Richard Wamsat’s Real Estate News & Views

Local market updates, buyer and seller tips, and homeowner resources for Orange County and Irvine.

Subscribe

* indicates required

Intuit Mailchimp

""

Making a Home for the Brave Possible [INFOGRAPHIC]

By Richard Wamsat | Nov 6, 2020

Some Highlights VA Home Loans provide unique opportunities for Veterans, active-duty personnel, and their families in recognition of their service to our Nation. For eligible individuals, options associated with VA Loans can help make the dream of homeownership a reality. If you or someone you know may benefit from a VA Loan, let’s connect to answer […]

Read More
Young woman sitting on edge looks out at view

Why the 2021 Forecast Doesn’t Call for a Foreclosure Crisis

By Richard Wamsat | Nov 5, 2020

As the current forbearance mortgage relief options come to an end, many are wondering if we’ll face a foreclosure crisis next year. This is understandable, especially for those who remember the housing crisis that began in 2008. The reality is, plans have been put in place through forbearance to ensure history doesn’t repeat itself. This year, homeowners […]

Read More
""

Real Estate Is a Driving Force in the Economy

By Richard Wamsat | Nov 4, 2020

As the economy recovers from this year’s health crisis, the housing market is playing a leading role in the turnaround. It’s safe to say that what we call “home” is taking on a new meaning, causing many of us to consider buying or selling sooner rather than later. Housing, therefore, has thrived in an otherwise […]

Read More
Discussing financial future

Rent vs. Buy: How to Decide What’s Best for You

By Richard Wamsat | Nov 3, 2020

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, median rent continues to rise. With today’s low mortgage rates, there’s great opportunity for current renters to make a move into homeownership that stretches each dollar a little bit further. While the best timeline to buy a home is different for everyone, the question remains: Should I continue renting or is it time for me […]

Read More
An American flag hangs outside a house in Atlantic Beach, North Carolina on July 4th.

4 Reasons Why the Election Won’t Dampen the Housing Market

By Richard Wamsat | Nov 2, 2020

Tomorrow, Americans will decide our President for the next four years. That decision will have a major impact on many aspects of life in this country, but the residential real estate market will not be one of them. Analysts will try to measure the impact feasible changes in regulations might have on housing, the effect […]

Read More
""

Should I Renovate My House Before I Sell It? [INFOGRAPHIC]

By Richard Wamsat | Oct 30, 2020

Some Highlights In today’s hyper-competitive market, buyers are often willing to overlook cosmetic or minor repair needs if it means snagging a home in their price range. With so few houses available for sale today, you may be able to skip the bigger renovations before you sell and cash in on the current demand for […]

Read More
Young Indian couple working on home budget.

Three Ways Low Inventory Is a Win for Sellers

By Richard Wamsat | Oct 29, 2020

The number of houses for sale today is significantly lower than the high buyer activity in the current housing market. According to Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist for the National Association of Realtors (NAR): “There is no shortage of hopeful, potential buyers, but inventory is historically low.” When the demand for homes is higher than what’s available for sale, it’s a great […]

Read More
a young couple view a property

Buyer Interest Is Growing among Younger Generations

By Richard Wamsat | Oct 28, 2020

The demand for homes this year is extraordinary as record-breaking numbers of hopeful buyers continue to shop for homes. In a normal year, the peak homebuying season comes to a close by early fall. However, 2020 is anything but a normal year, and the housing market is no exception. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist for the National Association of […]

Read More
young woman studying and working on her laptop,sitting on the carpet in the living room, nice sunny day

How Down Payment Assistance Opens the Door to Homeownership

By Richard Wamsat | Oct 27, 2020

Many people are eager to buy a home right now while affordability continues to be a highlight of the current housing market. However, a recent survey by Sparks Research shows that 20% of first-time homebuyers cite a lack of financial education as a barrier to homeownership. This is definitely understandable. If you don’t feel comfortable with the financial process of buying […]

Read More