All Things DMV Real Estate

Category: Homeownership

  • Buying Down Your Interest Rate: A Smart Buyer’s Guide

    When purchasing a home, every fraction of a percentage on your interest rate matters. One way to save money over the life of your loan is by buying down your rate—often called paying for “points.” Here’s what that means and how it works. What Does “Buying Down Your Rate” Mean? A mortgage “buydown” lets you…

  • 7 Ways to Lower Your Mortgage Payment Without Refinancing.

    Lowering your mortgage payment doesn’t always require refinancing. While refinancing can help in some cases, it comes with closing costs, credit checks, and possible interest rate changes that may not work in your favor. Fortunately, there are several strategies you can use to reduce your mortgage payment without taking on a new loan. By exploring…

  • 5 Red Flags Millennials Shouldn’t Miss at Home Showings

    In 2025, millennials make up a significant portion of first-time and move-up buyers, and knowing what to watch for during a showing can save thousands in future repairs and headaches. Spotting Home Buying Red Flags early can help you make smarter decisions and avoid buyer’s remorse. Here are the top warning signs you shouldn’t overlook.…

  • Home Safety Tips for Hurricanes, Heat, and Flooding

    Home safety is more important than ever during hurricane season, flash floods, and extreme heatwaves. From damaged roofs to power outages, these weather events can quickly turn dangerous. But the good news? A few smart, proactive steps can make all the difference in keeping your home and family safe. Hurricane Preparation: Secure Your Home Early…

  • 2025 Homeownership Tax Perks That Save You Money

    For many, buying a home is a personal milestone—but it also comes with financial advantages that go far beyond building equity. If you’re a homeowner (or planning to become one), you could be eligible for valuable homeownership tax perks that may reduce your taxable income and boost your return. Let’s break down the top homeowner…

  • Tips for Buying the Right Forever Home

    Smart Tips for Buying a Forever Home in Today’s Market In a shifting real estate market, buying a forever home is a deeply personal and strategic decision. Unlike a starter home or short-term move, your forever home is where you’ll plant roots, grow your life, and possibly stay for decades — or even a lifetime.…

  • Buyers Migrating to Affordable Suburbs

    In 2025, a clear trend is emerging: buyers migrating to affordable suburbs and secondary cities are reshaping the real estate market. Faced with skyrocketing prices and limited inventory in major metros, many homebuyers are choosing more budget-friendly areas that offer space, quality of life, and growing amenities. This migration not only opens new opportunities for…

  • Assumable Mortgages 101 for Buyers & Sellers

    💡 What Is an Assumable Mortgage? An assumable mortgage is a home loan that allows a buyer to take over the seller’s existing mortgage, including the interest rate, loan balance, and repayment schedule. Instead of applying for a brand-new loan at current interest rates, the buyer “assumes” the seller’s terms—often much more favorable. Why This…

  • Understanding Buyer’s Agent Commissions in DC, MD & VA

    Understanding Buyer’s Agent Commissions in DC, MD & VA

    The Commission Landscape Has Changed If you’re planning to buy a home in Washington, D.C., Maryland, or Northern Virginia, it’s important to understand how buyer’s agent commissions work—especially now. As of mid-2024, significant industry changes mean that Multiple Listing Services (MLS) no longer display the buyer agent’s commission. More importantly, buyers are now responsible for…

  • Mortgage Rate Trends: What Buyers & Sellers Should Know

    Mortgage Rate Trends: What Buyers & Sellers Should Know

    –And Also What it Means for Real Estate Investors Mortgage rate trends have taken a turn in early July 2025, with the average 30-year fixed rate dipping to 6.67%, down from 6.77% the previous week, according to Freddie Mac. For real estate buyers, sellers, and investors, this shift in rates opens a few unique opportunities…