Karen Ruggiero. Realtor - Realty Executives Home Towne

04/17/2026

Affordability is improving, first-time buyers are returning and inventory is slowly rising. Here's what to watch this season.

03/02/2026

If you had property foreclosed by the following counties from 2013 through 2020, you may be entitled to a settlement payment:

02/19/2026

PATRIOT PLAY: NHL star Quinn Hughes became an Olympic hero for Team USA when he hit an overtime goal to lift his country over Sweden in the men's hockey qualifying round.

And his statements after the game may have made him a national hero among many Americans.

"I love the U.S., and it's the greatest country in the world. So, I'm happy to represent here with these guys, and it was very special," he said.

12/16/2025

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have sharply increased their mortgage-backed securities holdings, a move that could help push mortgage rates lower.

Since May, the two have added more than $55 billion in mortgage balances, up over 30%, bringing combined holdings to $234 billion, the highest level in four years. Analysts told Bloomberg the total could grow by another $100 billion next year.

Officials have offered no explanation, fueling speculation the buildup could be tied to a potential public stock offering or an effort to help lower mortgage rates.

05/18/2025

All jokes aside, it's crucial that you don't make large purchases before closing on a home. Large purchases like a new car, expensive furniture, or even opening new credit accounts or co-signing on a loan can change your debt-to-income ratio or lower your credit score, both of which can impact your mortgage approval. To keep the path to homeownership smooth, it’s best to wait on major spending until after the closing is complete. And if you're unsure, ask your agent and loan officer!

09/18/2024

Great job!!!!!

This couple saved a whopping $46,000 a year after making the move from California to Missouri.

When asked if moving from California to the Midwest was worth it, they said:

“Despite the challenges, moving to Missouri has reduced my stress with less traffic and fewer financial pressures. My husband opened a bar here, which would have been too costly in California, and we’ve saved enough for our kids’ college tuition. Overall, the Midwest has been a great financial move, making life more affordable and allowing us to move forward financially.”

🏠 Learn how they did it: https://rltor.cm/8wwk57

🏡📉 Mortgage rates are falling, and more homes are going on the market. The best time to buy is right around the corner! Start your home search today: https://rltor.cm/5zzapm

07/18/2024

Crazy

Throwback to this housing ad from 1955 😲

07/18/2024

Two states are considering abolishing property taxes entirely in 2024.

Soaring home values are great news for homeowners, as they often see their equity increase. However, this rise in value can lead to unexpected challenges, particularly with rising property tax bills.

To address this issue, several states are implementing measures to help ease the burden on homeowners by capping annual increases in property tax revenue or assessment values.

In November, voters in Colorado and Georgia will decide on two proposals aimed at this goal. Additionally, Alabama, Wyoming, and Kansas have already passed new laws this year to limit future property tax increases for homeowners. Other states are also considering targeted exemptions and carve-outs to provide further relief.

04/27/2024

Crazy

04/27/2024

Congratulations to my buyer on his new home 🏡