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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 Homebuyer 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 Economist at Redfin, says: “ My advice for Homebuyer is don’t try to time the market. There are ​a lot of swing factors, like the upcoming jobs report and the presidential election, that could cause the housing market to take unexpected twists and turns. If you find a house you love and can afford to buy it, now’s not a bad time.” Buying More House Than You Can Afford If you’re tempted to stretch your budget a bit further than you should, you’re not alone. A number of buyers are making this mistake right now. But the truth is, it’s actually really important to avoid overextending your budget , especially when other housing expenses like home insurance and taxes are on the rise. You want to talk to the pros to make sure you understand what’ll really work for you. Bankrate offers this advice: “Focus on what monthly payment you can afford rather than fixating on the maximum loan amount you qualify for. Just because you can qualify for a $300,000 loan doesn’t mean you can comfortably handle the monthly payments that come with it along with your other financial obligations.” Missing Out on Assistance Programs That Can Help   Saving up for the upfront costs of homeownership takes some careful planning. You’ve got to think about your closing costs , down payment, and more. And if you don’t work with a team of experienced professionals, you could miss out on programs out there that can make a big difference for you. This is happening more than you realize. According to Realtor.com , almost 80% of first-time buyers qualify for down payment assistance – but only 13% actually take advantage of those programs. So, talk to a lender about your options. Whether you’re buying your first house or your fifth, there may be a program that can help. Not Leaning on the Expertise of a Pro This last one may be the most important of all. The very best way to avoid making a mistake that’s going to cost you is to lean on a pro. With the right team of experts, you can easily dodge these missteps. Bottom Line The good news is you don’t have to deal with any of these headaches. Let’s connect so you have a pro on your side who can help you avoid these costly mistakes.

If you’re toying with the idea of selling your house, you’re probably wondering how much it’ll cost. To be honest, the final number will depend on several factors like the offer you accept, if you help with your buyer’s closing costs, how many repairs you tackle, and more. So, to give you a ballpark of what to expect, here’s some information on a few of the expenses you’ll want to be ready for ( see graph below ): But here’s something that puts those costs into perspective. Most homeowners today have a substantial amount of equity built up in their homes, and that means they stand to make significant gains when they sell. Chances are, you do too. This can help quickly recoup these selling costs. You may even have enough equity leftover to put some toward your next home purchase too. Let’s dive into a few of the costs from the graph above, so you have a bit more context on what they include and where you may be able to save some money, when it makes sense. Closing Costs and Commission These are the fees you’ll pay at the closing table to cover various aspects of the sale. You’ll have your own closing costs and you may even offer to pay some of the buyer’s as a concession. As U.S. News Real Estate explains: “Closing costs are fees that are paid to finalize the transaction and transfer ownership of the home to the buyer . . . Sellers can expect to pay 2% to 4% of the sale price of the home in fees and taxes on top of the agent commission. Based on the national median home sale price, this means that closing costs in 2023 for sellers are about $7,740 to $15,480. . .” Taxes are going to vary by state and agent commissions depend on what you agree upon upfront. And keep in mind, that the numbers in the chart above are just an example, not exact figures. Not to mention, if you put money toward things like your property taxes, mortgage escrow, etc. as part of your current mortgage payments – there's a chance you’ll get a credit back at closing that can help offset some of these selling expenses. Pre-Listing Inspection and Repairs One optional step some sellers take is having a pre-listing inspection. It gives you an idea of what may pop up later on in the buyer’s inspection – because those are the items a buyer may ask you to toss in a credit (or concession) to cover later on. This allows you to get a jump on any repairs and tackle them before you list, so your house is set up to impress from the start. Again, if you want to skip this step, an agent can help. They’ll be able to give you advice on things like paint colors, small cosmetic repairs, what buyers are looking for, and whether it’s worth tackling anything else ahead of time. This will help make sure you’re spending money on things that are most likely to net you a solid return on your investment. Home Staging As inventory grows, you may want to take a few extra steps to make sure your house stands out. Staging is an optional way to make sure your house shows well. It can include bringing in rental furniture if the house is vacant or art to warm up the walls. Some staging can even be done virtually once the photos are taken. But, in general, how much does it cost? According to Bankrate : “Home sellers typically pay somewhere between $782 and $2,817 in home staging costs . . . but the price tag can vary widely.” If you want to skip this step, you could opt to lean on your agent’s advice for what looks good and what may feel cluttered. A great agent will suggest things like removing a chair to open up the flow of a room, laying down a rug to add warmth to a space, or taking down photographs to de-personalize strategic areas. Why Leaning on an Agent Is Key If you’re looking to cut down on your costs, you have options. But be careful of where you trim. You may be able to skip staging or a pre-listing inspection since those are optional, but you don’t want to skimp and sell without a pro. An agent is your go-to expert throughout the transaction. They’ll offer customized advice every step of the way, including how to stage the house and what repairs to tackle. This can help you avoid hiring an outside stager or having to pay for a pre-listing inspection. But that’s not the only way your agent adds value. They’ll also create tailored marketing and pricing strategies that’ll highlight the house’s best assets and any work you did to get the home show ready. And that can actually help your house sell for more in the long run. Bottom Line Want a better picture of what you should expect when you sell your house? Let’s have a conversation and walk through it together.

Since the supply of homes for sale is growing and mortgage rates are coming down, you may be thinking it’s finally your moment to jump into the market. To make sure you’re ready, you need to get pre-approved for a mortgage. That’s when a lender looks at your finances, including things like your W-2, tax returns, credit score , and bank statements, to figure out what they’re willing to loan you. After that process, you’ll get a pre-approval letter to show what you can borrow. Here are two reasons why this is essential in today’s market. Pre-Approval Helps You Know Your Numbers While home affordability is finally starting to show signs of improving, it’s still tight. So, it’s a good idea to talk to a lender about your loan options and how today’s changing mortgage rates  will impact your monthly payment. The pre-approval process is the perfect time for that. In addition to determining the maximum amount you can borrow, pre-approval also helps you understand this piece of the puzzle. As Investopedia says: “Consulting with a lender and obtaining a pre-approval letter allows you to discuss loan options and budgeting with the lender; this step can clarify your total house-hunting budget and the monthly mortgage payment you can afford.” You should use this information to tailor your home search to what you’re actually comfortable with budget-wise. Since mortgage rates have inched down some lately, you may find you’re able to afford a bit more than you’d expect for your monthly payment, but you still want to avoid overextending. As CNET explains: “In many cases, a lender may preapprove you for more than you need to spend on a home. And while it can be tempting to look at houses outside your budget, it won’t help you in the long run. Before you start touring homes, figure out how much you can realistically afford and stick to your budget.” Pre-Approval Makes Your Offer More Appealing And once you do find a home you want in your budget, pre-approval has another big perk. It not only makes your offer stronger, it also shows sellers you’ve already undergone a credit and financial check. When a seller sees you as a serious buyer, they may be more attracted to your offer because it seems more likely to go through. As Greg McBride, Chief Financial Analyst at Bankrate, says: “Preapproval carries more weight because it means lenders have actually done more than a cursory review of your credit and your finances, but have instead reviewed your pay stubs, tax returns and bank statements. A preapproval means you’ve cleared the hurdles necessary to be approved for a mortgage up to a certain dollar amount.” As mortgage rates trend down, more buyers are going to be ready to jump back into the market. And while demand is still limited right now, there’s the potential for competition to pick back up, especially in hot markets. So, why not stack the deck in your favor and make sure you’re putting yourself in the best position possible when you find a home you love? Bottom Line If you’re planning on buying a home, don’t forget to get pre-approved early in the process. It can help you get a more in-depth understanding of what you can borrow and shows sellers you mean business.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home, you’ve probably got mortgage rates on your mind. That’s because you’ve likely heard that mortgage rates impact how much you can afford in your monthly mortgage payment, and you want to factor that into your planning. Here’s what you need to know. What’s Happening with Mortgage Rates? Mortgage rates have been trending down recently. While that’s good news for your homebuying plans, it’s important to know that rates can be unpredictable because they’re affected by many factors. Things like the economy , job market, inflation, and decisions made by the Federal Reserve all play a part. So, even as rates go down, they can still bounce around a bit based on new economic data. As Odeta Kushi, Deputy Chief Economist at First American , says: “The ongoing deceleration in inflation, coupled with the Federal Reserve’s recent indication of potential rate cuts [in 2024], suggests an environment supportive of modest declines in mortgage rates. Barring any unforeseen circumstances and resurgence in inflation, lower mortgage rates could be on the horizon, but the journey towards them might be slow and bumpy. ” How Do These Changes Affect You? When mortgage rates change, it affects how much you pay each month for your home loan. Even a small rate change can make a big difference to your monthly bill. Take a look at the chart below to see how different mortgage rates impact your house payment each month for various loan amounts. Imagine you can afford a monthly payment of $2,600 for your home loan. The green part in the chart shows payments in that range or lower based on varying mortgage rates ( see chart below ): Understanding how mortgage rates impact your payment helps you make better decisions . How Can You Keep Track of the Latest on Rates? Real estate agents have the expertise to help you understand what’s happening and what it means for you. They can provide tools and visuals, like the chart above, to show how rate changes impact your buying power. You don’t need to be a mortgage expert; you just need a professional by your side. Someone who can help you make sense of the market and guide you through your homebuying or selling journey. Bottom Line If you have questions about the housing market, let’s connect. That way you’ll understand what’s going on and how to navigate it.

In the dynamic landscape of real estate, one of the most valuable assets a homeowner possesses is equity. Over the past year alone, homeowners nationwide have seen an average increase of $28,000 in their home equity, contributing to a staggering collective total of $305,000 in equity per household. This significant financial leverage opens doors to various opportunities for savvy homeowners looking to maximize their investments and plan for the future. Understanding Home Equity Home equity represents the current market value of your home minus any outstanding mortgage balance. Essentially, it's the portion of your property that you truly own. As property values rise and mortgage balances decrease, your equity grows, serving as a powerful financial resource. The Power of Equity Financial Flexibility : Equity provides homeowners with financial flexibility to pursue various goals. Whether you're planning a major renovation, consolidating debt, funding education, or preparing for retirement, tapping into your home equity can provide the necessary funds at competitive interest rates. Investment Opportunities : For those looking to expand their investment portfolio, home equity can serve as a strategic tool. From purchasing additional properties to investing in stocks or starting a business, leveraging equity can amplify your financial growth potential. Improving Your Property : Enhancing your home's value through renovations not only enhances your living experience but also increases its market worth. Whether it's upgrading kitchens and bathrooms or adding energy-efficient features, using equity wisely can yield substantial returns when it's time to sell. Professional Equity Assessment Report Interested in discovering how much equity your home holds? Our Professional Equity Assessment Report provides you with a detailed analysis tailored to your property's current market conditions and financial standing. Simply comment "Equity" below, and our team will guide you through the process, ensuring you make informed decisions about leveraging your home's equity. Conclusion As real estate professionals committed to empowering homeowners, we understand the transformative potential of home equity. Whether you're looking to seize investment opportunities, fund major expenses, or optimize your property's value, unlocking your home's equity can pave the way for a brighter financial future. Take the first step today by exploring your equity potential with us. Your home is more than just a place to live—it's a cornerstone of your financial security and prosperity. Ready to unlock the benefits of your home's equity? Contact us today and let's embark on this journey together. Your future begins with understanding the power of your home's equity.

If you’re trying to decide if you’re ready to buy a home, there’s probably a lot on your mind. You’re thinking about your finances, today’s  mortgage rates  and  home prices , the limited supply of homes for sale, and more . And, you’re juggling how all of those things will impact the choice you’ll make. While housing market conditions are definitely a factor in  your decision , your own personal situation and your finances matter too. As an article from  NerdWallet  says: “Housing market trends give important context. But  whether this is a good time to buy a house also depends on your financial situation, life goals and readiness to become a homeowner .” Instead of trying to time the market , focus on what you can control. Here are a few questions that can give you clarity on whether you’re ready to make your move. 1. Do You Have a Stable Job? One thing to consider is how stable you feel your employment is. Buying a home is a big purchase, and you’re going to sign a home loan stating you’ll pay that loan back. That's a big commitment. Knowing you have a reliable job and a steady stream of income coming in can help put your mind at ease when making such a large purchase. 2. Have You Figured Out What You Can Afford? If you have reliable paychecks coming in, the next thing to figure out is what you can afford. That’ll depend on your spending habits, debt, and more. To be sure you have a good idea of what to expect from a number's perspective, start by talking to a trusted lender . They’ll be able to tell you about the pre-approval process and what you’re qualified to borrow, current mortgage rates and your approximate monthly payment, closing costs to anticipate, and other expenses you’ll want to budget for. That way you can make an informed decision about whether you’re ready to buy . 3. Do You Have an Emergency Fund? Another key factor is whether you’ll have enough cash left over in case of an emergency. While that’s not fun to think about, it’s an important thing to consider. You don’t want to overextend on the house, and then not be able to weather a storm if one comes along. As CNET says: “You’ll want to have a financial cushion that can cover several months of living expenses, including mortgage payments, in case of unforeseen circumstances, such as job loss or medical emergencies.” 4. How Long Do You Plan To Live There? It was mentioned above, but buying a home involves some upfront expenses . And while you’ll get that money back (and more) as you gain equity , that process takes time. If you plan to move too soon, you may not recoup your investment. For example, if you’re looking to sell and move again in a year, it might not make sense to buy right now. As Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), explains: “Five years is a good, comfortable mark. If the price of your home appreciates considerably, then even three years would be fine.” So, think about your future. If you plan to transfer to a new city with the upcoming promotion you’re working toward or you anticipate your loved ones will need you to move closer to take care of them, that’s something to factor in. 5. Above all else, the most important question to answer is:  do you have a team of real estate professionals in place?   If not, finding a trusted local agent and a lender is a good first step. The pros can talk you through your options and help you decide if you’re ready to take the plunge or if you have a few more things to get in order first. Bottom Line If you want to have a conversation about all the things you need to consider to determine if you’re ready to Buy a Home, let’s connect.

Buying a probate property can be a unique opportunity for prospective homeowners and investors alike. Here are three compelling reasons why you might want to consider purchasing a property from an estate in probate. 1. Potential for Bargains One of the main attractions of probate properties is the potential to buy at a lower price. Executors of the estate, often motivated to sell quickly to settle debts and distribute the inheritance, may price the property competitively. This urgency can translate into significant savings for buyers. If you're willing to take on a property that may need some renovation, you can often find deals well below market value, providing a cost-effective entry into homeownership or an investment opportunity. 2. Less Competition Compared to the traditional real estate market, probate properties often face less competition from other buyers. Many buyers are unfamiliar with the probate process or prefer the simplicity of conventional transactions. This reduced competition can work in your favor, as fewer bids may keep the purchase price lower. Additionally, the probate sale process, which requires court approval, can deter less committed buyers, leaving the field open for those who are well-prepared and informed. 3. Diverse Investment Opportunities Probate properties can offer diverse investment opportunities. Whether you're looking to flip a home, buy a rental property, or find a long-term residence, probate sales can provide various options. These properties are often found in established neighborhoods with good infrastructure and amenities, increasing their appeal and potential value. By investing in a probate property, you have the opportunity to restore and enhance the home, thereby increasing its market value and your potential return on investment. Final Thoughts While purchasing a probate property can come with challenges, such as navigating the legal complexities and dealing with potential property condition issues, the rewards can be substantial. By being diligent, conducting thorough research, and possibly seeking the help of a real estate professional experienced in probate sales, you can turn these opportunities into profitable ventures. Disclaimer:  Always consult with a legal or real estate professional to understand the specifics of probate sales in your area and to ensure that you are making a well-informed decision.

In today's competitive housing market, one of the biggest challenges for homebuyers is coming up with the upfront costs. The good news? There are over 2,000 down payment assistance programs available that can make your dream of homeownership a reality. Understanding and leveraging these programs can be a game-changer, especially when affordability is tight. Why Down Payment Assistance Matters For many potential homeowners, the down payment is the most significant barrier to buying a home. With rising home prices, saving for a down payment can feel overwhelming. This is where down payment assistance programs come in. These programs are designed to help you cover the upfront costs, making it easier to purchase a home without depleting your savings. Types of Down Payment Assistance Programs Down payment assistance programs come in various forms, including: Grants: Free money that you don’t have to repay. Low-interest loans: Loans specifically for the down payment, often with favorable terms. Deferred payment loans: Loans that don’t require repayment until you sell or refinance your home. Matched savings programs: Programs where your savings are matched by a certain amount, boosting your down payment fund. Each program has its own eligibility requirements, so it’s essential to research which ones you qualify for. Benefits of Using Down Payment Assistance Reduced Financial Strain: Covering the down payment with assistance means you can maintain your savings for other expenses. Increased Purchasing Power: With down payment assistance, you may be able to afford a more expensive home or one in a more desirable area. Quicker Path to Homeownership: Assistance programs can shorten the time it takes to save for a down payment, getting you into your new home faster. How to Find the Right Program for You Finding the right down payment assistance program can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some tips: Research Online: Start with a simple search for down payment assistance programs in your area. Talk to Your Real Estate Agent: Experienced agents often have knowledge of local programs and can guide you through the process. Consult with a Mortgage Broker: Brokers can help you identify programs that match your financial situation and homebuying goals. Take Action Today Don’t let the down payment stand between you and your dream home. Explore down payment assistance programs and take the first step towards homeownership. Ready to get started? Contact us today to learn more about available down payment assistance programs and how we can help you navigate the homebuying process.

With all the headlines and talk about housing affordability, it can be tempting to get lost in the financial side of buying a home. That’s only natural as you think about the dollars and cents of it all. And while you ultimately need to be able to afford a home you buy, don’t lose sight of why homeownership was so important to you in the first place. That’s because buying a home is so much more than just a financial transaction. As the National Association of Realtors (NAR) says: “The benefits of purchasing and owning your place of residence are both financial and emotional – pride in homeownership and the feeling of security are huge intangible benefits.” Here’s a look at just a few of those more emotional or lifestyle perks, to help anchor you to why homeownership is one of your goals. A Sense of Satisfaction Owning a home is often associated with better mental health and well-being. That’s probably because buying a home is a big milestone. And the sense of satisfaction and pride that comes with achieving that goal just feels good. A recent article from the Mortgage Reports says for v: “By and large, homeownership brings more satisfaction than renting. . . Surveyees scored the overall happiness level of homeowners at 88% compared to 67% for renters.” More Stability for Your Family Another thing that may make homeowners feel more satisfied is that they’re finally able to put down roots. Think about it. If you’re used to moving each time your lease renews and your rent climbs, staying put for a while would be nice not just for you, but for any loved ones that live with you. A home can provide more predictability and the chance to make long-term friends. That should reduce everyone’s stress too. As NAR explains: “Families also benefit from homeownership, with studies proving that parents are able to spend less time in a stressed state, therefore spending more time with their children. The ability for parents to feel stable has a huge impact on children’s behavioral issues, educational success, and future economic success.” A Stronger Feeling of Community And if you’re also looking for a sense of belonging for yourself, homeownership can help with that too. As FinHabits says: “Homeowners tend to be more involved in their local communities, leading to a stronger sense of belonging . . .” It makes sense. Your home connects you to your neighborhood and, by extension, your broader community. That’s because owning a home gives you a stake in that community’s future. So, becoming more involved and wanting to do what you can to help improve the area while making long-term relationships with neighbors is only natural. The Ability To Make the Space Your Own And don’t forget, your home is a place that’s all yours. Unless you’ve got specific homeowner’s association requirements, you’re free to customize it however you see fit. So, if renting has been cramping your style, it’s time to express yourself and jump on the latest trends (if you want to). Whether that’s small home improvements or full-on renovations, your house can be exactly what you want and need it to be. And as your tastes and lifestyle change, so can your home. Picture coming home each day to a place that feels like you. That’s a feeling like no other. Bottom Line: If you want to enjoy a sense of accomplishment and pride in where you’re living, let’s have a conversation to go over what you need to do now to make this future homeownership happen for you.

California's housing market has been a rollercoaster ride. While scorching hot price increases seem to be cooling off, there's still a long way to go before homes become truly affordable for most residents. There's a glimmer of hope on the horizon, though. Recent data shows a slow but steady increase in the number of houses available for sale. This means more options for buyers and potentially less intense competition. However, it's important to remember that overall inventory remains low. Think of it like musical chairs: there are still way more players (buyers) than there are chairs (homes). This keeps the pressure on prices, making it tough for many Californians, especially first-time buyers, to find a place they can afford. Another factor impacting the market is a recent Supreme Court decision that could slow down new construction. This might further limit the number of houses available in the long run. So, what does this all mean? The California housing market is in a state of cautious optimism. Inventory is rising, but affordability concerns remain. Whether this translates into a more balanced market with more attainable housing options remains to be seen. Stay tuned for further updates!

California’s housing market is a complex beast, and probate real estate adds another layer of intrigue. Here’s a breakdown of the recent buzz surrounding probate properties in the sunshine state: Potential Price Breaks for Savvy Buyers: While California’s housing market remains notoriously competitive, probate properties can offer opportunities. Heirs motivated to settle the estate quickly may be more inclined to accept offers below market value. Stay tuned for listings that might present a chance to snag a piece of California dreamin’ at a relative discount https://trustandwill.com/learn/probate-sale-california. Streamlined Sales with the IAEA: The Independent Administration of Estates Act (IAEA) offers a smoother probate process for real estate sales. This act empowers executors with the authority to sell property without extensive court involvement, potentially expediting the closing process https://trustandwill.com/learn/probate-sale-california. Keep it Legal: Court Oversight Still Matters Even with the IAEA, probate sales still require court approval in certain situations. This ensures everything is above board and protects the interests of all beneficiaries. An experienced probate attorney can guide you through the legalities https://selfhelp.courts.ca.gov/wills-estates-probate. News to Watch For: Impact of Interest Rates: Rising interest rates may cool the overall housing market, potentially affecting probate property values as well. Legislative Updates: Stay informed about any changes to California’s probate code that could impact the process or timelines. Remember: Probate real estate offers unique opportunities and challenges. Consulting with a lawyer specializing in probate and estate law is crucial for navigating the intricacies of the process. With careful planning and the right guidance, you can successfully navigate the world of California probate real estate.

You may have heard mortgage rates are going to stay a bit higher for longer than originally expected. And if you’re wondering why, the answer lies in the latest economic data. Here’s a quick overview of what’s happening with mortgage rates and what experts say is ahead. Economic Factors That Impact Mortgage Rates: When it comes to mortgage rates, things like the job market, the pace of inflation, consumer spending, geopolitical uncertainty, and more all have an impact. Another factor at play is the Federal Reserve (the Fed) and its decisions on monetary policy. And that’s what you may be hearing a lot about right now. Here’s why. The Fed decided to start raising the Federal Funds Rate to try to slow down the economy (and inflation) in early 2022. That rate impacts how much it costs banks to borrow money from each other. It doesn't determine mortgage rates, but mortgage rates do respond when this happens. And that’s when mortgage rates started to really climb. And while there’s been a ton of headway seeing inflation come down since then, it still isn’t back to where the Fed wants it to be (2%). The graph below shows inflation since the spike in early 2022, and where we are now compared to their target rate: As the graph shows, we’re much closer to their goal of 2% inflation than we were in 2022 – but we’re not there yet. It's even inched up a hair over the last 3 months – and that’s having an impact on the Fed’s plans. As Sam Khater, Chief Economist at Freddie Mac, explains: “Strong incoming economic and inflation data has caused the market to re-evaluate the path of monetary policy, leading to higher mortgage rates.” Basically, long story short, inflation and its impact on the broader economy are going to be key moving forward. As Greg McBride, Chief Financial Analyst at Bankrate, says: “It’s the longer-term outlook for economic growth and inflation that have the greatest bearing on the level and direction of mortgage rates. Inflation, inflation, inflation — that’s really the hub on the wheel.” When Will Mortgage Rates Come Down? Based on current market data, experts think inflation will be more under control and we still may see the Fed lower the Federal Funds Rate this year. It’ll just be later than originally expected. As Mike Fratantoni, Chief Economist at the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), said in response to the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) decision yesterday: “The FOMC did not change the federal funds target at its May meeting, as incoming data regarding the strength of the economy and stubbornly high inflation have resulted in a shift in the timing of a first rate cut. We expect mortgage rates to drop later this year, but not as far or as fast as we previously had predicted.” In the simplest sense, what this says is that mortgage rates should still come down later this year. But timing can shift as new employment and economic data come in, geopolitical uncertainty remains, and more. This is one of the reasons it’s usually not a good strategy to try to time the market. An article in Bankrate gives buyers this advice: “ . . . trying to time the market is generally a bad idea. If buying a house is the right move for you now, don’t stress about trends or economic outlooks.” Bottom Line If you have questions about what’s happening in the housing market and what that means for you, let’s connect.