Mortgage Rates Ease Back Near 6%
The 30-year mortgage rate slipped to 6.09% from 6.11% last week, while 15-year rates fell to 5.44%. Rates are expected to hover near 6% as spring buying begins.
U.S. Existing-Home Sales Down in January
U.S. existing-home sales fell 8.4% in January, including a 9% drop in the South. Prices reached a January high and mortgage rates were lower than a year ago.
Deciding if a Platform Is Worth Your Time
Buyers and sellers shape opinions on Reddit, TikTok and YouTube before calling. Realtors who show up where trust forms can win earlier in the decision cycle.
Planning Updates With Future Buyers in Mind
Not every upgrade boosts value. Buyers favor functional layouts, light and move-in ready condition, while highly personal projects often bring limited returns.
Homebuying With a 600 Credit Score: What to Know
A 600 score falls in the fair range. Buyers may face fewer loan options and higher rates, though some mortgage programs allow lower scores.
Homeowners Favor Wood Over White in 2026 Kitchens
Wood cabinets now lead kitchen remodels, reflecting warmer design trends that can help listings feel updated, on-trend and more appealing to today’s buyers.
Make Staircases a Standout Feature
Designers say stairways can boost a home’s appeal with runners, paint, lighting or wallpaper. Simple updates can stand out in photos and help listings shine.
FinCEN Reporting Rule Takes Effect March 1
The FinCEN rule requires reports on certain all-cash sales involving entities or trusts, adding compliance duties for title companies and closing agents in some cases.
Helping Customers Move Past Market Anxiety
Buyers are delaying moves over rate and price worries. For agents, that means resetting expectations, correcting myths and stressing long-term value.
Aging Homeowners Are Reshaping Housing Demand
As older homeowners downsize, Realtors may see shifts in inventory, buyer profiles and pricing that affect neighborhood-level market dynamics.