Down payment requirements in 2026 may be lower than many buyers realize, especially if you’re still assuming you need 20% down to buy a home. That 20% number has been repeated for years. And yes, putting more money down can have benefits. But it is not the only path to homeownership. According to the latest Realtor.com data, the median down payment in the U.S. fell to its lowest level in four years in Q1 2026. […]
Read More
Since September, mortgage rates have been on a rollercoaster. They first dipped into the low 6% range only to climb past 7% by the end of October. Yikes. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. These rate fluctuations can make home buying feel like a guessing game. Fortunately, you don’t have to wait for the “perfect” rate to make your homeownership goals happen. The truth is, buyers can find opportunities no matter where rates land. […]
Read More
Recently, we came across a podcast featuring Skylar Olsen, Zillow’s Chief Economist. Much of the conversation was what you might expect—housing market predictions for 2025, what Zillow got wrong about 2024, and a breakdown of trends shaping real estate across the country. In other words, the kind of data we live for. But as the conversation wrapped up, Olsen was asked a question that shifted the focus: “What does homeownership mean to you?” Her response? […]
Read More
Buying a home is a major milestone, but it’s not always the right time for everyone. It’s important to remember that a home purchase is a long-term investment, and making this decision without proper financial planning can lead to significant stress. For more insights on the long-term benefits of real estate investment, check out our last blog. The truth is, knowing when not to buy a home is just as crucial as knowing when to […]
Read More