Tag: homeownership

  • Smart Steps to Start Your 2026 Homebuying Plan

    Starting your 2026 homebuying journey now can give you a meaningful edge — especially if you know what the market looked like at the end of 2025. In the final months of 2025, U.S. homeowners and prospective buyers saw a mix of encouraging and cautious housing signals: Economists forecast that existing home sales could increase…

  • How New Credit Score Models Impact Home Buyers

    If you’re planning to buy a home soon, big changes are coming to how your credit is scored — and they could work in your favor. The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) has approved two new credit scoring models — VantageScore 4.0 and FICO 10T — for mortgages backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.…

  • Buying a Home During the Shutdown: What to Expect

    If you’re planning to buy a home in the DMV area while the government is shut down, you’re not alone—and you’ll want to know exactly what’s ahead. From verification delays to flood‐insurance issues, the shutdown is creating new friction in the home-buying process. This guide walks through what to expect in terms of housing resources,…

  • Want to Buy Your First Home? Here’s Guidance

    If you’ve been renting for years, the thought to buy your first home can feel overwhelming. You might wonder if the timing is right, if the market is favorable, or whether you’re truly ready for the responsibilities of ownership. Being on the fence is normal, but the right guidance can make the decision much easier.…

  • Your Guide to Buy a Home Before Year-End

    If you want to buy a home before year-end, now is the time to act with a clear plan. The last months of the year bring unique opportunities for buyers, but success depends on preparation and quick decisions. Here’s how to make it happen. Get Pre-Approved Now The first step is securing financing. A pre-approval…

  • Rising Home Insurance Costs 2025: How Homeowners Can Save

    Homeowners across the U.S. are feeling the pinch as rising home insurance costs become a major concern in 2025. With more frequent severe weather events, insurers are adjusting premiums—and in some cases, pulling out of high-risk areas entirely. Here’s what’s driving costs up and what you can do to protect your home and your wallet.…

  • First-Time Home Buyer Strategies: How to Afford a Home in 2025

    Buying your first home has never been easy—but in 2025, affordability challenges have forced buyers to think outside the box. Between higher home prices, climbing insurance costs, and limited inventory, first-time buyers are using creative home buyer strategies to secure homeownership without breaking the bank. Here are the top five first-time home buyer strategies working…

  • Refinance Mortgage 2025: Is Now the Right Time for Homeowners?

    With mortgage rates hitting an 11-month low in 2025, many homeowners are wondering if now is the right time to refinance. Lower rates can mean reduced monthly payments, shorter loan terms, or cash for home upgrades—but refinancing isn’t right for everyone. Here’s what you need to know before deciding whether a refinance mortgage in 2025…

  • Buying a Home 2025: Smart Strategies to Navigate the Market

    Buying a home in 2025 may feel overwhelming. Prices remain high, inventory is improving but still limited, and mortgage rates—though slightly lower—continue to challenge affordability. But here’s the good news: with the right strategy, preparation, and timing, it’s still possible to find the perfect home and make a smart investment. In this guide, we’ll walk…

  • Why Fall Is the Best Time to Buy a Home

    If you are looking to buy a home in fall, this season offers unique advantages that can make your purchase smoother and more cost-effective. With fewer buyers competing for properties, motivated sellers eager to close before year-end, and potential tax benefits, fall presents an ideal window to secure a home. Less Competition, More ChoicesThe spring…