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

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 - such as "active listings," "days on market," and "months supply of inventory" - differently: 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. 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 - such as "active listings," "days on market," and "months supply of inventory" - differently: 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.

According to Kiplinger, a home appraisal is one of the most important steps in any real estate transaction — whether you're buying, selling, or refinancing. It ensures the property's price reflects its true market value and gives all parties involved confidence in the deal. And while the process may seem technical, understanding it can help you approach your transaction with clarity and even a strategic edge. In our experience working with clients throughout the buying and selling process, a well-handled appraisal can be the key to a smooth closing. Here's what you should know — and how to prepare. What Is a Home Appraisal and Why Does It Matter? A home appraisal is an independent, third-party opinion of a property's fair market value, conducted by a licensed professional. Mortgage lenders require it to confirm that the home's value supports the amount being borrowed. But the appraisal isn't just for the bank. It also protects buyers from overpaying and helps sellers justify their asking price. It brings objectivity to what can often be an emotional process. The appraiser looks at a wide range of factors to determine value, including: Square footage and layout Overall condition of the property Recent upgrades or renovations Location and neighborhood features Comparable sales (or "comps") nearby The goal is to answer one key question: What is this home truly worth in today's market? Who Orders and Pays for the Appraisal? In most mortgage-backed transactions, the lender orders the appraisal — but the buyer typically pays for it. Appraisals usually cost between $325 and $1,000, depending on the size and complexity of the home, as well as its location. If you're buying with cash, the appraisal may not be required, but it's still a smart move for peace of mind. And if you're refinancing, your lender will almost always require a new appraisal to ensure your home's current value supports the new loan terms. What Does the Appraisal Process Look Like? Appraisals follow a structured process, but each one is tailored to the specific property. 1. On-Site Visit The appraiser visits the property — either in person or virtually — to inspect the interior and exterior. They take measurements, assess the overall condition, note materials and finishes, and photograph key features. 2. Neighborhood and Market Research Next, the appraiser evaluates the surrounding area. Proximity to schools, public transport, amenities, and local market conditions all impact the value. 3. Comparative Market Analysis One of the most important steps is identifying comparable properties (comps)  — recently sold homes that are similar in size, style, condition, and location. Adjustments are made for differences between the comps and the subject property. 4. Valuation and Report Using all of this data, the appraiser completes a detailed report. This includes: Estimated fair market value Description of the property and condition Photos Maps and sketches List of comps and how they were used This report is submitted to the lender and is often shared with the buyer. What If the Appraisal Comes In Low? It happens. And while a low appraisal might feel like a setback, there are several ways to move forward. If the appraised value is lower than the purchase price , lenders will typically only finance up to that lower amount. This creates a gap that the buyer may need to cover with additional funds — or renegotiate the price. Here are the most common options: Renegotiate the purchase price.  Often, the seller will be willing to adjust the price rather than risk losing the sale. Dispute the appraisal.  If there are errors or stronger comps available, the appraisal can sometimes be challenged. Make up the difference.  Some buyers choose to cover the gap with cash — especially in a competitive market. Walk away.  If there's an appraisal contingency in place, buyers may be able to exit the contract and get their earnest money back. With the right guidance and preparation, a low appraisal doesn't have to derail your transaction. How to Prepare for a Successful Appraisal While the appraiser is independent, there are things homeowners and agents can do to help ensure the value reflects the property's true worth. Here's what we typically recommend: ✅ Highlight Upgrades Provide a list of recent renovations or improvements — new roof, updated kitchen, energy-efficient systems, etc. Include dates, receipts, and permits if available. ✅ Clean and Declutter Presentation matters. A clean, organized home allows the appraiser to focus on the features, not the mess. ✅ Boost Curb Appeal Small touches — mowing the lawn, trimming bushes, fresh paint — can improve first impressions and suggest the home is well cared for. ✅ Choose Strong Comps Before the appraisal, we usually prepare a list of comparable sales that best reflect the property's value. This can help guide the appraiser's analysis, especially in markets with a lot of price variability. ✅ Repair Small Issues Fix minor maintenance problems — loose doorknobs, leaky faucets, cracked tiles. These may seem insignificant but can subtly influence perceived value. Why Appraisals Are Good for Everyone Involved At the end of the day, a well-executed appraisal protects all parties: Buyers  avoid overpaying. Sellers  get a reality check on pricing. Lenders  know the loan is based on actual value, not emotional pricing. As agents, we see the appraisal process as a key opportunity — not a hurdle. With the right preparation, it's often a smooth, even empowering step in the transaction. Whether you're preparing to list your home, submit an offer, or refinance, understanding how appraisals work gives you a real advantage. If you need guidance on pricing, preparing for an appraisal, or navigating a low valuation, we're here to help you make the process clear and successful from start to finish. Get in touch with us today — and let’s make your next move a confident one. Source: kiplinger.com

According to Keeping Current Matters, many buyers hesitate to consider newly built homes because of myths they’ve heard along the way. The truth is, new construction can be a fantastic opportunity — offering flexibility, energy efficiency, and the chance to move into a home that feels truly your own. But like with any part of real estate, there are misconceptions that can hold people back. Let’s take a closer look at the most common myths about buying a newly built home, why they don’t hold up, and what this means if you’re thinking about making a move. Myth 1: Builders Don’t Offer Incentives One of the biggest misunderstandings is that builders never provide perks, credits, or special deals. Many buyers assume that the price is the price — no exceptions. Reality check: Builders often offer attractive incentives to encourage sales, especially in competitive markets. These can include mortgage rate buy-downs, closing cost credits, design upgrades, or even appliances. Why? Because builders, just like sellers of resale homes, want their properties to stand out and sell quickly. We’ve seen cases where buyers saved thousands simply by taking advantage of these offers. Partnering with a knowledgeable agent can help you identify communities and builders who are offering the best deals right now. Myth 2: Builders Don’t Negotiate Another common belief is that builders won’t negotiate on price or terms — that everything is set in stone. Reality check: While builders usually prefer not to lower the base price (since it affects the value of the rest of the community), they often have other ways to create value for buyers. For example, they may agree to cover part of your closing costs, include design upgrades, or offer special financing programs. This means there’s still room for negotiation — it just looks different than it does in a traditional resale home purchase. With the right strategy, buyers can walk away with meaningful savings and benefits. Myth 3: Buying New Construction Is Too Expensive At first glance, a brand-new home might seem more expensive than an older resale property. And yes, sometimes the sticker price is higher. But the full financial picture tells a different story. Reality check: New homes often come with long-term cost savings. Features like energy-efficient appliances, better insulation, and updated HVAC systems can lower utility bills. Plus, many builders offer warranties that cover major systems and structural components for years — a level of protection you simply don’t get with most resale homes. When you factor in these savings, along with reduced maintenance costs in the early years, new construction can actually be a smart financial move. Myth 4: You Don’t Need a Real Estate Agent for New Construction Some buyers believe they can save money by going directly to the builder without an agent. After all, why involve another party if you’re buying straight from the source? Reality check : Having a trusted real estate agent on your side is just as important with new construction as it is with resale homes. Builders’ representatives are there to protect the builder’s interests, not yours. An experienced agent advocates for you, helps you understand the fine print, compares communities, and negotiates on your behalf. Think of it this way: Buying a home is one of the largest investments you’ll ever make. Having someone in your corner who knows the process inside and out can make the entire experience smoother, less stressful, and more rewarding. Buying a newly built home doesn’t have to feel intimidating, and it certainly shouldn’t be ruled out because of myths. The reality is, builders do offer incentives, there is room for negotiation, new homes can save you money long-term, and having an agent by your side is a huge advantage. As local real estate professionals, we’ve helped clients successfully navigate both resale and new construction purchases. If you’ve been curious about exploring new construction in our area, reach out to us anytime — we’d be happy to guide you through the process and help you find the right home. Source: keepingcurrentmatters.com

According to Keeping Current Matters, online home-buying search terms reached a two‑year high in July 2025. Data from Google Trends shows that searches for key phrases like "homes for sale" and "houses for sale" surged to their highest level since mid‑2023 — an undeniable signal that buyer interest is reigniting, even amid mortgage rates hovering in the high 6% range. What That Means for Buyers and Agents 1. A Wake-Up Call for Sellers — Demand Is Alive and Well Even if market activity appears moderate, the online search spike proves buyers are actively looking. Those digital footprints often precede physical actions. As agents, we know that increased search volume typically translates into leads. This is the ideal moment to remind potential sellers: buyer interest is real—now is not the time to sit on the sidelines. 2. Perfect Timing to Revisit Listings with Fresh Eyes Summer may feel slow, but elevated search activity signals it's a strategic time to review and sharpen listing strategies—refresh photos, tweak descriptions, and ensure your SEO is up to speed. Because if buyers are online, we need to make sure they find your listings first. 3. Contextual Momentum amid Lower Mortgage Rates Importantly, this uptick in search behavior predated recent mortgage rate improvements, with rates falling to 6.53% by mid‑August. That downward trend only strengthens buyer motivation. Combined, this burst of online interest and improving affordability sets the stage for more robust market engagement. How We See It — A Growth Opportunity, If We Act Our perspective? This isn't just a data point—it's a growth signal, not a reason to panic. For Buyers: The market isn't frozen. Elevated online searches show commitment. If you've been watching, now is a smart time to engage—especially as improved rates increase affordability. For Sellers: Online demand is building. Homes that are well-prepared and priced right now could stand out and attract motivated buyers. For Agents (like us): This is our moment to shine. We can leverage these trends by amplifying our digital presence, refining listings, and proactively guiding both buyers and sellers toward informed, confident decisions. If you've been thinking about buying or selling a home, now is a great time to take action. With online search activity at a two-year high, buyers are clearly motivated and actively looking —don't miss your opportunity to make the most of this momentum. As real estate professionals, we're here to guide you through every step of the process. Whether you're a buyer eager to find the right home before competition increases, or a seller looking to stand out in a busy online market, we can help you move forward with confidence. Reach out to us today for a personalized consultation. Let's talk about your goals and create a strategy that works in your favor. Source: keepingcurrentmatters.com

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 - such as "active listings," "days on market," and "months supply of inventory" - differently: 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 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.

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.

According to Keeping Current Matters, overpricing a home can lead to more harm than good — especially in today's evolving real estate market. While it might be tempting to aim high, pricing your home above market value can delay offers, create unnecessary stress, and even lead to a lower final sale price. 1. Homes That Sit Too Long Lose Value When inventory increases, buyers have more options and become more selective. An overpriced home might not get enough attention early on, which is when the most interest usually peaks. The longer a property sits on the market, the more buyers begin to question its value — and that can lead to price reductions just to regain visibility. Listings that linger can lose their initial momentum, forcing sellers to make repeated adjustments or risk having the home go stale. That's not a position anyone wants to be in. 2. Overpricing Can Lead to Unwanted Choices When a listing doesn't perform well, sellers often face difficult decisions: Lower the price significantly Take the property off the market Rent the home instead of selling Each of these outcomes means time lost and plans delayed. Whether you're relocating, moving into a new home, or simply looking to maximize your investment, a poorly priced listing can get in the way of your bigger goals. 3. Pricing Smart Requires Strategy, Not Guesswork It's essential to base your price on local market trends, not just aspirations. That means understanding whether the area is in a buyer's or seller's market, studying comparable sales, and working with a clear timeline. In some cases, pricing slightly below market value can spark competition and lead to multiple offers—driving the final price up. Other times, pricing right at market value attracts serious buyers quickly. What's important is to remain strategic and flexible, with guidance from professionals who know your neighborhood. Real Estate Is Local — National Trends Don't Tell the Whole Story The percentage of homes with price cuts varies widely by region. According to Keeping Current Matters, about 23% of listings in the West had price reductions, compared to just 13% in the Northeast. Your strategy should reflect what's happening in your ZIP code, not just what's on the news. That's where local expertise truly shines. What We Bring to the Table As a team of experienced agents, we don't rely on guesswork. We use: Detailed comparative market analysis (CMA) Current buyer behavior insights Real-time feedback on showings and traffic Our approach ensures that your home is positioned to sell — not just listed and left. The right price, combined with strong marketing and expert representation, results in quicker sales and stronger offers. The Positive Takeaway: Smart Pricing Wins When sellers price confidently — and realistically — they gain control of the process. That means: Shorter time on the market Fewer price reductions Better buyer perception A smoother transaction overall There's nothing more rewarding than seeing your home sell quickly and competitively. How We Help Sellers Succeed Accurate Valuations:  We evaluate your property using up-to-date market data. Strategic Marketing:  Every listing is launched with a plan — from staging to photography to digital exposure. Consistent Monitoring:  We track activity and buyer feedback, making timely recommendations when needed. Personalized Support:  You'll never be left guessing. We're with you every step of the way. Overpricing might seem like a good idea at first — but it often works against sellers. A well-priced home attracts the right buyers, leads to faster offers, and avoids the stress of price drops and re-listing. If you're considering selling and want to discuss a smart pricing strategy tailored to your goals and the current market, reach out to our team. We're here to help you make the most of your home sale — starting with the right price. Source: keepingcurrentmatters.com

According to Keeping Current Matters, the housing market is on track for a steady and healthy finish to 2025. While headlines may still stir uncertainty, the expert consensus shows encouraging signs: moderate price growth, easing mortgage rate volatility, and a gradually increasing inventory of homes for sale. As real estate professionals, we're seeing more opportunities for both buyers and sellers to act with confidence — and I'd like to break down what that means in practical terms for anyone navigating the market this year. Mortgage Rates: Stability Is the New Normal After months of unpredictable mortgage rate swings, we're finally seeing signs of consistency. Most housing economists expect 30-year fixed mortgage rates to settle in the mid-6% range for the remainder of 2025, with occasional short-term fluctuations. For example: Goldman Sachs anticipates rates will hover around 6.7% by year-end. Bankrate and other analysts point to a similar range between 6.5% and 6.9%. While this might not be the dramatic drop many buyers were hoping for, it does offer something arguably more valuable: predictability. When clients know what to expect, they can plan smarter— and make more confident decisions. Home Prices: Steady Growth, Not a Crash If you're still holding off on a move in hopes of a dramatic housing market crash — it's time to reconsider. Current expert projections suggest that home prices will continue to rise moderately through the rest of 2025, driven by a tight housing supply and steady demand from qualified buyers. Most housing market analysts anticipate price appreciation in the 2% to 4% range this year. That's a healthy pace of growth — strong enough to support long-term equity, but slow enough to keep the market from overheating. The key takeaway? This isn't a bubble — it's a return to balance. We're not seeing the runaway price spikes of a few years ago, but we're also not heading into a downturn. For buyers, this means more predictability and room to negotiate. For sellers, it means home values are holding strong in a more stable, sustainable market. In short, this is the kind of environment where smart, well-timed real estate decisions pay off. The Lock-In Effect: Why Inventory Remains Tight A major factor influencing today's market is what experts call the "lock-in effect." Many homeowners who locked in historically low mortgage rates during 2020–2021 (some as low as 2.75%) are hesitant to sell and give up those favorable terms. As a result, fewer homes are hitting the market, which continues to constrain inventory. This doesn't mean buyers have no options — but it does help explain why home prices remain resilient, even with higher borrowing costs. It also highlights the importance of working with a knowledgeable agent who can uncover off-market opportunities or newly listed properties in fast-moving neighborhoods. More Inventory Than Last Year — And More Leverage for Buyers Despite the tight supply, inventory levels are slowly improving. The national housing supply has grown from just over 3 months in early 2024 to around 4 months today. While that's still below the 5–6 months typically considered a "balanced market," it's enough to give buyers more breathing room and negotiating power. We're seeing fewer bidding wars and more realistic listing prices — especially in markets where homebuilders are adding new supply. This gives today's buyers a chance to make thoughtful offers rather than rushed, above-asking bids. Regional Trends: Where Opportunities Are Emerging Real estate is always local — and right now, certain regions are standing out as attractive options depending on your goals. The South and Southeast remain popular due to strong job growth and relatively affordable housing. Cities in Texas, Florida, and the Carolinas continue to draw both buyers and investors. Some overheated markets, like Austin and Phoenix, are seeing prices level off or slightly dip— offering value for buyers who were priced out during the peak. The Midwest and Northeast remain stable, with slower growth but solid fundamentals, especially for long-term homeowners. Whether you're moving for lifestyle reasons or investment potential, the key is to work with an agent who knows your local market inside and out. Why 2025 Still Offers Great Opportunities Even with higher mortgage rates than we saw a few years ago, 2025 remains a strong year to buy or sell a home — you just need the right strategy. Here's why I'm optimistic: Buyers have more choices and less competition, with price growth staying modest and manageable. Sellers continue to benefit from strong property values and a shortage of quality listings in many areas. Economic indicators like wage growth and job stability support the overall health of the housing sector. In short, we're in a transitional market — but that's not a bad thing. It means both sides of the transaction can win, without the extremes we saw in previous years. Practical Advice for Buyers and Sellers Right Now If You're a Buyer: Get pre-approved early to lock in your rate. Don't wait for rates to drop — prices may rise in the meantime. Work with an agent who can help you negotiate creatively (e.g., seller concessions, rate buydowns). If You're a Seller: Price your home competitively, not emotionally. Highlight any advantages, such as assumable low-interest loans. Understand that while bidding wars are rarer, motivated buyers are still very active. The rest of 2025 promises stability, opportunity, and a return to normalcy in the real estate market. As a real estate agent working with clients every day, I can tell you — this is a far better landscape than what we faced just a year or two ago. Rates may be higher than during the pandemic boom, but they're also more predictable. Inventory is growing. Buyers have choices. Sellers still hold equity. And the market overall is showing signs of health, not hype. If you're considering buying or selling this year, let's talk. With the right guidance and a well-timed strategy, 2025 can be your year to make a great move. Reach out to our team today to schedule a personalized consultation. We'll walk you through your options, break down what's happening in your local market, and help you make a smart, confident decision — whether you're ready to act now or just starting to explore. Source: keepingcurrentmatters.com

According to Kiplinger, California homeowners are set to benefit from a new rule that allows for increased property tax savings under the federal SALT (State and Local Tax) deduction. This is great news for homeowners and potential buyers in high-cost areas like California, where property taxes can significantly affect the total cost of homeownership. Here's what you need to know and why we think this change is a smart move for those invested in California real estate. What Is the SALT Deduction? The SALT deduction allows taxpayers to deduct certain taxes paid to state and local governments, including property, income, and sales taxes. Prior to 2018, there was no cap on this deduction. However, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017 imposed a $10,000 cap on SALT deductions, which disproportionately impacted taxpayers in states with high property values and state taxes, such as California. What Changed in California Thanks to a recently passed bill signed by Governor Gavin Newsom, Californians will now see expanded opportunities to deduct more of their property taxes through a workaround designed to ease the SALT deduction cap's burden. This new provision allows certain property owners, particularly those who own pass-through entities such as LLCs, S corporations, and partnerships, to deduct more of their state tax payments on their federal returns by restructuring how they pay these taxes. While this workaround doesn't completely eliminate the $10,000 SALT cap for all taxpayers, it does offer substantial relief for a significant number of homeowners, especially those with more complex ownership structures. Why This Matters for Homeowners and Buyers For existing homeowners, this change means a larger federal tax deduction, which translates into real savings come tax season. For prospective buyers, especially those looking at properties in high-tax areas, this tax break can make the prospect of buying a home more financially viable. At a time when mortgage rates and housing prices have both climbed in many parts of California, any opportunity to offset ownership costs is welcome news. This rule change comes at an ideal moment, potentially helping to restore confidence and affordability to key segments of the housing market. Who Benefits Most? Owners of pass-through entities will benefit the most under this change. These are typically small business owners or individuals who own real estate through LLCs or partnerships. If structured correctly, they can now pay state income taxes at the entity level, which allows the business to deduct these taxes federally and pass the benefits down to individual owners. This creates an opening for smart tax planning, especially for those who own investment properties or operate rental homes. It's also a positive development for those with diversified property holdings, as it gives them more control over how they manage their tax liabilities. What This Means for Real Estate in California We believe this change may bring a small but meaningful boost to California's real estate market. Buyers who were previously deterred by high property taxes might reconsider, knowing they can now recoup more of those expenses at the federal level. It may also encourage more people to explore the benefits of forming pass-through entities when purchasing investment properties. Additionally, as the market adjusts to this new tax environment, we could see increased interest in higher-value homes or investment properties, particularly in regions where state and local taxes have historically been a deterrent. A Step in the Right Direction While this doesn't fully restore the unlimited SALT deduction, it's a step in the right direction. Tax policy will always be complex and evolving, but we appreciate efforts like this that bring some relief to those who shoulder the highest property tax burdens. As real estate professionals, we see firsthand how tax changes influence buying and selling decisions. This development is one more reason to consider the long-term value of real estate ownership in California. Whether you're a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor, or someone planning your next move, staying informed about policy shifts like this is key to making sound financial decisions. Tax laws are never static, and the landscape can shift quickly. If you're thinking about buying, selling, or investing in California real estate, now is a good time to revisit your strategy in light of this SALT deduction change. It could open up new possibilities and savings you hadn't considered before. We'll continue to monitor these changes and provide insights on how they affect the local market. If you have questions about what this means for your real estate plans or want to explore how to make the most of these updates, reach out  to our team. We're here to help you move forward with confidence. Source: kiplinger.com