Marking 8 consecutive months of growth says CoreLogic’s S&P Case-Shiller Index Like many economic metrics, the journey toward stabilizing the U.S. housing market is fraught with challenges. Although there has been a modest recovery in home sales and inventories from last year’s lows, elevated mortgage rates continue to hamper affordability, deterring many potential buyers. Despite…
According to the latest U.S. Rental Report from Realtor.com, residential rents in March 2024 continued to fall for the eighth month in a row, with a year-over-year decrease of 0.3% across various unit sizes. Despite this trend, the median rent stood at $1,722, just $36 below its peak in August 2022, yet $313 higher than…
Around 40 percent of U.S. renters also believe homeownership is out of reach According to a recent survey by national property broker Redfin, almost 58% of U.S. homeowners feel they probably couldn’t afford to repurchase their current homes at today’s prices and mortgage rates. This insight comes from a survey carried out in February 2024…
When you’re considering buying a home, one option might be to assume the seller’s mortgage instead of obtaining a new loan. But what does that mean for you, especially when it comes to taxes? This post provides expert insights into the tax implications of assuming a mortgage. We’ll also break down the concept of mortgage…
Changing your name often reflects a big change in your life. Whether you’re celebrating a marriage, finalizing a divorce, dealing with the estate of a loved one, or embracing a fresh start, knowing how to change your name on a deed can help you move forward. Perhaps this need has arisen as you’re preparing to…
Many homebuyers today are not just shopping for a house; they’re shopping for a community that reflects their desired lifestyle. A PUD home, meaning a planned unit development property, offers shared amenities, such as a neighborhood clubhouse, swimming pool, parks, tennis or pickleball courts, and a gated entry. But a PUD property also offers something…
In Tuscaloosa, “We Buy Houses” companies are known for making all-cash offers on homes that may need some work. For homeowners who find themselves strapped for time, lacking the expertise for home repairs, or short on funds to get their property market-ready, a cash sale can be a lifeline. A cash sale can often be…
Your home is likely one of your most valuable assets. U.S. homeowners saw a significant rise in equity in 2023, with the average homeowner gaining roughly $24,000 over the previous year, according to the CoreLogic Homeowner Equity Insights report from Q4 2023. If you are considering selling your home, you’ve probably wondered a lot about…
Buying a home is rarely done with casual disregard. You’ve planned, juggled finances, worried about finding the right house, and then you finally sign a contract. But what happens if you’re now facing the decision of submitting a buyer cancellation of the purchase agreement? In this guide, we’ll break down what you need to know…
Low inventory, elevated home prices, and high interest rates are making it harder to unlock the door to homeownership. Hopeful buyers often discover that the key to this door is getting past the upfront costs required to buy a house. For many, the solution lies in a “seller assist.” But what exactly is a seller…
For most homebuyers and refinancing homeowners, the traditional 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is often the default loan option they use to purchase a house. But there are other types of mortgages and term lengths available. A phrase you might hear in real estate lending circles is “10 over 30 mortgage.” But what exactly does choosing a…
In your journey to find the perfect home, you’ve likely come across the term “off market.” But what does off market mean when shopping for a home? This phrase can unlock doors to exclusive listings and offer unique opportunities in your home search. Whether you’re scrolling through home-search sites or mingling with real estate investors,…
You need to sell or buy a home — and to find a Realtor® for that transaction, you have to sift through thousands of people who could make or break one of the most serious, important financial decisions in your life. Where do you begin? Top agent Dave Mattes, who sells homes 55% quicker than…
When you bought a house with less than 20% down, your mortgage lender tacked on the extra cost of private mortgage insurance (PMI) as a standard precaution. But you’re confident that your house is worth more today than when you purchased it, leading you to wonder: “Can I cancel PMI if my home value increases?…
Need to sell your home quickly in Ohio? “We Buy Houses” companies in the state offer an appealing solution with all-cash offers, especially for properties needing some TLC. This option is particularly beneficial for homeowners who lack the time, resources, or expertise to undertake repairs, providing a quick path to receiving cash and moving on…
If you’re reading this post, it’s likely you stumbled upon the term “FROG” while browsing through home listings. You’re wondering, “What does FROG mean in real estate?” FROG is perhaps one of the most fun acronyms used in the home buying and selling arena. And if you keep reading, you’ll discover why a FROG can…
In a competitive seller’s market, coming to the table with a cash offer — rather than traditional financing — can give you an advantage over other potential buyers. Home sales declined significantly in 2023 due to a combination of high mortgage rates, low inventory, and rising prices, but the demand for all-cash offers has persisted.…
If you’re planning a move to a new location, it’s likely you’re calculating costs — everything from the price of a home and groceries to what your new electric and water bills might look like. You’ve probably heard the phrase “cost of living” thousands of times, but as you review your finances, you may be…
Sometimes you come across a home for sale that checks off every box on your list, but the listing status says that it’s “under contract” or “sale pending.” Crestfallen, you move on and hope you’ll find an equally amazing home. But what does “under contract” mean in real estate? Can you still make an offer…
House hunting has become so much more than finding four walls and a roof to live under. For some, it’s become a full-fledged hobby. If you’re addicted to scrolling house buying apps but were sidelined by 2023’s high mortgage rates, we’ve got good news for you: The National Association of Realtors (NAR) is predicting a…
Buying a house in the U.S. is expensive, but most homeowners and potential buyers know that it’s worth it. Whether you’ve been priced out of homeownership in your current state, are looking to settle somewhere with a lower cost of living, or want the most bang for your buck when it comes to your dream…
In today’s real estate market, with high mortgage interest rates and hesitant buyers, you might be pondering, “Is my mortgage assumable?” as a strategy to accelerate your home sale. Or, you might want to allow a family member to assume your mortgage so they can inherit a financial advantage through your low-interest-rate home loan. If…
If you recently bought a house and now realize that you need to sell it, don’t panic. While there are financial implications of selling a house soon after buying it, certain circumstances and life changes may make selling quickly a necessity and leave you wondering, “How soon can I sell my home after purchasing it?”…
You’ve decided to sell your house sometime in the near future. However, a lot must happen between now and that bittersweet moment when you hand over the keys. To keep your stress levels at a minimum, it’s essential to know how to sell a house. Whether you’re a first-timer or simply need to brush up…
Buyers tend to ignore houses lacking star-quality curb appeal. To catch their attention, take a note out of Hollywood’s book and make your home exude elegance and glamor. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 92% of real estate agents advise improving curb appeal before sellers list their homes for sale, while 97% believe…
You’ve decided you’re ready to buy your first home (congratulations, that’s a big step!). But you may wonder, do I even need a real estate agent? What does a real estate agent do? After all, there are dozens of websites with home listings and steps to navigate the transaction process. That may be true, but…
There are several reasons why someone may want their house sold as quickly as possible. Maybe you’ve found your dream home but need to sell your current house before you can close. Or maybe you’ve received a great job offer in a different state and must move quickly. Instant offer real estate deals, in which…
With so many online options available to help sell your home, is there still a need for real estate agents? Turns out, there are a few things technology still can’t do. In today’s digital world, using technology to compare, research, and purchase products has become the norm. We can order groceries online, have a car…
As U.S. lenders chase an increasing number of delinquent mortgages in 2023 According to ATTOM’s newly released fourth-quarter 2023 Vacant Property and Zombie Foreclosure Report, almost 1.3 million (1,294,505) residential properties in the United States are vacant. That figure represents 1.27 percent, or one in 78 homes, across the nation – virtually the same as…
According to new research by CBRE, Asia Pacific electric vehicle (EV) sales have seen exponential growth in the past two years, accounting for nearly two-thirds of global auto sales. The soaring demand for charging facilities across the region provides the opportunity for commercial real estate owners to enhance their assets with EV charging installations. CBRE…
According to AAA, two months following the devastating wildfires in Maui, most of West Maui will begin to reopen to visitors on Sunday, October 8, 2023. The tragic wildfires killed 97 people and destroyed much of the historic town of Lahaina. The loss of life, property, cultural and historic sights, and livelihoods has led to…
Yet home and condo prices hold steady last month Las Vegas Realtors are reporting this week that prices for local Southern Nevada homes and condos are holding steady, matching prices from one year ago. LVR reported that the median price of existing single-family homes sold in Southern Nevada through its Multiple Listing Service (MLS) during September…
According to a new Redfin-commissioned survey, nearly two-thirds of recent U.S. homebuyers (59%) think purchasing a house is more stressful than dating. Daryl Fairweather “Getting ghosted by your date is stressful, but purchasing a home in today’s market comes with its own unique set of anxieties,” said Redfin Chief Economist Daryl Fairweather. “Buyers are increasingly…
Based on ATTOM’s newly released third-quarter 2023 Vacant Property and Zombie Foreclosure Report, 1.3 million (1,277,612) residential properties in the United States are vacant. That figure represents 1.3 percent, or one in 79 homes, across the nation – the same as in the second quarter of this year. The report also reveals that 315,425 residential…
Measurabl, the world’s most widely adopted ESG (environmental, social, governance) platform for real estate, has secured a significant partnership to provide sustainability due diligence (DD) on all commercial real estate (CRE) loans issued by Voya Investment Management (Voya IM). This is a notable milestone for Measurabl’s new due diligence offering, as it demonstrates its ability…
Welcome to the epitome of coastal living — Hampton Roads, where exclusivity and elegance intertwine to create a haven of luxury residences. As you embark on a journey through the world of exclusive real estate, you’ll quickly understand why Hampton Roads stands as a timeless luxury destination. So what are the most sought-after luxury home…
Nestled along the shores of California, Santa Barbara is full of natural beauty, cultural richness, and laid-back charm. While the city is renowned for its upscale offerings, there’s still a plethora of free things to do in Santa Barbara. From strolling along pristine beaches and exploring historic landmarks to experiencing local art and admiring stunning…
Achieving the dream of homeownership takes on a unique flavor when set against the backdrop of the Sunshine State – Florida. Whether you’re drawn to the enchanting coastal allure of Miami Beach condos or the serene suburban vibes of Tampa, FL, houses, navigating the path to owning a piece of Florida paradise comes with its…
Buying a house in the great state of Oklahoma, such as in the beautiful cities of Oklahoma city and Tulsa, is an exciting and significant step for homebuyers, but it comes with its fair share of complexities, particularly when it comes to understanding the ins and outs of home inspections. Ensuring a thorough home inspection…
Just as every corner of the U.S. boasts its distinct charm, it also presents a unique set of challenges for potential homeowners. Whether you’re eyeing a home off the warm shores of Orlando, Florida, and the potential of underlying damage from hurricane seasons, or setting your sights in a picturesque house in Katy, Texas, where…
According to new CBRE data, top end commercial transactions have been most impacted by the slow-down in investment activity in 2023, with the smaller end of the market proving to be more resilient. CBRE’s H1 2023 In and Out Report highlights that total investment volumes dropped by 50% to $8.8 billion in the first six…
Based on CoreLogic’s latest Home Price Index for May 2023, annual U.S. single-family home price growth slowed for the 12th straight month in May, falling to 1.4% increase year over year. The last time CoreLogic’s Home Price index saw annual growth fall to less than 2% was in early 2012, but U.S. appreciation still remained…
According to national property broker Redfin, listings of homes for sale in the several Southwest Florida cities like the Cape Coral-Fort Myers metropolitan area have recovered after plunging in the wake of Hurricane Ian last fall, and sales have begun to bounce back. In the two months after the devastating September 2022 storm, there were…
Vacant Homes in Foreclosure Increases for Fifth Straight Quarter Based on ATTOM’s newly released second-quarter 2023 Vacant Property and Zombie Foreclosure Report, almost 1.3 million (1,285,633) residential properties in the United States are vacant. That figure represents 1.3 percent, or one in 79 homes, across the nation. The report also reveals that 311,508 residential properties…
According to new data from the Mortgage Bankers Association’s latest Weekly Mortgage Applications Survey for the week ending May 19, 2023, U.S. mortgage applications decreased 4.6 percent from one week earlier. The Market Composite Index, a measure of mortgage loan application volume, decreased 4.6 percent on a seasonally adjusted basis from one week earlier. On…
According to JLL’s latest Hong Kong Property Market Monitor Report, Hong Kong’s Grade A office market is mainly driven by upgrading demand following more new office completions this year. The market sentiment continued to improve amid the border reopening and economic recovery. Among a handful of new lettings, Doo Group leased an entire floor with…
Nestled in the eastern part of Washington state, Spokane, WA is a city renowned for its natural beauty, cultural attractions, and vibrant community. From the stunning waterfalls of Spokane Falls to the peaceful wilderness of Dishman Hills, living in Spokane offers a wealth of beautiful places that are sure to delight visitors of all ages…
Are you curious about moving to Virginia and are finding yourself thinking, “is Woodbridge, VA a good place to live?” Well, you’ve come to the right place. In this Redfin article, we’ll explore the 9 pros and cons of living in Woodbridge, so you can get a better sense of what life is like there. …
As the capital of Ohio, the city of Columbus boasts a rich history and a diverse range of architectural styles. Whether you own a charming Victorian-style home in Victorian Village or a modern condo in the Short North, there are plenty of home remodeling projects that can elevate your living space and add value to…
As a homeowner in Grand Rapids, you may be looking for ways to upgrade your living space and boost your property value. Fortunately, there are several home remodeling projects that can do just that. Whether you want to create a brighter living area, update your kitchen or bathroom, or add a fence to your backyard,…
Are you a homeowner in Sarasota looking to improve your home’s comfort and value? Look no further! There are various remodeling projects that can add functionality, beauty, and resale value to your Sarasota home. Whether you live in a charming bungalow in Gillespie Park or a modern beachfront condo on Siesta Key, there are home…
Measurabl, the world’s most widely adopted ESG technology platform for real estate, announced today the launch of Climate Due Diligence Scan (CDDS), an on-demand ESG due diligence solution that gives real estate investors, lenders, and insurers instant access to accurate, timely property-level data on any real estate transaction globally. CDDS provides highly accurate property-level estimates…
Vacation home demand hits 7-year low in 2023 According to national property broker Redfin, mortgage-rate locks for second homes in the U.S. were down 52% from pre-pandemic levels on a seasonally adjusted basis in March 2023. That is compared to a 13% decline for primary homes. Second-home rate locks fell to their lowest level since…
International property consultant Knight Frank reports a recovery in UK housing market activity that has been underway since January is now showing up in official figures. Net mortgage approvals for house purchases increased to 43,500 during the month February, from 39,600 in January, according to recent Bank of England figures. That’s the first monthly increase…
Living in Portland offers the perfect blend of urban living and outdoor adventure. While the city itself is home to a wealth of attractions and activities, the City of Roses is also surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery, from majestic mountains to picturesque waterfalls. Whether you’re renting an apartment or looking to buy a home in…
The Windy City is a vibrant metropolis with endless opportunities for exploration and entertainment. While living in Chicago can often be expensive, there are plenty of free things to do in Chicago that will keep you entertained without breaking the bank. From taking a stroll along the lakefront to visiting world-renowned museums, the Windy City…
National property broker Redfin is reporting this week that many U.S. homebuyers are retreating back to the sidelines as mortgage rates ascend toward 7 percent. Redfin’s Homebuyer Demand Index — a measure of requests for tours and other services from Redfin agents–fell 1% from a week ago, the first decline after a month of increases,…
According to CoreLogic’s monthly Loan Performance Insights Report for December 2022, 3% of all mortgages in the U.S. were in some stage of delinquency (30 days or more past due, including those in foreclosure), representing a 0.4 percentage point decrease compared with 3.4% recorded in December 2021 and less than a 0.1 percentage point increase…
Dividing a room can be a challenge, especially if you don’t want to install a permanent wall. However, there are many creative and cost-effective ways to separate spaces without sacrificing style or functionality. From installing room dividers to setting up partition bookcases, there are a variety of options that can effectively divide a room without…
New York City, Singapore and London top the list of global cities rent price growth in 2022 According to international property consultant Knight Frank, prime residential rents continue to rise but the rate of growth is slowing. Across ten global cities luxury rents increased 10.2% on average in the 12 months to Q3 2022, down…
According to a new report from the American Institute of Architects, demand for design services from architecture firms continued to decrease in November 2022. The pace of decline during November accelerated from October, posting an Architecture Billings Index (ABI) score of 46.6 from 47.7 (any score below 50 indicates a decline in firm billings). The…
Luxury sales sink 38% in November, biggest decline on Record According to national property broker Redfin, sales of luxury U.S. homes fell 38.1% year over year during the three months ending November 2022, the biggest decline on record. That outpaced the record 31.4% decline in sales of non-luxury homes. Redfin’s data goes back to 2012.…
17 housing trends that defined the year, including record home prices and sky-high mortgage rates The 2022 housing market was nothing short of remarkable. The pandemic and resulting remote work continued to define how, when, and where people bought homes. The median U.S. home price hit a record high before falling slightly. Rising rents stretched…
Located on the east coast of Florida, Jacksonville is one of the more underrated cities in the Sunshine State. Along with being the largest in the U.S. in terms of land area, the city is home to an endless coastline, sandy beaches, and almost 300 days of sunshine per year. If you’re new to living…
Anaheim, CA also known as “Ducktown” is best known for being the home of Disneyland Resort and the Anaheim Ducks, but there is so much more to the city than meets the eye. From the Oak Canyon Nature Center to Joe’s Italian Ice, there are many hidden gems that you won’t want to miss when…
Long Beach, CA is home to some of the most beautiful parks in the country. From stunning coastal hikes to tranquil neighborhood parks, Long Beach offers a variety of outdoor spaces for locals and visitors to explore. With its mild climate and stunning landscapes, Long Beach is the perfect destination for outdoor recreation. Whether you…
Austin, TX is known for its nightlife, delicious food scene, and friendly folks. It’s no wonder why 960,000 residents call the “Live Music Capital of the World” home due to its many sites, scenes, and attractions to explore. However, as the seasons change and the weather fluctuates, you may be wondering what activities are still…
It’s an interesting market and I wanted to share our experience in the hope that it helps current and future buyers. Much of what I’m saying is general advice in buying a home and isn’t specific to this market. Before we go into it, some disclaimers: We are in a high cost of living market…
I’m all about being transparent so let me be just that. I am a member of the RE bubble sub. I don’t believe there’s a bubble. Didn’t ever think there was a bubble. Just felt there was a correction coming and, at the time, a lot of things that were being posted over there made…
First off, thanks for the input. I learned a bit. But now I need to learn more. Here is my scenario, while moving out I was approached by a neighbor that was intrested in buying my house. He wants to do a forsale by owner and cut out the brokers and real estate agents. Obviously…
When you think of homes in New York City, chances are you picture high-rise buildings with hundreds of units or charming and historic row houses and brownstones lining the streets. Another common type of apartment you’re likely to find is a floor-through apartment. You can find these apartments throughout the city, and other places around…
One of the six major islands of Hawaii, Oahu is known for being home to the state’s capital city of Honolulu and its fantastic access to the outdoors and nature. Home to around 1 million people, there are many beautiful and unique locations on the island that locals love to explore. If you are looking…
They’re effortless with their stone facades and stucco walls, rustic green gardens, and cozy interiors filled with exposed beams and a roaring fireplace. French country homes are a well-loved house style that you’ll find throughout the US – and there’s no need to move to France just to live in one. So what exactly can…
It seems like everything is more expensive these days, and living in Boston is no exception. Finding things to do in any city that don’t come with a price tag can be challenging. If you want to get acquainted with the city without breaking the bank, there are still plenty of options. So if you…
With winter right around the corner, there’s no better way to warm up than grabbing a hot cup of coffee. Luckily for those living in Baltimore, there are plenty of coffee shops and cafes throughout the city. Whether you’re checking out homes for sale in Baltimore or just rented an apartment in the area, keep…
Dallas is the third largest city in Texas and the ninth largest in the country. With so many different people and cultures, there’s no shortage of things to do in Big D. Whether you’ve just moved into an apartment in Victory Park or a house in Pleasant Grove, here are some unique things to do…
Kitchen renovations are one of the most popular home improvement projects – and one of the most daunting. There are many things to consider during a renovation, from appliances and cabinets to flooring and countertops. They can also be expensive and time-consuming. Luckily, with some know-how and perseverance, you can complete your makeover quickly and…
Do you have lingering smells wreaking havoc throughout your home? Are you struggling to figure out how to get rid of them? Foul odors are a pain to locate and can make your home unpleasant and unwelcoming. If this sounds like a problem you are facing but don’t know where to begin, don’t worry, we’ve…
If you’re living in Philadelphia, then you know that this city is known for its history, cheesesteaks, and the Mummers parade. Philly is located between New York and Washington, D.C., and with the abundance of cultural and culinary opportunities, this city is excellent for anyone looking to relocate. Along with its history, this city holds…
If you’re living in Seattle, you’ve probably spent some time playing tourist in your city. Have you walked around Pike Place and seen the gum wall? Have you been on the Ferris Wheel? If you’ve done these things and want something new to check out, we created a list of unique things to do in…
Offering your apartment (or a room in your apartment) as a short-term rental on a platform like Airbnb or VRBO could be a great way to make some extra cash. While most people assume they have to own property before building an Airbnb business, you can actually become a host while renting, at least in…
Winter is approaching, and that means cold days, dark evenings, snow flurries, and staying cozy in your home. But the winter months can wreak havoc on your house. Gusting winds can batter your beautiful plants. A snow or winter ice storm can put stress on your roof. And just a few days of freezing rain…
Something no renter wants to receive is an unlawful detainer. An unlawful detainer is a lawsuit to evict a tenant and they vary greatly from state to state. Whether you’re a landlord, property manager, or tenant, dealing with unlawful detainers is less than ideal. Continue reading below to learn more about unlawful detainers, what to…
If you’re a first-time homebuyer, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of making plans for your new space. Even as you dream about color schemes, furniture placement, and the ideal layout of your new home, you’re probably also keeping a close eye on interest rates and your future mortgage payment. However, there…
If you’re a homeowner or are planning to become one soon, you’re probably looking for clear information about today’s housing market.
One of the biggest questions people are asking right now is: what’s happening with home prices?
One of the top stories in recent real estate headlines was the intensity and frequency of bidding wars.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, this year, builders are on pace to complete more than a million new homes in this country.
![Here's Why It's Still a Sellers' Market [INFOGRAPHIC] | Keeping Current Matters](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/01081512/20220902-KCM-Share.png)
According to a recent survey from the Wall Street Journal, the percentage of economists who believe we’ll see a recession in the next 12 months is growing.
If you’re wondering if home prices are going to come down due to the cooldown in the housing market or a potential recession, here’s what you need to know.
Whether you’ve just retired or you’re thinking about retirement, you may be considering your options and trying to picture a whole new stage of your life.
![Why a Home Inspection Is Important [INFOGRAPHIC] | Keeping Current Matters](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/18111103/20220819-KCM-Share.png)
If you put off your home search at any point over the past two years, you may want to consider picking it back up based on today’s housing market conditions.
With all the headlines and buzz in the media, some consumers believe the market is in a housing bubble.
If rising home prices leave you wondering if it makes more sense to rent or buy a home in today’s housing market, consider this.
As there’s more and more talk about the real estate market cooling off from the peak frenzy it saw during the pandemic, you may be questioning what that means for your plans to sell your house.
![Housing Market Forecast for the Rest of 2022 [INFOGRAPHIC] | Keeping Current Matters](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/04104836/20220805-KCM-Share.png)
When the pandemic hit in 2020, many experts thought the housing market would crash.
You may be reading headlines and hearing talk about a potential housing bubble or a crash, but it’s important to understand that the data and expert opinions tell a different story.
There’s no denying the housing market has delivered a fair share of challenges to homebuyers over the past two years.
A recent survey from Bankrate asks prospective buyers to identify the biggest obstacles in their homebuying journey.
It can be tempting, especially with how hot the housing market has been over the past two years, to consider selling your home on your own.
![Real Estate Consistently Voted Best Investment [INFOGRAPHIC] | Keeping Current Matters](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/30084241/20220701-KCM-Share.png)
