Molly Templeton, Realtor

01/11/2024

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.

Every three years, the Federal Reserve releases the Survey of Consumer Finances (SCF), which compares net worth for homeowners and renters. The latest report shows the average homeowner’s net worth is almost 40X greater than a renter’s.

One reason a wealth gap exists between renters and homeowners is because when you’re a homeowner, your equity grows as your home appreciates in value and you make your mortgage payment each month.

The Largest Part of Most Homeowner Net Worth Is Their Equity

Home equity does more to build the average household’s wealth than anything else. According to data from First American and the Federal Reserve, this holds true across different income levels.
Based on this...

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.

01/10/2024

If you’re getting ready to buy a home, there are some key things to keep in mind after you apply for your mortgage and before you close. Here’s a list of things to remember when you apply for your home loan.

Don’t Deposit Large Sums of Cash

Lenders need to source your money, and cash isn’t easily traceable. Discuss the proper way to document your transactions with your loan officer.

Don’t Make Any Large Purchases

It’s not just home-related purchases that could disqualify you from your loan. Any large purchases can be red flags for lenders. Resist the temptation to make any large purchases, even for furniture or appliances.

Don’t Cosign Loans for Anyone

When you cosign for a loan, you’re making yourself accountable for that loan’s success and repayment.

Don’t Switch Bank Accounts

Lenders need to source and track your assets. Before you transfer any money...

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.

01/09/2024

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. Fortunately, rates for 30-year fixed mortgages have come down significantly since the end of October and are currently under 7%, according to Freddie Mac.

This recent trend is great news for buyers. As a recent article from Bankrate says: “The rate cool-off somewhat eases the housing affordability squeeze.”

And according to Edward Seiler, AVP of Housing Economics and Executive Director of the Research Institute for Housing America at the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA): “MBA expects that affordability conditions will continue to improve as mortgage rates decline . . .”

Here’s a bit more context on how this could help with your plans to buy a home.

How Mortgage Rates Affect Your Search for a Home

Understanding the connection between...

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.

01/08/2024

Let's clear things up – home prices aren't falling. They're still rising, just at a more typical, seasonal pace. That growth is being driven by strong buyer demand thanks to a thriving job market. For insight into what’s happening with home prices in our local area, let's connect.

01/07/2024

Has your dream of homeownership been on pause? Now might be the best time to jumpstart your search before the spring market heats up. When you’re ready to explore options in our area, let's connect and turn your homeownership dream into a reality.

01/06/2024

There’s so much a trusted real estate agent can help you with when you sell a house. We’re specialists at navigating today’s market and each step of the selling process. Don’t go at it alone. DM me today so we can sell your house this year.

01/05/2024

What are your goals for 2024? Let’s connect and find a home that has enough room for you to reach your goals this year.

01/04/2024

If you’re thinking of buying a home this year, you’re probably paying closer attention than normal to the housing market. Here are the top two questions you need to ask yourself as you make your decision, including the data that helps cut through the noise.

1. Where Do I Think Home Prices Are Heading?

One reliable place you can turn to for information on home price forecasts is the Home Price Expectations Survey from Fannie Mae – a survey of over one hundred economists, real estate experts, and investment and market strategists.

According to the most recent release, the experts are projecting home prices will continue to rise at least through 2028. And home prices rising, even at a more moderate pace, is good news not just for the market, but for you too.

2. Where Do I Think Mortgage Rates Are Heading?

Over the past year, mortgage rates spiked up in response...

01/03/2024

Preparing to sell your house this winter? Remember, first impressions matter. A well-maintained house with great curb appeal creates a lasting impact on potential buyers. But don’t stop there. Invest time in enhancing the interior of your house, too. These tips are a good starting point, but to understand exactly what your house needs before selling, let’s connect.

01/02/2024

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.

1. Know Your Why

You’re dreaming about making a move for a reason – what is it? No matter what’s happening in the market, there are still many compelling reasons to buy a home today. Your needs may have changed in a way your current house can’t address, or you could be ready to step into homeownership for the first time. Use your why and your motivation as a guidepost in partnership with an expert advisor to make sure your move gives you a lasting sense of accomplishment.

2. Figure Out What Your Next Home Needs To Look Like

You know you want to move, but how would you describe your dream home? The number of homes for sale has grown recently, and that...

01/01/2024

If you’re thinking about buying a home, getting pre-approved is an important first step. Want more information on buying a home? Let’s connect.

12/31/2023

When it comes to selling your house, the expertise of a trusted real estate agent can make a big difference. They’ll explain what’s happening today, what that means for you, and how to price and market your house. They’re also skilled negotiators and well versed in the contracts and disclosures involved. DM me so you have expert advice throughout the entire process.

When it comes to selling your house, the expertise of a trusted real estate agent can make a big difference.