Mortgage rates have been back on the rise recently and that’s getting a lot of attention from the press. If you’ve been following the headlines, you may have even seen rates recently reached their highest level in over two decades (see graph below):   That can feel like a little bit of a gut punch if you’re thinking about making a move. If you’re wondering whether or not you should delay your plans, here’s what you really need to know.   ... read more

  That’s right—according to a recent study from Zillow, in 22 of the 50 largest metro areas, monthly mortgage payments are now lower than rent payments (see chart below): As mortgage rates have eased off their recent peak, home prices have moderated, and inventory has ticked up, affordability has improved significantly. When you add all of that up, it’s getting less expensive to buy a home than to rent one in many parts of the country. This is a... read more

  With rising home prices and volatile mortgage rates, it’s important you know about every resource that could help make buying a home possible. And one thing you’ll want to be aware of is just how much the number of down payment assistance (DPA) programs has grown lately. Take a look at the graph below to see how many new programs have been added in the last year, according to data from Down Payment Resource: More Programs, More Opportunities for You So, what does... read more

  Should you buy a home now or should you wait? That’s a big question on many people’s minds today. And while what timing is right for you will depend on a lot of other personal factors, here’s something you may not have considered. If you’re able to buy at today’s rates and prices, it may be better to focus on time in the market, rather than timing the market. The Downside of Trying To Time the Market  Trying to time the market isn&rsqu... read more

Mortgage rates are down a full percentage point since last year. That recent drop doesn’t sound dramatic, until you realize how much it can already save you on the typical $400k loan. Compared to buying in January of last year, that saves you more than $330 a month and almost $120k over the life of your loan. That’s the difference just one year makes. If buying didn’t work for you last year, let’s re-run the numbers and see if 2026 could finally be your year.... read more