by Lum Hugh

The Real Reason Home Prices are Increasing | Simplifying The MarketThere are many unsubstantiated theories as to why home values are continuing to increase. From those who are worried that lending standards are again becoming too lenient (data shows this is untrue), to those who are concerned that prices are again approaching boom peaks because of “irrational exuberance” (this is also untrue as prices are […]

Posted in Buying Myths, First Time Home Buyers, For Buyers, Housing Market Updates, Move-Up Buyers, Pricing

by Lum Hugh

2 Charts That Show the Truth about Home Affordability | Simplifying The MarketThere is a lot of discussion about the current state of housing affordability for both first-time and move-up buyers, and much of the narrative is tarnished with a negative slant. However, the truth is that housing affordability is better today than at almost any time in our history. The naysayers are correct in the fact […]

Posted in First Time Home Buyers, For Buyers, Move-Up Buyers, Rent vs. Buy

by Lum Hugh

According to Freddie Mac’s latest Primary Mortgage Market Survey, interest rates for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage are currently at 3.92%, which is still near record lows in comparison to recent history! The interest rate you secure when buying a home not only greatly impacts your monthly housing costs, but also impacts your purchasing power. Purchasing power, simply put, is […]

Posted in First Time Home Buyers, For Buyers, Interest Rates, Move-Up Buyers

by Lum Hugh

The Cost of NOT Owning Your Home | Simplifying The MarketOwning a home has great financial benefits, yet many continue to rent! Today, let’s look at the financial reasons why owning a home of your own has been a part of the American Dream for as long as America has existed. Zillow recently reported that: “In reality, buying or renting a home is an intensely personal decision, […]

Posted in Buying Myths, First Time Home Buyers, For Buyers, Move-Up Buyers, Rent vs. Buy

by Lum Hugh

Some Highlights:

  • The inventory of existing homes for sale has dropped year-over-year for the last 29 consecutive months and is now at a 3.9-month supply.
  • Existing home sales are currently at an annual pace of 5.48 million, the highest pace since June of this year, but down 0.9% from October 2016.
  • NAR’s Chief Economist, Lawrence Yun, had this to say: “While the housing market gained a little more momentum last month, sales are still below year ago levels because low inventory is limiting choices for prospective buyers and keeping price growth elevated.”

Posted in For Buyers, For Sellers, Housing Market Updates, Infographics, Move-Up Buyers

by Lum Hugh

Have a great holiday!

Posted in Uncategorized

by Lum Hugh

Bubble Alert! Is it Getting Too Easy to Get a Mortgage? | Simplifying The MarketThere is little doubt that it is easier to get a home mortgage today than it was last year. The Mortgage Credit Availability Index (MCAI), published by the Mortgage Bankers Association, shows that mortgage credit has become more available in each of the last several years. In fact, in just the last year: More buyers […]

Posted in Buying Myths, First Time Home Buyers, For Buyers, For Sellers, Housing Market Updates, Move-Up Buyers

by Lum Hugh

Access is an Important Factor in Getting Your House SOLD! | Simplifying The MarketSo, you’ve decided to sell your house. You’ve hired a real estate professional to help you with the entire process, and they have asked you what level of access you want to provide to potential buyers. There are four elements to a quality listing. At the top of the list is Access, followed by Condition, […]

Posted in For Sellers, Move-Up Buyers

by Lum Hugh

Homeowners: Your House Must Be Sold TWICE | Simplifying The MarketIn today’s housing market, where supply is very low and demand is very high, home values are increasing rapidly. Many experts are projecting that home values could appreciate by another 5%+ over the next twelve months. One major challenge in such a market is the bank appraisal. If prices are surging, it is difficult for […]

Posted in For Sellers, Move-Up Buyers

by Lum Hugh

Top 4 Home Renovations for Maximum ROI [INFOGRAPHIC] | Simplifying The Market

Some Highlights:

  • Whether you are selling your home, just purchased your first home, or are a homeowner planning to stay put for a while, there is value in knowing which home improvement projects will net you the most “Return On Investment” (ROI).
  • While big projects like adding a bathroom or a complete remodel of a kitchen are popular ways to increase a home’s value, something as simple as updating landscaping and curb appeal can have a quick impact on a home’s value.

Posted in First Time Home Buyers, For Buyers, For Sellers, Infographics, Move-Up Buyers