Blog
March Madness in Real Estate: Slam Dunk Your Home Buying or Selling Game
Welcome to the exciting world of March Madness, where the thrill of competition extends beyond the basketball court and into the realm of real estate. Just like the NCAA tournament, the real estate market experiences its own version of madness during this spirited month. Whether you’re planning to make a slam dunk home purchase or... Read More
FICO 10T: A New Era of Credit Scoring
A new credit score, FICO 10T, is changing how lenders assess borrowers. Learn what it means for you, its impact on mortgages, and how to prepare for the future of creditworthiness. Read More
Rising Rates, Growing Inventory: Is Boise Debunking the Mortgage Rate Lockdown Theory
Rising mortgage rates are challenging conventional wisdom. Despite higher borrowing costs, inventory is growing year-over-year, suggesting sellers are entering the market. We explore data on new listings, price cuts, and the impact of the upcoming jobs report on the housing market. Read More
Good News for Homebuyers: FHA Loan Limits Increase Significantly in 2024
Exciting news for aspiring homeowners! The FHA has announced significant increases to its loan limits for 2024, making homeownership more accessible. The baseline limit for single-family homes jumps over $26,000, and even higher limits apply in expensive areas. This means more people can qualify for affordable financing and pursue their dream of owning a home. Read More
Buying a home: Don’t let the 20% down payment myth hold you back!
Saving for a down payment can seem daunting, but the National Association of Realtors states that the median down payment for first-time buyers is 8%. Various resources, such as FHA, VA, and USDA loans, as well as down payment assistance programs, can make homeownership more accessible. Idaho Housing and Finance Association also offers assistance programs. Read More
Housing Market Update: Rising Rates Cool Demand, Inventory Builds
The housing market shifts in 2024 as rising mortgage rates impact key metrics. Inventory rises for the first time this year, while sales pace slows and price adjustments emerge. Despite price reductions, the market is adjusting, not crashing, with slower price growth expected. Whether trends persist depends on future rate movements. Both buyers and sellers need to adapt to the evolving market. Read More
Guarding Your Dreams: Understanding Wire Fraud in Real Estate
Wire fraud in real estate is a serious threat, with 1 in 20 transactions targeted. Successful scams result in a median loss of over $70,000. Stay vigilant and verify all instructions independently. Read More
Boise Builders Bullish: What Does This Mean for Home Buyers and Sellers?
The Boise, Idaho housing market sees a surge in builder confidence, hinting at favorable conditions. For buyers, more options and negotiation opportunities may arise, while sellers can benefit from stable conditions but must adapt pricing and marketing strategies for success. Read More
Home Price Forecast Flip-Flop: Experts Up Their Bets for 2024
In 2024, housing market forecasts have shifted from cautious to confident, with experts predicting significant price increases due to low inventory and rebounding buyer demand. Buyers should act quickly and consider mortgage pre-approval, while sellers can expect strong offers but should remain vigilant. It’s important to stay informed and seek professional guidance in this dynamic market. Read More
Existing Home Sales Sizzle in January 2024
In January 2024, existing home sales surged by 3.1%, reaching a 5-month high at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4 million units. Meanwhile, median sale prices hit a record high of $379,100, up 5.1% year-over-year, indicating a seller’s market with relative price stability. Sales surged the most in the West and South, offering increased options for buyers, while sellers can capitalize on strong buyer demand and high median prices. Read More