Jennifer Vogel

Are you thinking about buying a home, but not sure if now’s the right time? A lot of people are waiting and wondering what the market’s going to do next. But here’s something only the savviest buyers realize:This summer might actually be the best time to buy in years. Here are three big reasons why.1. You Have More Negotiating Power After several years of sellers having all the leverage, things Continue Reading about 3 Reasons To Buy a Home This Summer

It’s hard to let go of a 3% mortgage rate. There’s no question about it. It’s the main reason why so many homeowners have delayed their move in recent years. But here’s something to consider.While your low rate might be ideal, it doesn’t make up being too cramped, having a staircase your knees can’t handle anymore, or being 1,000 miles from your family. And those real-life needs are pushing more Continue Reading about Why More Sellers Are Choosing To Move, Even with Today’s Rates

Some HighlightsThere’s a misconception going around that you have to put 20% of the purchase price down when you buy a home. But the truth is, many people don’t put down that much unless they’re trying to make their offer more competitive.And if you want to give your savings a boost, look into down payment assistance. Most first-time buyers qualify and the typical benefit is $17,000.To learn more Continue Reading about What You Really Need To Know About Down Payments

Selling your house without an agent as a “For Sale by Owner” (FSBO) may be something you’ve considered. But you should know that, in today’s shifting market, more homeowners are deciding that’s just not worth the risk.According to the latest data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the number of homeowners selling without an agent has hit an all-time low (see graph below):And for the Continue Reading about Why Most Sellers Hire Real Estate Agents Today

Some HighlightsHave you been holding off on downsizing? If so, you should know your equity could make your move possible.Homeowners today have so much equity that a record number are buying their next house in all cash. And that has some big benefits like making their offer more appealing, potentially closing faster, and not having a mortgage payment.To find out how much equity you have in your Continue Reading about You May Have Enough Equity To Downsize and Buy Your Next House in Cash

When your house doesn’t sell, it doesn’t just feel frustrating – it feels personal. You put time, money, and emotional energy into this move. You told your friends and family it was happening. And now that your listing has expired without a buyer? You’re left feeling stuck, and maybe even a little embarrassed.And here's what most agents won’t tell you. Over 70% of homeowners who re-list with a Continue Reading about Your House Didn’t Sell. Here’s What To Do Now.

After years of it feeling almost impossible to find a home you want to buy, things are changing for the better. Nationally, inventory is growing, and that gives you more options for your move. But here’s what you need to know. That level of growth is going to vary based on where you live. And that’s why you need an agent’s local market expertise.Here’s a quick rundown of the current inventory Continue Reading about Is Inventory Getting Back To Normal?

Headlines are saying home prices are starting to dip in some markets. And if you’re beginning to second guess your plans based on what you’re hearing in the media, here’s what you need to know.It's true that a few metros are seeing slight price drops. But don't let that overshadow this simple truth. Home values almost always go up over time (see graph below):While everyone remembers what happened Continue Reading about The Five-Year Rule for Home Price Perspective