Over the past year, mortgage rates have fallen more than a full percentage point. This is a great driver for homeownership, as today’s low rates provide consumers with some significant benefits. Here’s a look at three of them: Refinance: If you already own a home, you may want to decide if you’re going to refinance. […]
All posts by Les Sulgrove
Have You Budgeted for Closing Costs?
Saving for a down payment is a key step in the homebuying process, and it’s not the only piece you need to include in your budget. Another factor that’s important to plan for is the closing costs required to obtain a mortgage. What Are Closing Costs? According to Trulia, “When you close on a home, a […]
Millennials Are on the Move as First-Time Homebuyers [INFOGRAPHIC]
Some Highlights: According to NAR’s latest Profile of Home Buyers & Sellers, the median age of all first-time homebuyers is 32. With more millennials entering a homebuying phase of life, they are driving a large portion of the buyer appetite in the market, keeping buyer activity strong. More and more “old millennials” (ages 25-36) are […]
What is the Best Investment for Americans?
Some are reporting that there is trepidation regarding the real estate market in the United States. Apparently, the American people are quite comfortable. Porch.com, a major network helping homeowners with their renovation projects, recently conducted a survey which asked Americans: “What do you believe is the safest investment over the next 10 years?” U.S. housing […]
Is A Bigger House Within Your Budget?
It’s ‘National Roof Over Your Head’ Day!
5 Reasons to Sell This Winter
Below are five compelling reasons to list your house this winter. 1. Demand Is Strong The latest Buyer Traffic Report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows that buyer demand remains strong throughout the vast majority of the country. These buyers are ready, willing, and able to purchase, and are in the market right […]
Des Moines Real Estate Market Better Off Now Than This Time A Year Ago
Comparing this year to last. Last month I had the opportunity to travel to San Francisco CA to attend the National Association of Realtors annual convention. The one session that I look forward to each year is the Residential Economic Issues & Trends Forum presented by National Association of Realtors Chief Economist Dr. Lawrence Yun. […]
Keep Calm and Move On: How to Tackle a Long-Distance Relocation
Whether you’re heading down the street or to a new town, moving is always a tough transition. However, relocating across the country presents a whole new set of challenges you might not have considered. Picking up your life can be an exciting change, but it’s also a bit overwhelming. Need some help navigating the process? […]
Buyers Are Looking For Your Home [INFOGRAPHIC]
Some Highlights: Existing Home Sales are currently at an annual pace of 5.46 million. The inventory of existing homes for sale remains below the 6 months needed for a normal market and is now at a 3.9-month supply. Inventory remains low due to high demand from buyers who are still looking for a house to […]