undergone a metamorphosis. Their children have finally moved out and they can now dream about their own future. For many, a change in

Two positive trends have started to emerge that impact the 2019 Spring Housing Market. Mortgage interest rates for a 30-year fixed rate loan have dropped to new lows, right as reports show that

Saving for a down payment is often the biggest hurdle for a first-time homebuyer. Depending on where you live, median income, median rents, and home prices all vary. So, we set out to find out how

Some Highlights: Existing Home Sales slowed to an annual pace of 5.21 million home sales in March. Low inventory levels are still impacting home sales! The current month’s supply of

In a recent Insights Blog, CoreLogic reported that rent prices have skyrocketed since 2005. Meanwhile, the typical mortgage payment has actually decreased. “CoreLogic’s

There has been a great amount written on millennials and their impact on the housing market. However, the headlines often contradict each other. Some claim this generation is becoming the largest

With home prices on the rise and buyer demand still strong, some sellers may be tempted to try to sell their homes on their own rather than using the services of a real estate

#relocation #boise #boiseidaho #boisehomes #firsttimehomebuyers #homeownership #buildingwealth #blakeonboise

Last fall, some predicted that the 2019 residential real estate market would be a disaster. There was even belief we might experience a housing crash like the one that occurred during the last.

Interest rates for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage have been on the decline since November, now reaching lows last seen in January 2018. According to Freddie Mac’s latest Primary

Every month, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) releases their Seller Traffic Index as a part of their Realtors Confidence Index. In the latest release, NAR reported

If you are debating purchasing a home right now, you are probably getting a lot of advice. Though your friends and family have your best interests at heart, they may not be fully aware of your needs

Some Highlights: The average down payment for first-time homebuyers is only 6%! Mortgage interest rates have been on the decline since November! Hop in now to lock in a low rate! 88% of

The percentage of home price appreciation on a year-over-year basis has decreased each month for over a year. The question was how far annual appreciation would fall. It seems we may now have the

There has been a lot written about millennials and their preference to live in city centers above their favorite pizza place. Some have even gone so far as to say that millennials are a �

One of the many benefits of owning your own home is the freedom to find your ‘furever’ friend. By pointing out the aspects of your home that make it ‘pet-friendly’ in

As more and more baby boomers enter retirement age, the question of whether they should sell their homes and move has become a hot topic. In today’s housing market climate, with low available

Some Highlights: Every spring, your home needs some extra TLC! Whether you plan on selling your home this spring or not, conducting this maintenance will help ensure your home functions well

The Housing Market has been a hot-topic in the news lately. Depending on which media outlet you watch, it can start to be a bit confusing to understand what’s really going on with interest rates

Now’s the Time to Move-Up!In every area of the country, homes that are priced at the top 25% of the price range for that area are considered to be Premium Homes. In today’s real estate

Last week, realtor.com released a survey of active home shoppers (those who plan to purchase their next home in 1 year or less). The survey asked their opinion on an impending

Here are five compelling reasons listing your home for sale this spring makes sense.1. Demand Is StrongThe latest Buyer Traffic Index from the National Association of Realtors 

Some Highlights: If you are thinking of buying a home, you may not know where to start. Here is a simple list of 10 steps that you will go through to purchase a home. Make sure to ask your

There has been a lot written about the benefits of homeownership. One benefit that continues to rise to the top is the added wealth homeowners gain simply by paying their mortgage while their home

The spring housing market is off to the races! The inventory of homes for sale is increasing, buyers are out in force, and interest rates have remained low, peaking the interest of buyers and

“I have observed that not the man who hopes when others despair, but the man who despairs when others hope, is admired by a large class of persons as a sage.” – John Stuart Mill )

According to data released by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Americans can expect an estimated average refund of $3,143 this year when filing their taxes. This is down

Some Highlights: When listing your house for sale, your top goal will be to get the home sold for the best price possible! There are many small projects that you can do to ensure this!

In today’s real estate market, with more houses coming to market every day and eager buyers searching for their dream home, setting the right price for your house is one of the most important

Many have written about the millennial generation and whether or not they, as a whole, believe in homeownership as part of attaining the American Dream.Millennials have taken longer to obtain

There are many misconceptions about the credit score needed to buy a house. Recently, it was reported that 24% of renters believe they need a 780-800 credit score to be considered for a

Here’s How!Everyone should realize that unless you are living somewhere rent-free, you are paying a mortgage – either yours or your landlord’s. Buying your own home provides you with

Some Highlights: Interest Rates for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage have dropped to 4.41% from near 5% in 2018. Take advantage of more inventory coming to market in the spring to find your dream

“The rumors of my death are greatly exaggerated.” The famous quote attributed to Mark Twain can apply to homeownership in the United States today. During the housing bubble of the last

Congratulations! You’ve found a home to buy and have applied for a mortgage! You are undoubtedly excited about the opportunity to decorate your new home! But before you make any big purchases,

In a strong seller’s market, like the one we have experienced over the past few years, bidding wars are common and expected. This makes sense! A seller’s market is defined as a market

Spring has sprung, and it’s a great time to buy a home! Here are four reasons to consider buying today instead of waiting.1. Prices Will Continue to RiseCoreLogic’s latest U.S. Home Price

Last week, the National Association for Business Economics released their February 2019 Economic Policy Survey. The survey revealed that a majority of the panel believe an economic

Heading into the spring buying market, there are strong trends starting to emerge.The inventory of homes for sale has increased on a year-over-year basis for eight months in a row. Home price

According to the National Association of Realtors, total inventory has been growing for six months straight, as has the number of buyers looking to find their dream.

Just like our clocks this weekend, in the majority of the country, the housing market will soon “spring forward!” Similar to tension in a spring, the lack of inventory 

Some Highlights: The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) recently released their latest Quarterly Home Price Index report. In the report, home prices are compared

So....no worries!Home prices have appreciated considerably over the last five years. This has some concerned that we may be in for another dramatic correction. However, recent statistics suggest

#relocation #boise #boiseidaho #firsttimehomebuyers #homeownership #blakeonboise #alisonblakegroupEditor's Note: This post was originally published on November 6, 2014. Housecall continues to share

According to Freddie Mac’s Primary Mortgage Market Survey, interest rates for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage are currently at their lowest for 2019. Rates like these haven’t been seen

Every family has a list of important dates. We celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, pet adoptions…and the list goes on. For 64.4 percent of households in the United States, this list

Every three years, the Federal Reserve conducts their Survey of Consumer Finances. Data is collected across all economic and social groups. The latest survey data covers 2013-2016.The

Some Highlights: Setting up an automatic savings plan that saves a small amount of every check is one of the best ways to save without thinking too much about it. Living within a budget right