According to Keeping Current Matters, the second half of 2025 is shaping up to be an encouraging time for both buyers and sellers. As a team of dedicated real estate professionals, we're seeing clear signs that the housing market is moving in a positive direction — and we're here to help you take full advantage of it. Here's our take on what to expect and how you can benefit from upcoming trends. Mortgage Rates Are Slowly Trending Down One of the most frequently asked questions we hear is, "What's happening with mortgage rates?" The good news is that most experts — including Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), and the National Association of Realtors (NAR) — are forecasting a slow and steady decline throughout the rest of the year. Rates may not return to the record lows we saw during the pandemic, but they are expected to become more manageable. For buyers, that means improved affordability. For sellers, that means more motivated buyers entering the market. It's a win-win. Inventory Is Growing, Giving Buyers More Options Keeping Current Matters also points out that inventory is on the rise. In fact, Realtor.com® predicts a nearly 12% increase in the number of homes for sale compared to last year. As a real estate team actively working in the field, we can already feel this shift. More homes are hitting the market, giving buyers more options and easing some of the intense competition we've seen over the past few years. If you've been waiting for the right time to buy, this could be it. Home Prices Are Still Appreciating — Steadily Home prices are continuing to rise, but at a slower, healthier pace. Experts are projecting an average national increase of around 3.7% this year. For sellers, that's great news — your equity is still growing. And for buyers, slower price growth means the market is becoming more balanced and less volatile. We're moving away from the extremes and into a more predictable, stable real estate environment. Millennials and Gen Z Are Driving Demand A major driver of today's housing market is the growing number of Millennial and Gen Z buyers entering the market. These younger generations are motivated, tech-savvy, and looking for homes that fit their lifestyles, from remote work setups to multigenerational living spaces. We always advise our sellers to think about what appeals to these buyers. Highlighting features like home offices, updated kitchens, and energy-efficient upgrades can really make your home stand out in today's market. New Construction Is Expanding Choices Builders are responding to demand by increasing construction, especially of smaller, more affordable homes. This is especially important for first-time buyers who have struggled with limited options. The increase in new builds not only expands choices for buyers but also helps balance out supply in the broader market. We're seeing a healthier mix of new and existing homes, which benefits everyone. The Economy Is Supporting Market Activity Strong job growth, rising wages, and steady consumer confidence are all helping to keep the real estate market moving. Many homeowners who've been holding off due to high mortgage rates are now reconsidering, especially as those rates begin to ease. If you're one of those homeowners wondering whether it's time to make a move, we'd love to talk with you. The second half of 2025 might be exactly the right window you've been waiting for. What This Means for You Here's what we're telling our clients: Buyers : You'll likely see lower mortgage rates, more inventory, and less competition. It's a good time to make a smart move — especially if you've been sitting on the sidelines. Sellers : Prices are still climbing, buyer demand is solid, and homes that are well-priced and well-presented are still moving quickly. This is a prime time to list and get strong results. Whether you're looking to buy your first home, upgrade to your forever home, or downsize into something more manageable, there are real opportunities in today's market. Let's Make a Plan Together As your trusted real estate team, we're here to guide you through every step of your journey with clarity, experience, and a positive outlook. The second half of 2025 holds plenty of potential, and we'd love to help you take advantage of it. Thinking about making a move this year? Let`s connect and talk through your goals. We're ready when you are. Source: keepingcurrentmatters.com

Source: compass.com Statistics are generalities, essentially summaries of widely disparate data generated by dozens, hundreds or thousands of unique, individual sales occurring within different time periods. They are best seen not as precise measurements, but as broad, comparative indicators, with reasonable margins of error. Anomalous fluctuations in statistics are not uncommon, especially in smaller, expensive market segments. Last period data should be considered estimates that may change with late-reported data. Different analytics programs sometimes define statistics - such as "active listings," "days on market," and "months supply of inventory" - differently: what is most meaningful are not specific calculations but the trends they illustrate. Most listing and sales data derives from the local or regional multi-listing service (MLS) of the area specified in the analysis, but not all listings or sales are reported to MLS and these won't be reflected in the data. "Homes" signifies real-property, single-household housing units: houses, condos, co-ops, townhouses, duets and TICs (but not mobile homes), as applicable to each market. City/town names refer specifically to the named cities and towns, or their MLS areas, unless otherwise delineated. Multi­county metro areas will be specified as such. Data from sources deemed reliable, but may contain errors and subject to revision. All numbers to be considered approximate. Many aspects of value cannot be adequately reflected in median and average statistics: curb appeal, age, condition, amenities, views, lot size, quality of outdoor space, "bonus" rooms, additional parking, quality of location within the neighborhood, and so on. How any of these statistics apply to any particular home is unknown without a specific comparative market analysis. Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California operating under multiple entities. License Numbers 01991628, 1527235, 1527365, 1356742, 1443761, 1997075, 1935359, 1961027, 1842987, 1869607, 1866771, 1527205, 1079009, 1272467. All material is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description or measurements (including square footage). This is not intended to solicit property already listed. No financial or legal advice provided. Equal Housing Opportunity. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.

According to U.S. News, if you're preparing to move, one of the biggest questions you may face is: Should you buy a new home before selling your current one? As real estate agents, we help clients navigate this decision regularly. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, under the right circumstances, buying first can be a smart and strategic move. Let’s take a closer look at the potential advantages, the risks to be aware of, and how to make this approach work effectively. Why Buying First Can Be a Smart Strategy 1. Freedom and Flexibility in Your Home Search Without the pressure of an urgent sale, you're free to shop carefully and wait for the perfect fit. Whether you're targeting a specific neighborhood or have a wishlist of must-have features, buying first gives you more control over the process. 2. Skip Temporary Housing and Extra Moves When you already own your next home, you can move directly, avoiding the cost and stress of temporary rentals, furniture storage, and double moving logistics. 3. Easier to Sell an Empty, Staged Home Vacant homes are easier to clean, stage, and show. We've seen firsthand that well-prepared, empty homes attract more attention and often sell faster and for a better price. 4. You're in No Rush to Accept Low Offers Once you've moved, you're not forced to accept a below-market offer just to move forward. That gives you negotiating power and more time to secure the right deal. What to Consider Before Buying Your First 1. Can You Afford to Carry Two Homes? Owning two properties means double the mortgages, taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs. It's essential to evaluate whether you can comfortably manage that financial load if the sale of your current home takes longer than expected. 2. Your Equity May Be Tied Up Many homeowners use proceeds from a sale as a down payment for their next home. If that equity is unavailable, you'll need alternatives like a bridge loan, HELOC, or other short-term financing. 3. Mortgage Qualification Can Be Tougher Lenders will look at your total debt, including your current mortgage. If you're taking on a second loan, your debt-to-income ratio becomes critical. Strong credit and stable income are key. 4. The Market Can Be Unpredictable If the market slows or your pricing is off, your existing home may not sell as quickly as expected. That's why pricing strategy and marketing matter more than ever in this scenario. How to Buy Before You Sell (Without the Stress) Start with Pre-Approval Speak with a lender early to see how much you can borrow and what conditions apply. Knowing your financial limits upfront helps avoid surprises later. Prepare Your Current Home in Parallel Even if you're not listing yet, begin repairs, decluttering, and staging now. A well-prepared home can hit the market fast and sell fast. Work With Experienced Real Estate Professionals We specialize in aligning the buying and selling timelines for clients. From negotiating the right contingencies to marketing your current home effectively, we'll help you handle the process from both sides. Use Contingencies Carefully Some buyers add a home sale contingency to their purchase offer, making the deal conditional on selling their current home. While this can offer protection, it may weaken your offer in a competitive market. We'll help assess if this is the right move for your situation. Bottom Line: It's Not a Gamble—It's a Strategy For many homeowners, buying before selling offers flexibility, control, and a smoother transition—if managed properly. With careful planning, the right financing, and expert guidance, the process doesn't have to be risky. If you're exploring this option, we're here to help build a strategy tailored to your needs and goals. We'll walk you through every step, so you can move forward with confidence. Thinking about moving? Contact us   now to explore the best timing strategy for your home purchase. Source:   usnews.com

According to Keeping Current Matters, regularly monitoring the value of your home is an important but often overlooked aspect of personal financial health. While many homeowners check their bank accounts and investments frequently, they may not realize how much wealth they have built through their property. In fact, the value of a home can appreciate significantly over time, and without tracking this growth, homeowners may miss opportunities to leverage their equity when making major financial decisions. If it has been several years since the last professional evaluation of your home's market value, you might be surprised by how much it has increased. Your Home Is Quietly Building Your Wealth For most of us, our home isn't just where we live — it's our greatest financial asset. If you've owned your property for a while, it's likely gained value steadily over time, often without you even noticing. This growth builds what we call home equity — the difference between your property's market value and the balance left on your mortgage. As you pay down your loan and property prices rise, your equity grows, creating a major source of personal wealth. Here's a simple example: If your home is valued at $500,000 and your mortgage balance is $200,000, you have $300,000 in home equity. Why You Likely Have More Home Equity Than You Think 1. Home Prices Have Risen Considerably Over the last several years, home values have seen impressive growth across the country. If you bought your property a few years ago, it's very likely worth much more today than when you first moved in. This steady appreciation means many homeowners are now sitting on significantly more equity than they realize. 2. Homeowners Are Staying in Their Homes Longer Today, people are holding onto their homes longer than they used to — often around a decade or more. The longer you stay, the more time you have to build wealth through regular mortgage payments and rising home prices. In many cases, homeowners who have stayed put for ten years or so have gained hundreds of thousands of dollars in equity simply from the natural increase in property values over time. How You Can Put Your Equity to Work Understanding and leveraging your equity can unlock incredible opportunities: Upgrade to a New Home: Use your built-up equity to make a larger down payment or even purchase your next home outright. Enhance Your Current Property: Renovate or expand to better suit your lifestyle — smart improvements can boost your home's value even more. Invest in Your Dreams: Equity can provide the funding you need to launch a business, pursue new ventures, or invest in your future. If you haven't evaluated your home's value lately, now's the time. Your equity isn't just a number on paper — it's a powerful resource you can use to move closer to your goals. Curious about how much your home is worth in today's market? We would be happy to help you explore your options and get the most out of your investment. Source: keepingcurrentmatters.com

Source: compass.com Statistics are generalities, essentially summaries of widely disparate data generated by dozens, hundreds or thousands of unique, individual sales occurring within different time periods. They are best seen not as precise measurements, but as broad, comparative indicators, with reasonable margins of error. Anomalous fluctuations in statistics are not uncommon, especially in smaller, expensive market segments. Last period data should be considered estimates that may change with late-reported data. Different analytics programs sometimes define statistics - such as "active listings," "days on market," and "months supply of inventory" - differently: what is most meaningful are not specific calculations but the trends they illustrate. Most listing and sales data derives from the local or regional multi-listing service (MLS) of the area specified in the analysis, but not all listings or sales are reported to MLS and these won't be reflected in the data. "Homes" signifies real-property, single-household housing units: houses, condos, co-ops, townhouses, duets and TICs (but not mobile homes), as applicable to each market. City/town names refer specifically to the named cities and towns, or their MLS areas, unless otherwise delineated. Multi­county metro areas will be specified as such. Data from sources deemed reliable, but may contain errors and subject to revision. All numbers to be considered approximate. Many aspects of value cannot be adequately reflected in median and average statistics: curb appeal, age, condition, amenities, views, lot size, quality of outdoor space, "bonus" rooms, additional parking, quality of location within the neighborhood, and so on. How any of these statistics apply to any particular home is unknown without a specific comparative market analysis. Office: 773-482-1917 Compass Real Estate is a licensed real estate broker. All material is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description or measurements (including square footage). This is not intended to solicit property already listed. No financial or legal advice provided. Equal Housing Opportunity. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.

According to Keeping Current Matters, if you hit pause on your moving plans last year, you weren't alone. The real estate market in 2024 was nothing short of unpredictable, and many potential buyers found themselves stepping back from their home search. According to recent data, around 70% of homebuyers decided to take a break from searching. With high prices, fluctuating mortgage rates, and limited inventory, it's easy to see why so many people found it difficult to find a home that met both their needs and budget. But guess what? The tides are starting to turn. The Market is shifting in a way that could make now the perfect time to restart your search. Whether you were waiting for the right moment to buy, sell, or upgrade, the conditions today are vastly different from where we stood a year ago. Here's why you might want to hit play on your moving plans again. 1. More Inventory Means More Choices One of the most frustrating challenges for homebuyers in the past couple of years was the sheer lack of available properties. It felt like every time you found a home you liked, it was already under contract or snapped up by another buyer. If this scenario sounds familiar, you're not alone. But now, there's good news – inventory is on the rise, which means more homes to choose from. According to Realtor.com , the housing inventory has jumped by 27.5% since the same time last year. This increase gives you more options, whether you're looking for a cozy starter home, a family-friendly property, or a luxury retreat. The extra choices mean less pressure to settle for something that doesn't quite fit your vision. If you were hesitant to sell your home last year because you weren't sure where you'd move next, now is a great time to reconsider. With more homes available, the risk of getting stuck without a place to go has diminished significantly. 2. Homes Are Staying on the Market Longer Another factor that made buying a home so stressful last year was how quickly properties were selling. In a market with limited inventory, homes were flying off the shelves, leaving buyers with little time to think through their decisions. This fast pace was especially tough if you were trying to buy and sell at the same time. But with more homes on the Market today, things are slowing down a bit – and that's actually a good thing. The latest data shows that homes are staying on the Market an average of 8% longer this year compared to 2024. While it may not sound like much, this shift provides much-needed breathing room for buyers. An extra week or so might not seem like a huge difference, but that small change can make a world of difference when you're making one of the biggest financial decisions of your life. This additional time gives you the flexibility to weigh your options, view multiple properties, and ultimately make a more informed decision. 3. Buyers Are Returning to the Market While inventory is up, it's important to note that demand is still strong. As more buyers return to the Market, homes are still selling well, especially those that are priced competitively. Even though inventory levels are still below pre-pandemic norms by about 23%, well-priced homes are still seeing plenty of interest. So, if you're considering selling your home, don't let concerns about longer market times deter you. Buyers are out there, and they're actively looking for their next home. The key is to price your property thoughtfully, ensuring that it's attractive in comparison to other listings in your area. 4. Less Pressure to Make a Quick Offer In the past, the fear of missing out (FOMO) was a driving force for many homebuyers. With so many buyers competing for limited properties, many were pressured to make fast decisions and offer over the asking price just to secure a deal. While this strategy worked for some, it left many buyers feeling rushed and uncertain. Now that the Market has cooled slightly, there's less pressure to jump at the first property you see. Homes are staying on the Market longer, which gives you the opportunity to take your time and evaluate whether a particular home truly meets your needs. For those looking to move, this slower pace is a welcome change that can help ensure you make a confident, well-thought-out decision. 5. Great Opportunities for Sellers Who Are Ready to Move If you're a homeowner considering selling your property, the current market conditions still present a great opportunity. Despite the longer time homes have stayed in the Market, well-priced properties are still in demand. And since inventory levels are still lower than pre-pandemic averages, your home can stand out if it's priced right and in good condition. Whether you're looking to upgrade to a larger home, downsize, or relocate, the growing inventory means you have more options to find your next dream property. And with more time to find that perfect home, there's less pressure to make a hasty decision. 6. Mortgage Rates Are More Predictable While mortgage rates have fluctuated wildly in recent years, buyers are starting to see some stability. Rates may still be higher than the historic lows we saw in 2020, but they've become more predictable and steady, giving buyers a clearer picture of what to expect. This predictability means you can plan your finances with more confidence, whether you're securing a new mortgage or refinancing your current loan. For many, this stability could be the final push they need to jump back into the Market after months or even years of uncertainty. Bottom Line: The Market Is Moving – So Should You If you paused your moving plans in 2025, now is an excellent time to reconsider. The real estate market is showing positive signs, with more inventory, slower market speeds, and an increase in buyer activity. Whether you're looking to buy, sell, or simply explore your options, this shift in the Market presents a new opportunity to make your move. For sellers, this is a great time to list your home, as long as you're pricing it thoughtfully. For buyers, the expanded inventory and a bit more breathing room in terms of time can help you make a confident decision without feeling rushed. Real estate markets go through cycles, and right now, we're in a phase that's offering more flexibility and fewer pressures. If you've been waiting for the right time, that moment may very well be now. Ready to move? Contact us now, and let's discuss your Real estate goals. Source: keepingcurrentmatters.com

The monthly median house sales price began its usual rebound from the mid-winter low and also increased year over year. It will typically continue to rise through June as the spring market heats up. The median condo/co-op sales price also increased on both a month-over-month and year-over-year basis. The quantity of new listings coming on market usually rises quickly to peak in mid-late spring. The number in February ticked up 4% year over year. The supply of active listings in February 2025 was the highest month-of-February count in 6 years, but still significantly below pre-pandemic norms. Active listings can be expected to rise month by month into autumn. On an annual basis, the number of existing-home sales in 2024 hit its lowest point in 30 years. This monthly chart depicts the effects of the pandemic boom and then soaring interest rates in 2022, while also illustrating how market seasonality plays out within the calendar year. February 2025 sales rose from January, but declined from February 2024. Months supply of inventory is a comparison of supply vs.  demand, measuring how long it would take to sell the inventory of active listings at the existing rate of sale. On a long-term, pre-pandemic basis, the MSI in February 2025 would not be considered high, but it was the highest February reading since 2019.   Since the early-year market is dominated by new listings, February is not normally a month with a high number of price reductions, however last month did have the highest count for the month of February in 6 years. Mortgage interest rates remained significantly down from mid-January when they rose above 7%. Every tick down improves affordability. It's been a rocky, volatile time in stock markets as investors try to get a handle on the political and economic uncertainty prevailing nationally and internationally. After a huge plunge, markets started to rebound, but it's beyond us to predict what may happen next. After 4 months of increases, inflation declined slightly in the latest reading, but concerns remain regarding the future direction of this major economic indicator. Population change is a big factor in housing markets. This new U.S. Census map illustrates % population changes by county: In the latest 12-month estimates, populations generally rose in metro areas, while dropping in many rural counties. The next 2 charts delineate national changes in 1) the last 12-month period measured by the Census, and 2) since the pandemic hit. Immigration into the country has accounted for the great majority of recent increases in U.S. population. And these charts break out net domestic migration - people moving between regions within the country - and net foreign migration among 4 broad national regions. In domestic migration, only the south saw a net inflow, while all 4 saw substantial gains due to immigration from abroad. With the appreciation of home prices since 2012, and especially since 2020, homeowner equity now constitutes an enormous part of household wealth (for homeowners): Almost $35 trillion. Source: compass.com National and regional statistics are generalities, essentially summaries generated by thousands of unique, individual listings and sales occurring across different market segments. They are best seen not as precise measurements, but as broad, comparative indicators with reasonable margins of error. Anomalous fluctuations in statistics are not uncommon, and last period data should be considered preliminary estimates which may be revised in future updates. Different analytics programs sometimes define standard statistics differently – such as “active listings,” “days on market,” and “months supply of inventory”: What is most meaningful are not specific numeric calculations but the trends they illustrate. Data from sources deemed reliable, but may contain errors, and subject to revision. All numbers to be considered approximate, and how these analyses apply to any particular property is unknown without a specific comparative market analysis.

Compass One empowers you with the full capabilities of the Compass platform, making your real estate journey seamless while providing 24/7 transparency and peace of mind every step of the way. This intuitive dashboard not only serves as a shared access point for us to stay connected but also unlocks exclusive tools, inventory, and services available only at Compass. Looking to buy? Discover homes only available on Compass, filter and compare properties, save and share the ones you love, and connect with me in real-time. Looking to sell? Monitor the market and track your listing’s traffic and engagement metrics so that we can adjust our strategy accordingly and make data-backed decisions. We can even see how often your listing is viewed, liked, or shared so we can focus on potential buyers already interested in your home. Whether you’re a buyer or a seller, with Compass One , you can: Keep up to date  | Stay on top of your transaction with a clear timeline of upcoming steps, recent updates, and pending tasks. Stay organized  | Easily reference signed documents, forms, and paperwork at any time — all accessible from one place.   Want to learn more about how Compass One can streamline your real estate journey? Contact us today to explore exclusive tools, real-time market insights, and personalized support every step of the way! Source: compass.com

According to U.S.News , when searching for a home, buyers often focus on location, layout, and amenities—but the view from the windows can be just as influential. Whether it’s a serene treetop canopy, an expansive open landscape, or a breathtaking waterfront scene, the view can enhance the quality of life and significantly impact property value. As real estate professionals, we understand that a great view does more than just provide something beautiful to look at—it can affect mood, health, and even financial return. Let’s explore the different types of home views and why they matter to both homeowners and buyers.   1. No-View or Limited-View Homes: Are They Always Undesirable?   Not every home comes with a stunning vista, but that doesn’t mean they lack value. Some homes may face blank walls, enclosed courtyards, or other buildings. While this might seem like a disadvantage, these properties can offer benefits such as enhanced privacy, reduced noise, and a sense of security—particularly in urban environments. For buyers seeking a quiet, distraction-free atmosphere, a limited-view home can actually be a perfect fit.   2. Treetop Views: Nature’s Ever-Changing Canvas Homes with treetop views provide a lush, green escape from the urban hustle. These views change with the seasons, offering a dynamic backdrop that brings nature closer to home. Treetop views are known to promote relaxation, boost mental well-being, and attract local wildlife like birds and squirrels, creating a peaceful retreat for homeowners. 3. Open Views: Uninterrupted Beauty  For those who crave a sense of openness, homes with vast, unobstructed views are highly desirable. Whether overlooking rolling hills, open fields, or a scenic valley, these homes provide a feeling of expansiveness and freedom. Open views are especially valuable in rural or high-altitude locations, where they contribute to a home’s sense of exclusivity and tranquility.   4. Protected Views: A Secure Investment  Buyers often worry that their beautiful view could be blocked by future developments. That’s why protected views—those overlooking landmarked sites, wildlife preserves, or height-restricted zones—are particularly appealing. Some homeowners even purchase adjacent land to safeguard their scenery.   In competitive markets, real estate professionals can provide zoning analysis to help buyers determine if their view is likely to remain untouched.   5. Water Views: A Premium Lifestyle Waterfront properties have long been associated with luxury, and for good reason. A home with a lake, river, or ocean view is not just visually stunning but can increase property value by up to 80%, according to some reports. However, waterfront properties also come with risks—rising insurance costs and environmental changes, such as flooding and erosion, may impact long-term value. Buyers should weigh these factors carefully when considering a home by the water. 6. Airplane Views: Living Among the Clouds   For those who love cityscapes and panoramic skylines, high-rise living offers a unique perspective. Penthouse apartments and mountain homes provide stunning aerial views, often featuring twinkling city lights at night and vast landscapes during the day. While these views can be mesmerizing, high-altitude homes sometimes contend with fog or cloud cover that may obscure the scenery at times.   Why Views Matter in Real Estate The importance of a home’s view goes beyond aesthetics—it plays a role in daily comfort, resale value, and even emotional well-being. Natural light, scenery, and a connection to the surrounding environment all contribute to the experience of homeownership. Buyers should consider not only what they see today but also what changes might come in the future.  At the end of the day, a home is more than just four walls—it’s a place where life unfolds. Finding a property with a view that resonates with you can make all the difference in turning a house into a dream home.  Thinking of buying or selling a home with a stunning view? Let’s connect and explore your options!   Source: usnews.com

Source: compass.com

According to CNBC, mortgage rates have dipped to their lowest levels since mid-December, offering a great opportunity for homebuyers and refinancers. According to the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), total mortgage application volume saw a slight decline of 1.2% last week, but the improving rate environment continues to support market activity. Mortgage Rate Trends and Market Impact The recent decline in rates presents an encouraging sign for buyers and homeowners looking to refinance. While borrowing costs remain above historic lows, this trend creates more affordability and potential savings. The average contract interest rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage with a 20% down payment also saw a decrease in points, dropping to 0.61 from 0.66, further reducing upfront costs. Refinancing Activity Sees Strong Annual Growth After a surge in refinancing at the start of the year, last week saw a 4% dip in refinance applications. However, demand remains significantly higher than last year, when mortgage rates were 16 basis points higher. Many homeowners are still exploring opportunities to secure better terms and lower their monthly payments. Home Purchase Activity and Housing Supply Home purchase mortgage applications remained steady compared to the previous week, reflecting resilience in buyer interest. More homes are coming onto the market, giving buyers greater selection. While housing inventory is still relatively tight, these additional options create positive momentum without significant price drops. Looking Ahead: More Affordability on the Horizon? According to Mortgage News Daily, mortgage rates continued their downward trend at the start of this week, falling by another 0.22% over four business days. While this drop may seem minor, rates have been moving within a narrow range for the past month. If this trend continues, it could further boost buyer confidence and affordability. For those considering buying a home or refinancing, now may be a great time to explore mortgage options before rates shift again. If you have any questions about the market or need assistance with your home search, feel free to reach out! Source: cnbc.com

According to keepingcurrentmatters.com, many buyers are waiting for mortgage rates to drop before purchasing a home. While experts predict a decline, rates are likely to remain between 6.5% and 7% rather than falling below 6% as previously expected. If you're delaying your home purchase in hopes of significantly lower rates, you may be waiting longer than anticipated. Alternative Financing Options to Consider Instead of waiting, exploring creative financing options could help make homeownership more affordable now. Here are three strategies to discuss with your lender: Mortgage Buydowns – By paying an upfront fee, you can lower your interest rate for a set period, reducing your monthly payments early on. Many first-time buyers are negotiating buydowns with sellers to offset higher rates. Adjustable-Rate Mortgages (ARMs) – ARMs start with a lower interest rate than fixed-rate loans, making them a smart choice if you plan to refinance later. Unlike the risky ARMs of the early 2000s, today’s versions require buyers to qualify at higher potential payments, reducing financial risk. Assumable Mortgages – Some buyers can take over a seller’s existing loan, including its lower rate. With over 11 million homes qualifying for this option, it’s worth considering if you're looking for a more favorable rate. If you're ready to explore homeownership despite current mortgage rates, reach out to the Benson Group today to discuss your options. Source: keepingcurrentmatters.com