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 […]
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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 […]
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Homeownership is amazing—but it’s also a total lifestyle shift from the rental days. From surprise plumbing issues to finally being able to pick paint colors, there’s a whole lot that changes. If you’re considering making the leap, understanding these shifts can prepare you for what lies ahead and ensure a smoother transition to homeownership. 1. Wealth-Building Equity Owning a home means transitioning from monthly rent payments that don’t contribute to your future to mortgage payments […]
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The 2025 housing market is shaping up to be an interesting one—steady growth, more inventory, and a bit of breathing room for buyers. But let’s be real: behind every steady forecast lies a handful of wild cards that could shift the game. From unexpected mortgage rate swings to federal policies that could either boost supply or throw a wrench in the system, there’s plenty to keep an eye on this upcoming year. Let’s break it […]
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For the first time since 2020, housing affordability improved year over year. This is largely due to a drop in mortgage rates, which have dipped from 7.07% to 6.09% over the past year. While this is undoubtedly great news for home buyers, affordability remains a challenge for many. According to recent data, U.S. buyers now need to earn around $115,000 annually to afford the typical home, down 1.4% from last year. Yet, the average U.S. […]
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