Plain-English explanations of rates, inventory, prices and what they mean for you.
In a seller’s market, there are more buyers than homes, so prices rise and homes sell quickly. In a buyer’s market, there are more homes than buyers, giving…
Housing inventory is the number of homes currently for sale. It matters because it shapes prices, competition, and how much negotiating room buyers and…
Mortgage rates are influenced by bond markets, inflation, economic growth, and investor demand for mortgage-backed securities. Your personal rate also…
No. The Federal Reserve sets a short-term policy rate, but mortgage rates are set by the market. They often move in the same direction as Fed policy, but not…
A housing bubble happens when prices rise far beyond what fundamentals support, often fueled by risky lending. Today’s market differs from the mid-2000s in…
Waiting only helps if your finances improve or you expect better terms. Trying to time the perfect moment is difficult, so focus on your readiness and the…
Buying builds equity and gives stability, while renting offers flexibility and lower upfront costs. The right choice depends on how long you will stay and…
Home equity is the difference between your home’s market value and what you owe on your mortgage. It grows as you pay down your loan and as the home’s value…
Over long periods, U.S. home values have generally risen, but appreciation varies by location and time, and it is never guaranteed. Think of appreciation as…
Days on market (DOM) counts how many days a home has been listed before going under contract. A low number often signals strong demand, while a high number…
The sale-to-list price ratio compares the final sale price to the original list price. Above 100 percent means homes are selling for more than asking, and…
The lock-in effect is when homeowners with low mortgage rates choose not to sell because a new loan would cost more each month. It can reduce the number of…
New construction offers modern features and builder incentives, while resale homes often offer established neighborhoods and negotiation room. The best…
A good market report shows median price, inventory, days on market, and sale-to-list ratio for your area. Look at trends over time rather than a single…
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