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The Optimistic Realist For the past few years, we’ve all experienced the impact of high mortgage rates on our local housing market. Each year, analysts came out with an optimistic view—rates would improve, and transaction volume would follow. Only, it didn’t happen. To the surprise of many, rates remained elevated, but that didn’t stop housing…

Unlock Free Money with FHLB Down Payment Assistance Homebuyer Grants If you’re dreaming of buying a home in Maryland, DC, or Virginia but feel stuck saving for that down payment, I’ve got some good news for you. There’s a little-known program that could hand you up to $20,000 to help make it happen. While most…

The One (and Only) Benefit of High Mortgage Rates! As mortgage rates remain high, many homeowners feel the pinch of larger monthly payments. But there’s a silver lining that too few fully appreciate: the potential tax savings from the mortgage interest deduction. When purchasing a home, one usually starts with preparing a budget to determine…

Plan Smart, Live Comfortably: Setting Your Home-Buying Budget   Buying a home is an exciting journey filled with dreams and aspirations. It’s a personal milestone that often comes with a mix of emotions, from exhilaration to anxiety. In the thrill of hunting for that perfect place, it’s easy to let your heart lead the way.…

This time last year, Realtors and Lenders went on a social media tour singing the latest hit song, “Marry the House, Date the Rate,” while pitching seller closing incentives and 2-1 Buydowns. Inventory spiked, prices dropped, and seller credits were becoming a thing. Mortgage rates began taking a toll on homebuyer affordability, and many believed…

As home prices rise, it becomes increasingly more difficult for First Time Home Buyers to purchase a new home.  Higher prices lead to more money needed for a down payment!  According to market statistics from GCAAR, the median home price in June 2024 was $710,525 in DC.  At that price, a buyer would need approximately…

By now, you have probably seen headlines like this, “The Federal Reserve will cut interest rates six times in 2024”  Then, as you scroll through Instagram or TikTok, you are flooded with real estate marketing posts saying, “BUY NOW before prices surge as low rates unleash a wave of buyers.” Should you believe the hype? …

It’s no secret the high cost of real estate in Washington, D.C. makes it very difficult for most First-Time Home Buyers to purchase a home.  When buying a home, you not only need to figure out a way to make a down payment, but you also must pay closing costs.  For most properties in DC,…