Homes in Easton MA Real Estate Pro Marie Paulsen serving Southern MA

02/19/2026

IS NOW THE TIME TO LIST OR BUY?

Borrowers are making their way back to the mortgage market as rates sink back toward three-year lows.

The Mortgage Bankers Association's measure of mortgage demand climbed 2.8% in the week ended Friday. It's the first positive reading since Jan. 21 — and it comes as average mortgage rates saw their first weekly decline since about the same time.

As of last Thursday, the 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage was down to 6.09%. The 15-year, fixed-rate mortgage had fallen to 5.44%.

Though it's a modest change in borrowing costs, the decline "helped to revive some refinance activity," especially as data about retail sales and home sales put pressure on the market, according to Joel Kan, the association's vice president and deputy chief economist.

Indeed, refinance applications increased 7% compared to a week earlier and were up 132% from the same week a year ago, marking the strongest week for refinancing since mid-January.

Purchase applications, on the other hand, fell on a weekly basis. Even so, compared to the same time a year earlier, demand from homebuyers was 8% higher.

Experts see a busy spring housing market on the horizon
Part of this week's increase in borrower activity could be a rebound from the winter storms that disrupted much of the United States in January. In fact, economists have cited weather as the reason both borrowing and buying activity were stunted in January.

That said, this week's small increase could be a sign of what's to come in the spring.

Some experts are predicting a busier housing market over the next few months as mortgage rates ease, home price appreciation slows, inventory rises and broader economic shifts create a more favorable environment for buyers and sellers.

Brad Case, chief residential economist for Homes.com, for example, has suggested that “the signs from the homes market are encouraging as we move into the spring homebuying season.”

"Homes are being offered for sale with asking prices that set the stage for better negotiations between buyers and sellers," he said last week, noting that the market is balancing across the country, with neither buyers nor sellers having a clear upper hand in many markets.
By Moira Ritter

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02/09/2026

Mortgage rates have remained stable to start the year, with 30‑year and 15‑year averages barely moving and sitting well below levels from a year ago.
Mortgage applications fell nearly 9% over the last week as severe winter storms temporarily kept buyers from touring homes.
Brad Case, chief residential economist for Homes.com, views the slowdown as weather‑driven and expects homebuying activity to strengthen heading into spring.
The mortgage market has seemingly settled into a rhythm, with average rates holding in a narrow band and minimal day-to-day volatility.

The 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage averaged 6.11% as of Thursday. It's barely higher than the previous week's average of 6.1%, a continuation of a trend that's taken hold of the market at the start of this year: Since Jan. 1, mortgage rate averages have stayed in a narrow five-basis-point range.

That range is significantly lower than what the market saw a year ago, too. For example, this week last year, the 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage was averaging 6.89%.

Looking to Buy or Sell? Reach out to my team and see why we are rated as a Top Realtor. [email protected] and 508-728-7333

01/28/2026

Mortgage demand remains fragile as rates fluctuate
Borrower activity ebbs as average mortgages saw modest increase

By Moira Ritter

January 28, 2026
7:00 AM ET
Even as mortgage rates hover near three-year lows, borrower sensitivity persists.

Mortgage applications fell 8.5% in the week ended Jan. 23, according to the latest reading of the Mortgage Bankers Association's market index released on Wednesday. The data includes an adjustment for the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday last week.

The overall pullback in demand was driven by a 16% decline in refinances from the previous week. Purchase applications were also modestly lower than the week prior.

It's a murky update. On the one hand, that ebb came as the average 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage saw its biggest increase since December. That said, the decrease in refinance demand was expected, according to Joel Kan, vice president and deputy chief economist at the MBA.

At the same time, though, a big-picture look reveals a brighter view of the mortgage market. Even though the average 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage increased on a weekly basis, it's still near a three-year low. Daily mortgage rates, too, have been on a downward trajectory — recording a five-day streak of declines as of Tuesday afternoon, according to Mortgage News Daily.

That trend has kept both refinance and purchase demand significantly higher than the same time a year ago. In the week ended Jan. 23, refinance demand was 156% higher than the comparable week in 2025, and purchase applications were up 18% over the same period of time. Furthermore, the average loan size remained at the highest level since September.

Taken together, those are all signals that "prospective homebuyers remain active at the start of 2026," Kan said.

Borrower sensitivity could be tested again this week, though. The Federal Reserve is set to release its latest interest rate decision on Wednesday. While the central bank doesn't set mortgage rates, its decisions typically send ripples through the economy that reach the mortgage market.

05/05/2025

FOR SALE: Do not miss this opportunity!!! Beautiful home in the beautiful town of Lakeville.

Single Family Residence for sale in Lakeville - 2 beds, 1 bath, 720 sq ft, $475,000.00, .41 ac

12/19/2024

WHAT IS THE REAL ESTATE OUTLOOK FOR 2025

The real estate outlook for 2025 depends on various factors, such as the economy, interest rates, housing supply, and consumer demand. While predictions can vary, here's a general expectation in plain English:

Home Prices: Home prices are likely to continue rising, but at a slower pace compared to the last few years. This is due to higher mortgage rates and more cautious buyers.

Mortgage Rates: Interest rates may stay elevated or slightly decrease, depending on the Federal Reserve's policies. Higher rates could make borrowing more expensive for buyers.

Housing Inventory: Inventory might improve slightly as new construction catches up, but it will still be a challenge in many areas, especially for affordable homes.

Buyer Behavior: Some buyers may hold off due to high rates, while others will adjust their expectations to purchase smaller homes or in less competitive areas.

Rental Market: Demand for rentals may
stay strong as some potential buyers opt to rent instead of purchase. Rental prices could remain high but stable.

Regional Variations: Some areas with job growth or population increases may see strong housing markets, while others with slower economic activity may see weaker demand.

In short, 2025 could bring a more balanced market, with opportunities for both buyers and sellers, though affordability will remain a concern for many.

AI Assisted post

10/29/2024

Are you interested in purchasing a home? Here are some valuable tips for you:

- Get pre-approved before making an offer. A pre-approval letter from a lender shows sellers you are serious about buying. However its only valid for 60 - 90 days so you will want to work backward and plan as such

- Rates while important are not ultimate. While rates are predicted to come down more this fall, you may be tempted to wait. However studies have shown that when interest rates drop, home prices tend to surge as the market becomes more competitive. This negates any gains.

You may consider a smaller home if you are struggling with affordability. Look into smaller homes or a home that could be considered as a "stepping stone" towards your ultimate goal. The equity that you build along the way would be a nice jump towards a down payment on that dream home.

10/10/2024

OPEN HOUSE - SUNDAY OCT 13TH - 11 - 12:30

THIS PROPERTY IS NOT TO BE MISSED

11 White Island - Halifax

Waterfront property situated on White Island. Monponsett East Lake, offering over 100 feet of water frontage and a large, private lot. This single-family year round cottage was built in 1910 and spans approximately 1,161 square feet, featuring 3 bedrooms and 1.5 Baths. Lovely views with a dock . The property covers 0.38 acres, which combined 2-3 lots. The home is located in Plymouth County and is close to key local schools such as Silver Lake Regional High School, Halifax Elementary School, and Silver Lake Regional Middle School. This property offers a serene lakeside environment.. This year round cottage is ready for someone to craft the space for their needs. Full walk out basement. Create you own space with lots of room for expansion even to a two family escape. It’s perfect for those looking for a private retreat with the charm of an early 20th-century cottage. Sold "As Is"

09/26/2024

Looking for privacy, tranquility, and room to roam? Welcome to 1016 South Bridge St, Bridgewater – a captivating Cape-style home nestled on 12+ acres of picturesque fields and woodlands. 🌳🌿

This charming property is perfect for horse lovers and nature enthusiasts, offering endless possibilities for outdoor activities, gardens, and even grazing horses. 🐴

✨ Features include:

3 spacious bedrooms and 3 updated baths
3 cozy fireplaces for those cool evenings
A 36x24 barn with a full second floor, ideal for storage or your equestrian needs
Walking and riding trails, fruit trees, and space for gardens 🌼🍎
A luxurious chicken coop for your feathered friends 🐔
Connected garage via breezeway for added convenience
Enjoy the benefits of 61A tax status, making this property both a peaceful retreat and an excellent investment. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to own your own slice of paradise!

📍 Schedule your private showing today!

09/24/2024

Fall brings lower mortgage rates, more inventory to market
by Liz Hughes

At a time of year when the real estate market typically experiences seasonal declines, this fall is bringing just the opposite.

Homebuyers are getting a window of opportunity unusual for this time of year thanks to falling mortgage rates and rising inventory. With homes becoming more affordable for homebuyers, the competition to secure them is expected to continue into the fall rather than diminishing as it usually does this time of year.

Zillow Chief Economist Skylar Olsen said late summer may be an opportunity for buyers who have been waiting in the wings for a monthly mortgage payment they can afford.
“Buyers have more options to choose from for two reasons,” Olsen said. “For one, it’s easier to qualify for more of the homes on the market now that mortgage rates are a bit lower. Beyond that, more inventory is becoming available — enough to improve buyer negotiating power.

Falling mortgage rates are favoring this season’s buyers as the declines have made buying a home affordable again at the national level, according to the report, which found the monthly payment on a typical home purchase fell more than $100 from its May peak.

Nationally, homes are taking longer to sell, but are still moving faster than before the pandemic. August homes sold in an average of 20 days, which is two more days than in July. Inventory is also up, with nearly 1.18 million homes on the market, more than any month since September 2020.

09/17/2024

What to Look for This Week
The Fed's 2-day meeting begins Tuesday, with their Monetary Policy Statement and press conference following Wednesday afternoon. The Fed is expected to cut its benchmark Fed Funds Rate, with the question again being whether that cut will be 25 or 50 basis points.

We also have a full week of housing news with NAHB's home builder confidence for this month being reported on Tuesday. August's Housing Starts will be released on Wednesday and Existing Home Sales on Thursday.

09/13/2024

LOOK AT WHAT IS COMING IN EARLY 2025!!!

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are secondary housing units on a single-family residential lot. Here’s a summary of the laws and benefits associated with ADUs:

Laws
1. Zoning Regulations: Many jurisdictions have specific zoning laws that govern the construction of ADUs, including size, height, and location on the property.
2. Permitting Requirements: Homeowners typically need to obtain permits before constructing an ADU, which may involve inspections and adherence to building codes.
3. State Legislation: Some states have enacted laws to encourage ADU development, simplifying the approval process and reducing fees.
4. Impact Fees: Some areas may waive or reduce impact fees for ADUs to promote housing development.

Benefits
1. Increased Housing Supply: ADUs can help address housing shortages by providing additional living spaces without the need for new land development.
2. Affordable Housing Options: They offer affordable rental options for tenants, which can help lower housing costs in high-demand areas.
3. Income Generation: Homeowners can generate extra income by renting out the ADU.
4. Multi-Generational Living: ADUs provide a solution for families who wish to live close to one another while maintaining independence.
5. Sustainability: ADUs often have a smaller carbon footprint compared to new single-family homes, making them a more sustainable housing choice.
6. Property Value Increase: Having an ADU can enhance the overall value of a property.

Overall, ADUs are seen as a practical solution to various housing challenges, balancing personal needs with community expansion.

Want more information? Let us look at your local Zoning as it relates to ADU. Feel free to reach out to discuss your property and the prospect of ADU application. All inquires will be confidential.

06/05/2024

Don't miss out on this opportunity!

This expanded Cape is a wonderful blend of comfort, utility & charm.The extensive Amish built updates & features make it ideal for someone who appreciates both modern amenities & the practical aspects of farm life. Features include a huge country kitchen, front to back living room & formal dining ro...