Jennifer Vogel

You may have seen reports in the news recently saying it’s more affordable to rent right now than it is to buy a home. And while that may be true in some markets if you just look at typical monthly payments, there’s one thing that the numbers aren’t factoring in: and that’s home equity. Here’s a look at how big of an impact equity can have and why it’s worth considering as you make your Continue Reading about Is It Better To Rent Than Buy a Home Right Now?

If you’ve got a move on your mind, you may be wondering whether you should wait to sell until mortgage rates come down before you spring into action. Here’s some information that could help answer that question for you.In the housing market, there’s a longstanding relationship between mortgage rates and buyer demand. Typically, the higher rates are, you’ll see lower buyer demand. That’s because Continue Reading about Should I Wait for Mortgage Rates To Come Down Before I Move?

Have you been saving up to buy a home this year? If so, you know there are a number of expenses involved – from your down payment to closing costs. But did you also know your tax refund can help you pay for some of these expenses? As Credit Karma explains:“If one of your goals is to stop renting and buy a home, you’ll need to save up for closing costs and a down payment on the mortgage. A tax Continue Reading about Ways To Use Your Tax Refund If You Want To Buy a Home

Some HighlightsIf you’re about to retire, or just did, downsizing can be a good way to try to cut down on some of your expenses.Smaller homes typically have lower energy and maintenance costs. Plus, you may have enough equity built up to fuel your move.If you’re thinking about moving to a smaller home, connect with a real estate professional to go over your goals and look at your options in the Continue Reading about The Perks of Downsizing When You Retire [INFOGRAPHIC]

There’s no arguing it, affordability is still tight. And if you’re trying to buy a home, that may mean you need to look at smaller houses to find one that’s still in your budget. But there is a silver lining: builders are focused on building these smaller homes right now and they’re offering incentives. And that can help give you more options that fit the bill.Newly Built Homes Are Trending Continue Reading about Builders Are Building Smaller Homes

When mortgage rates spiked up over the last few years, some homeowners put their plans to move on pause. Maybe you did too because you didn’t want to sell and take on a higher mortgage rate for your next home. But is that still the right strategy for you?In today’s market, data shows more homeowners are getting used to where rates are and thinking it may be time to move. As Mark Zandi, Chief Continue Reading about Should I Move with Today’s Mortgage Rates?

You may have heard headlines in the news lately about agents in the real estate industry and discussions about their commissions. And if you’re following along, it can be pretty confusing. But here’s the thing you really need to know – expert advice from a trusted real estate agent is priceless, now more than ever. And here’s why.A real estate agent does a lot more than you may realize. Your agent Continue Reading about The Top 5 Reasons You Need a Real Estate Agent when Buying a Home

If you have student loans and want to buy a home, you might have questions about how your debt affects your plans. Do you have to wait until you’ve paid off those loans before you can buy your first home? Or is it possible you could still qualify for a home loan even with that debt? Here’s a look at the latest information so you have the answers you need.A Bankrate article explains:“Roughly 60 Continue Reading about Don’t Let Your Student Loans Delay Your Homeownership Plans