real-estate – Make Your Move with Mari

Your Home Is On Someone’s Wish List

Those shopping in the winter are motivated — often moving because of a job relocation, a change in financial situation or family needs.

When the holidays roll around, travel plans, family gatherings, and all the chaos of the season may make you think it’s better to pull your listing off the market or to wait until 2026 to begin selling your house. But here’s the thing….

…waiting could mean missing out on a great window of opportunity. Because while other sellers are stepping away, you can lean in – and that might actually give you the edge. Here are four reasons why selling now could be a good bet.

1. Buyers This Time of Year Are Serious

Don’t let the season fool you. While casual browsers tend to step back around the holidays, serious buyers stay in the game. The people looking for homes right now usually aren’t just browsing. They’re ready to make a move and they sometimes want to close before the new year. As Zillow says:

“While more buyers have tended to shop in the spring and summer months, those shopping in the winter are likely to be motivated — often moving because of a job relocation, change in financial situation, or change in family needs.”

Their timelines are real and missing them would create a hassle for the buyer, so they’re eager to get the deal done. And that’s exactly the kind of buyer you want to work with.

2. You Have Control Over Your Schedule (and Showings)

Some homeowners decide not to sell this time of year because they don’t want to juggle showings during the holiday rush. They’re anticipating traveling to see family and thinking about buyers in their home only adds another layer of complexity.

But here’s what no one’s reminded them. You can control your showings and can set times that work for your schedule. You don’t have to stop your plans to keep your sale on track. We can help you manage your calendar, your showings, and your stress level.

3. Other Sellers May Step Back, Which Means Less Competition

Because fewer sellers tend to list this time of year, the number of homes for sale usually falls a bit. Lisa Sturtevant, Chief Economist at Bright MLS, explains:

“As we approach the end of the year, listing activity tends to slow and would-be sellers decide to wait until after the new year to list . . .”

And in a year when inventory has been steadily rising, that seasonal slowdown works in your favor. With the potential for fewer sellers, your house will stand out. So, a seasonal dip in listings could help you be noticed, especially if your home is priced right and presented well.

4. Homes Decorated for the Holidays Can Feel More Inviting

You may not realize it, but seasonal decor can actually help you appeal to buyers. Maybe it’s that they have an easier time picturing themselves making memories in the home. Maybe it just feels cozier and more inviting. Whatever the reason, it works. Sometimes tasteful seasonal touches can make it easier to sell your house.

But don’t go overboard. Keep your choices simple to let your home’s charm shine through.

Bottom Line

There are plenty of good reasons to put (or keep) your house on the market during this time of year.

If you want to talk strategy for how to make the most of this season, let’s connect. You can find us at 508-388-1994 or msennott@todayrealestate.com.

We’re here to help…

Hank’s first book of short stories– “Chances: Stories and Memories Real and Imagined” has been published. I’m hosting a Book Launch/Signing this Saturday from 3:00pm – 6:00pm at Holly Ridge Golf Course in Sandwich. If you can, please come and support Hank. (The invitation is below.)

If you can’t make it, “Chances” is available on Amazon, which describes the book as a: “heartfelt and richly woven collection of short stories and personal reflections that explore the fragile, funny, and deeply human moments that shape a life.”

Thanks.

Mari

Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision.

What You Need to Tell Uncle Bob

Well-meaning family and friends will have “advice” this week about your decision to buy, sell, or both.

This week many of us will be gathering with family and friends to celebrate Thanksgiving.

If you’re think about buying a home for the first time or selling your current one to upsize, downsize or move to that “someday” neighborhood, well-meaning relatives and friends — like your Uncle Bob who “knows a little something about real estate” — will have their opinions.

So, here’s what you need to know.

1. Mortgage Rates Have Been Coming Down

Mortgage rates are always going to have their ups and downs – that’s just how rates work. Especially with the general economic uncertainty right now, some volatility is to be expected. But, if you zoom out, it’s the larger trend that really matters most.

And overall, rates have been trending down for most of this year (see graph below):

According to Sam Khater, Chief Economist at Freddie Mac:

“On a median-priced home, this could allow a homebuyer to save thousands annually compared to earlier this year, showing that affordability is slowly improving.”

Here’s why that matters for you. This shift changes what you can actually afford. It means lower borrowing costs and more buying power. Take this as an example.

2. More Homeowners Are Ready To Sell

For a while, many homeowners stayed put because they didn’t want to give up their low mortgage rate. That “lock-in effect” kept inventory tight. And while plenty of homeowners are still staying where they are today, the number of rate-locked homeowners is starting to ease as rates come down. Life changes are becoming a bigger part of what’s driving more people to move, and that’s opening up more inventory.

Data from Realtor.com shows just how much the number of homes for sale has grown. And the really interesting part is that the market is approaching levels that haven’t been seen for the past six years (see the blue on the graph below):

That return to more normal inventory levels is a really good thing. It gives buyers more options than they’ve had in years. And it’s helping to bring the market closer to balance.

3. More Buyers Are Re-Entering the Market

And it’s not just sellers making moves. With more options and slightly better affordability, buyers are getting back in the game, too. The Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) reports purchase applications are up compared to last year, a clear signal that demand is building again (see graph below):

Bottom Line

After several slower-than-normal years, the market is finally starting to turn a corner. Declining mortgage rates, more listings, and growing buyer activity all point to a market gaining real traction.

So, no matter what Uncle Bob may tell you, this really is a good time to take action and make the change you know you need to.

Please enjoy the holiday with family and friends.

…and if you’d like we’ll talk to Uncle Bob!

Mari and Hank

Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision.

The $280 Shift

This could be the difference between “not yet” and “let’s go!”

If you paused your plans to move because of high rates or prices, it may finally be time to take a second look at your numbers. Affordability is improving, according to First American. And that’s the fifth straight month where buying a home has started to get a little bit easier.

Let’s break this down into real dollars, so you can see the difference this could make for you (and your move).

Monthly Payments Are Coming Down

One of the clearest signs of this shift is in monthly payments. The latest data from Redfin shows mortgage payments on a median-priced home are now $283 lower than they were just a few months ago (see graph below):

This kind of monthly savings adds up fast, and totals nearly $3,400 over the course of a year.

Please remember that the median price is the price in the middle. There are just as many homes available below that price as above. So, don’t be put off by that figure. There are homes in your price range!

While this drop isn’t enough to totally change the affordability game overnight, think about it this way. When you’re putting together a home buying budget, a few hundred dollars may be the difference between being comfortable buying a home and feeling like money is still a bit tight.

And from a home-search perspective, it may even be enough to change the price point you can look at.

And that’s a big deal if you haven’t found a home you love in your price range yet. It gives you a little more flexibility to find the one that’s right for you.

Either way, that’s a big win.

What’s Behind the Shift?

Three key factors are working in your favor right now:

Mortgage rates have eased from their high earlier this year
Home price growth is slowing in many markets
Inventory is increasing

All these help your bottom line and give you some breathing room if you’re buying a home. As Andy Walden, Head of Mortgage and Housing Market Research at ICE Mortgage Technology, says:

“The recent pullback in rates has created a tailwind for both homebuyers and existing borrowers. We’re seeing affordability at a 2.5-year high . . .”

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or someone looking to move up into a bigger house, the shifts happening this year could make your move possible.

For you, the savings could be the difference between “not yet” and “let’s go.”

Bottom Line

If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines, this is your cue to start looking again. So, contact your lender to see how much you can afford today and then connect with us to see what’s currently available that might suit your needs. You can find us at 508-388-1994 or msennott@todayrealestate.com.

We’re here to help…

Mari and Hank

Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision.

What to Expect Next Year

Mortgage rates could continue to ease.

After a couple of years where the housing market felt stuck in neutral, 2026 may be the year things shift back into gear. Expert forecasts show more people are expected to move – and that could open the door for you to do the same.

More Homes Will Sell

With all of the affordability challenges at play over the past few years, many would-be movers pressed pause. But that can’t last forever. There are always people who need to move. And experts think more of them will start to act in 2026 (see graph below):

What’s behind the change? Two key factors: mortgage rates and home prices. Let’s dive into the latest expert forecasts for both, so you can see why more people are expected to move next year.

Mortgage Rates Could Continue To Ease

The #1 thing just about every buyer has been looking for is lower mortgage rates. And after peaking near 7% earlier this year, rates have started to ease.

The latest forecasts show that could continue throughout 2026, but it won’t be a straight line down (see graph below):

There’s a saying: when rates go up, they take the escalator. But when they come down, they take the stairs. And that’s an important thing to remember. It’ll be a slow and bumpy process.

Expect modest improvement in mortgage rates over the next year but be ready for some volatility. This can happen as new economic data comes out. Just don’t let it distract you from the bigger picture: the overall trend will be a slight decline. Forecasts say we could hit the low 6s, or maybe even the high 5s. Your rate could be even lower depending on your individual situation.

And remember, there doesn’t have to be a big drop for you to feel a change. Even a smaller dip helps your bottom line.

If you compare where rates are now to when they were at 7% earlier this year, you’re already saving hundreds on your future mortgage payment. And that’s a really good thing. It’s enough to make a real difference in affordability for some.

Home Price Growth Will Be Moderate

What about prices? On a national scale, forecasts say they’re still going to rise, just not by a lot. With rates down from their peak earlier this year, more buyers will re-enter the market. And that increased demand will keep some upward pressure on prices nationally – and prevent prices from tumbling down.

So, even though some markets are already seeing slight price declines, you can rest easy that a big crash just isn’t in the cards. Thanks to how much prices rose over the last 5 years, even the markets seeing declines right now are still up compared to just a few years ago.

Of course, price trends will depend on local markets. Inventory is a big driver in why some places are going to see varying levels of appreciation going forward. But experts agree we’ll see prices grow at the national level (see graph below):

This is yet another good sign for buyers and overall affordability. While prices will still go up nationally, it’ll be at a much more sustainable pace. And that predictability makes it easier to plan your budget. It also gives you peace of mind that prices won’t suddenly skyrocket overnight.

On Cape Cod we continue to deal with over pricing which gives the impression with each “improvement” that prices are falling. That’s not the case. Asking prices are just being brought down to where they should be. (And not at the level a neighbor got three years ago.)

Remember, prices in one market may not be the same in another. If the cost of a home on Cape Cod, for example, is too steep for you, there are other parts of the Massachusetts or nearby Rhode Island, for example, that may better fit your budget. In fact, you may be able to afford more house elsewhere.

If you’re interested in expanding your search, Today Real Estate now reaches other parts of Massachusetts and the rest of New England. Mari will also be getting her Rhode Island real estate license soon. Please let us know how we can help.

Bottom Line

After a quieter couple of years, 2026 is expected to bring more movement – and more opportunity. With sales projected to rise, mortgage rates trending lower, and price growth slowing down, the stage is set for a healthier, more active market.

So, the big question: will you be one of the movers who makes 2026 your year?

Let’s connect if you want to get ready. It’s mid-October. 2026 is a little more than two months away.

You can find us at 508-388-1994 or msennott@todayrealestate.com. We’re happy to help.

Mari and Hank

PS: The latest edition of our Mashpee TV program “How’s the Market?” features Patti Lotane from Cape Cod Five, who will be talking about mortgage rates. We’ll be posting it soon on our social media platforms. Please watch for it.

The information contained, and the opinions expressed, in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision.

Unrealistic Pricing Can Cost You

The risk isn’t just missing out on offers, it’s missing out on the move you needed to make in the first place.

As inventory increases, you need to get your home priced right when you are ready to sell. Honestly, it’s more important than ever. Why? While you may want to list high just to see what happens, that’s a plan that can easily backfire, and it’s going to cost you in today’s market.

And the risk isn’t just missing out on offers, it’s missing out on the move you needed to make in the first place.

The Real Pitfall of Overpricing

Many homeowners remember what their neighbor’s house sold for a few years ago, and they want to chase that same sky-high number. The problem is, that was a different market.

Today, there are more homes for sale. Buyers have more options to choose from. They don’t have to get into bidding wars where they offer way over asking just to compete. Now they can come in at, or even below, list price. And if you’re not open to that, they’ll move on. Lisa Sturtevant, Chief Economist at Bright MLS, explains:

“Buyers will have more leverage in many, but not all, markets. Sellers will need to adjust price expectations to reflect the transitioning market.”

But here’s the good news. You still have one big advantage as a seller. According to the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), home values went up by a staggering 54% over the last 5 years. So, even if you compromise just a little bit on your sale price today, odds are you’ll still come out way ahead.

The challenge? Most sellers aren’t thinking about it that way. They’re stuck on what a neighbor got months or years ago – and that’s a costly mistake.

Overpricing Can Stall Your Whole Move

Here’s what happens. A seller lists too high. Buyers stay away. No offers come in. The house sits. And suddenly, that seller is facing a tough decision. Do they cut the price? Stick it out? Or give up altogether?

Unfortunately, a late price cut may not be enough. Buyers often see that as a red flag that something’s wrong with the house. That’s why some sellers are opting to just pull their listing off the market entirely.

In a recent survey from John Burns Research and Consulting (JBREC) and Keeping Current Matters (KCM) over half of agents (54%) say there are more homes being taken off the market than usual.

And the top reasons for that? According to the agents, homeowners didn’t get any offers they felt were fair. The survey from JBREC and KCM explains it like this:

“Sellers holding onto high price expectations is the leading reason they are delisting their homes.”

BrightMLS data backs this up:

“. . . sellers are delisting after having their home on the market and finding they are not getting the price they hoped for.”

It’s more proof pricing too high does more than turn buyers away, it puts your whole move at risk. Because if no one looks at your home or makes an offer, how are you going to sell it?

Remember: all realtors who are doing their jobs generally speaking look at the same comps. If your realtor advises you that the price you “want” is high, other realtors will be telling their buyers the same thing. With competition being what it is, you don’t want your home immediately eliminated because of price.

The Secret To Making Your Move Happen

If you’re selling to relocate for a job, need more space for your growing family, or have to be closer to your relatives as they age, you can’t afford to get stuck. You need a pricing strategy that helps you move forward – and that starts with us.

The sellers who are winning right now are the ones working with experienced real estate professionals who know the current market and aren’t afraid to have honest conversations about price.

Bottom Line

Pricing your house for today’s market isn’t just about getting it sold. It’s about making sure your move doesn’t stall before it starts.

Let’s talk through what buyers are really paying right now, and how to price your home to match.

You can find us at 508-388-1994 or msennott@todayrealestate.com. We’re here to help…

Mari and Hank

Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision.

How to Downsize without Debt

Downsizing is about upgrading your quality of life

If you’ve been thinking about downsizing to lower your expenses, be closer to family, or just make life easier, here’s a trend worth paying attention to:

More homeowners are buying their next house outright, without taking on a new mortgage. And, if you’ve owned your home for a while, you may be able to do the same. No mortgage. No monthly housing payments.

A Record Share of Homeowners Are Mortgage-Free

According to analysis from ResiClub of Census data, more than 40% of U.S. owner-occupied homes are mortgage-free – an all-time high for this data series. That means 4 in 10 homeowners own their homes free and clear (see graph below):

One big reason for this trend? Demographics. As Baby Boomers age and stay in their homes longer, many have had the time to fully pay off their mortgages. You might be in that group too and not even realize just how much buying power you now have. It’s time to change that.

How Downsizers Are Turning Equity into Buying Power

As a homeowner, your equity is your biggest advantage in today’s market. If you’re mortgage-free (or close to it), it could give you the power to buy your next home in cash. That means you’d still have no mortgage payment in retirement, plus:

Less financial stress as you age
More cash flow, if you purchase a less expensive home
And it would likely be a faster, simpler transaction

Here’s how it works. You’d sell your current house and use the proceeds to buy your next house in cash. And while that may sound like something you thought would never be possible for you, it’s more realistic than you may think.

In the latest survey from John Burns Research and Consulting (JBREC) and Keeping Current Matters (KCM), agents reported the share of purchases with all-cash buyers is climbing nationally. And those agents are seeing increases in almost every region of the country (see graph below):

For Baby Boomers especially, buying in cash gives you more control over your next chapter. You could buy a smaller, less expensive home and have lower costs, less upkeep, and more flexibility to enjoy what matters most. All while staying debt and stress free.

Because downsizing isn’t about downgrading your home. It’s about upgrading your quality of life. And that’s something worth exploring.

Bottom Line

You’ve worked hard for your home. Now it might be time for it to work hard for you.

Let’s talk about what your house is worth, and how that could fund where’s next for you. You can find us at 508-388-1994 or msennott@todayrealestate.com.

There’s no need to stay in your current home that is too big, too small, or not where you want to be because you think you can’t afford to move.

Mari and Hank

Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision.

Mortgage Rates Just Saw Their Biggest Drop in a Year

If you’ve been feeling stuck, this is the break you’ve been waiting for.

You’ve been waiting for what feels like forever for mortgage rates to finally budge. And last week, they did – in a big way.

On Friday, September 5^th, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate fell to the lowest since October 2024. It was the biggest one-day decline in over a year.

What Sparked the Drop?

According to Mortgage News Daily, this was a reaction to the August jobs report, which was weaker than expected for a second month in a row. That sent signals across the financial markets, and then mortgage rates came down as a result.

Basically, we’re seeing signs the economy may be slowing down, and as certainty grows in the direction the economy is going, the markets are reacting to what is likely ahead. That historically brings mortgage rates down.

Why Buyers Should Pay Attention Now

But this isn’t just about one day of headlines or one report. It’s about what the drop means for you.

This recent change saves you money when you buy a home. The chart below shows you an example of what a monthly mortgage payment (principal and interest) would be at 7% (where mortgage rates were in May) versus where rates roughly are now:

Compared to just 4 months ago, your future monthly payment would be almost $200 less per month. That’s close to $2,400 a year in savings.

Locally, Cape Cod Five has announced 30 and 15 year rates below 6%.

How Long Will It Last?

That really depends on where the economy and inflation go from here. Rates could drop lower, or they could inch up slightly.

So, make sure you stay in touch with us and your lender. We’ll be keeping a close eye on inflation indicators, job market updates, and reactions to upcoming Fed policy to gauge where mortgage rates may go from here.

But for now, focus on this. While no one can say for sure where rates are headed, the fact that rates broke out of their months-long rut is a good thing. If you’ve been feeling stuck, this could make the start of a new chapter. As Diana Olick, Senior Real Estate and Climate Correspondent at CNBC, says:

“Rates are finally breaking out of the high 6% range, where they’ve been stuck for months.”

And that’s gives you more reason to hope than you’ve had in quite some time.

Bottom Line

This is the shift you’ve been waiting for.

Mortgage rates just saw their biggest decline in over a year. And if rates stay near this level, it could make a home you couldn’t afford just a few months ago feel possible again.

With inventory increasing, is this finally the time for you to make the change you know you need to whether buying, selling or both?

Questions? Concerns? You can find us at 508-388-1994 or msennott@todayrealestate.com. We’re here to help.

Mari and Hank

Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision.

The Accidental Landlord

The number of homeowners turning into accidental landlords is rising.

Sometimes sellers will say they’ve decided to rent their homes if the properties been on the market for what they’ve consider too long or if the offers they’re receiving aren’t what “they want.”

There’s a term for this in the industry, and it’s called an accidental landlord. Here’s how Yahoo Finance defines it:

“These ‘accidental landlords’ are homeowners who tried to sell but couldn’t fetch the price they wanted — and instead have decided to rent out their homes until conditions improve.”

Why This Is Happening

The number of homeowners turning into accidental landlords is rising. Business Insider explains why:

“While there have always been accidental landlords . . . an era of middling home sales brought on by a steep rise in borrowing rates — is minting a new wave of reluctant rental owners.”

Basically, sales have slowed down as buyers struggle with today’s affordability challenges. That’s leaving some homeowners with listings that sit and go stale. And if they don’t want to drop their price to try to appeal to buyers, some homeowners may believe that renting is a better option.

Let’s be honest, you can’t blame them for thinking about it. The rents that some properties can command are certainly enticing.

But here’s what you need to remember if renting your house has crossed your mind. If becoming a landlord wasn’t your original plan, there’s probably a reason for that. It comes with a lot more responsibility (and risk) than most people expect.

So, if you find yourself toying with that option, ask yourself these questions first:

1. Does Your House Have Potential as a Profitable Rental?

Just because you can rent it doesn’t mean you should. For example:

Are you moving out of state? Managing maintenance from far away isn’t easy.
Does the home need repairs before it’s rental-ready? Do you have the time or the funds for that? The house you were attempting to sell “as is,” may not be suitable as a rental property until the improvements you’re trying to avoid making are completed.
Is your neighborhood one that typically attracts renters, and would your house be profitable as one?

If any of those give you pause, it’s a sign selling might be the better move.

2. Are You Ready To Be a Landlord?

On paper, renting sounds like easy passive income. In reality, it often looks more like this:

Midnight calls about clogged toilets or broken air conditioners
Chasing down missed rent payments
Damage you’ll have to fix between tenants
Calls from former neighbors with complaints about your renters, whether the calls are justified or not.

As Redfin notes:

“Landlords have to fix things like broken pipes, defunct HVAC systems, and structural damage, among other essential repairs. If you don’t have a few thousand dollars on hand to take care of these repairs, you could end up in a bind.”

3. Have You Thought Through the True Costs?

According to Bankrate, here are just a few of the hidden costs that come with renting out your home:

A higher insurance premium (landlord insurance typically costs about 25% more)
Management fees (if you use a property manager, they typically charge around 10% of the rent)
Maintenance and advertising to find tenants
Gaps between tenants, where you cover the mortgage without rental income coming in

All of that adds up, fast.

While renting can be a smart move for the right person with the right house, if you’re only considering it because your listing didn’t get traction, there may be a better solution: revisiting the pricing strategy on your house.

Bottom Line

Before you decide to rent your house, make sure to carefully weigh the pros and cons of becoming a landlord. If you do not have an active listing agreement with a real estate professional, please consider contacting us. A fresh set of eyes may offer a different perspective. The issue may not be the price. It could be marketing or other factors.

You can find us at 508-388-1994 or msennott@todayrealestate.com.

For many homeowners, the hassle (and the expense) of renting may not be worth it.

Mari and Hank

The information contained, and the opinions expressed, in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision.

What Credit Score Do You Need?

Most homebuyers think they need better credit than they actually do.

According to Fannie Mae, 90% of buyers don’t actually know what credit score lenders are looking for, or they overestimate the minimum needed.

Let that sink in. That means most homebuyers think they need better credit than they actually do – and maybe you’re one of them. And that could make you think buying a home is out of reach for you right now, even if that’s not necessarily true. So, let’s look at what the data really says about credit scores and homebuying.

There’s No One Magic Number

There’s no universal credit score you absolutely have to have when buying a home. And that means there’s more flexibility than most people realize. Check out this graph showing the median credit scores recent buyers had among different home loan types:

Here’s what’s important to realize. The numbers vary, and there’s no one-size-fits-all threshold. And that could open doors you thought were closed for you. The best way to learn more is to talk to a trusted lender. As FICO explains:

“While many lenders use credit scores like FICO Scores to help them make lending decisions, each lender has its own strategy, including the level of risk it finds acceptable. There is no single ‘cutoff score’ used by all lenders, and there are many additional factors that lenders may use . . .”

Why Your Score Still Matters

When you buy a home, lenders use your credit score to get a sense of how reliable you are with money. They want to see if you typically make payments on time, pay back debts, and more.

Your score can impact which loan types you may qualify for, the terms on those loans, and even your mortgage rate. And since mortgage rates are a big factor in how much house you’ll be able to afford, that may make your score feel even more important today. As Bankrate says:

“Your credit score is one of the most important factors lenders consider when you apply for a mortgage. Not just to qualify for the loan itself, but for the conditions: Typically, the higher your score, the lower the interest rates and better terms you’ll qualify for.”

That still doesn’t mean your credit has to be perfect. Even if your credit score isn’t as high as you’d like, you may still be able to get a home loan.

Want To Boost Your Score? Start Here

And if you talk to a lender and decide you want to improve your score (and hopefully your loan type and terms too), here are a few smart moves according to the Federal Reserve Board:

Pay Your Bills on Time: This is a big one. Lenders want to see you can reliably pay your bills on time. This includes everything from credit cards to utilities and cell phone bills. Consistent, on-time payments show you’re a responsible borrower.
Pay Down Your Debt: When it comes to your available credit amount, the less you’re using, the better. Focus on keeping this number as low as possible. That makes you a lower-risk borrower in the eyes of lenders – making them more likely to approve a loan with better terms.
Review Your Credit Report: Get copies of your credit report and work to correct any errors you find. This can help improve your score.
Don’t Open New Accounts: While it might be tempting to open more credit cards to build your score, it’s best to hold off. Too many new credit applications can lead to hard inquiries on your report, which can temporarily lower your score.

Bottom Line

Your credit score doesn’t have to be perfect to qualify for a home loan. But a better score can help you get better terms on your home loan. The best way to know where you stand and your options for a mortgage is to connect with a trusted lender.

If you are not working with a reputable lender, we can connect you with several who we know. Just reach out to 508-388-1994 or msennott@todayrealestate.com. We’re happy to help…

Mari and Hank

Selling Your Home? Don’t Do This

Are you thinking about selling your house? Here are some common mistakes that are being made right now that’s causing the process to be more stressful for some sellers. And even costing them money!

Fortunately, they’re easy to avoid, as long as you know what to watch for. Let’s break down the biggest seller slip-ups, and how we can help you steer clear of them.

1. Overpricing Your House

It’s completely natural to want top dollar for your house, especially if you’ve put a lot of work into it. But in today’s shifting market, pricing it too high can backfire. Investopedia explains:

“Setting a list price too high could mean your home struggles to attract buyers and stays on the market for longer.”

And your house sitting on the market for a long time could lead to price cuts that raise red flags about “what’s wrong” with the property. That’s why pricing your house right from the start matters.

To advise you on price, we look at what other similar nearby homes have sold for, the condition of your house, and what’s happening in the market right now. That way we can suggest a price that’s more likely to bring in buyers, and maybe even more than one offer.

2. Spending Money on the Wrong Upgrades

The housing market has nearly a half million more sellers than buyers according to Redfin. That means you have more competition as a seller and may have to do a bit more to get your house ready to sell. But not all projects are going to be worth it. If you spend money on the wrong projects, it could really cut into your profit.

We work with buyers and know what they’re really looking for, so we can help you figure out which projects are worth it, and which ones to skip. Even better, we know how to highlight any upgrades you make in your home, so your house stands out online and gets more attention.

3. Refusing To Negotiate

Now that inventory has grown, it’s important to stay flexible. Buyers have more options – and with it comes more negotiating power. U.S. News explains:

“If you’ve received an offer for your house that isn’t quite what you’d hoped it would be, expect to negotiate . . . make sure the buyer also feels like he or she benefits . . . consider offering to cover some of the buyer’s closing costs or agree to a credit for a minor repair the inspector found.”

Again, that’s where we come in. We’ll advise you on what’s normal in today’s market, and how to find a win-win solution. Sometimes making a small compromise can keep the deal moving and help you move on to your next chapter faster.

4. Skipping Research When Hiring an Agent

So, you want to interview several agents? Be sure to do your research.

Ask about how many homes has the person sold? (We’ve sold 400.)
Ask about their marketing plan. (We have one.)
Ask about how committed they are to representing your home. (Are they going to attend every showing or just give the lock box code to any agent who calls. We attend every showing. If we’re not there to sell your home, then why did you hire us? If for some reason we can’t, another Today Real Estate agent who is fully briefed about your home will.)

Bottom Line

Selling a house doesn’t have to be stressful, especially if you have us by your side. If you’re ready to sell, let’s talk. You can find us at 508-388-1994 or msennott@todayrealestate.com.

Mari and Hank