The Forneris Group - Blog

Renting vs. Buying: The Numbers Might Surprise You

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 23:46:37 +0000

For Buyers,First-Time Buyers,Rent vs. Buy,Affordability

Renting can feel like the easier choice right now. There’s no big down payment. No dealing with surprise repairs. And no long-term commitment.

But then your rent goes up again. And again. And suddenly the thing that seemed flexible starts looking… expensive, especially considering you’re not building any equity. And once that happens, it’s easy to feel a little trapped in the cycle.

That’s because there’s so much chatter today about how buying a home isn’t affordable. But the truth is, the math may work out better than you'd expect based on what’s changed recently.

Buying Is More Affordable Than Renting in Many Areas

In a lot of places today, owning a home actually costs less each month than renting a 3-bedroom home. And recent data from ATTOM shows that’s true in nearly 58% of counties across the U.S. (see chart below).

And that's after you factor in things like insurance and typical maintenance costs.

In other words, even though it may feel like a bit of a shock, the numbers show rent often stretches monthly budgets more than owning does. That’s thanks to slower home price growth, more homes for sale, and monthly mortgage payments starting to ease as rates come down.

Affordability Still Varies by Region

Now, even though nationally the balance has shifted, that doesn’t mean buying is more affordable in every market or for every renter.

While buying is more affordable than renting in nearly 58% of counties nationwide, that share looks different depending on your region (see graph below):

The biggest improvement is happening in the Midwest and South. But if you’re living in the West, things could still feel tight.

The takeaway? How affordable buying is really depends on where you live. And the only way to know how this plays out where you live is to look at the numbers locally.

So, What’s Still Holding Buyers Back?

Maybe you’re nodding along so far but thinking, “Okay, but I still can’t afford the upfront costs.” If that’s your reaction, you’re not the only one.

For many renters, the biggest hurdle isn’t the monthly payment alone. It’s the down payment, too.

But you’re not out of options. Here’s the part most people don’t hear enough about: there are thousands of down payment assistance programs available across the country, and many buyers qualify without realizing it.

And the average benefit? Roughly $18,000.

That kind of support can help cover part of your down payment or closing costs, which means you may not need to save nearly as much as you think to get started.

When you combine that with monthly payments that may work better than expected, especially as rates continue to ease and prices cool, buying may feel far more realistic than it looks at first glance.

Bottom Line

The point isn’t that everyone should rush out and buy a home tomorrow.

It’s that renting isn’t always the more affordable option people assume it is – and buying may be more realistic than it feels once you look at the full picture.

If you’re renting and feeling stuck in the “someday” loop, it might be worth a simple conversation. Just a chance to see what’s possible and whether it makes sense for you.

Sarasota vs. Englewood

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 14:39:57 +0000

Sarasota vs. Englewood, FL: Which Gulf Coast Community Is Right for You?

By Michelle Forneris with The Forneris Group at Coldwell Banker | 239-849-4387 | www.LivingSouthwestFlorida.com

When exploring Florida's breathtaking Gulf Coast, Sarasota and Englewood are two communities that offer wonderfully distinct lifestyle experiences along the same stunning stretch of coastline. Sarasota is celebrated as one of Florida's most sophisticated and culturally vibrant cities, while Englewood charms with its authentic old-Florida character, unspoiled natural beauty, and exceptional value. As a 22-year veteran real estate agent and Broker Associate at Coldwell Banker, Michelle Forneris with The Forneris Group has helped hundreds of clients explore communities up and down the Gulf Coast. Here's a detailed, local-insider comparison to help you discover which community truly feels like home.

Sarasota: The Cultural Coast with a World-Class Soul

Sarasota has earned a well-deserved and celebrated reputation as one of the most culturally rich, vibrant, and livable cities in the entire state of Florida. It strikes a rare and wonderful balance between world-class arts, breathtaking natural beauty, culinary excellence, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle that draws people from across the country and around the world year after year.

Top Reasons to Love Sarasota:

The Number One Beach in America — Siesta Key Beach is consistently ranked the best beach in the United States, featuring powdery white quartz sand that stays remarkably cool even on the hottest Florida days and crystal-clear Gulf waters that are perfect for swimming and sunbathing year-round. Longboat Key and Lido Key add even more stunning Gulf shoreline to an already extraordinary beach lineup.

An Unrivaled Arts & Culture Scene — Sarasota is home to the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, the John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the Sarasota Ballet, the Florida Studio Theatre, the Asolo Repertory Theatre, and dozens of acclaimed galleries and cultural institutions. For those who value arts and culture, Sarasota is genuinely without equal anywhere in Florida.

A World-Class Culinary Destination — Downtown Sarasota's restaurant scene has become one of the most exciting and celebrated in the entire state, with acclaimed chefs, rooftop bars, craft cocktail lounges, farm-to-table dining experiences, and a beloved weekly farmers market that showcases the very best of local produce and artisan goods.

Diverse & Dynamic Real Estate Market — Sarasota offers remarkable real estate variety, from historic bayfront neighborhoods and vibrant downtown condos to the barrier island luxury of Siesta Key, Longboat Key, and Lido Key. There is truly something for every taste, lifestyle, and budget in this extraordinary market.

Outstanding Outdoor Recreation — Sarasota Bay, Myakka River State Park, Oscar Scherer State Park, and the Legacy Trail offer endless opportunities for kayaking, hiking, cycling, fishing, and wildlife exploration throughout every season of the year.

St. Armands Circle — This iconic shopping and dining destination on Lido Key is one of the most beloved and celebrated gathering places on the entire Gulf Coast, offering a unique blend of boutique shopping, waterfront dining, and vibrant community energy.

Strategic Gulf Coast Location — Sarasota sits just 60 miles south of Tampa, making it a wonderfully central base for exploring the broader Gulf Coast, with Venice, Englewood, and Bradenton all just a short and easy drive away.

Price Range — Homes range from the mid-$300s to several million dollars for Gulf-front and bayfront luxury estates on the barrier islands.

Browse Sarasota Homes for Sale → Search All Sarasota Properties →

Englewood: Authentic Old-Florida Charm with Unspoiled Natural Beauty

Nestled along the Gulf Coast between Sarasota and Fort Myers, Englewood is one of Southwest Florida's best kept secrets — a wonderfully authentic, unhurried, and naturally beautiful community that has retained the genuine old-Florida character and charm that so many other Gulf Coast communities have long since lost. For those seeking a true escape from the crowds and a deeply connected relationship with nature and community, Englewood is an extraordinary and often overlooked destination.

Top Reasons to Love Englewood:

Pristine & Unspoiled Beaches — Englewood Beach on Manasota Key is one of the most beautiful and unspoiled stretches of Gulf coastline in all of Florida. With its powdery sand, clear turquoise waters, outstanding shelling opportunities, and peaceful atmosphere, it offers a pure and authentic Gulf beach experience that feels wonderfully removed from the busier beaches to the north and south.

Manasota Key — A True Hidden Gem — Manasota Key is one of the last truly undeveloped barrier islands on Florida's Gulf Coast, offering a rare combination of pristine beaches, old-Florida character, and extraordinary natural beauty that is becoming increasingly rare and precious along the entire coastline.

Outstanding Boating & Fishing — Englewood sits on Lemon Bay, one of the most beautiful and ecologically rich estuaries in all of Southwest Florida. With direct Gulf access, world-class inshore and offshore fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding opportunities throughout the area, Englewood is a genuine paradise for those who love life on the water. Explore Waterfront Homes →

Exceptional Real Estate Value — Englewood consistently offers outstanding real estate value compared to neighboring Sarasota and other Gulf Coast communities, making it an exceptional choice for those seeking authentic Gulf Coast living at a more accessible and compelling price point.

A Thriving Local Community Scene — Historic Dearborn Street in downtown Englewood is a wonderfully charming and welcoming hub of locally owned restaurants, boutique shops, art galleries, and community events that beautifully reflect the town's authentic and deeply community-oriented character and spirit.

World-Class Nature & Wildlife Access — Englewood sits at the doorstep of some of the most extraordinary natural areas in all of Southwest Florida, including the Cedar Point Environmental Park, Stump Pass Beach State Park, and the vast Myakka River watershed, offering unparalleled opportunities for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts of every kind.

Proximity to Venice & Sarasota — Englewood sits just a short drive from Venice and Sarasota, giving residents easy access to additional shopping, dining, healthcare, and cultural amenities while enjoying the peaceful and authentic atmosphere of a true Gulf Coast hideaway.

Price Range — Homes range from the low $200s to several million dollars for direct beachfront and waterfront estates on Manasota Key and Lemon Bay.

Browse Englewood Homes for Sale → View Current Englewood Listings →

Sarasota vs. Englewood: Side-by-Side

Feature	Sarasota	Englewood
Vibe	Cosmopolitan, artsy, world-class	Authentic, old-Florida, peaceful
Best Beach	Siesta Key Beach (#1 in the US)	Englewood Beach, Manasota Key
Arts & Culture	Ringling Museum, Van Wezel, Ballet	Local galleries, Dearborn Street
Dining & Shopping	Downtown Sarasota, St. Armands Circle	Historic Dearborn Street, local dining
Boating & Water Access	Sarasota Bay, barrier islands	Lemon Bay, direct Gulf access
Nature Access	Myakka River SP, Oscar Scherer SP	Cedar Point, Stump Pass Beach SP
Real Estate Range	Mid-$300s to several million	Low $200s to several million
Community Feel	Sophisticated, cosmopolitan	Small-town, authentic, laid-back
Proximity to Tampa	~1 hour	~1.5 hours
Proximity to Fort Myers	~1.5 hours	~1 hour
New Construction	Moderate	Moderate
Value for Money	Strong	Exceptional

What Michelle Forneris Says

"Sarasota and Englewood are two communities that I genuinely love talking about because they represent such beautifully different visions of Gulf Coast living," says Michelle Forneris with The Forneris Group at Coldwell Banker. "Sarasota is world-class in every sense — the beaches, the arts, the dining, the energy. It's one of the most extraordinary cities in all of Florida. Englewood is something completely different and equally special — it's authentic, peaceful, naturally beautiful, and it has retained that genuine old-Florida soul that is becoming increasingly rare along the Gulf Coast. In my 22 years and 250+ home sales, I've helped clients discover both communities and watched them fall in love in completely different but equally powerful ways. The best advice I can give is to spend time in both and let your heart lead the way — and I would love to help make that happen."

Ready to Explore Sarasota or Englewood?

Whether Sarasota or Englewood is calling your name, Michelle Forneris with The Forneris Group at Coldwell Banker is your trusted Gulf Coast guide. With 22 years of experience, 250+ homes sold, and 49 five-star Google reviews, Michelle has the knowledge, passion, and local expertise to help you find exactly where you belong on Florida's spectacular Gulf Coast.

Search All Southwest Florida Properties →

Get Started Now

Home Title Theft: How To Protect Yourself

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 13:45:30 +0000

Odds of falling victim to online crime? 1 in 4.

You probably know more than a few people who have been scammed. Last year, Americans lost over $12.5 billion to online crimes with new scams emerging daily.

When most people think of home theft, they picture a burglar breaking into a house through a window or door. However, there’s another form of home theft that is on the rise and often goes undetected: title theft.

What Is Home Title Theft?

Home title theft is a type of real estate fraud where someone uses a homeowner’s personal information to forge a deed and steal their home. The thief may apply for a home equity loan or line of credit in the homeowner’s name and then fail to make payments—exposing the owner to foreclosure and credit damage.

In the case of unoccupied homes, like secondary residences, the fraudster might sell the house without the owner’s knowledge or rent out the property without permission.

How Does Home Title Theft Happen?

Criminals commit home title theft in a few different ways, but the most common avenues are phishing schemes, malware, data breaches, unsecured Wi-Fi networks and mail theft. Theft can also occur if a homeowner loses sensitive documents like their deed or a mortgage statement. Here’s how home title theft typically happens:

Phishing

Phishing occurs when a criminal pretends to be a legitimate company or individual to get a homeowner’s personal information. They may do this by sending an email or letter that looks like it’s from a bank or government agency or by calling the homeowner and pretending to be someone they’re not.

Malware

Malware is a kind of software that criminals can use to access a homeowner’s personal information. They may install it on the homeowner’s computer without their knowledge or trick them into downloading it by posing as a legitimate website or program.

Data Breaches

Data breaches occur when criminals access a company’s or organization’s personal information database. Once they have the information, they may sell it on the black market or use it themselves to commit home title fraud.

Unsecured Wi-Fi Networks

If a homeowner has an unsecured Wi-Fi network, criminals may be able to access their personal information if they’re close enough to the router. They can then use this information to commit fraud or steal the homeowner’s identity. Likewise, homeowners who access the Internet using unsecured public Wi-Fi are at higher risk for home title theft.

Mail Theft

Home title theft can also occur through mail theft when thieves steal mail from a homeowner’s mailbox to obtain their personal information. Once they have personal information like birth dates and Social Security numbers, they can use it to commit fraud. Homeowners can combat this by regularly checking their mailboxes and shredding mail that includes sensitive information.

Loss

Losing important documents and allowing personal information to fall into the wrong hands can lead to home title theft. If a deed or mortgage statement falls into the wrong hands, criminals can use the information to perpetrate home title theft.

What Happens If a Property Title Is Stolen?

If a property title is stolen, it may result in the homeowner losing their home through unauthorized sale or foreclosure. There are still risks even if the homeowner discovers the theft before the house is sold or enters foreclosure. The theft can result in legal issues, damage the homeowner’s credit profile and damage to the property itself.

If you think you may be a victim of home title theft, there are several steps you can take to recover and protect your credit and financial future.

Contact the three main credit bureaus. Contact the three major credit reporting agencies and request that a fraud alert is placed on your credit file. This will make it more difficult for someone to open new accounts in your name. If there are any unauthorized accounts in your report, dispute them with each relevant bureau.
File a report with the police. Contact the police and credit reporting agencies immediately. This will help you start the recovery process and protect yourself from further damage. The police can also help you create a paper trail that will be helpful if you need to take legal action.
Close unauthorized accounts. If you discover a thief has opened new accounts using your home title, contact the lenders to notify them of the fraud and have the accounts closed. This includes, but is not limited to, your mortgage lender and title insurance company. Also determine whether fraudsters opened any credit cards or personal loans in your name.
Contact your mortgage lender. Even if the fraudster has not applied for a home equity loan or line of credit, contact your mortgage lender and alert them to the situation. Doing so can prevent future financial harm and foreclosure.
Retain related records. Keep track of all correspondence and documents related to the theft. This will be helpful if you need to file a lawsuit or take other legal action.

Should You Be Worried About Your Own Title?

In general, home theft is not as common as other types of identity theft and internet-enabled crimes. Whether you should worry about your home title depends on a few factors, including how careful you are with your personal information and how tech-savvy you are.

Homeowners with a substantial amount of home equity are also more likely to be targeted for home title theft, as are those who own more than one home. This is especially true for vacation homes, investment properties and other unoccupied real estate.

Seniors are most susceptible to home title theft and other forms of identity theft. However, homeowners who fail to monitor their financial records and credit reports are at risk, as are homeowners who do not carefully handle sensitive mail.

Luckily, there are a few signs you can watch out for that may indicate your home is the target of title theft. These include:

Receiving bills or collection notices for accounts you didn’t open
Being denied credit because of information on your credit report you don’t recognize
Receiving a notice from the IRS that you have unpaid taxes
Getting calls from debt collectors for debts you don’t owe
Discovering your home has been rented out or sold

This type of crime can be devastating, but there are steps homeowners can take to protect their personal information and their home.

How to Protect Yourself From Title Fraud

There are several things you can do to protect yourself from home title theft:

Talk with your mortgage lender, your home insurance company, find recommendations for a title lock company.

Keep track of your mail. If you suddenly stop receiving bills or other important mail, it could signal that someone has changed your address without your knowledge. Also, keep tabs on your important documents, such as your deed and mortgage statement, and ensure they are stored safely.
Monitor your credit report. You’re entitled to a free credit report from each of the three major credit reporting agencies every year. Regularly reviewing your credit report can help you catch suspicious activity, such as new accounts opened in your name and unauthorized changes to your existing accounts.
Be careful with your personal information. Shred unwanted documents that contain your personal information, such as bills and bank statements. Do not carry your Social Security card or birth certificate with you, and do not give out personal information over the phone or online unless you are sure you know who you are dealing with.
Keep an eye on your property. If you see strangers coming and going from your home or suspicious activity around your neighborhood, report it to the police. Installing a security system can also protect unoccupied properties and deter thieves from stealing documents such as your deed or mortgage statement.
Get owner’s title insurance. If you didn’t opt-in to an owner’s title insurance policy at closing, purchase coverage now. This policy can protect you if any liens or claims are filed against the property while you are the owner. Title protection services may be helpful in the absence of title insurance, but these services are often rife with fraud. (article by forbes financial)

Top 3 Reasons To Buy a Home Before Spring Thursday February 5th, 2026 For Buyers, Home Prices, Mortgage Rates, Buying Tips

Sun, 08 Feb 2026 14:53:48 +0000

If you’re planning to buy a home this year, you may be focused on the spring market. And hoping that when spring does hit, you’ll see:

Mortgage rates drop a little more.
More homes hit the market.

But here’s what most buyers don’t realize. Buying just a few weeks earlier could mean paying less, dealing with less stress, and feeling less rushed.

Here are three reasons why accelerating your timeline over the next few weeks could actually be a better play.

1. Holding Out for Lower Rates May Not Pay Off

A lot of buyers are hoping mortgage rates will fall even further. But that’s not the best strategy. Here’s why. Experts are pretty aligned on this: rates are expected to stay roughly where they are.

Forecasts throughout the industry all point to the same thing: rates are projected to be in the low-6% range this year (see graph below):

That's not a bad thing, especially if you consider how much rates have already come down. Over the past 12 months, they’ve dropped roughly a full percentage point. And for many buyers, that means affordability has already improved more than they may realize.

So why wait a few more weeks just for more buyers to jump in and act as your competition? You already have a window right now. As Chen Zhao, Head of Economics Research at Redfin, explains:

“House hunters should know that this may be near the lowest mortgage rates fall for the foreseeable future.”

2. Spring Means More Competition + More Stress

Speaking of competition, the spring market is popular for a reason, but with popularity comes pressure. With more buyers active at that time of year, you’ll have to move faster once you find a home you like. And no one likes feeling rushed.

But buy now and you have more time to browse. Fewer people are looking, so homes sit longer.

You can see this play out in the data from Realtor.com (see graph below). In winter months, it takes an average of about 70 days for a home to sell. In spring? That drops to about 50 days. That’s a 20-day swing – and that pace is going to be more stressful.

Homes sell faster in the spring, and slower in the winter. And that can be a worthwhile perk for buyers who want to get ahead before their decisions start to feel rushed.

3. Prices Tend To Rise When Competition Heats Up

And here’s something most buyers forget to factor in. Prices usually respond to demand. So, when demand is higher, prices are too. Bankrate explains:

“Spring and early summer are the busiest and most competitive time of year for the real estate market . . . home prices tend to be steeper to reflect the increased demand.”

In fact, data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows that in 2025, buyers who purchased in the beginning of the year saved roughly $30,000–$35,000 compared to those who bought when prices peaked in the spring or early summer.

And let’s be honest, for a lot of buyers today, every little bit of savings helps. That’s why buying just a few weeks earlier, before prices ramp up, will be better for you and your wallet.

Bottom Line

Buying a few weeks before spring isn’t about rushing. It’s about choosing to be ahead of the curve and knowing you want more leverage, less stress, and meaningful savings.

If you’re ready and able to buy now and want to get the ball rolling, let’s connect.

JUST LISTED

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 20:03:57 +0000

$435,000 11655 Solano Dr. Fort Myers, FL

OPEN CONCEPT

BEAUTIFUL KITCHEN

2 BEDS | 2 BATHS | 1632SQFT

Reasons To Be Optimistic About the 2026 Housing Market

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 14:20:28 +0000

If a move is on your radar for 2026, there’s a lot more working in your favor than there has been in a while.

After a stretch where many people felt stuck, 2026 is shaping up to be a year with more balance, more options, and more clarity for people who want to make a move. Not because the market is suddenly “easy,” but because several key conditions are shifting.

Here’s what the experts are saying you have to look forward to.

Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com:

“After a challenging period for buyers, sellers and renters, 2026 should offer a welcome, if modest, step toward a healthier housing market.”

The National Association of Realtors (NAR):

“Top economists have one word to sum up the housing market for 2026: opportunity. Lower mortgage rates and a rising supply of homes are expected to open up the housing market . . . something the real estate industry and potential home buyers and sellers have been waiting for, following three years of stagnation.”

Mark Fleming, Chief Economist at First American:

“. . . for the first time in several years, the underlying forces are finally aligned toward gradual improvement. Mortgage rates may drift down only slowly, but income growth exceeding house price appreciation will provide a boost to house-buying power — even in a higher-rate world. Affordability won’t snap back overnight, but like a ship finally catching a steady tailwind, it’s now sailing in the right direction.”

Mischa Fisher, Chief Economist at Zillow:

“Buyers are benefiting from more inventory and improved affordability, while sellers are seeing price stability and more consistent demand. Each group should have a bit more breathing room in 2026.”

Why Local Insight Matters More Than Ever

Just remember, while the national outlook is improving, conditions will still be different based on where you live. Some markets will move faster than others. Some will see stronger price growth. Others will remain flat. As Lisa Sturtevant, Chief Economist at Bright MLS, explains:

“Market performance will hinge on local economic conditions, making 2026 one of the most geographically divided markets we’ve seen in years.”

That’s why understanding what’s happening in your specific area is key. The national trends set the stage, but local dynamics determine how they play out for you. And that's why you need an agent.

Bottom Line

If you want to talk through what’s expected for our local market and which trends you’ll want to take advantage of, let’s connect.

Get Started Now

2025 Housing Market Year in Review

Fri, 26 Dec 2025 14:23:10 +0000

2025 Housing Market Year in Review

This year in housing, inventory grew, rates fell, and almost 5 million homes sold. Want to know what to expect in the year ahead? Let’s connect.

Sources Used for data:

https://www.realtor.com/research/data/

https://www.freddiemac.com/pmms/archive

https://www.cotality.com/press-releases/u-s-home-equity-dips-fall-2025

https://www.nar.realtor/research-and-statistics/housing-statistics/existing-home-sales

https://www.census.gov/construction/nrs/current/index.html

Get Started Now

How To Find the Best Deal Possible on a Home Right Now

Fri, 26 Dec 2025 14:18:23 +0000

Want to know how to find the best deal possible in today’s housing market? Here’s the secret. Focus on homes that have been sitting on the market for a while.

Because when a listing lingers, sellers tend to get more realistic – and, more willing to negotiate. And that’s where the savviest buyers are finding homes other buyers overlook.

The Opportunity: 1 in 5 Homes Has Had a Price Cut This Year

According to Realtor.com, about 1 in every 5 listings (20.2%) have dropped their asking price at least once. And while so many things in today’s housing market vary by region, that number is consistent throughout the country. That tells you one thing...

No matter where you live, there’s a chance to score a better deal. You just need to know where to look. And that’s where your agent comes in.

The Tactic: Target Homes That Have Been Sitting the Longest

Your agent can help you identify which homes have been on the market the longest. Those are the ones where you’re more likely to get a discount. That’s because the seller may be getting frustrated their house hasn’t sold yet, so they're more willing to play ball.

And since a lot of buyers steer clear of homes that aren’t selling, you may be the only offer they get. So, you can lean in and push for a better deal. As Realtor.com explains:

“Less competition means fewer bidding wars and more power to negotiate the extras that add up: closing cost credits, home warranties, even repair concessions . . . these concessions can end up knocking thousands of dollars off the price of a home.”

And they’re not the only ones calling out the opportunity you have right now. Bankrate also says:

“During the quieter fall and winter months, when fewer prospective buyers are shopping, home sellers may be more willing to lower their prices, or offer concessions, to attract those prospective buyers who are still looking.”

And the proof is in the data. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows a clear pattern: the longer a home stays on the market, the lower it tends to sell for compared to the original asking price.

So, if you’re serious about getting as much as you can for your money, focusing on these listings could be your best strategy yet.

Even a Small Discount Can Go a Long Way

And while paying 94% of the original asking price may not sound like much of a deal, the savings add up. That’s roughly $24,000 in savings on the median priced home (see chart below):

Zillow sums it up best:

“If you’re a buyer who is hoping to strike a deal, look for homes that have been on the market for a while and that may already have lowered prices to entice buyers. You may find a motivated seller who is more willing to negotiate.”

Bottom Line

If you want to find the best deal possible on a home right now, start by looking where others aren’t.

With 1 in 5 sellers cutting prices and many growing more flexible by the week, the homes that have been sitting a little longer could be your best opportunity to save.

Let’s talk about where to find them in our area.

Get Started Now

Turning a House Into a Home: The Benefits You Can Actually Feel

Fri, 26 Dec 2025 14:11:13 +0000

There’s a lot of conversation about home prices, mortgage rates, and affordability right now – and those things are important. But if you’re thinking about buying a home, it’s worth remembering something the headlines rarely talk about: people don’t buy homes just for financial reasons. They buy them for their lives.

Because while homeownership can absolutely be a smart long-term financial move, it also comes with some emotional benefits spreadsheets just can’t capture. Maybe that’s why a 2025 survey from Fannie Mae notes:

“Consumers were twice as likely to mention lifestyle benefits (67%)—like security, customization, and outdoor space—than financial benefits (34%) when explaining why their homes have become more important in recent years.”

Here are a few reminders of what owning a home gives you that renting never will.

1. A Milestone You Get To Be Proud Of

Buying a home is a big deal. First home, fifth home – it doesn’t matter. It’s a moment you’ll remember. And when you finally get those keys and walk through the door, that feeling of “I did this” hits different. It’s not just a purchase. It’s an accomplishment.

2. A Place That Feels Like Your Reset Button

Life is busy. Having a place that’s truly yours where you can shut the door, take a breath, and settle into your own routine is something renters rarely talk about until they finally experience it. Home becomes the place you go to recharge, not just the place your mail is delivered.

3. Space That Fits the Way You Actually Live

Need a quiet corner for work calls? A backyard big enough for the dog that thinks it’s a person? A shorter drive to see the people who are most important to you? When you own, you get to choose a space that fits your life now and where it’s heading – and it just feels right.

4. Freedom To Make It 100% Yours

Want to paint the kitchen navy? Go for it. Thinking about a wall of floating shelves or a bold wallpaper moment? Do it. Need space for a home gym or a reading nook? Make it happen. Homeownership gives you the freedom to shape your space instead of asking for permission to change it.

Bottom Line

Buying a home isn’t only about dollars and data points – it’s about building a life you love.

So, if you’re thinking about a move in 2026, keep the emotional side in the conversation too. And when you’re ready to explore your options, let's connect so you have a pro on your side to guide you through the process with clarity and confidence.

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Why More Homeowners Are Giving Up Their Low Mortgage Rate

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 20:45:01 +0000

If you’re like a lot of homeowners, you’ve probably thought: “I’d like to move… but I don’t want to give up my 3% rate.” That’s fair. That rate has been one of your best financial wins – and it can be hard to let go. But here’s what you need to remember...

A great rate won’t make up for a home that no longer works for you. Life changes, and sometimes, your home needs to change with it. And you’re not the only one making that choice.

The Lock-In Effect Is Starting To Ease

Many homeowners have been frozen in place by something the experts call the lock-in effect. That's when you won't move because you don’t want to take on a higher rate on your next home loan. But data from Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) shows the lock-in effect is slowly starting to ease for some people.

The share of homeowners with a mortgage rate below 3% (the yellow in the graph below) is slowly declining as more people move. And while some of the people with a rate over 6% are first-time buyers, the number of homeowners with a rate above 6% (the blue) is rising as others take on higher rates for their next home:

And while it may not seem that dramatic, it’s actually a pretty noteworthy shift. The share of mortgages with a rate above 6% just hit a 10-year high (see graph below). That shows more people are getting used to today’s rates as the new normal.

Why Are More People Moving Now, if It Means Taking on a Higher Rate?

It’s simple. Sometimes they can’t put their life on pause anymore. Families grow, jobs change, priorities shift, and a house that once fit perfectly may not fit at all anymore – no matter how good their rate was. And that’s okay. As Chen Zhao, Head of Economic Research at Redfin, explains:

“More homeowners are deciding it’s worth moving even if it means giving up a lower mortgage rate. Life doesn’t standstill—people get new jobs, grow their families, downsize after retirement, or simply want to live in a different neighborhood. Those needs are starting to outweigh the financial benefit of clinging to a rock-bottom mortgage rate.”

First American refers to these life motivators as the 5 Ds:

Diplomas: People with college degrees typically earn more, and that adds up to more buying power. Maybe you bought your house when you were younger and now that you’ve graduated and have a rising career, you’re ready to move up.
Diapers: You’ve outgrown your space. If you’re welcoming a new baby, your current home might not be cutting it anymore.
Divorce: Whether it’s ending a marriage (or starting one), it can create the need for a new place to call home.
Downsizing: You’re ready to downsize. Maybe the kids have moved out and it’s time to simplify. Smaller house, less maintenance, more freedom.
Death: If you’ve recently lost a loved one, maybe you’ve realized you want to be closer to family. Life’s too short to live far from the people who matter most.

Whatever your reason, here’s what you need to think about. Yes, your low rate is great. But staying put means your life may stay on hold. And maybe that’s not working for you anymore.

According to Realtor.com, nearly 2 in 3 potential sellers have already been thinking about moving for over a year. That’s a long time to press pause on your plans. On your needs. On your family’s goals. So, maybe the question isn’t: “Should I move?”

It’s actually: “How much longer am I willing to stay somewhere that no longer fits my life?”

Because we’ve already seen rates come down from their peak earlier this year. And they're expected to ease a bit more in 2026. When you stack that on top of the very real reasons you may need a new home, it may be enough to finally move the needle for you.

Bottom Line

Life doesn’t wait for the perfect rate. Maybe you shouldn’t either.

With mortgage rates down from their peak and forecast to dip slightly more in 2026, moving may be more feasible than you think. If you’re ready to see what’s possible in our market, let’s talk.

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