- First-time buyers in 2026 should focus on readiness, not rate timing. Pricing constraints remain, so early lender talks and clear budgets can help.
- With home prices up, more buyers are partnering with friends to afford a home. Experts urge clear planning and legal agreements.
- A new report finds property insurance costs would be 14.5% higher without recent reform, stabilizing a major expense in Florida home purchases.
- Temporary tax breaks through 2029 may help small business owners. Review SALT limits, income phaseouts and new deductions to capture savings.
- As the market steadies, newer agents may have an edge by focusing on fundamentals, building owned systems and tracking progress from first contact to closing.
- The 30-year mortgage rate slipped to 6.09% from 6.11% last week, while 15-year rates fell to 5.44%. Rates are expected to hover near 6% as spring buying begins.
- A 600 score falls in the fair range. Buyers may face fewer loan options and higher rates, though some mortgage programs allow lower scores.
- Not every upgrade boosts value. Buyers favor functional layouts, light and move-in ready condition, while highly personal projects often bring limited returns.
- U.S. existing-home sales fell 8.4% in January, including a 9% drop in the South. Prices reached a January high and mortgage rates were lower than a year ago.
- Buyers and sellers shape opinions on Reddit, TikTok and YouTube before calling. Realtors who show up where trust forms can win earlier in the decision cycle.
- The FinCEN rule requires reports on certain all-cash sales involving entities or trusts, adding compliance duties for title companies and closing agents in some cases.
- Designers say stairways can boost a home’s appeal with runners, paint, lighting or wallpaper. Simple updates can stand out in photos and help listings shine.
- Wood cabinets now lead kitchen remodels, reflecting warmer design trends that can help listings feel updated, on-trend and more appealing to today’s buyers.
- Buyers are delaying moves over rate and price worries. For agents, that means resetting expectations, correcting myths and stressing long-term value.
