Patricia Wenzel, Realtor, Equity Colorado Real Estate

01/21/2025

Experts say rates will come down slightly in the year ahead – but some volatility is expected. So, you shouldn't try to time the market. Instead, it's better to focus on how even a small change impacts your future mortgage payment. As rates come down, even a little bit, your monthly payment on your next home will too. Want to see what this looks like at a different price point? Let’s connect.

01/20/2025

In addition to yur downpayment and mortgage, here are other costs to be prepared for when Buying a Home.

A Closing cost that is common in Summit County is a Transfer Tax tht is a certain percentage of the purchase price usually in the 1% to 2% range.

Knowing what to budget for when buying a home may feel intimidating — but it doesn’t have to be.

01/18/2025

In addition on Getting Clearer on what you need, it is importnt to talk with your Realtor to understand the additional cost in a home to address those needs. Have a discussion about what are your Must Haves and Nice to Haves. The cost of a Must Have may move it to a nice to have. For example, the cost of a home with a one car garage vs. a two car garage.

This is the time when a lot of people take a moment to reflect and set their goals for this year.

01/17/2025

Build a spreadsheet for tracking everything you spend. It will surprise you on how much you are spending that you didn't know about.

Also look at short term investments that give you a higher interest rate so that you are saving faster.

Turning a dream into reality starts with one thing: a plan.

01/16/2025

With the increased costs of a mortgage, Buyers are looking for other ways to keep their living expenses more affordable. New builds tend to keep the costs of home maintenance and renovation lower in the first few years of home ownership making new builds more attractive. Also, many Builders are offering reduced rates and incentives.

It is still advisable to hire a Realtor to support you and still do an Inspection.

Planning to buy a home soon? Why not go for something brand-new? 

01/15/2025

In today's market, it is important to make it easy for Buyers to imagine how comfortable it would be to live in your house. Staging helps them to see the possibilities. Its another form of marketing your property.

You may have heard that staging your home properly can make a big difference when you sell your house, but what exactly is home staging, and is it really worth your time and effort? 

01/14/2025

Prepare now to Buy your home so you are ready when you find that perfect place. Let's talk to find out your timing and assess your readiness.

01/13/2025

Focus on Time in the Market which allows you to build equity as opposed to timing the market. Its not wise to wait for rates to drop substantially.

Trying to decide whether it makes more sense to buy a home now or wait?

01/11/2025

Predictions for Mortgage Rates and Market Price Impacts for 2025. Keep in mind these can change as the economy modulates.

Wondering what’s in store for the housing market this year?

01/06/2025

If you’re planning to list your house in 2025, it’s already time to start working on any repairs. But where do you start? Your local agent will be able to help you prioritize projects that will help you get the best return on your investment and appeal to what today’s buyers really want. If your goal is to sell your house next year, let’s connect so you know what to start working on now.

01/04/2025

Also look at sources for your down payment to help lower the principal amount of your loan.

Chances are you’re hearing a lot about mortgage rates right now, and all you really want to hear is that they’re coming back down.

01/03/2025

Rates will drive Sellers and Buyers both. As rates fall, Sellers enter the market creating more inventory. Buyers enter the market creating more competition. Get prepared by working on your credit and saving for your down payments.

One of the biggest questions on everyone’s minds right now is: when will mortgage rates come down?