Saturday Strategy

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

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How To Approach Rising Mortgage Rates as a Buyer

By Kevin Brierton Team | April 20, 2022

Kevin Brierton – 4.20.2022 In the last few weeks, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate from Freddie Mac inched up to 5%. While that news may have you questioning the timing of your home search, the truth is, timing has never been more important. Even though you may be tempted to put your plans on hold in…

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Why Pre-Approval Is an Important Step for Today’s Homebuyers

By Kevin Brierton Team | April 19, 2022

Kevin Brierton – 4.19.2022 Being intentional and competitive are musts when buying a home this season. That’s why pre-approval is so important today. Pre-approval from a lender is the only way to know your true price range and how much money you can borrow for your loan. Peter Warden, Editor of The Mortgage Reports, explains: “The lender will check…

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Is It Time To Buy a Smaller Home?

By Kevin Brierton Team | April 18, 2022

Kevin Brierton – 4.18.2022 Life events can have a major impact on what you need from your home, and retirement is one of the biggest changes many of us face. This period of your life can mean doing more of the things you enjoy, like traveling, visiting with loved ones, or taking on new hobbies.…

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How to Understand Your Home Appraisal

By Kevin Brierton Team | April 15, 2022

COMPS, ADJUSTMENTS, AND THE APPRAISER’S ESTIMATE OF VALUE WHAT IS AN APPRAISAL? A home appraisal is an estimate of your home’s value. It’s simply a professional appraiser’s opinion of what he/she thinks your home may be worth. Mortgage lenders base your loan amount on the LESSER of the appraised value or the purchase price. HOW…

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On the Fence of Whether or Not To Move This Spring? Consider This.

By Kevin Brierton Team | April 14, 2022

Kevin Brierton – 4.14.2022 If you’re thinking of selling your house, it may be because you’ve heard prices are rising, listings are going fast, and sellers are getting multiple offers on their homes. But why are conditions so good for sellers today? And what can you expect when you move? To help answer both of those questions, let’s turn to the data.…

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Where Are Mortgage Rates Headed?

By Kevin Brierton Team | April 13, 2022

Kevin Brierton – 4.13.2022 There’s never been a truer statement regarding forecasting mortgage rates than the one offered last year by Mark Fleming, Chief Economist at First American: “You know, the fallacy of economic forecasting is: Don’t ever try and forecast interest rates and or, more specifically, if you’re a real estate economist mortgage rates, because you will…

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Why a Real Estate Professional Is Key When Selling Your House

By Kevin Brierton Team | April 12, 2022

Kevin Brierton – 4.12.2022 With today’s real estate market moving as fast as it is, working with a real estate professional is more essential than ever. They have the skills, experience, and expertise it takes to navigate the highly detailed and involved process of selling a home. That may be why the percentage of people who list…

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Using Your Tax Refund To Achieve Your Homeownership Goals This Year

By Kevin Brierton Team | April 11, 2022

Kevin Brierton – 4.11.2022 If you’re buying or selling a home this year, you’re likely saving up for a variety of expenses. For buyers, that might include things like your down payment and closing costs. And for sellers, you’re probably working on a bit of spring cleaning and maintenance to spruce up your house before you list it.…

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The Future of Home Price Appreciation and What It Means for You

By Kevin Brierton Team | April 7, 2022

Kevin Brierton – 4.7.2022 Many consumers are wondering what will happen with home values over the next few years. Some are concerned that the recent run-up in home prices will lead to a situation similar to the housing crash 15 years ago. However, experts say the market is totally different today. For example, Odeta Kushi, Deputy Chief Economist…

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Remote Work Trends Mean Flexibility for First-Time Homebuyers

By Kevin Brierton Team | April 6, 2022

Kevin Brierton – 4.6.2022 Today’s low inventory can be challenging for homebuyers, especially if you’re looking to purchase your first home. But if you’re one of many people who work remotely, you may have a great opportunity to use the flexibility you have at work to achieve your home buying goals this year. In a recent report, Arch Capital Services explains how…

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!