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U.S. home sales rose 5.9% year-over-year in June, with 381,125 homes sold, driven by lower mortgage costs. The median monthly mortgage payment dropped 2.5% to $1,884. New listings increased 3%, while active inventory grew only 0.9%, the slowest annual gain since December 2023. Lower-priced homes led sales and listing growth. Median home value rose 1.1%…

A 15-year mortgage offers benefits like lower interest rates, faster equity building, and significant interest savings compared to a 30-year loan. It suits buyers with stable, high incomes, those buying below budget, nearing retirement, or with emergency funds. It’s also ideal for those maxing out retirement contributions, refinancing later in life, or valuing the peace…

A 3-2-1 buydown temporarily lowers a buyer's mortgage rate for the first three years, then returns the loan to its original fixed rate afterward. The buydown cost usually equals the buyer's early savings and is often covered by the seller, builder, or lender to support affordability. These loans typically apply to primary and secondary homes,…

A broker said many buyers need a readiness check, including savings, reserves, budget clarity, and a practical plan if buying does not make sense yet. He said broad headlines can push people toward hesitation, but homeownership still fits buyers who are financially prepared and clear on their goals. His optimism for the rest of 2026…

Consumer confidence in homeownership in the U.S. has improved, with 53% preferring to buy rather than rent or live with family, the first shift since 2023. Despite high prices, mortgage rates, and limited supply, younger generations are driving this trend. Fewer consumers are waiting for lower rates or prices, and existing homeowners are more active…

As the U.S. marks its 250th anniversary, 81% of adults still view homeownership as part of the American Dream. In 2025, first-time homebuyers made up 49% of new purchase loans, with a median age of 33. Repeat buyers accounted for just over half of purchase originations, buying more expensive homes with a median price of…

Buying a home beats renting in 41% of 136 U.S. cities studied when factoring in equity from principal paydown and recent home price appreciation. Hartford, CT, leads with an 11.1% annual appreciation, offering the largest monthly savings for buyers. Midwest and Northeast cities dominate markets favoring ownership, while Western markets show modest appreciation. Affordability varies…

A midyear forecast sees US home price growth slowing to ~1% in 2026, below inflation, effectively easing real home prices for buyers. Mortgage rates are expected to hold near 6%, while monthly payments are projected to decline ~2% yearly, a combination expected to improve affordability. Existing home sales and inventory growth are both predicted to…

US homebuyers prioritize speed: 35% expect a future purchase closing within 2 weeks, while 36% expect 3 to 4 weeks from lenders. Digital convenience matters: 52% have used eSigning for closing documents, yet 88% say they would like that option available during their mortgage process. Borrowers also value control: 87% would lean toward a lender…

Stable income and a secure job make monthly payments easier to handle and put buyers in a stronger position than households with uncertain earnings. Cash beyond the down payment matters because closing, moving, deposits, furniture, and surprise repairs add up fast, and an emergency fund prevents financial stress. Manageable debt creates budget room for taxes,…