According to Keeping Current Matters, a growing number of homeowners are choosing to downsize without taking on new debt — and instead are buying their next home in cash. For many longtime owners, this strategy is not only possible but also one of the most financially empowering moves they can make. More Americans Now Own Their Homes Free and Clear Recent national data shows that over 40% of U.S. homeowners no longer have a mortgage — the highest share in modern history. This trend is strongest among Baby Boomers and long-term owners who have either fully paid off their loans or owe very little. After years of homeownership, rising equity and price appreciation have positioned many sellers to make their next move with significant financial flexibility. Equity Is Becoming a Powerful Tool — Not Just a Number on Paper If you own your current home outright or have substantial equity, that wealth can be converted into cash purchasing power when you sell. Instead of rolling into another mortgage, more and more homeowners are choosing to use their sale proceeds to buy their next home outright. Why is this so appealing? No more monthly mortgage payments Lower living expenses if you move into a smaller or more efficient home Less financial stress in retirement or pre-retirement years Greater negotiating power as a cash buyer in today’s competitive market. Real estate professionals across the country are reporting a clear shift — downsizing is no longer just about reducing space. It’s about strategic financial freedom. Downsizing Doesn’t Mean Downgrading One of the biggest misconceptions is that moving into a smaller home means giving something up. In reality, most of our downsizing clients tell us they feel more upgraded than ever — just in different ways. Instead of excess square footage, people are choosing: Single-level layouts for easier living Newer, low-maintenance homes Walkable communities and better locations Amenities and lifestyle over sheer size. It’s less about living with less — and more about living with intention. Your Home Has Served You. Now Let It Work for You. If you’ve spent years building equity, this may be the moment to turn it into peace of mind. Whether your goal is financial freedom, less responsibility, or simply a fresh start, buying your next home in cash could be the smartest move you make. If you’re wondering, “Could I actually buy my next home without a mortgage?”  — let’s find out together. We'd be happy to: Evaluate your current home's market value Estimate your equity and cash buying potential Share real examples of homeowners who made this transition successfully Explore downsizing options that fit your lifestyle — not just your budget. If you’re considering downsizing, don’t make decisions based on assumptions. Let’s talk — you might be closer to buying in cash than you think. Source: keepingcurrentmatters.com

According to FOXBusiness, mortgage rates continue to ease — a welcome development for buyers and homeowners considering refinancing. The latest data from Freddie Mac shows that rates have moved lower again, opening opportunities for those who are ready to take action in today’s housing market. What Changed The average rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage dropped to 6.26%, compared to 6.35% just a week ago. One year ago, that same rate stood at 6.09% — slightly lower, but today’s movement is clearly in a positive direction. For a 15-year fixed mortgage, rates fell to 5.41%, down from 5.50% last week. A year ago, that figure was 5.15%. The Refinancing Effect Lower rates have sparked a wave of refinancing: applications now make up nearly 60% of mortgage activity, the highest level since January 2022. This shows that many homeowners are already seizing the opportunity to lock in more favorable terms. The Fed’s Role and What’s Next The Federal Reserve recently cut its benchmark rate by 25 basis points, marking the first reduction since December 2024. Market watchers expect at least two more cuts — potentially in October and December — which could push borrowing costs even lower. Still, analysts from Realtor.com and other outlets note that mortgage rates may remain under pressure, depending on broader market conditions and investor expectations. Why This Matters for You This shift creates new possibilities, whether you are: Looking to buy a home — lower monthly payments can make ownership more attainable. Considering refinancing — replacing a higher-rate loan with a lower one could generate meaningful savings. Planning long-term finances — reduced housing costs free up room in your budget for other priorities. Important Considerations Rates are lower but still slightly higher than a year ago. Savings depend on your specific loan size and timeline. Refinancing comes with closing costs, appraisals, and fees, so it’s important to weigh benefits against expenses. Larger economic forces — inflation, Fed policy, housing supply — will continue to influence where rates head next. We see this as a very promising moment for buyers and homeowners alike. Rates are trending downward, and this is more than a one-time dip — it’s supported by the Fed’s actions and market momentum. That makes now an excellent time to explore your options. If you’re considering buying a home, investing in real estate, or refinancing your mortgage, reach out to us today. We’ll walk you through the numbers, highlight your opportunities, and create a strategy tailored to your needs.

According to Keeping Current Matters, nearly 50% of homes today are selling for less than their asking price — and we believe there’s good reason to see this shift as a chance, not a problem. As a team of real estate agents, we’ve studied what’s driving this trend and how sellers can adapt to succeed. Here’s what you need to know and do in this market. From Frenzy to What’s “Normal” Just a few years ago, the market was wildly competitive for sellers. Buyers were competing hard, mortgage rates were low, and many homes sold above asking. Now, that environment has changed. According to recent data from Cotality, around half of all homes currently hit the market below their asking price. That’s not a bad thing — it’s a return toward the typical market behavior we saw in years like 2018–2019 when 50–55% of listings sold under asking. Between 2021–2022, that number dropped to about 25% thanks to high demand and low rates. But now, rates have moved, demand is less frenzied, and things are settling into a more balanced pace. Why This Shift Matters if You’re Selling In our experience, the way a house is priced now has a much bigger impact than it used to. When the market was hot, overpricing often still brought in many offers; buyers were eager and rates made borrowing cheaper. But today's buyers are more cautious, budgets tighter, and choices broader. If your property is priced too high, people simply move on. Another key point: the first two weeks a home is listed are crucial. That timeframe attracts the most motivated buyers. If your price isn’t appealing in those early days, interest tends to drop sharply. Listings “go stale,” and once that happens, it’s much harder to sell for the original asking price. The Strategy That Still Wins While many homes are selling under asking, it’s important to note: the other half are meeting or beating asking price — those that are priced smartly. Here’s what we recommend: Prep your home first Do what you can upfront: repairs, cosmetic fixes, cleaning, staging. The better your home looks, the more likely it is buyers will see value and be willing to pay your price or more. We’ve seen it make a real difference in what offers come in. Price correctly from day one Don’t rely on listing prices of homes near yours — often those are aspirational and priced high. What matters more is actual recent sale prices in your neighborhood. Work with a real estate agent who has up-to-date local data. That helps you choose a price that draws in serious buyers. Be flexible in negotiations Price isn’t everything. When buyers negotiate, it might be over repairs, closing costs, or other conditions. Being open to giving in some areas (not everything!) can help close deals faster and avoid reductions in listing price later. Bottom Line — What We Advise We believe this market is an opportunity for sellers who adjust their mindset and tactics. Gone are the days when you could overprice and rely purely on competition to drive things up. Now, success comes from smart preparation, accurate and competitive pricing, and readiness to negotiate. If you want your home to sell at or above asking price, start with: A conversation with a local agent who knows what homes are really  selling for in your area. A plan to get your home looking its best from day one. An asking price that reflects current market conditions — not past highs. As real estate agents, we see firsthand that homes priced well and marketed properly still sell fast and for strong prices. The “reset” in the market simply means that the game has changed — but it’s not worse, just different. The rules that worked a few years ago don’t apply in the same way now. We believe sellers who adapt will still win. If you’re thinking about selling, don’t leave money on the table. With the right preparation, strategy, and guidance, your home can still attract top offers — even in a shifting market. Reach out today to discuss your goals and get a personalized plan for pricing, marketing, and negotiating. Source: keepingcurrentmatters.com

Exquisitely reimagined and masterfully remodeled inside and out, this stunning residence is nestled in the prestigious Baywood Park neighborhood of San Mateo. Encompassing 1,470 sq. ft. on an expansive 9,400+ sq. ft. lot, the home is framed by serene Hillsborough views and showcases an impeccable blend of sophistication and comfort. Dramatic vaulted ceilings, recessed lighting, and wide-plank engineered oak hardwood floors set a refined tone throughout. The chefs kitchen is a true centerpiece, appointed with high-end Thermador appliances, custom cabinetry, and designer finishes. A lavish primary suite offers a spa-inspired retreat with a walk-in closet, while two additional bedrooms and 2.5 luxuriously appointed baths provide style and versatility. The finished two-car garage with epoxy floors and abundant overhead storage adds practicality to modern elegance. Outdoors, brand-new landscaping and hardscape create a private oasis, ideal for both grand entertaining and quiet relaxation. With its exceptional school district and coveted location, this residence embodies the pinnacle of Baywood Park living. Close to 280 and 92 freeways, Laurelwood Shopping Plaza just minutes away. < Back Out of gallery 132 Lakeshore Dr, Burlingame $2,650,000 Bedrooms Bathrooms Size Lot Size Year Built Status 3 2.5 1,470 sqft 9,440 sqft 1959 Sold Exquisitely reimagined and masterfully remodeled inside and out, this stunning residence is nestled in the prestigious Baywood Park neighborhood of San Mateo. Encompassing 1,470 sq. ft. on an expansive 9,400+ sq. ft. lot, the home is framed by serene Hillsborough views and showcases an impeccable blend of sophistication and comfort. Dramatic vaulted ceilings, recessed lighting, and wide-plank engineered oak hardwood floors set a refined tone throughout. The chefs kitchen is a true centerpiece, appointed with high-end Thermador appliances, custom cabinetry, and designer finishes. A lavish primary suite offers a spa-inspired retreat with a walk-in closet, while two additional bedrooms and 2.5 luxuriously appointed baths provide style and versatility. The finished two-car garage with epoxy floors and abundant overhead storage adds practicality to modern elegance. Outdoors, brand-new landscaping and hardscape create a private oasis, ideal for both grand entertaining and quiet relaxation. With its exceptional school district and coveted location, this residence embodies the pinnacle of Baywood Park living. Close to 280 and 92 freeways, Laurelwood Shopping Plaza just minutes away. Learn More Andrew Benson (650) 773-1147 Laurie Benson (650) 245-4530 bensongroup@compass.com

< Back 114 Hollywood Ave, San Jose $675,000 Bedrooms Bathrooms Size Lot Size Year Built Status 2 1 1,470 sqft 1918 Sold Learn More Andrew Benson (650) 773-1147 Laurie Benson (650) 245-4530 bensongroup@compass.com

This high-quality and extensively remodeled residence is a perfectly positioned end unit in a boutique building, just west of Downtown Burlingame. < Back 1515 Arc Way #101, Burlingame $1,150,000 Bedrooms Bathrooms Size Lot Size Year Built Status 2 2 1,140 sqft 1973 Sold 2 2 1,140 sqft 1973 Sold This high-quality and extensively remodeled residence is a perfectly positioned end unit in a boutique building, just west of Downtown Burlingame. Learn More Andrew Benson (650) 773-1147 Laurie Benson (650) 245-4530 bensongroup@compass.com