Don’t Meet the Conventional Mortgage Requirements? You Still Can Get a Loan
If you’re planning on buying a house, you’re probably aware of the hurdles that stand in your path to getting a mortgage. Qualifying for a home loan can be an uphill task, thanks to the strict federal regulations that came into effect in the wake of the housing bust. That’s especially true if you’re considered…
Selling the Dream: How Lifestyle Photography Elevates Real Estate Marketing
Gone are the days when a simple snapshot of a spacious living room or a sleek kitchen would suffice. Today’s discerning buyers aren’t merely seeking bricks and mortar—they’re on the hunt for a place where dreams merge with reality, where every corner holds a promise of memories yet to be made. This is where lifestyle…
Should You Roll Your Student Loans Into Your Mortgage?
Student loan debt is a major burden for millions of Americans. In 2023, the total outstanding student loan debt in the United States is over $1.6 trillion. The average monthly payment for those with outstanding student loans is over $300. The student loan payment pause during the COVID-19 pandemic has provided some relief to borrowers….
Mortgage Rates Increase Slightly, Applications Rise
On Thursday, September 21, 2023, Freddie Mac released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey® (PMMS®), showing the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 7.19 percent, up from last week when it averaged 7.18 percent. A year ago at this time, the 30-year FRM averaged 6.29 percent. The 15-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 6.54 percent, up from last week when it averaged…
FOMC Meeting Preview: What to Expect for Mortgage Rates and the Home Buying Market
The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) is set to conclude their latest meeting on Wednesday September 20, 2023. The FOMC is the Federal Reserve’s policy-making committee, and its decisions have a major impact on the economy, including mortgage rates. “We anticipate that the FOMC is going to take a pause and hold the Fed Funds…
5 Fall Marketing Opportunities for Agents
It’s that time of year again. Pumpkin spice is all the rage. The leaves are changing, the weather’s cooling, and a whole slew of new marketing opportunities are starting to emerge. It’s true: With fall comes community events, family get-togethers, and tons of ways to get your name out there and start drumming up new business. Will you…
The Art of Crafting Irresistible Real Estate Listings: Hyper-Personalization for Niche Buyers
Generic property listings will no longer sell you houses. Nowadays, only personalization can supercharge your success in real estate. It’s not just a nice-to-have; it’s a must-have. When you tailor your listings, you’re not just selling a property; you’re selling an experience. You’re igniting emotions and creating a connection that goes beyond four walls and…
Happy Hispanic Heritage Month
As a Realtor®, building strong relationships with your clients is crucial to your success. One powerful way to connect with clients on a personal level is by celebrating cultural heritage. September 15th to October 15th marks Hispanic Heritage Month in the United States. This is the perfect opportunity to engage with your Hispanic clients and…
Agents, Here Are 4 Tips for Presenting Multiple Offers to a Seller
As a real estate agent, you know that multiple offers have been a common occurrence over the past 3 years. When you have multiple offers on a property, it can be a daunting task to know how to best represent your clients. Here are some tips on how to handle multiple offers for your clients:…
Seamless Showings: Elevating Home Buying Experiences with Virtual Reality Tours
The real estate industry, for decades, relied on traditional methods for showcasing properties. People would schedule in-person visits, often touring multiple homes before making a decision. However, the landscape began to shift dramatically, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. As the world retreated indoors, the traditional model of buying and selling homes underwent…