Peter McFarren Realtor

04/28/2026

If you’re wondering whether now is the right time to buy a house, use these five signs as your personal first‑time homebuyer checklist for homeownership readiness.

- You’re ready to put down roots
- You’ve taken the first step: Mortgage Pre-Approval
- You’ve built up savings for more than just the down payment
- Your timing lines up with the market and your lease
- You understand the real responsibilities of homeownership

04/20/2026

Knowing what makes your neighborhood special gives you an advantage, but finding the right home still requires intention. Whether you want more space, a newer home or a more walkable street, understanding the details of your community can help narrow the search quickly and effectively.

1. Define what “best house” means to you
2. Use technology to your advantage
3. Work with a local real estate agent
4. Explore coming-soon and off-market listings
5. Spend time in the neighborhood
6. Understand local market trends
7. Be financially prepared
8. Look for homes with potential
9. Research schools and community resources
10. Stay patient but proactive

04/20/2026

Mortgage rates are always in flux—they shift with the market, and even minor adjustments can impact your monthly payments. A mortgage rate lock is a contract between you and your lender that secures a specific interest rate for a predetermined period. This arrangement guarantees that your interest rate remains unchanged from the moment you lock it in until the lock period expires, even if market rates climb. This can be especially beneficial in a climate where interest rates are projected to rise.

Reach out to learn more!

04/20/2026

The housing market continues to change, but the power you have when owning a home has never been stronger. There are many perks when it comes to owning a home versus renting in today’s market that potential buyers may not even be aware of.

1.Building equity instead of paying rent
2.Stable monthly payments
3.Freedom to personalize your space
4.Potential property value growth
5.Long-term investment and financial stability

03/08/2026

In today’s competitive market, a proactive approach ensures your listing gets noticed by the right buyers. 🏠

02/18/2026

New reporting highlights continued momentum on UVA-backed affordable housing projects across Charlottesville and Albemarle County, even after leadership changes at the University.

The article outlines progress on three major developments originally announced under former UVA President Jim Ryan’s commitment to expand local housing supply. Together, these projects could deliver hundreds of new homes, including income-restricted, workforce, and mixed-income housing. Two proposals are already in local review, with plans ranging from 375 affordable units near Fontaine Avenue to 180 units at 10th and Wertland, and a longer-term mixed-income development planned at North Fork Discovery Park.

These efforts reflect a growing recognition that increasing housing supply at multiple price points is essential to addressing affordability and long-term stability in our region.

Read more about the projects and what comes next in the full article at C-ville Weekly: https://c-ville.com/activity-at-all-three-sites-where-uva-will-donate-land-for-affordable-housing/

02/17/2026

01/14/2026

As we set our sights on 2026, the real estate market is beginning to shift towards a more balanced and stable growth phase. We can expect to see an influx of buyers returning to the market, enhanced affordability compared to recent years, and more even supply and demand dynamics. No matter what your real estate requirements are, Howard Hanna Real Estate Services is here to assist you. 🤝

01/14/2026

We're thrilled to announce a new partnership with Schumacher Homes, the largest custom homebuilder in America! Charlottesville Area Association of REALTORS join us this Thursday to learn more about Schumacher Homes and to welcome them to Central Virginia. Schumacher Homes Katelyn Mancini Real Estate