With home prices up, more buyers are partnering with friends to afford a home. Experts urge clear planning and legal agreements.
First-time buyers in 2026 should focus on readiness, not rate timing. Pricing constraints remain, so early lender talks and clear budgets can help.
A new report finds property insurance costs would be 14.5% higher without recent reform, stabilizing a major expense in Florida home purchases.
As the market steadies, newer agents may have an edge by focusing on fundamentals, building owned systems and tracking progress from first contact to closing.
Temporary tax breaks through 2029 may help small business owners. Review SALT limits, income phaseouts and new deductions to capture savings.
A 600 score falls in the fair range. Buyers may face fewer loan options and higher rates, though some mortgage programs allow lower scores.
U.S. existing-home sales fell 8.4% in January, including a 9% drop in the South. Prices reached a January high and mortgage rates were lower than a year ago.
Not every upgrade boosts value. Buyers favor functional layouts, light and move-in ready condition, while highly personal projects often bring limited returns.
The 30-year mortgage rate slipped to 6.09% from 6.11% last week, while 15-year rates fell to 5.44%. Rates are expected to hover near 6% as spring buying begins.
Buyers and sellers shape opinions on Reddit, TikTok and YouTube before calling. Realtors who show up where trust forms can win earlier in the decision cycle.
