From our friends at the kcm blog
If you’ve been keeping an eye on mortgage rates lately, you might feel like you’re on a roller coaster ride. One day rates are up; the next they dip down a bit. So, what’s driving this constant change? Let’s dive into just a few of the major reasons why we’re seeing so much volatility, and what it means for you.
The Market’s Reaction to the Election
A significant factor causing fluctuations in mortgage rates is the general reaction to the political landscape. Election seasons often bring uncertainty to financial markets, and this one is no different. Markets tend to respond not only to who won, but...
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From our friends at the kcm blog
There are more homes on the market right now than there have been in years – and that could be a game changer for you if you’re ready to buy. Let’s look at two reasons why.
You Have More Options To Choose From
An article from Realtor.com helps explain just how much the number of homes for sale has gone up this year:
“There were 29.2% more homes actively for sale on a typical day in October compared with the same time in 2023, marking the twelfth consecutive month of annual inventory growth and the highest count since December 2019.”
And while the number of homes on the market still isn’t...
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From our friends at the kcm blog
For over 79 years, Veterans Affairs (VA) home loans have helped countless Veterans achieve the dream of homeownership. But according to Veterans United, only 3 in 10 Veterans realize they may be able to buy a home without needing a down payment (see visual below):
That’s why it’s so important for Veterans – and anyone who cares about a Veteran – to be aware of this valuable program. Knowing about the resources available can make the path to homeownership easier and keep life-changing plans from being put on hold. As Veterans United explains:
“The ability to buy with 0% down is the signature advantage of this...
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From our friends at the kcm blog
Trying to decide between renting or buying a home? One key factor that could help you choose is just how much homeownership can grow your net worth.
Every three years, the Federal Reserve Board shares a report called the Survey of Consumer Finances (SCF). It shows how much wealth homeowners and renters have – and the difference is significant.
On average, a homeowner’s net worth is nearly 40 times higher than a renter’s. Check out the graph below to see the difference for yourself:
Why Homeowner Wealth Is So High
In the previous version of that report, the average homeowner’s net worth was about $255,000, while the average renter’s was just...
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From our friends at the kcm
Looking to buy a home but feeling like almost everything is out of reach? Here’s the thing. There’s still a way to become a homeowner, even when affordability seems like a huge roadblock – and it might be with a fixer upper. Let’s dive into why buying a fixer upper could be your ticket to homeownership and how you can make it work.
What Is a Fixer Upper?
A fixer upper is a home that’s in livable condition but needs some work. The amount of work varies by home – some may need cosmetic updates like wallpaper removal and new flooring, while others might require more extensive repairs like replacing...
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From our friends at the kcm blog
Feeling a bit unsure, or even afraid, to move with everything going on right now? The decision to move shouldn’t be scary, it should be exciting. And the best way to eliminate any fear is to work with a pro.
Real estate agents are so much more than just transaction facilitators; they’re trusted guides to help you navigate the complexities of the housing market with confidence and ease. And a great agent can turn what may feel like a daunting process into a manageable—and even enjoyable—experience.
That’s why, in a Bright MLS survey, respondents agreed partnering with an agent is essential and helps cut down...
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From our friends at the kcm blog
No one likes making mistakes, especially when they happen in what’s likely the biggest transaction of your life – buying a home.
That’s why partnering with a trusted agent is so important. Here’s a sneak peek at the most common missteps buyers are making in today’s market and how a great agent will help you steer clear of each one.
Trying To Time the Market
Many buyers are trying to time the market by waiting for home prices or mortgage rates to drop. This can be a really risky strategy because there’s so much at play that can have an impact on those things. As Elijah de la Campa, Senior...
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From our friends at the kcm blog
With the 2024 Presidential election fast approaching, you might be wondering what impact, if any, it’s having on the housing market. Let’s break it down.
Election Years Bring a Temporary Slowdown
In any given year, home sales slow down slightly in the fall. It’s a typical, seasonal trend. However, according to data from BTIG, in election years there’s usually a slightly larger dip in home sales in the month leading up to Election Day (see graph below):
Why? Uncertainty. Many consumers hold off on making major decisions or purchases while they wait to see how the election will play out. It’s a pattern that’s shown up time...
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From our friends at the kcm
With everything feeling more expensive these days, it’s natural to worry about how rising costs might impact the housing market. Many people are concerned that high prices and tighter budgets could cause more homeowners to fall behind on their mortgage payments, leading to a wave of foreclosures.
But before you start worrying about a housing market crash, here’s a look at what’s really happening. And the good news is: the latest foreclosure data shows there’s no wave on the horizon.
How Today’s Market Is Different from 2008
Let’s ease those fears by looking at the bigger picture. The graph below uses research from ATTOM, a property data provider, to show...
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From our friends at the kcm blog
Curious about where the housing market is headed in 2025? The good news is that experts are offering some promising forecasts, especially when it comes to two key factors that directly affect your decisions: mortgage rates and home prices.
Whether you’re thinking of buying or selling, here’s a look at what the experts are saying and how it might impact your move.
Mortgage Rates Are Forecast To Come Down
One of the biggest factors likely affecting your plans is mortgage rates, and the forecast looks positive. After rising dramatically in recent years, experts project rates will ease slightly throughout the course of 2025 (see graph below):
While that decline won’t be a straight line down, the...
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