Sep 3, 2021 | For Buyers, For Homeowners, Rent vs Own
Homeownership offers many advantages over renting, including a stable living environment, predictable monthly payments, and the freedom to make modifications. Neighborhoods with high rates of homeownership have less crime and more civic engagement. Also, studies...
Jun 11, 2021 | Rent vs Own
A new survey, Renters On The Move by Entrata, studied renters’ behavior in the landmark year of 2020. Key findings from the report state as many as 66% of renters say that renting fits their current lifestyle more than owning a home, while 33% say that the COVID-19...
Apr 8, 2021 | For Buyers, Home Financing, Market Trends, Real Estate, Rent vs Own
First-time homebuyers with little or no credit have what some call a “thin file.” But it may not prevent them from getting approved for a mortgage. Most are eligible for FHA loans and can even get conventional mortgages if they prove steady income, assets, and a...
Apr 2, 2021 | For Buyers, For Sellers, Home Financing, Real Estate, Rent vs Own
The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) is extending lighter appraisal and employment verification rules for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Because the pandemic made it harder for appraisers to enter houses, FHFA authorized mor drive-by and desktop appraisals. It will...
Mar 15, 2021 | For Buyers, Home Financing, Market Trends, Real Estate, Rent vs Own
Right now, headlines suggest that homes have become unaffordable for most Americans. But in reality, evidence shows that owning a home is more affordable than renting in most parts of the country. Record-low interest rates are keeping monthly mortgage payments about...
Nov 21, 2019 | For Buyers, Home Financing, Market Trends, Real Estate, Rent vs Own
I’ll challenge the idea that there is a ‘best’ time to buy or sell a home: Mortgage Rates Jump around. Even a small change in rates makes a large difference in home prices. This change is unpredictable. Statistics tell only part of the Story Home prices and demand...
