Simplifying the Market Latest content
![Myths About the 2024 Housing Market [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/KeepingCurrentMatters/content/images/20240416/Myths-About-the-2024-Housing-Market-KCM-Share.png)
When it comes to the current housing market, there are some myths circling around right now.
Over the past year or so, a lot of people have been talking about how tough it is to buy a home.
You may have seen reports in the news recently saying it’s more affordable to rent right now than it is to buy a home.
If you’ve got a move on your mind, you may be wondering whether you should wait to sell until mortgage rates come down before you spring into action.
Have you been saving up to buy a home this year?
![The Perks of Downsizing When You Retire [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/KeepingCurrentMatters/content/images/20240408/The-Perks-of-Downsizing-When-You-Retire-KCM-Share.png)
If you’re about to retire, or just did, downsizing can be a good way to try to cut down on some of your expenses.
There’s no arguing it, affordability is still tight.
When mortgage rates spiked up over the last few years, some homeowners put their plans to move on pause.
You may have heard headlines in the news lately about agents in the real estate industry and discussions about their commissions.
If you have student loans and want to buy a home, you might have questions about how your debt affects your plans.
![Top 5 Reasons To Hire an Agent When Buying a Home [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/KeepingCurrentMatters/content/images/20240401/Top-5-Reasons-To-Hire-an-Agent-When-Buying-a-Home-KCM-Share.png)
Hiring an agent when buying a home helps you understand the buying process and the local market.
![Winning Plays for Buying a Home in Today’s Market [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/KeepingCurrentMatters/content/images/20240208/Winning-Plays-for-Buying-a-Home-in-Todays-Market-KCM-Share.png)
In today's housing market, you can still come out on top if you have the right team and plan.
Are you on the fence about selling your house?
On the road to becoming a homeowner? If so, you may have heard the term pre-approval get tossed around.
Have you been thinking about selling your house?
Finding the right home is one of the biggest challenges for potential buyers today.
![There’s No Foreclosure Wave in Sight [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/KeepingCurrentMatters/content/images/20240201/Theres-No-Foreclosure-Wave-in-Sight-KCM-Share.png)
Headlines saying foreclosures are rising might make you feel uneasy. But the truth is, there’s no need to worry.
As you think about the year ahead, one of your big goals may be moving.
Have you seen headlines talking about the increase in foreclosures in today’s housing market?
If you’re looking to buy a home, you’ve probably been paying close attention to mortgage rates.
Have you ever heard the term “Silver Tsunami” and wondered what it's all about?
![Why It’s More Affordable To Buy a Home This Year [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/KeepingCurrentMatters/content/images/20240125/202401-1.PNG)
Home affordability depends on three factors: mortgage rates, home prices, and wages.
Has the idea of sharing a home with loved ones like your grandparents, parents, or other relatives crossed your mind?
If you’re looking to buy a home, the recent downward trend in mortgage rates is good news because it helps with affordability.
If you’re looking to buy a home, the recent downward trend in mortgage rates is good news because it helps with affordability.
Even though home prices are going up nationally, some people are still worried they might come down.
Even though home prices are going up nationally, some people are still worried they might come down.
If one of the goals on your list is selling your house and making a move this year, you’re likely juggling a mix of excitement about what’s ahead and feeling a little sentimental about your current home.
If one of the goals on your list is selling your house and making a move this year, you’re likely juggling a mix of excitement about what’s ahead and feeling a little sentimental about your current home.
![Key Terms Every Homebuyer Should Learn [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/KeepingCurrentMatters/content/images/20240118/20240119-Key-Terms-Every-Homebuyer-Should-Learn-KCM-Share.png)
Buying a home is a big deal and can feel especially complicated if you don't know the terms used during the process.
Buying a home is a big deal and can feel especially complicated if you don't know the terms used during the process.
Over the past year, a lot of people have been talking about housing affordability and how tight it’s gotten.
Over the past year, a lot of people have been talking about housing affordability and how tight it’s gotten.
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.
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.
Are you putting off your plans to sell because you’re worried you won’t be able to find a home you like when you move?
Are you putting off your plans to sell because you’re worried you won’t be able to find a home you like when you move?
Buying a home is a powerful decision, and it remains at the heart of the American Dream.
Buying a home is a powerful decision, and it remains at the heart of the American Dream.
![Home Prices Forecast To Climb over the Next 5 Years [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/KeepingCurrentMatters/content/images/20240111/20240112-Home-Prices-Forecast-To-Climb-Over-The-Next-5-Years-KCM-Share.png)
If you’re worried about what’s next for home prices, know the HPES shows experts are projecting they’ll continue to rise at least through 2028.
If you’re worried about what’s next for home prices, know the HPES shows experts are projecting they’ll continue to rise at least through 2028.
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.
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.
If you’re getting ready to buy a home, it’s exciting to jump a few steps ahead and think about moving in and making it your own.
If you’ve owned your house for at least a couple of years, there’s something you’re going to want to know more about – and that’s home equity.
If you want to buy a home, it's important to know how mortgage rates impact what you can afford and how much you’ll pay each month.
![Achieving Your Homebuying Dreams in 2024 [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/KeepingCurrentMatters/content/images/20240104/Achieving-Your-Homebuying-Dreams-in-2024-KCM-Share.png)
Planning to buy a home in 2024? Here’s what to focus on.
If you’re thinking about buying a home, pre-approval is a crucial part of the process you definitely don’t want to skip.
If you’re thinking of buying a home this year, you’re probably paying closer attention than normal to the housing market.
If your listing has expired and your house didn’t sell, it's completely normal to feel a mix of frustration and disappointment.
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.
![The Benefits of Working With an Agent When You Sell Your House [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/KeepingCurrentMatters/content/images/20231219/The-Benefits-of-Working-With-an-Agent-KCM-Share.png)
When it comes to selling your house, the expertise of a trusted real estate agent can make a big difference.
If you’re planning to buy a home, knowing what to budget for and how to save may sound intimidating – but it doesn’t have to be.
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.
As the new year approaches, the idea of buying a home might be on your mind.
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.
![Get Your House Ready To Sell This Winter [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/KeepingCurrentMatters/content/images/20231219/Get-Your-House-Ready-To-Sell-This-Winter-KCM-Share.png)
As you get ready to sell your house, there are a few things you should add to your to-do list to make it inviting and boost curb appeal.
If you're thinking about selling your house on your own, called “For Sale by Owner” or FSBO, there are some important things to consider.
When you read about the housing market, you’ll probably come across some information about inflation or recent decisions made by the Federal Reserve (the Fed).
If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home soon, you probably want to know what you can expect from the housing market in 2024.
If you were worried buyer demand disappeared when mortgage rates went up, the data shows there are plenty of interested buyers still out there.
![What You Need To Know About Down Payments [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/KeepingCurrentMatters/content/images/20231214/20231214-KCM-Share.png)
If you want to buy a home, you may not need as much for your down payment as you think.
Has your house been sitting on the market a while without selling?
If you're thinking about moving, it's important to know what's happening in the housing market.
If you’re looking to buy a home, your down payment doesn’t have to be a big hurdle.
There’s no denying mortgage rates and home prices are higher now than they were last year and that’s impacting what you can afford.
![Your Homebuying Adventure [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/KeepingCurrentMatters/content/images/20231207/Your-Homebuying-Adventure-KCM-Share.png)
Here are the key milestones you’ll encounter on your path to homeownership.
If you’ve recently decided you’re ready to become a homeowner, chances are you’re trying to figure out what to do first.
If you’ve recently decided you’re ready to become a homeowner, chances are you’re trying to figure out what to do first.
Does the rising cost of just about everything these days make your dream of owning your own home feel less within reach?
If you’re thinking about selling your house, you may have heard the supply of homes for sale is still low, and that means your house should stand out to buyers who are craving more options.
Even with so much data showing home prices are actually rising in most of the country, there are still a lot of people who worry there will be another price crash in the immediate future.
![3 Reasons To Sell Your House Before the New Year [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/KeepingCurrentMatters/content/images/20231130/3-Reasons-To-Sell-Your-House-Before-The-New-Year-KCM-Share.png)
Here are a few reasons you may not want to hold off until the new year to sell your house.
Everyone has their own idea of the American Dream, and it's different for each person.
If you’re worried about a coming recession, you’re not alone.
When it comes to what’s happening in the housing market, there’s a lot of confusion going around right now.
When it comes to what’s happening in the housing market, there’s a lot of confusion going around right now.
If you’re thinking about buying a home, you may find yourself interested in the latest real estate headlines so you can have a pulse on all of the things that could impact your decision.
![Why Homeowners Feel Thankful for Their Homes [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/KeepingCurrentMatters/content/images/20231121/Why-Homeowners-Feel-Thankful-For-Their-Homes-KCM-Share.png)
Here are three reasons why homeowners feel thankful for their homes.
Countless people have set out on the exciting journey of homeownership.
If you’re feeling a bit muddy on what’s happening with home prices, that’s no surprise.
If you’re looking to make a move, you want to be sure you have the latest information on the housing market.
This time every year, homeowners who are planning to move have a decision to make: sell now or wait until after the holidays?
![2024 Housing Market Forecast [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/KeepingCurrentMatters/content/images/20231114/2024-Housing-Market-Forecast-KCM-Share.png)
Thinking of buying or selling a house and wondering what the new year holds for the housing market?
If you're thinking about buying or selling a home, you might have heard that it’s tough right now because mortgage rates are higher than they’ve been over the past few years, and home prices are rising.
The new year is right around the corner, and you might be wondering if 2024 will be the right time to buy or sell a home.
If you’re considering buying a home or selling your current one to find something that better suits your needs, you may have questions about what’s happening with home prices today.
Life is a journey filled with unexpected twists and turns, like the excitement of welcoming a new addition, retiring and starting a new adventure, or the bittersweet feeling of an empty nest.
![VA Loans Help Heroes Achieve Homeownership [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/content/images/20231107/VA-Loans-Help-Heroes-Achieve-Homeownership-KCM-Share.png)
VA home loans can help people who served our country become homeowners.
For more than 79 years, Veterans Affairs (VA) home loans have helped millions of veterans buy their own homes.
Are you dreaming of buying your own home and wondering about how you’ll save for a down payment? You're not alone.
If you’re weighing your options to decide whether it makes more sense to rent or buy a home today, here’s one key data point that could help you feel more confident in making your decision.
As the year winds down, you may have decided it's time to make a move and put your house on the market.
![The Benefits of Buying a Multi-Generational Home [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/content/images/20231102/The-Benefits-of-Buying-a-Multi-Generational-Home-KCM-Share.png)
If you’re ready to buy a home but are having a hard time affording it on your own, or, if you have aging loved ones you need to care for, you might want to consider a multi-generational home.
According to the latest data from Fannie Mae, 23% of Americans still think home prices will go down over the next twelve months.
Maybe you’re in the market for a home and are having a hard time finding the right one that fits your budget.
If you've been following the news recently, you might have seen articles about an increase in foreclosures and bankruptcies.
Do negative headlines and talk on social media have you feeling worried about the housing market?
![Unmasking Scary Myths about Today’s Housing Market [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/content/images/20231026/20231026-Unmasking-Scary-Myths-About-Todays-Housing-Market-KCM-Share.png)
Here’s what you really need to know about a few myths causing fear in today’s housing market.
The idea of owning a home has always been a big part of the American Dream.
Are you wondering if it makes sense to buy a home right now?
When it comes to selling your house, you’re probably trying to juggle the current market conditions and your own needs as you plan your move.
If you've ever dreamed of buying your own place, or selling your current house to upgrade, you're no stranger to the rollercoaster of emotions changing home prices can stir up.
![Home Price Growth Is Returning to Normal [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/content/images/20231019/Home-Price-Growth-Is-Returning-To-Normal-KCM-Share.png)
If you're wondering what’s happening with home prices, know they’re still rising, just at a slower pace – and that’s perfectly normal for this time of year.
Are you thinking about selling your house as a For Sale by Owner (FSBO)?
If you're considering selling your house right now, it's likely because something in your life has changed.
In today's world of rising housing costs, many buyers are looking for ways to still be able to buy a home.
Mortgage rates have been back on the rise recently and that’s getting a lot of attention from the press.
![The Difference Between Renting and Buying a Home [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/content/images/20231012/The-Difference-Between-Renting-And-Buying-A-Home-KCM-Share.png)
When deciding between buying a home or renting, think about these three important factors.
Take a moment to imagine where you want to be in a few years.
Are you thinking about making a move?
During the pandemic, many people distanced themselves from their loved ones for health reasons.
Selling your house is a big decision.
![How Homeowner Net Worth Grows with Time [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/content/images/20231005/How-Homeowner-Net-Worth-Grows-with-Time-KCM-Share.png)
If you’re thinking about buying a home this year, be sure to consider the long-term financial advantages of homeownership, like home equity.
The increasing effects of natural disasters are leading to new obstacles in residential real estate.
Are you considering buying your first home?
During the fourth quarter of last year, some housing experts projected home prices were going to crash in 2023.
If you’re thinking about buying a home soon, higher mortgage rates, rising home prices, and ongoing affordability concerns may make you wonder if it still makes sense to buy a home right now.
![Explaining Today’s Low Housing Supply [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/content/images/20230928/Explaining-Todays-Low-Housing-Supply-KCM-Share.png)
Wondering why the supply of homes for sale is limited today?
If your listing expired and your house didn’t sell, you’re likely feeling a little frustrated.
You might remember the housing crash in 2008, even if you didn't own a home at the time.
If you’re thinking of making a move, one of the biggest questions you have right now is probably: what’s happening with home prices?
If you’re looking to buy a home this fall, there are a few things you need to know.
![How Remote Work Helps with Your House Hunt [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/content/images/20230920/How-Remote-Work-Helps-with-Your-House-Hunt-KCM-Share.png)
While remote work peaked during the pandemic, many people still work from home today.
Buying and owning your own home can have a big impact on your life.
The way Americans work has changed in recent years, and remote work is at the forefront of this shift.
Are you thinking about selling your house?
An important factor shaping today’s market is the number of homes for sale.
![Plenty of Buyers Are Still Active Today [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/content/images/20230914/Plenty-of-Buyers-Are-Still-Active-Today-KCM-Share.png)
Holding off on selling your house because you believe there aren’t any buyers out there?
One question that’s top of mind if you’re thinking about making a move today is: Why is it so hard to find a house to buy?
Are you a baby boomer who’s lived in your current house for a long time and you’re ready for a change?
If you're planning to buy a home, one thing to consider is what experts project home prices will do in the future and how that might affect your investment.
Reaching retirement is a significant milestone in life, bringing with it a lot of change and new opportunities.
![Home Price Forecasts Revised for 2023 [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/content/images/20230907/Home-Price-Forecasts-Revised-for-2023-KCM-Share.png)
Last year, some housing experts projected a decline in home prices by the end of 2023. But that didn’t happen – inventory was just too low.
Have you been trying to buy a home, but higher mortgage rates and home prices are limiting your options?
If you’re hoping to buy a home this year, you’re probably paying close attention to mortgage rates.
Toward the end of last year, there were a number of headlines saying home prices were going to fall substantially in 2023.
Even though activity in the housing market has slowed from the frenzy that was the ‘unicorn’ years, it’s still a seller’s market because the supply of homes for sale is so low.
![Homeowners Have a Lot of Equity Right Now [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/content/images/20230831/20230901-Homeowners-Have-a-Lot-of-Equity-Right-Now-KCM-Share.png)
Your equity grows as you pay down your home loan and as home prices increase. With home prices rising again, your equity is getting an extra boost.
Have you ever wondered how inflation impacts the housing market?
Are you putting off selling your house because you’re worried no one’s buying because of where mortgage rates are?
Even though you may feel reluctant to sell your house because you don’t want to take on a mortgage rate that’s higher than the one you have now, there’s more to consider.
Generation Z (Gen Z) is eager to put down their own roots and achieve financial independence.
![Today’s Housing Market Has Only Half the Usual Inventory [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/content/images/20230824/Todays-Housing-Market-Has-Only-Half-the-Usual-Inventory-KCM-Share.png)
There are only about half the number of homes for sale compared to the last normal years in the market.
There’s been talk about a recession for quite a while now.
The housing market continues to shift and change, and in a fast-moving landscape like we’re in right now, it’s more important than ever to have a trusted real estate agent on your side.
If you remember the housing crash back in 2008, you may recall just how popular adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) were back then.
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) is set to release its most recent Existing Home Sales (EHS) report tomorrow.
![Don’t Expect a Wave of Foreclosures [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/content/images/20230816/Dont-Expect-A-Wave-Of-Foreclosures-KCM-Share.png)
With ongoing high inflation pushing up everyday costs, some people are worried that'll create a flood of foreclosures. Here's why that's unlikely.
In today’s housing market, there are two main affordability challenges impacting buyers: mortgage rates that are higher than they’ve been the past couple of years, and rising home prices caused by low inventory.
The rising cost of just about everything from groceries to gas right now is leading to speculation that more people won’t be able to afford their mortgage payments.
If you’re a homeowner, you might be torn on whether or not to sell your house right now.
Plenty of people are still moving these days.
![Home Prices Are Back on the Rise [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/content/images/20230810/Home-Prices-Are-Back-On-The-Rise-KCM-Share.png)
Looking at monthly home price data from six expert sources shows the worst home price declines are behind us, and they’re rising again nationally.
Some homeowners have been waiting for months to put their house on the market because they don’t think people are buying homes right now.
Buying a new construction home can be an exciting experience.
Wondering if it still makes sense to sell your house right now?
If you’re a homeowner, odds are your equity has grown significantly over the last few years.
![Housing Market Forecast for the Rest of 2023 [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/content/images/20230803/Housing-Market-Forecast-For-The-Rest-Of-2023-KCM-Share.png)
Want to know what experts say will happen in the rest of 2023?
Want to know what experts say will happen in the rest of 2023?
Want to know what experts say will happen in the rest of 2023?
When you read about the housing market in the news, you might see something about a recent decision made by the Federal Reserve (the Fed).
If you’re trying to decide if you’re ready to buy a home, there’s probably a lot on your mind.
Many homeowners thinking about selling have two key things holding them back.
While this isn’t the frenzied market we saw during the ‘unicorn’ years, homes that are priced right are still selling quickly and seeing multiple offers right now.
![Key Housing Market Trends [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/content/images/20230727/Key-Housing-Market-Trends-KCM-Share.png)
If you’re considering buying or selling a home, you’ll want to know what’s happening in the housing market.
Even though the housing market is no longer experiencing the frenzy that was so characteristic of the last couple of years, it doesn’t mean today’s market is at a standstill.
While the wild ride that was the ‘unicorn’ years of housing is behind us, today’s market is still competitive in many areas because the supply of homes for sale is still low.
If you’re thinking of buying or selling a home, one of the biggest questions you have right now is probably: what’s happening with home prices?
If you've been keeping up with the news lately, you've probably come across headlines talking about the increase in foreclosures in today’s housing market.
![Real Estate Continues To Be the Best Investment [INFOGRAPHIC] Simplifying The Market](https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/content/images/20230720/Real-Estate-Continues-To-Be-the-Best-Investment-KCM-Share.png)
According to a recent Gallup poll, real estate has been voted the best long-term investment for 11 years in a row, beating gold, stocks, bonds, and more.
You may have heard some people say it’s better to rent than buy a home right now.
If you’re following mortgage rates because you know they impact your borrowing costs, you may be wondering what the future holds for them.