On September 24, Freddie Mac reported that the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate rose to 7.03%, up from 6.95% the previous week. For buyers, a change in mortgage rates is more than just a number. For example, on a $400,000 loan over 30 years, the principal and interest payment would be approximately $2,398 at 6% and $2,669 at 7.03%—a difference of about $271 per month, or roughly $3,250 per year. This does not include property taxes, homeowners insurance, or HOA fees. That

If you’re thinking about buying a home, one of the first things you’ll probably search for is the current mortgage rate. You may see a number online and think, “If I can get that rate, I can afford this home,” or, “Rates are too high, so maybe I should wait.” But the mortgage rate you see online should not automatically be assumed to be the rate you will personally receive. Using an online rate to set your budget without understanding the details can lead to unrealistic expec

After watching yesterday’s U.S.-China summit, some people may be wondering, “If China made concessions and the U.S. economy becomes more stable, could mortgage rates come down as well?” To understand how the summit could affect the housing market, it’s important to look beyond the tone of the meeting and focus on what was actually agreed upon. On September 24, 2026, the U.S. and China agreed to extend their existing trade truce by two months while continuing negotiations towa

If you’ve been thinking about moving to a smaller home—whether to reduce living costs, simplify your lifestyle, or live closer to family—now is the time to pay attention.A growing number of U.S. homeowners are selling their homes and buying their next one entirely with cash, without a mortgage.If you’ve owned your home for years, you may be in the same position to make this move comfortably. Over 40% of U.S. Homes Are Now Mortgage-Free According to ResiClub’s analysis of U.S.

“I keep hearing that it’s a good time to buy a home. Is it?” It’s a question I hear often. But even in the same market, some buyers are purchasing with cash, while others are adjusting their budgets because of monthly mortgage payments. Some homeowners are hesitant to move because they have an existing mortgage with a much lower interest rate, while homebuilders may be offering incentives to attract buyers. According to a September 23, 2026, article from Keeping Current Matte

When your neighbor lists their home and hosts an open house, consider stopping by. It’s not just about curiosity—it’s a chance to understand the market in real time and prepare your own future selling strategy. Understanding Your Local Market Firsthand An open house is like a live market report. Beyond listing details, you can see the home’s condition, upgrades, and even property tax differences.For example, even within the same school district, a neighbor’s updated kitchen o