As more data centers pop up, they're becoming another piece of the puzzle buyers and homeowners need to understand.

Have a data center nearby or one coming soon? Let’s talk about what it could mean for your home or your next move.

Data centers probably weren't on your list of things to think about when buying or selling a home.

School districts? Sure. How close you are to family? Absolutely. A large building full of computer servers down the road? Probably not.

But that may be changing.

Data centers are popping up in more communities across the country. And as they do, buyers and homeowners are starting to wonder what having one nearby could mean for everything from home values to utility bills. So, let's get into what the data actually says. Because there's a lot more nuance here than if they’re “good” or “bad.”

Data Centers Are Showing Up in a Lot More ZIP Codes

According to Realtor.com, back in 2015, only about a dozen ZIP codes had a large data center. But by the first half of 2026, that number had climbed to more than 100 – and it's projected to rise even further by the end of the year (see graph below):

That's a pretty dramatic increase in just over a decade. HousingWire shows a lot of that growth is in Texas, Virginia, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Utah, Illinois, Arizona, Indiana, and Nevada. 

And that ramp up explains why this is becoming a real estate conversation. More buyers are going to encounter a data center during their search. More homeowners are going to hear about one being proposed nearby. 

And both groups are going to want to know what that could mean for them.

The Big Question: What About Home Values?

One of the first concerns homeowners and buyers may have is: could a nearby data center hurt home values? So far, there’s no evidence that says it automatically will.

Researchers compared communities that have large data centers to similar communities without them. A recent HousingWire article reports:

“. . . home values in data center ZIP codes generally tracked their matched communities — with no statistically meaningful gains or losses. Listing prices showed a modest initial increase around openings . . .”

That's important context. Historically, simply having a data center nearby hasn’t been enough to send home values dramatically higher or lower.

That doesn’t mean every property will react the same way. Proximity, the surrounding development, and the specific facility can all matter. But for the typical homeowner or buyer, the data so far doesn’t point to an automatic impact on home values.

Living Near a Data Center Can Come with Tradeoffs

Like any major development coming to town, data centers can bring benefits along with things buyers and homeowners will want to consider.

On the plus side:

• They may be part of a bigger growth story. A data center can usher in broader development in an area and substantial property tax revenue that can be used to improve the community. 

• Infrastructure may get an upgrade. New roads, fiber, power infrastructure, and other improvements can come along with major development. 

• They can generate economic activity. A data center can generate jobs which in turn fuels local housing demand and supports local businesses. 

On the flip side:

• They're not exactly invisible. Large facilities, transmission lines, substations, and construction can change the look and feel of an area. 

• Noise can matter. Cooling equipment, generators, construction, and truck traffic may be noticeable depending on how close you are. 

• They use more resources. These facilities can require significant electricity and, depending on the cooling system, water. That can raise questions about local infrastructure and whether growing electricity demand could affect what residents pay. 

On that last point, J.P. Blackwood, Public Affairs Liaison and Media Spokesperson for the Ohio Consumers’ Counsel (OCC), explained his take on what consumers need to know about data centers and their potential to impact utility costs to HousingWire:

“Utility rate increases tend to be gradual, and so that’s what I would expect here. Again, a number of factors can drive electricity prices higher and are driving them higher, and this is one of them. There are steps being taken around the country to mitigate the effects of data centers.”

Basically, they’re just one factor that can have an impact. And the key word there is “can” because it depends on where you live and what rules are in place in your area.

So, What Should Buyers and Homeowners Do?

If you’re buying, find out what’s already there – and what’s approved or proposed nearby. Consider the facility’s proximity, potential noise, future development, and whether utility costs are something you want to factor into your budget.

If you’re selling, don’t assume a nearby data center automatically hurts your home’s value. But buyers may have questions. Knowing the facts about the facility, construction timeline, noise, and future plans can help you address those concerns upfront.

Data centers probably weren't on your list of things to think about when buying or selling a home.

As more data centers pop up, they're becoming another piece of the puzzle buyers and homeowners need to understand.

Have a data center nearby or one coming soon? Talk to a local real estate agent about what it could mean for your home or your next move.

With remote work, where you live can be your decision instead of your employer's. And that puts more affordable places within reach.

Want to explore where that could take you? Let's connect.

For most first-time buyers, the hardest part of buying a home is making the numbers work. You budget, you save, and the finish line still feels far away. 

But your salary is only half the equation. Where you live shapes what you can afford just as much. And if you can work remotely, you have an advantage a lot of buyers don't. 

You're not tied to living where the jobs are, so you can look where your money goes further.

Where You Work Doesn’t Have To Dictate Where You Live

Remote job openings are on the rise. According to FlexJobs, remote job postings climbed 22% from the quarter before. That’s the second quarter in a row of double-digit growth. 

More remote roles mean more people can choose a home base around the life they want to build. As Forbes puts it: 

“Remote employees, freelancers, consultants, entrepreneurs, and business owners have the flexibility to choose a home base based on the life they want to build, whether that means more space, a lower cost of living, better access to nature, or simply somewhere new."

And you can use that freedom to look somewhere more affordable.

Your Paycheck Goes Much Further in Some States

Your cost of living – what you spend on housing, groceries, utilities, and the rest of daily life – varies a lot from one state to the next. In some, according to data from Extra Space, it runs far enough below the national average to change what you can afford (see map below):

Take Mississippi, for example, where the cost of living sits about 17% below average, or West Virginia at roughly 15% below. When day-to-day life costs less, you can put more of your income toward your goals, homeownership included. Relocate Right describes it this way: 

"Remote work has fundamentally changed the calculus of where to live. When your employer is in San Francisco, but you can work from anywhere, the question is no longer 'where are the jobs' but 'where does my salary go furthest and what kind of life can I build.'"

For a first-time buyer, working remotely could be a chance to put down roots and finally buy. Because with that kind of flexibility, you get to choose where to live and which places work best for your life and goals. 

What To Weigh Before You Go

A lower cost of living is a great start. But it’s also important to consider the things a budget spreadsheet won't show you, because a place can look like a great fit on paper and still not feel like home. 

• Is the internet fast and steady enough to do your job without interruptions? 

• Will it be easy to make friends and settle into a routine once you arrive?

• Does it have the amenities you want, like public transportation or decent takeout?

This is where a local real estate agent comes in. They can help you weigh a big move against a nearby one, because every state has more affordable pockets. Sometimes they’re closer than you think.

An agent will know which neighborhoods fit your budget and have the features you're after, whether that’s walkability, good restaurants, parks, or a nearby farmer’s market. 

For most first-time buyers, the hardest part of buying a home is making the numbers work. You budget, you save, and the finish line still feels far away.

With remote work, where you live can be your decision instead of your employer's. And that puts more affordable places within reach.

Want to explore where that could take you? Connect with a local real estate agent to see what's possible.

New homes may actually cost less than an existing home right now. And that’s opening up a window for you to get brand-new for less.

If you want a list of new home communities near you that are currently offering incentives or doing price cuts, let’s connect. That way you have someone in your corner helping you get the best deal possible.  

Most people think a newly built home costs more than an existing one. But right now, that’s actually backwards. Newly built homes are more affordable than existing ones in a lot of markets. And that’s because builders are cutting prices and stacking on incentives to try to keep their inventory moving.

Here’s why that’s really important for any would-be homebuyer to know.

Newly Built Homes Are the Better Deal Right Now

According to the latest data from the Census and the National Association of Realtors (NAR), a newly built home now typically costs about $40,000 less than an existing one (see graph below):

Builders aren’t like homeowners who can wait for the right offer. Unsold homes cost them money as long as they sit empty. So, builders cut prices and add incentives to keep them moving. That trend has carried into August. NAHB’s latest numbers:

• 35% of builders cut prices, with an average reduction of 6%. 

• 63% offered incentives like covering closing costs or buying down your mortgage rate. 

And those incentives can make a real dent in what you pay upfront and every month after. Plus, since everything is new and many builders offer warranties, you could save on home maintenance costs too. And with affordability where it is, every dollar counts.

So, don’t cross new builds off your list just yet. Yes, you may think they cost more, but that’s not always the case. 

If you can get brand-new everything for less than buying an existing home, isn’t that at least worth looking into? 

Don’t Let the Builder Pick Your Teammate

But before you tour a single model home, there's one thing worth figuring out first – who's actually working for you once you walk through that door.

That friendly rep in the builder's sales office works for the builder, not you. Their job is to protect the builder's bottom line, not yours. Your own agent flips that. 

They know the local market, so they can tell you if the builder's price and upgrades stack up against other options nearby. They'll negotiate on your behalf, whether that's a lower price, free upgrades, or a rate buydown. 

A good agent will also push for a home inspection. Builders won’t always bring it up, but it’s a step you shouldn’t skip, even on a new build. And your agent will be in your corner, so you know what you’re buying and get the best deal possible. 

Most people think a newly built home costs more than an existing one. But right now, that’s actually backwards.

New homes may actually cost less than an existing home right now. And that’s opening up a window for you to get brand-new for less.

If you want a list of new home communities near you that are currently offering incentives or doing price cuts, reach out to a local agent. When you have your own agent, you’ll have someone in your corner helping you get the best deal possible.  

Right now, sellers are flexible on the price in ways they weren't before. Let’s take advantage of that flexibility.

You may be surprised by what's available – and how willing today's sellers are to work with buyers.

You're scrolling through listings on your phone and everything looks good until you see the price (or the estimated monthly payment). Then you close the app. 

Because even if you love the house, the numbers feel impossible. But here's the thing.

Nationally, there are more homes sitting on the market than there are people out there looking. And when sellers need buyers more than buyers need sellers, that shows up in the price.

Lower asking prices. More price cuts. And homes priced for what buyers can actually afford – not what sellers hope someone might pay.

And it may be enough to make buying more doable than you’d think. 

4 Out of 10 Sellers Are Cutting Their Price 

One of the clearest signs sellers are adjusting? Price cuts. HousingWire Data shows more than 40% of sellers are dropping this price.

That’s just slightly behind the volume we saw last year (see graph below):

That’s more than 4 out of every 10 homes listed. Think about what that means. That's thousands of sellers deciding they'd rather lower their asking price than keep waiting for someone willing to stretch their budget. 

They know that to sell, they have to be willing to do some give and take. And when no buyers are biting, they’re pulling their biggest lever to draw buyers back in – their price. As Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, explains:

"This is a market where people are adjusting and showing up rather than giving up. Sellers are meeting the market with more realistic asking prices, which is helping deals get done."

This July Saw the Lowest Median List Price for Any July in Five Years

What about the other 6 in 10 sellers? A lot of them started with a lower asking price to begin with rather than test the higher price and get crickets from buyers.

That may be why July 2026 had the lowest median list price of any July in the past five years, according to Realtor.com (see the white line in the graph below):

Now, that doesn't mean home values are falling or that everything's suddenly a steal. Prices are still above where they were before the pandemic. But what it does mean is this.

Sellers no longer banking on bidding wars or expecting buyers to pay whatever they ask. Instead, many are listing at prices that better reflect today's market from the very beginning. 

And honestly, whether they're pricing competitively from day one or adjusting after a few weeks on the market, the message for you is the same:

Sellers are more willing to meet you where you’re at.

Because in many markets throughout the country, you're not fighting over a house anymore. Sellers are fighting over you. And that’s information you can use to get a better deal.

Yes, affordability can be a real challenge. And the monthly payment you take on definitely does matter. But if you've been assuming everything is out of budget, there may be more wiggle room than you think.

You're scrolling through listings on your phone and everything looks good until you see the price (or the estimated monthly payment). Then you close the app.

Right now, sellers are flexible on the price in ways they weren't before. Reach out to a local agent to take advantage of that flexibility.

You may be surprised by what's available – and how willing today's sellers are to work with buyers.

Most home sales still close, and the biggest thing that could get in the way of yours is the one thing you can actually do something about.

With the right prep, your sale has every reason to make it to the finish. So, let’s connect and get your house sold. 

Few things are as rattling as the thought of your home sale falling through at the last minute, right before closing. All that waiting, all that progress, out the window.

But if you’re getting ready to sell, here’s what you should know. Even in today’s market, it rarely comes to that. Buyers who are moving at today’s rates and prices are generally moving because of some big life change. That means they’re motivated, and eager to get all the way to the closing table.

According to the latest data from Redfin, only about 1 in 7 pending sales are falling through. Meaning the vast majority make it all the way to closing.

And the single biggest thing that puts a deal at risk is the one you have the most power to prevent. It just takes a little smart planning before your house hits the market.

Why Some Deals Fall Apart Before Closing

A Redfin survey sheds light on the most common things that trip up a sale (see visual below):

Here’s a bit more information on each one.

• Inspection or repair issues. This is the big one. When a buyer’s inspector finds a problem, whether with the roof, the plumbing, the foundation, or elsewhere, the buyer can push back, ask you to make repairs, request a credit so they can do it themselves, or see if you’ll lower your price. If they don’t get what they want, they may walk away from the deal altogether.

• The buyer’s financing fell through. Their mortgage loan has to be fully approved in time for closing day. If the loan doesn’t come together, the sale can’t move forward. 

• The buyer’s current house didn’t sell. Some buyers need to sell their own home before they can close on yours. If that takes longer than expected, you may run into some issues with your timeline or even see them give up on their move.

• There was a change in buyer’s financial situation. A new job, a big purchase, or new debt can change what a buyer qualifies for on their mortgage loan, even after they were pre-approved.

Where Your Agent Makes the Difference

Some of those reasons are outside your control, like whether a buyer’s loan clears or whether they sell their own home in time. But according to Zillow, there are a few proactive things you can do to help make sure your sale goes as smoothly as possible:

• Save yourself the headache and get a pre-listing inspection. That’s when you get your own inspection before a buyer gets theirs. It lets you find the big issues before a buyer’s inspector does, so you can fix them or disclose them on your terms, instead of scrambling once you're under contract. In this situation, your agent will help you decide what's worth addressing and what to just disclose. Handle it now, and the biggest risk to your sale is behind you before a buyer ever brings it up.

• Look at more than just the offer price. Your agent will help you weigh the whole offer, including the buyer’s timeline and any contingencies attached. When a buyer’s offer depends on selling their own home first, the success of your sale rides on a second deal you can’t see. Sometimes, a slightly lower offer with fewer strings is the safer one. Your agent will help you weigh your options and make a plan that works well for you. 

One of those is something you can’t do until you have offers in hand, but the other is something you can get ahead of right now. The pre-listing inspection.

That relatively small cost upfront can save you the much bigger hassle of a deal falling apart later. And while getting your own inspection before listing may not make sense in every market, your agent can tell you whether it’s worth it based on your market, your house, and what buyers are prioritizing in your area.

Sometimes the smartest move is staying one step ahead.

Few things are as rattling as the thought of your home sale falling through at the last minute, right before closing. All that waiting, all that progress, out the window.

Most home sales still close, and the biggest thing that could get in the way of yours is the one thing you can actually do something about.

With the right prep, your sale has every reason to make it to the finish, and a good local agent can help you get there.

The number of homes for sale is growing slowly but surely, and that means more options for your move. Want to see what’s available in our area? Reach out, and let's take a look together.

You may have heard the number of homes for sale isn’t growing like it was. And maybe that has you worried you won’t find a home you love when it’s time to make your move.

But that may be about to change. Here’s why your pool of options may actually start ticking back up again.

Growth Has Slowed, But It Hasn’t Stopped

Active listings were up 2.1% year-over-year in July, according to Realtor.com. Back in January, inventory was up 10%. And in May of 2025, it was up 31.5%. So, growth has cooled off a lot over the last year.

The past 3 months, though, have all seen inventory growth land in roughly the same range, which is a sign this slowdown may be nearing its floor (see graph below):

So, what does that mean for you?

Homes are still coming onto the market. Every single one of these bars shows a period where inventory grew. So, don’t be discouraged or let this make you think you’re out of options. Plus, we’ve seen more stability in the numbers lately, which is a good sign.

The Most Homes for Sale Since 2019

Compared to the rock-bottom lows of 2021, inventory has climbed back substantially. Nationally, the number of homes for sale has been up year-over-year consistently now for 33 months. And inventory has almost doubled in just a few years. So don’t get too hung up on the pace of that increase.

This July was actually the best July for inventory since 2019 (see graph below):

Now, the market still needs about 150k listings to get back to pre-pandemic levels, but things are quickly approaching normal. And experts think we may even be back to 2019 levels by the end of this year, even with the slowdown we’ve already seen.

And that’s thanks to one unlikely factor: mortgage rates. 

Why Higher Rates May Actually Help Inventory Grow

It works like this. When mortgage rates climb, inventory tends to climb with them. As Mike Simonsen, Chief Economist at Compass, explains:

“When rates rise; inventory rises. When rates fall; inventory falls. So, from July last year to March this year, rates ease lower and all the inventory growth of the past several years evaporated. If rates move higher from here or stay elevated for [a] longer period of time, then we should expect supply to build again.”

Well, rates are expected to hold in the mid-to-upper 6% range for a while longer, and Realtor.com's latest forecast has inventory ending 2026 up 3.6% year-over-year.

That means 2 things:

• Inventory growth is forecast to pick up a little bit throughout the rest of the year.

• And, inventory is projected to close the year at a historically normal level, right about where it stood at the end of 2019.

For buyers, that’s a win. Even if today’s rates aren’t your favorite, they’re helping the number of homes on the market to grow. And more homes for sale means more choices, more room to negotiate, and less pressure to rush your search.

You may have heard the number of homes for sale isn’t growing like it was. And maybe that has you worried you won’t find a home you love when it’s time to make your move.

The number of homes for sale is growing slowly but surely, and that means more options for your move. Want to see what’s available in your area? Reach out to a local real estate agent.

This market isn’t one-size-fits-all.

If you're wondering who has the upper hand where we live, let's talk. I'll show you exactly what the numbers look like in our market – and what strategy gives you the best shot at getting what you want.

Ask around and almost every homebuyer out there wants to know if there’s a way to get a better deal. And just about every seller wants to know if they'll still get top dollar.

The interesting thing is... both can be right at the exact same time. It just depends on where you live.

That's because today's housing market isn't moving in one direction anymore. Some markets clearly favor buyers. Others still favor sellers. But most are sitting somewhere in the middle.

And knowing which market you're actually in can completely change the strategy you use to buy or sell (and what expectations you should have). Let’s break it down.

One Number Tells You Who's Got Leverage

So how do you know which market you're in? There's one number that tells the story faster than anything else: the months' supply of homes for sale. It's the clearest signal of who's got leverage – and what strategy you'll need. Think of it like this.

Imagine no additional homes were listed starting today. Months' supply tells us how long it would take to sell everything that's currently on the market based on today’s demand. 

Generally speaking, if months’ supply is:

• Fewer than 4 months: Sellers usually have the advantage.

• 4 to 6 months: Buyers and sellers are on more equal footing.

• More than 6 months: Buyers can usually negotiate for a better deal.

Right now, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) data says that number is 4.6 and that puts the overall market back in balanced territory (see graph below):

That means, as a whole, the market has finally moved back into a much more balanced range after years of being tilted in sellers’ favor. While that may look like the scales have tipped only slightly, it’s enough to make a real difference in what strategy you’ll need for your move – at least in most places.

The Tale of Two Markets: Why 'Balanced' Doesn't Mean the Same Thing Everywhere

Redfin data helps shed some light on how this shakes out across the country. It breaks down which cities are leaning in either direction (see graph below).

• Some markets give buyers more leverage. Those are in blue.

• Some still favor sellers. That’s the orange.

• Others fall somewhere in between. Those are gray. 

Notice anything? A lot more places are seeing more buyer-friendly conditions right now.  In fact, this is the most buyer-friendly market we’ve seen in nearly 6 years.

But don’t take that as buyers have the upper hand everywhere.

There are still cities where sellers still have the power. And if you're in one of them, your approach to selling or buying looks completely different than it would in a buyer-leaning market.

The Biggest Mistake You Can Make Right Now

That’s why the biggest mistake isn't thinking it's finally a buyer's market. And it isn't thinking it's still a seller's market either. It's making any assumption without talking to an expert agent first.

Today’s market is incredibly local. In one market, a buyer may be getting thousands of dollars in concessions from a seller. And a homeowner may have to consider dropping their price.  

But in another, a buyer may be stressed about coming in with their best offer, or they may lose out on the home to another buyer. And a seller may still be seeing strong demand and prices inching higher.

Same overall housing market.

Very different experiences.

The truth is what’s happening in your back yard affects everything from pricing your house to making an offer to negotiating repairs or concessions. And that’s why an agent’s local knowledge matters more now than ever before.

Your plan has to be based on your neighborhood – and only an agent has the expertise to get that right.

Ask around and almost every homebuyer out there wants to know if there’s a way to get a better deal. And just about every seller wants to know if they'll still get top dollar.

This market isn’t one-size-fits-all.

If you're wondering who has the upper hand where you live, talk to a local agent. They’ll help you understand what's happening in your market, who's got the leverage, and what strategy gives you the best shot at getting what you want.

So, no. You don't need to put 20% down to buy your next home. But you may want to. If your equity puts it within reach, going bigger can lower your costs and make moving more doable than you think – even with today’s rates.

A trusted lender can run the numbers on your financing. And when you want to know what your current house could add to your next down payment, let's talk.

If you’re planning to buy your next home soon, you’ve probably heard the old rule about saving 20% for your down payment.

The truth is, you usually don’t have to. Plenty of loan options let qualified buyers put down much less. But a lot of repeat buyers are choosing to put down 20% anyway.

So, why are they if they don’t have to?

Two reasons. They know a bigger down payment pays off, and after years in their current house, they’ve built up enough equity that it’s finally possible.

Repeat Buyers Put More Money Down

According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the typical repeat buyer puts down 23%when they buy a home (see graph below):

That’s more than double the 10% they may have put down as a first-time buyer. So, how do they manage it? Their equity.

When you’ve owned a house for a while, two things tend to happen. One, you pay down your mortgage, and two, your home’s value climbs. The difference between what you still owe on your mortgage and what your house is worth is your equity. And the longer you’ve lived in your house, the bigger that number grows.

When you sell, your equity turns into cash. And NAR data shows most repeat buyers put it straight toward their next down payment (see chart below):

First-time buyers don't have that springboard yet, and that's normal. But if you already own, you may be holding more buying power than you think because of it.

And if putting 20% down is finally possible, it may be worth at least considering. Here’s why. Let’s go over what you get in return.

4 Perks of Putting 20% (or More) Down

As Redfin explains, putting more down pays off in a few ways:

• A smaller monthly payment. The more you put down, the less you borrow at today’s rates. And if taking on a higher mortgage rate is one of the reasons you’re debating whether to move, that’s a win.

• Paying less interest. A smaller loan can also carry less interest across the life of your mortgage. If you put 20% down, you’ll only pay interest on the remaining 80%. Put 5% down and you’ll pay interest on the remaining 95%, which will cost you more over the lifetime of the loan.

• No private mortgage insurance (PMI). When you put down less than 20% on a conventional loan, lenders usually add a monthly fee called private mortgage insurance. With 20% down, PMI isn’t required and that saves your money every month. 

• A stronger offer. A larger down payment can make your offer more attractive, since sellers tend to read it as a sign your financing is solid and the deal is more likely to close.

If you’re planning to buy your next home soon, you’ve probably heard the old rule about saving 20% for your down payment.

So, no. You don't need to put 20% down to buy your next home. But you may want to. If your equity puts it within reach, going bigger can lower your costs and make moving more doable than you think – even with today’s rates.

A trusted lender can run the numbers on your financing, and a local agent can help you figure out what your current house could add to your next down payment.

Big investors are stepping back, and they're adding homes to the market as they go. If you've been waiting for a better shot at buying, this could be it. Let’s connect so you can see what's popping up in our area. You may have more options than you think.

For years, a lot of would-be homebuyers have worried about the same thing. How do you compete with big investors who can swoop in, pay cash, and snap up the houses you want?

Well, worry a little less. Because right now, those big investors aren't buying up the market. They're backing out of it.

Investors Are Buying Fewer Homes Than They Have in Years

According to Redfin, investor home purchases just fell to their lowest level since 2020 – when the start of the pandemic temporarily caused pretty much all homebuying to pull way back. Before that, you'd have to go all the way back to 2016 to find a time when investors bought this few homes (see graph below):

Why the step back? Two big reasons.

First, Washington passed a housing law that takes aim at large institutional investors. To be clear, these mega investors were never as big a part of the market as the headlines made it sound. They’ve always made up a relatively small slice of housing pie. But the law still targeted the largest ones, and it worked fast. According to Thom Malone, Principal Economist at Cotality:

“When Washington announced its intention to curb institutional investors’ homebuying, the market reacted. . . Cotality data shows that investment by mega investors who own 1,000 or more properties retracted almost instantly.”

Second, the housing market has cooled. Price growth has slowed in much of the country, and in some markets, prices are dipping. That makes the math a lot less appealing for investors betting on quick gains. Lance Lambert, CEO of ResiClub, explains:

“Ever since rates spiked and the Pandemic Housing Boom fizzled out in spring 2022, institutional single-family rental (SFR) operators have pulled way back from buying up homes on the resale market—the math just isn't as appealing right now. Home prices and rents are no longer ripping, holding costs (property taxes and insurance) have jumped, capital markets have shifted their attention elsewhere, and elevated materials prices make renovations expensive.”

They’re Not Just Buying Less – They’re Selling More

This is the part most people miss. Big investors aren't just slowing down their purchases. Data from Parcl Labs and ResiClub shows the largest institutional investors are now selling more homes than they're buying – and that gap is growing these past 4 quarters (see graph below):

Every one of those homes goes right back into the market for buyers like you. And since big investors tend to own homes at the lower end of the price range, a lot of what they're selling is exactly the kind of home first-time buyers are looking for. As Malone puts it:

". . . this sudden dropoff in institutional investment is a signal to first-time homebuyers that there's an opening."

Less competition from deep-pocketed buyers. More homes hitting the market. And many of them at prices that work for a first purchase. That's a shift that works in your favor.

For years, a lot of would-be homebuyers have worried about the same thing. How do you compete with big investors who can swoop in, pay cash, and snap up the houses you want?

Big investors are stepping back, and they're adding homes to the market as they go. If you've been waiting for a better shot at buying, this could be it. Connect with a local agent to find out what's popping up in your area. You may have more options than you think.

Homeowners insurance has become a bigger part of the homebuying conversation. But it doesn't have to become a bigger source of stress.

The key is knowing what to expect before you buy. Get an insurance quote early, factor it into your budget, and lean on trusted local professionals to help you make the most informed decision possible.

If buying a home is on your radar, you've probably been keeping an eye on mortgage rates and home prices. But don’t forget about homeowners insurance. 

Homeowners insurance has always been part of owning a home. But over the past few years, it's become a larger expense for many homeowners – something that's especially frustrating when affordability already feels tight.

The good news? While premiums are still rising, the latest data shows those increases are beginning to slow. Here's what buyers should know.

Home Insurance Costs Have Gone Up

You've probably heard stories from friends or family about their premiums going up. And that’s not really a surprise when you consider data from the Pew Research Center shows 71% of homeowners say their insurance costs have gone up over the past few years.

While no one likes rising costs, knowing what to expect can help you plan ahead. Your first insurance payment is typically included in your closing costs, but after that it'll become part of your monthly housing expenses.

Getting an insurance quote early can help you build a more realistic budget and avoid surprises later.

Premiums Are Rising, But Not as Fast as They Were

Most of the headlines focus on how home insurance is getting more expensive. And that's true. But here’s the part that’s easy to miss.

Insurance premiums are still rising.

But they're not rising as fast as they were.

According to the latest report from Rate Insurance, 2025 saw the first slowdown in annual premium increases since 2019 (see graph below):

That doesn't mean premiums are getting cheaper. It simply means the rapid increases of the past several years may finally be starting to ease – a small but welcome step in the right direction.

But what you’ll pay in one part of the country can look very different from what someone pays somewhere else.

Where You Buy Can Make a Big Difference

Insurance costs vary because some parts of the country experience more claims than others. That's why it's important to look at what's happening locally.

Your premium will depend on things like where you're buying, the home itself, and the coverage you choose.

Forbes data can give a rough idea of your state’s typical premiums. Check out the map below – the darker the blue, the higher the costs tend to be in that state:

Ways To Lower Your Costs

While you can't control every cost that comes with buying a home, you can control how prepared you are. If you’re crunching the numbers and trying to find ways to save, Insurify and NerdWallet offer these tips that can help you get the best insurance price possible:

• Shop Around – Compare quotes from multiple companies.

• Bundle Policies – Combine home and auto to see if a bundle price is cheaper.

• Ask If There Are Discounts – Don’t miss out on savings you may qualify for.

• Highlight Upgrades – Features like a new roof or storm windows can cut costs.

• Improve Your Credit – A stronger credit score can mean better premiums.

One of the smartest things you can do is get an insurance quote before you make an offer. That way, you'll know what your monthly housing costs are likely to be before you commit.

An insurance professional can walk you through your options and help you find coverage that fits both your needs and your budget.

If buying a home is on your radar, you've probably been keeping an eye on mortgage rates and home prices. But don’t forget about homeowners insurance.

Homeowners insurance has become a bigger part of the homebuying conversation. But it doesn't have to become a bigger source of stress.

The key is knowing what to expect before you buy. Get an insurance quote early, factor it into your budget, and lean on trusted local professionals to help you make the most informed decision possible.

Selling a high-end house is a big decision, and you deserve to feel confident going in. With sale prices climbing and buyers active at the top, this is a strong window to make your move.

Ready to cash in? Let’s talk strategy.

If you own a luxury house, you're in a stronger spot than most sellers right now. While much of the market has cooled, the high-end tier hasn't. Sale prices and buyer demand are both up. So if you're considering selling, now could be a great time to make your move.

Luxury Is Leading on Price

Let’s start with prices. But before we get into it – what actually counts as a luxury home? Generally, these are homes in the top 5% price range for the area, so it varies depending on where you live.

But what’s interesting is that according to the latest data from Redfin, sale prices for luxury houses have risen about three times faster than for non-luxury.

Right now, the typical home’s sale price is up about 1.5% year-over-year. But high-end homes? Their sale prices have gone up nearly 5% since last year (see graph below):

That’s a bigger deal than it sounds like.

Despite all the talk about slowing price growth lately, sale prices in this segment of the market may be rising faster than you’d expect based on the headlines. That’s going to be a good thing if you’re thinking about selling. And rising sale prices are only half the story.

Buyers Are Showing Up, Too

While so many headlines are talking about how buyers are pulling back, that’s not necessarily true when it comes to luxury homes. In fact, right now, it looks like the higher the price point, the more active the buyers.

Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist with the National Association of Realtors (NAR), explains:

"The luxury market has really performed better compared to the lower price point. . . . if we look at price points, any home priced under $250,000, virtually no change in unit sales from one year ago. Then you go into the upper price category, and home sales are up about 10% from one year ago. But the million dollar-plus homes, it is up by 18% from one year ago."

Basically, more homes are selling on the upper end of the market. A big reason is that high-end buyers tend to feel less of the affordability pressure weighing on many households today, so they keep buying even when the wider market slows.

That demand also means that luxury houses don’t stay on the market as long as they used to.

Luxury Houses Are Selling Relatively Quickly

According to the most recent data from Redfin, for luxury homes the median number of days on market is under 50. That’s much faster than pre-pandemic norms going even as far back as 2014 (see graph below):

That means you probably won’t spend a ton of time sitting in limbo wondering when you’ll get an offer.

If you own a luxury house, you're in a stronger spot than most sellers right now. While much of the market has cooled, the high-end tier hasn't.

Selling a high-end house is a big decision, and you deserve to feel confident going in. With sale prices climbing and buyers active at the top, this is a strong window to make your move.

When you’re ready to cash in, connect with a local real estate agent to talk strategy.

A condo or townhome could be your path to owning a home without blowing your budget. Let’s connect to see what's for sale in our area and figure out which type of home fits your lifestyle, and your bottom line.

Today's home prices have a lot of buyers – especially first-time buyers – wondering if there’s even anything out there that’s in their budget. But owning a home may be more within reach than you think. Sometimes, it just means considering a different type of home.

Condos and townhomes can be a great way to buy without stretching every last dollar. And right now, two things make them worth a serious look.

There Are More Condos and Townhomes To Choose From

Maybe you feel like there’s just nothing out there for you, and you’ve exhausted all your options. But have you considered condos or townhomes? A lot of buyers start by looking for a single-family, detached home without even realizing what that search omits from their pool of choices.

According to HousingWire Data, there were 233,030 condos and townhomes for sale this June. That's more than any June in at least the past decade, and more than double the number available back in 2022 (see graph below):

That means there are more options out there in this segment of the market – and that’s especially good news for first-time buyers. These types of homes can be a great way to break into the market for less.

Just remember, that's the national number. What's available will depend on where you're looking. But generally speaking, more options means less competition, more time to decide, and more room to negotiate.

They Also Tend To Cost Less Than Single-Family Homes

Price is the other big draw. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the median condo price was $380,000 in June. In contrast, the median single-family home price was $446,400 (see graph below):

That's a difference of more than $66,000.

A big reason why? Condos are usually smaller than single-family homes. And smaller homes can come with smaller price tags.

And if you don't need all that extra space, that lower entry price could be exactly what gets you through the door.

Condo or Townhome? How They’re Different.

For buyers who feel priced out of the market, a condo or townhome could be a way in. But there are some things to know. Before you start checking out homes, it’s good to understand how these two compare to each other – and to a single-family home.

• With a single-family detached home, you own the house and the land it sits on, and you don’t share any walls with neighbors. That means the most space and privacy. But it also usually comes with a higher tag, and all the maintenance is on you.

• With a townhome, you own the building and the lot it sits on. They're usually multi-level, so you get more space, and you share two walls at most. You'll also have more say over how your home looks and how repairs get done, but more of that upkeep falls on you.

• With a condo, you own just the inside of your unit and may have access to community features like a pool or gym. The building and shared space belong to everyone who lives there, which means you have less maintenance responsibilities. But you’ll also likely have more neighbors around you, less control over building decisions, and higher HOA fees since the HOA handles the exterior and common areas.

Today's home prices have a lot of buyers – especially first-time buyers – wondering if there’s even anything out there that’s in their budget.

A condo or townhome could be your path to owning a home without blowing your budget. Connect with a local real estate agent to see what's for sale in your area and figure out which type of home fits your lifestyle, and your bottom line.

For 14 years straight, Americans have called real estate the best long-term investment, and confidence in owning a home is on the rise. If you've been weighing whether buying is worth it, let's connect and talk through what that first step could look like for you.

Quick gut reaction. Which investment do Americans trust more than stocks, gold, savings accounts, and bonds? The answer hasn't changed in 14 years. 

It's real estate. And this year, that answer comes with even more conviction behind it. New data shows people aren't just saying homeownership is a smart move, they're feeling better about it than they have in years. Let's dig into why.

Real Estate Takes the Top Spot – Again

Every year, Gallup asks Americans to name the best long-term investment. And for the 14th year in a row, real estate came out on top (see graph below):

That's not a fluke or a hot streak. That's 14 straight years of beating out stocks, gold, and everything else.

Think about everything that's happened in that stretch – rising rates, market swings, election years, you name it. Through all of it, Americans kept picking real estate. That kind of staying power says something about how people view homeownership – and it makes sense. Historically, it’s one of the best ways to build wealth in this country.

As Michelle Egan, Head of Credit Solutions, Impact Finance at JPMorgan Chase, explains:

“Owning a home has long been considered one of the most reliable ways to build wealth. Beyond providing shelter, a home is a valuable asset that can appreciate over time, build equity, and serve as a financial resource for generations.”

Now, you may have seen chatter online saying home prices are falling and wondered if that changes the math. It really shouldn’t. Nationally, home prices are still rising – just at a slower pace than a few years ago.

Yes, some local markets are seeing slight dips, but those dips are small compared to how much home values have grown over the past 5 years. Generally speaking, home prices almost always rise. As long as you plan to live there for a good length of time, you should still have the chance to build equity.

More People Say Buying Beats Renting

And while it's true homeownership has been seen as a worthwhile pursuit for years now, something interesting is happening. It may actually be gaining a bit more popularity again.

According to Bank of America's latest Homebuyer Insights Report, 53% of people now say it's better to buy a home than to rent or move in with family. That's the first time buying has taken the lead since 2023 (see graph below):

In that same report, here are a few other signals that confidence in homeownership is on the rise:

• 90% of people say a home is a valuable investment, up from 79% just last year.

• And 94% say owning a home provides stability, up from 83% the year prior.

Those are relatively big jumps in a short amount of time. And here’s what may be driving it.

It’s About More Than Money

Sure, affordability is still tight and some markets are still hard to break into, but that hasn’t changed what people feel about homeownership as a goal. And the reason why is simple – it's not just a financial decision. It’s a lifestyle choice.

A home pays you back in ways stocks never could. As Sheharyar Bokhari, Principal Economist at Redfin, says:

"For many homeowners, a home is more than a place to sleep and store belongings—it's a reflection of who they are. Homeownership can help people put down roots, build relationships and create a space that feels uniquely their own."

You can't get that from a brokerage account. A home is the one investment that grows your wealth and gives you a place to build your life. And that means something.

Quick gut reaction. Which investment do Americans trust more than stocks, gold, savings accounts, and bonds? The answer hasn't changed in 14 years.

For 14 years straight, Americans have called real estate the best long-term investment, and confidence in owning a home is on the rise. If you've been weighing whether buying is worth it, connect with a local real estate agent and talk through what that first step could look like for you.