Saturday Strategy

Mortgage FAQ's, did you knows and much more...

New Build Financing Insights

In the current market, some new build lenders offer substantial credits to lower interest rates. While this may seem appealing, it's crucial to evaluate the long-term implications. We recently reviewed a client's loan estimate with nearly $40,000 in credits to reduce interest rates, but the home's price was only $380,000. Essentially, they were paying almost 10% more for the house upfront. Yikes! Check out this weeks ​Saturday Strategy Video

Check this out... the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) exists to reflect the true interest rate. In some cases, it can be deceptively high, around 11 to 13%+, due to excessive upfront costs.

Don't rush into decisions. The lowest rate with the wrong strategy can cost you thousands.

Family gathered around a dining table, talking.

Why More People Are Buying Multi-Generational Homes Today

By Kevin Brierton Team | January 24, 2025

Today, 17% of homebuyers are choosing multi-generational homes — that’s when you buy a house with your parents, adult children, or even distant relatives. What makes that noteworthy is that 17% is actually the highest level ever recorded by the National Association of Realtors (NAR). But what’s driving the recent rise in multi-generational living? Top Benefits of Choosing a Multi-Generational Home In…

Two women working together in living room.

If Your House’s Price Is Not Compelling, It’s Not Selling

By Kevin Brierton Team | January 23, 2025

There’s one big mistake you need to avoid when you sell your house this year: setting your price too high. It might seem like overpricing gives you room to negotiate or could really boost your profit, but the reality is, it usually backfires. In fact, Realtor.com says almost 20% of sellers — that’s one in five — have to reduce their price…

Colorful alarm clocks on a blue background.

When Is the Perfect Time To Move?

By Kevin Brierton Team | January 20, 2025

Monday January 20th, 2025  It’s easy to get caught up in the idea of waiting for the perfect moment to make your move – especially in today’s market. Maybe you’re holding out and hoping mortgage rates will drop, or that home prices will fall. But here’s what you need to realize: trying to time the market rarely works. And…

Bright living room with plants and sofa.

One Homebuying Step You Don’t Want To Skip: Pre-Approval

By Kevin Brierton Team | January 16, 2025

There’s one essential step in the homebuying process you may not know a whole lot about and that’s pre-approval. Here’s a rundown of what it is and why it’s so important right now. What Is Pre-Approval? Pre-approval is like getting a green light from a lender. It lets you know how much they’re willing to let you…

House with credit score gauge illustration.

The Truth About Credit Scores and Buying a Home

By Kevin Brierton Team | January 14, 2025

Tuesday January 14th, 2025 For Buyers, Buying Tips Your credit score plays a big role in the homebuying process. It’s one of the key factors lenders look at to determine which loan options you qualify for and what your terms might be. But there’s a myth about credit scores that may be holding some buyers back. The Myth: You…

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Mortgage Forbearance: A Helpful Option for Homeowners Facing Challenges

By Kevin Brierton Team | January 8, 2025

Let’s face it – life can throw some curveballs. Whether it’s a job loss, unexpected bills, or a natural disaster, financial struggles can happen to anyone. But here’s the good news. If you’re a homeowner feeling the squeeze, there’s a lifeline that many people don’t realize is still available: mortgage forbearance. What Is Mortgage Forbearance? As Bankrate explains: “Mortgage…

Hand arranging blocks with house icons.

Expert Forecasts for the 2025 Housing Market

By Kevin Brierton Team | January 7, 2025

Tuesday January 7th, 2025 For Buyers, For Sellers, Home Prices, Mortgage Rates, Forecasts Wondering what’s in store for the housing market this year? And more specifically, what it all means for you if you plan to buy or sell a home? The best way to get that information is to lean on the pros. Experts are constantly updating and revising…

Suburban street with houses and autumn trees.

Time in the Market Beats Timing the Market

By Kevin Brierton Team | January 6, 2025

Monday January 6th, 2025 For Buyers, Equity Trying to decide whether it makes more sense to buy a home now or wait? There’s a lot to consider, from what’s happening in the market to your changing needs. But generally speaking, aiming to time the market isn’t a good strategy – there are too many factors at play…

The #1 Reason People Move: To Be Closer to Family and Friends

By Kevin Brierton Team | December 24, 2024

Have you ever thought about packing up and moving to be closer to the people who mean the most to you? Maybe you’re tired of long drives to see your family or wish your kids could spend more time with their grandparents. Clearly, a lot of other people feel the same way. According to recent data from…

Wooden block with a question mark.

Should You Sell Your House As-Is or Make Repairs?

By Kevin Brierton Team | December 5, 2024

Should You Sell Your House As-Is or Make Repairs? A recent study from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows most sellers (61%) completed at least minor repairs when selling their house. But sometimes life gets in the way and that’s just not possible. Maybe that’s why, 39% of sellers chose to sell as-is instead (see chart below): If you’re feeling stressed because…

P.S. Can I count on you to contact me if you hear that a friend, family or coworker is looking to buy, sell or refinance? Call/Text 480.553.8770 - We'd be honored to help them too!