🏡 The Emotional Home vs. The Financial House

Emotional home versus financial home comparison.

Most people buy a home with their hearts—but it’s the house that impacts their financial future.Borrow Smart University teaches that understanding the difference between these two perspectives is one of the first steps to becoming a truly informed homeowner. The Emotional Home Your home is where you live your life. It’s where your family grows,…

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The 7 Financial Concepts Every Homeowner Should Master

Homeowner financial concepts presentation with speaker.

When it comes to building wealth through real estate, most homeowners focus on their interest rate — but that’s only one small piece of the financial puzzle. The most successful homeowners think like investors. They understand the seven core financial concepts that turn a mortgage from a simple loan into a wealth-building tool. 1. Safety…

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The Big Difference Between Homeowner and Renter Net Worth

Homeowner vs Renter Net Worth Comparison.

If you’re currently renting, you’re not alone—and you’re not wrong for doing it. But if building long-term wealth is one of your goals, it’s worth understanding the financial advantage that homeownership can bring. Homeowners Build Wealth—Renters Don’t According to the Federal Reserve, the average net worth of a homeowner is $396,500, compared to just $10,410…

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Overcoming Housing Market Fears

The recent headlines broadcasting mortgage rates surpassing the 7% mark have instilled a sense of apprehension among potential homebuyers. In a market perceived as increasingly unaffordable, it’s easy to feel discouraged. However, with the right mortgage strategy, you can transform this challenging market into an opportunity. Historical Perspective on Mortgage Rates While current rates hovering…

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The Real Impact of Unemployment on Mortgage Rates in 2024

If you’re waiting for mortgage rates to come down, you want to be paying attention to what is happening with inflation and the economy. Unfortunately, figuring out where the economy is heading in 2024 is not an easy task. We’ve been saying for a while that mortgage rates will start making meaningful progress lower once…

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The Top Benefits of Buying a Multi-Generational Home

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Kevin Brierton – 1.25.2024 Has the idea of sharing a home with loved ones like your grandparents, parents, or other relatives crossed your mind? If so, you’re not alone. More buyers are choosing to go this route and buy a multi-generational home. Here’s a look at some of the top reasons why, to see if…

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Experts Project Home Prices Will Increase in 2024

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Kevin Brierton – 1.23.2024 Even though home prices are going up nationally, some people are still worried they might come down. A recent survey from Fannie Mae found that 24% of people think home prices will decline over the next 12 months. That means almost one out of every four people are dealing with that fear, and you might…

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2 Reasons Why Today’s Mortgage Rate Trend Is Good for Sellers

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Kevin Brierton – 1.17.2024 If you’ve been holding off on selling your house to make a move because you felt mortgage rates were too high, their recent downward trend is exciting news for you. Mortgage rates have descended since last October when they hit 7.79%. They’ve been below 7% for over a month now (see graph below): And while…

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Homeownership Is Still at the Heart of the American Dream

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Kevin Brierton – 1.15.2024 Buying a home is a powerful decision, and it remains at the heart of the American Dream. Unlike renting, owning a home means more than just having a place to live – it offers a sense of belonging, stability, and freedom. According to Nicole Bachaud, Senior Economist at Zillow: “The American Dream is still…

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The Dramatic Impact of Homeownership on Net Worth

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Kevin Brierton – 1.11.2024 If you’re trying to decide whether to rent or buy a home this year, here’s a powerful insight that could give you the clarity and confidence you need to make your decision. Every three years, the Federal Reserve releases the Survey of Consumer Finances (SCF), which compares the net worth of homeowners and renters. The latest report…

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3 Keys To Hitting Your Homeownership Goals in 2024

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Kevin Brierton – 1.1.2024 If buying or selling a home is your goal for 2024, it’s important to understand today’s housing market, know your why, and work with industry experts to bring your homeownership vision for the new year into focus. Over the last year, the economy had a big impact on the housing market, and likely on your…

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Retiring Soon? Why Moving Might Be the Perfect Next Step

Smiling man in orange shirt playing cards.

Kevin Brierton – 12.27.2023 If you’re thinking about retirement or have already retired this year, it’s a good time to consider if your current house is still a good fit for the next chapter in your life. Fortunately, you may be in a better position to make a move than you realize. Here are a few things…

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Get Ready To Buy a Home by Improving Your Credit Score

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Kevin Brierton – 12.26.2023 As the new year approaches, the idea of buying a home might be on your mind. It’s an exciting goal to set, and it’s never too early to start laying the groundwork. One crucial step to prepare for homeownership is building a solid credit score. Lenders review your credit to assess your ability to make…

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These Non-Financial Benefits Turn a House into a Happy Home

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Kevin Brierton – 12.25.2023 There’s no denying the long-term financial benefits of owning a home, but today’s housing market may have you wondering if now’s still the time to buy. While the financial aspects of homeownership are important, the non-financial and emotional reasons are too. Here’s why. The word home truly means something different to everyone. Whether it’s sharing memories with loved ones…

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How To Turn Homeownership into a Side Hustle

A green door is in front of the house.

Kevin Brierton – 12.6.2023 Does the rising cost of just about everything these days make your dream of owning your own home feel less within reach? According to Bankrate, many people are seeking additional income through side hustles, possibly to cope with those increasing expenses and save for a home. This trend is particularly popular with younger individuals…

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