Richard’s Blog

5 Reasons Today’s Housing Market Is Anything but Normal

By Richard Wamsat | Sep 2, 2021

There are many headlines out there that claim we’re reverting to a more normal real estate market. That would indicate the housing market is returning to the pre-pandemic numbers we saw from 2015-2019. But that’s not happening. The market is still extremely vibrant as demand is still strong even while housing supply is slowly returning. […]

What You Can Do Right Now To Prepare for Homeownership

By Richard Wamsat | Sep 1, 2021

As rent prices continue to soar, many renters want to know what they can do to get ready to buy their first home. According to recent data from ApartmentList.com: “The first half of 2021 has seen the fastest growth in rent prices since the start of our estimates in 2017. Our national rent index has increased by 11.4 percent […]

What Buyers and Sellers Need To Know About the Appraisal Gap

By Richard Wamsat | Aug 31, 2021

It’s economy 101 – when supply is low and demand is high, prices naturally rise. That’s what’s happening in today’s housing market. Home prices are appreciating at near-historic rates, and that’s creating some challenges when it comes to home appraisals. In recent months, it’s become increasingly common for an appraisal to come in below the contract price on […]

The Difference in Net Worth Between Homeowners and Renters Is Widening

By Richard Wamsat | Aug 30, 2021

Becoming financially secure is an important goal for many people today, but some don’t realize just how much homeownership can help them achieve that dream. A recent report, The Journey Toward Financial Freedom, surveys Americans about their perspective on financial wellness and their goals. It shows there may be a significant misconception about the role owning a home plays […]

Your Checklist To Get Ready To Sell [INFOGRAPHIC]

By Richard Wamsat | Aug 27, 2021

Some Highlights When it comes to selling your house, you want it to look its best inside and out. It’s important to focus on tasks that can make it inviting, show it’s cared for, and boost your curb appeal for prospective buyers. Let’s connect to make sure your house shows well and catches a buyer’s eye.

If Housing Affordability Is About the Money, Don’t Forget This.

By Richard Wamsat | Aug 26, 2021

There are many non-financial benefits of buying your own home. However, today’s headlines seem to be focusing primarily on the financial aspects of homeownership – specifically affordability. Many articles are making the claim that it’s not affordable to buy a home in today’s market, but that isn’t the case. Today’s buyers are spending approximately 20% of their income on […]

Why 2021 Is Still the Year To Sell Your House

By Richard Wamsat | Aug 25, 2021

If you’re trying to decide whether or not to sell your house, this is the time to think seriously about making a move. Fannie Mae’s recent Home Purchase Sentiment Index (HPSI) reveals the number of respondents who say it’s a good time to sell is higher now than it was over the past few summers (see graph below). Today, the majority of consumers, […]

What To Do with Your Vacation Home as Summer Ends

By Richard Wamsat | Aug 24, 2021

As summer comes to a close, is it time to think about selling your vacation home? Based on recent data and expert opinions, it’s something you may want to consider. According to research from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), vacation home sales are up 57.2% year-over-year for January-April 2021. If you’ve taken your last vacation this summer, here are […]

What Do Experts Say About Today’s Mortgage Rates?

By Richard Wamsat | Aug 23, 2021

Mortgage rates are hovering near record lows, and that’s good news for today’s homebuyers. The graph below shows mortgage rates dating back to 2016 and where today falls by comparison. Generally speaking, when rates are low, you can afford more home for your money. That’s why experts across the industry agree – today’s low rates present buyers […]

Richard Wamsat’s Real Estate News & Views

5 Reasons Today’s Housing Market Is Anything but Normal

What You Can Do Right Now To Prepare for Homeownership

What Buyers and Sellers Need To Know About the Appraisal Gap

The Difference in Net Worth Between Homeowners and Renters Is Widening

Your Checklist To Get Ready To Sell [INFOGRAPHIC]

If Housing Affordability Is About the Money, Don’t Forget This.

Why 2021 Is Still the Year To Sell Your House

What To Do with Your Vacation Home as Summer Ends

What Do Experts Say About Today’s Mortgage Rates?

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