Category: Uncategorized
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5 Smart Ways to Achieve Mortgage Freedom Sooner
Speed up payments: Switch to biweekly payments to make an extra annual payment and reduce interest over time. Increase payments: Pay more toward your mortgage whenever possible to reduce your principal faster. Make lump-sum payments: Use windfalls like bonuses or tax refunds to make extra payments and lower interest. Weigh your options: Review your mortgage…
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The Great Housing Thaw: How Stabilizing Rates and ‘Megabuilder’ Incentives are Reshaping the 2025 Market
The U.S. housing market is recovering from a two-year slump due to stabilizing mortgage rates around 6%, Federal Reserve rate cuts, and major homebuilders acting as lenders. Buyer demand is rising, especially for new homes, as inventory remains tight. Large builders dominate by subsidizing rates, while smaller builders struggle. Policy reforms and modular housing financing…
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15-Year Rates Forecast: 2025–2029
2025: Rates are forecast to ease mid-year from 5.8% toward 5.1% as Fed moves and cooling inflation support declines. 2026: Rates are projected to keep dropping, possibly falling below 4% by December, improving affordability for patient buyers.
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Is Texas Still a Hot Market in 2026?
Price appreciation softens in line with modest national trends. Sales grow slowly with expanding inventory easing competition. Strong job markets keep demand resilient. Value buyers find opportunity outside high-growth metro centers.
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How Texas Cuts Years off the Road to Homeownership
Median household income: ~$79,721 Typical tax burden: ~$15,898 Essential expenditures: ~$30,848 Median home sale price: ~$339,400 Time to save for 10% down payment: ~10-yr
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First-Time Homebuyer Tips You Can’t Afford to Ignore
Set a realistic budget considering mortgage, taxes, insurance, and repairs. Get mortgage preapproval to strengthen your buying power. Choose a location that suits future needs, factoring in commute, schools, and property trends. Never skip a home inspection to avoid costly surprises. Be prepared to negotiate price, repairs, and closing costs to save money and secure…
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Happy New Year!
A new year arrives with fresh goals, bold ideas, and the momentum to turn today’s plans into tomorrow’s lasting success. 2026 begins with opportunity ahead, inviting smarter decisions, renewed focus, and confidence to shape what comes next. Happy New Year 2026, a time to celebrate progress, embrace change, and move forward with optimism, purpose, and…
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Housing affordability could make small improvements in 2026
The housing market, struggling with high prices and mortgage rates around 6-7%, may see improvements in 2026 with rates expected to drop to the low-6% range, enhancing affordability for some buyers. Home prices are predicted to rise more slowly due to limited supply and slower new construction caused by high costs and labor shortages. Wage…
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Tips for First-Time Home Buyers
First-time homebuyers should determine their budget using affordability calculators and start saving early for down payments, closing costs, and moving expenses. Maintaining good credit is crucial for favorable mortgage rates. Research assistance programs and understand different loan types like conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA loans. Shop multiple lenders and get preapprovals. Choose a reliable agent,…
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Rental inventory increases, lease prices remain stable in Greater Houston area in November
In the Greater Houston area, single-family rental leases increased 10.2% year over year in November, with lease prices rising slightly by 0.4% to $2,244. There were 3,459 leased homes compared to 3,139 the previous year, and active listings grew to 11,933. Renters benefit from more options and stable prices as interest rates ease, potentially encouraging…