If you’ve recently decided you’re ready to become a homeowner, chances are you’re trying to figure out what to do first. Knowing where to start can feel overwhelming, but the good news is you don’t have to navigate all of that alone.

When it comes to buying a home, there are a lot of moving pieces. And that’s especially true in today’s housing market. The number of homes for sale is still low, and home prices and mortgage rates are still high. That combination can be tricky if you don’t have reliable expertise and a trusted advisor on your side. That’s why the best place to start is connecting with a local real estate agent.

In the dynamic world of real estate, where trends shift like sand dunes in the wind, it's essential to take a moment to appreciate the positives that weave through the intricate tapestry of the current market. As we navigate the twists and turns of the real estate landscape, there are several reasons to be thankful for the opportunities and stability present in today's economy.

Firstly, let's acknowledge the resilient nature of the real estate market. Despite facing challenges such as economic uncertainties and global shifts, the market has displayed remarkable adaptability. This adaptability is reflected in the variety of housing options available, catering to diverse needs and preferences. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, an investor, or someone seeking a change of scenery, the current market provides a plethora of choices, ensuring there's something for everyone.

Are you dreaming of buying your home and wondering how you’ll save for a down payment? You’re not alone. Some people think about tapping into their 401(k) savings to make it happen. But before you decide to dip into your retirement to buy a home, be sure to consider all possible alternatives and talk with a financial expert. Here’s why.

The Numbers May Make It Tempting

If you’ve been following the news recently, you might have seen articles about an increase in foreclosures and bankruptcies. That could make you feel uneasy, especially if you’re thinking about buying or selling a house.

But the truth is, even though the numbers are going up, the data shows the housing market isn’t headed for a crisis.

Renting gets expensive FAST! Your rent could cost more than buying your dream home much sooner than you may think! Take a look at how buying compares to renting over time - and let's talk if you’re ready to examine how the numbers shake out for your exact rent vs. purchase scenario!

Plenty of people are still moving these days. And if you’re thinking of making a move yourself, you may be considering the inventory and affordability challenges in the housing market and wondering what you can do to help offset those. A new report from Gravy Analytics provides insight into where people are searching for homes and what they’re prioritizing most right now. That information could help you plan your own move.

If you’re following mortgage rates because you know they impact your borrowing costs, you may be wondering what the future holds for them. Unfortunately, there’s no easy way to answer that question because mortgage rates are notoriously hard to forecast.  

When it comes to buying a home, especially with today’s affordability challenges, you’ll want to be strategic. 

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) will release its latest Existing Home Sales (EHS) report later this week. This monthly report provides information on the sales volume and price trend for previously owned homes. In the upcoming release, it’ll likely say home prices are down. This may feel a bit confusing, especially if you’ve been following along and seeing the blogs saying that home prices have bottomed out and turned a corner.

When you look at the numbers today, the one thing that stands out is the strength of this housing market. We can see this is one of the most foundationally strong housing markets of our lifetime – if not the strongest housing market of our lifetime. Here are two fundamentals that prove this point.