Fixer-uppers are hotter than ever. Searches for homes in need of TLC have tripled since 2021, and these listings now rack up 50% more online views than similar properties. The appeal is clear: lower prices and the chance to customize. But with those benefits come risks that can drain your wallet and patience if you’re not prepared. So—is a fixer-upper worth it? Let’s break down the rewards, risks, and what you should watch for before […]
Read More
You can’t perfectly “time” the housing market. But this year, the week of October 12–18, 2025, is expected to be the best week of the year to buy a home—and the data backs it up. Why? Because in mid-October, buyers typically see: That combination gives you more choices, better leverage, and a greater chance to secure the right home without a bidding war. Why Mid-October Matters Fall is already a turning point in real estate, […]
Read More
If you’re planning on selling your home in 2026, the best time to get ready isn’t next year. It’s right now. The spring market has always been the busiest time for buyers. While demand is expected to heat up again as the weather warms, today’s real estate market looks very different than it did even a few years ago. Starting early can mean the difference between a smooth sale and a stressful one. Why Timing […]
Read More
If you’re trying to save for a house in Loudoun or Jefferson County right now, you’re not imagining things—it is harder. Between high rent, rising home prices, and inflation that stretches every dollar, your down payment fund can feel out of reach. Add in wedding season, birthdays, and vacations, and suddenly your savings plan looks more like a wish list. For example, attending just one wedding (with gifts, travel, and festivities) costs an average of […]
Read More
What if you could save $150 a month on the same house—without changing your budget or lifestyle? That’s exactly what’s happening right now. Mortgage rates have slipped to their lowest point in 11 months, giving homebuyers in Northern Virginia and the Eastern Panhandle more purchasing power than they’ve had in nearly a year. Let’s break down why this matters for you. What Happens When Mortgage Rates Drop? Think of mortgage rates as the price tag […]
Read More
Getting Ready to Sell: What Really Matters to Buyers When you’re preparing to sell your home, it’s easy to notice every little flaw—the crack in the driveway, the scuffed baseboards, or the old outlet that never worked. But here’s the truth: buyers don’t see your house the same way you do. As homeowners, we live with small imperfections daily, and they start to feel bigger than they are. To buyers, those same issues often feel […]
Read More
If you’ve been following the housing headlines lately, you’ve probably noticed a lot of conflicting takes. Some reports say prices are rising, while others point to declines. So what’s really happening? A recent Zillow report shows a split market: in half of the country’s largest metros, home values went up in the past year, while in the other half, they went down. Today, we’re breaking down the national numbers, and more importantly, what’s happening right […]
Read More
If you’ve been wondering whether buyers are still out there, here’s your answer: yes. And they’re looking more online than they have in two years. Even before last week’s big mortgage rate news (ICYMI, rates dipped to 6.55% on August 7), online searches for “homes for sale” were climbing fast in July. That means plenty of people were already getting serious about finding their next home. The kicker? After that dip, mortgage applications jumped. And […]
Read More
For the first time in years, existing homes (yes, the older ones that often need updates) are selling for more than brand-new construction. According to the latest numbers, the median price of an existing home is $429,400. For a newly built home? $410,800. That’s an $18,600 difference. So if you’ve been eyeing a resale home thinking it’s the “cheaper” option, you might want to check out all your options. Let’s break down what’s going on, […]
Read More
If you’ve owned your home for more than a few years, chances are you’re sitting on a significant amount of equity and possibly wondering if now’s the time to downsize. According to a recent Realtor.com analysis, baby boomers—those born between 1946 and 1964—own an estimated $18 to $19 trillion worth of real estate. That’s nearly half of the housing wealth in the U.S. Whether your kids are out of the house, you’re retiring, or just […]
Read More