Author: rhondamusch-com

New home sales in the US rose in August, driven by price cuts, incentives, and smaller floor plans, marking the fastest pace in eight months but still 2% below last year. Sales surged in the Midwest and South but declined in the Northeast and West. The median new-home price was $393,700, with over half priced below $400,000. New homes have been cheaper than existing ones for six months. Inventory remained high, and builder sentiment hit a one-year low amid rising financing costs.

Fixer-uppers offer lower prices and less competition, appealing to owner-occupants and investors willing to renovate. Success depends on careful budgeting, including purchase, renovation, financing, and carrying costs. Key inspections should focus on major systems. Financing options vary by buyer type, with renovation loans available. Location impacts affordability and demand. A successful project requires realistic expectations, financial reserves, and a solid team.

Home title theft involves criminals using forged documents to transfer property ownership, leading to unauthorized sales or loans. Seniors, vacation homeowners, and those with high equity are at higher risk. Warning signs include unexpected bills or unknown tenants. Protect by monitoring records and safeguarding personal information.

For many Florida renters, the main barrier to homeownership is the upfront cash needed at closing, not monthly mortgage payments. A new approach suggests saving six months' rent can cover down payment, closing costs, and prepaid expenses by combining low-down-payment loans with seller or lender credits. FHA and VA loans further reduce upfront costs, with VA loans potentially requiring no cash at closing. Qualification depends on income, credit, and debt factors.

New construction appeals to 80% of Americans, driven by fewer repairs, customization, modern design, and energy efficiency. Essential home features include a large kitchen (60%), outdoor living space (56%), natural light (53%), and energy-efficient elements (52%). The kitchen is the top priority, with 34% valuing it most and 48% willing to pay extra to upgrade. While 59% prioritize home features over community amenities, 60% would trade features for amenities like trails, parks, and pools.

Nearly 73.4% of homebuyers would consider an all-electric home with solar panels and battery storage, up from 36.7% in 2024, with 56% ranking it a top priority. One-third would pay up to a 10% premium for such homes, driven by concerns over utility costs, power outages, and desire for self-sufficiency during severe weather. Resilient home designs are gaining value and support from builders and insurers despite upfront costs.

The United States real estate market is projected to reach USD 2.30 trillion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 2.98% from 2026. Growth drivers include urbanization, rising demand for residential and commercial properties, infrastructure development, favorable policies, and low interest rates. Key trends involve smart technologies, sustainable building, mixed-use developments, and shifts toward remote work. Despite challenges, the market is expected to remain resilient and innovative.

Elevated mortgage rates near 7% and high home prices are causing many U.S. buyers to stay sidelined, leading sellers to offer more concessions and price cuts. In August, 45% of sellers gave concessions, with 20% cutting prices and nearly 16% doing both. The housing supply is at a multi-year high, especially in Sun Belt markets where concessions reach up to 73%. This trend reflects a market imbalance with more sellers than buyers, prolonging the housing slowdown.

Mortgage rates have risen from below 6% to near 7% in 2026. To secure the lowest rates, borrowers should improve credit scores, lower debt-to-income ratios, make larger down payments, and consider buying discount points. Other strategies include interest rate buydowns, adjustable-rate mortgages, shorter-term loans, and assumable mortgages. Shopping among lenders and using seller concessions can also help reduce rates. Refinancing may be beneficial if rates drop significantly later.

There are three ways to buy a foreclosed home: short sale from the owner, foreclosure auction, or bank-owned (REO) purchase. Foreclosure filings rose 21% in early 2026, increasing inventory. Mortgage preapproval is crucial, especially to compete with cash buyers. Foreclosures often sell "as is," with limited inspections and no repairs. Auctions may include buyer premiums and require deposits. Renovation loans can help finance repairs on fixer-uppers. Closing times for REO sales are similar to traditional sales.