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    <title>Simplifying the Market</title>
    <link>https://www.michellegifford.realtor</link>
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      <title>Discover Allen, Texas: A Family-Friendly Suburb with Big-City Access</title>
      <link>https://www.michellegifford.realtor/discover-allen-texas-a-family-friendly-suburb-with-big-city-access</link>
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           Get to know this bedroom community
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           Nestled about 20–25 miles north of downtown Dallas, Allen offers the ideal blend of suburban comfort and regional convenience. Whether you’re raising a family, relocating for work, or simply seeking a community that offers both strong amenities and easy access to the city, Allen delivers.
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           Activities &amp;amp; Entertainment
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           Allen is more than just a bedroom community—it has a vibrant roster of parks, shopping, entertainment, and recreation.
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             Outdoor recreation is a standout: over 1,100 acres of parkland, 60+ parks and more than 80 miles of hike-and-bike trails make it easy to enjoy nature, sports and family time.
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             Fun family spots include shopping and dining at Watters Creek Village, bargain hunting at Allen Premium Outlets, and splash/spray parks at places like Celebration Park.
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             For leisure and sports: Recreation through the city’s Parks &amp;amp; Rec department offers aquatics, indoor golf, ice sports, skate parks and more.
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           The things to do are wide-ranging and suitable for all ages—kids, families, active adults, and even home-bodies who want community amenities.
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           Schools &amp;amp; Education
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            The student population is about 21,000 in PK–12.
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             Allen’s education system is rated A+ and recognized for strong performance.
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           This means that for families relocating, you’ll find a school-system that is respected and ready to support your kids’ development.
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           Neighborhoods &amp;amp; Community
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           Allen has a variety of neighborhoods—from newer developments with full amenities to more established subdivisions—so you’ll find options depending on your style and budget.
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             Some of the top-noted neighborhoods include Twin Creeks, Fountain Park and Lost Creek Ranch.
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             Twin Creeks is a premium neighborhood with higher median home values (~$700k+), while some other pockets have more moderate pricing under $400k.
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            In terms of feel: while it’s part of the DFW metroplex, Allen maintains a community-friendly vibe (parks, trails, kid-centric amenities) rather than feeling purely urban.
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           Is Allen Family-Friendly?
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           Yes! With high-quality schools, abundant parks and recreation, shopping and entertainment nearby, plus the accessibility to Dallas for big-city jobs or amenities, Allen checks many boxes for families.
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            The location is a big plus: you get the perks of suburban life (space, schools, community) yet you’re still within commuting distance to Dallas.
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            The recreation, parks and family-oriented amenities are well designed for active households.
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            The variety of neighborhoods and housing options means you can find something that suits your family size and budget.
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           Housing Market &amp;amp; Affordability
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            The median list price in Allen was around
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           $575,000
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            (June 2025) , so while it remains more affordable than some ultra-premium suburbs, it is
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           not
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            “cheap”—homebuyers should budget accordingly and act realistically.
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           Bottom line
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           : If you’re moving to the area, expect a competitive market with solid amenities and value, but plan for pricing consistent with a high-quality suburban community in a booming metro.
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           If you’re looking for a place that blends strong schools, a safe and engaging community for kids, lots of recreation options, and convenient access to Dallas—Allen is a standout option. It feels like a town where families can root down, grow and thrive, while still being close to the regional opportunities of the Dallas–Fort Worth area that offers the kind of stability and quality that makes a property purchase a solid investment!
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      <pubDate>Fri, 07 Nov 2025 20:53:24 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.michellegifford.realtor/discover-allen-texas-a-family-friendly-suburb-with-big-city-access</guid>
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      <title>Get to know Forney, Texas</title>
      <link>https://www.michellegifford.realtor/get-to-know-forney-texas</link>
      <description>Living in Forney, Texas</description>
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           Planned Community of Devonshire
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            Devonshire in Forney, TX is a large master‑planned community—about 920 acres—launched in 2008 just north of U.S. Highway 80, about 20–30 minutes from downtown Dallas.
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           Developed with an English‑countryside aesthetic featuring a iconic stone tower, ponds, greenbelts and trails, Devonshire is built in stages by multiple reputable builders like Highland, Bloomfield, Perry, Shaddock, William Ryan and more.
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           &amp;#55356;&amp;#57313; Homes &amp;amp; Pricing
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            Diverse single‑family designs
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            , from “Classic” styles on 50‑ to 65‑foot lots, offering 1,700–4,200 ft² floorplans with 3–7 bedrooms, 2–5+ baths .
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            Prices generally span from the high $200 Ks up to about $700 Ks, with many homes currently in the $350–600 Ks range.
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           &amp;#55356;&amp;#57139; Amenities &amp;amp; Lifestyle
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            Resort-style clubhouse &amp;amp; pools
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            : oversized pool, splash pad, covered pavilion with fireplace/grill and amphitheater/event lawn.
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            Parks, trails &amp;amp; ponds
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            : miles of hike‑and‑bike pathways, pocket parks, fishing/“catch &amp;amp; release” ponds, plus volleyball &amp;amp; basketball courts.
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            Dog‑friendly &amp;amp; family-centric
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             environment, with playgrounds, a dog park, community events like craft nights and seasonal gatherings.
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           &amp;#55356;&amp;#57323; Schools &amp;amp; Community
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             Part of highly rated
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            Forney ISD
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            , with Devonshire neighborhoods zoned to schools like Crosby or Griffin Elementary, Brown Middle, and North Forney High School.
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            Demographically, it’s noted as a quiet, well‑kept, family‑oriented suburb with strong neighborliness and affordability rankings within Forney. Notably, some parts of Forney have an additional MUD (Municipal Utility District) tax. This is a
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            like, water and sewer systems, drainage, roads and sidewalks, street lighting and other public improvements.
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           &amp;#55357;&amp;#56525; Nearby Perks
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            Proximity to recreation
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             : Forney Community Park (≈3 mi) and Lake Ray Hubbard (≈7 mi) offer splash pads, playgrounds, sports fields, boating and hiking
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            Convenience to dining and shopping
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            : City Plaza, Shoppes at Forney Crossing, and Hwy 80’s “Antique Row” are just minutes away.
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           &amp;#55357;&amp;#56520; Market &amp;amp; Development History
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             As of 2017, the community had around 30% built out (≈1,500 homes), with plans to reach over 3,000 homes
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            Dallas News
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            That year, development ownership transitioned to Haynes Development and Avanti Properties; today, it remains active with new phases opening and homes selling steadily.
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           Devonshire offers a blend of attractive home designs, abundant amenities, strong schools, and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere—all within a convenient commute of Dallas. It’s ideal for buyers looking for a high-quality suburban lifestyle with community spirit.
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      <pubDate>Mon, 28 Jul 2025 19:09:46 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.michellegifford.realtor/get-to-know-forney-texas</guid>
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      <title>What's happening in McKinney Texas week of July 7th, 2025?</title>
      <link>https://www.michellegifford.realtor/what-s-happening-in-mckinney-texas-week-of-july-7th-2025</link>
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           Get to know McKinney, Texas
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            Whether you're a lifelong resident or new to town, there's always something happening that captures the vibrant spirit of our community. I'm here to keep you in the loop with some fantastic events and activities lined up for the week of July 7th!
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           First on our list is the much-anticipated McKinney Summer Music Festival taking place on July 8th. Get ready to sway and groove under the stars at Tucker Hill’s picturesque outdoor venue. This event is perfect for families and music lovers, offering performances from a range of local talents. Bring your picnic blankets and unwind with some incredible tunes.
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           Head over to downtown McKinney on July 9th for the "Arts Meets West" gallery tour. This one-of-a-kind showcase brings together art collectors and enthusiasts, highlighting pieces from gifted local artists that beautifully blend Texan themes with contemporary flair. Its an enriching experience and a treat for the senses.
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            No week is complete without indulging in some local delights, right? This week, be sure to check out the culinary offerings at the Farmers Market at Chestnut Square on July 8th. Its a feast of fresh produce, artisanal snacks, and hand-crafted goods. Meet and support our cherished local vendors while stocking up on all your favorite flavors.
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           Downtown McKinney is truly bustling with charm and excitement. Take a stroll down its historic streets and you'll discover quaint boutiques and cozy cafés perfect for afternoon pit stops. Why not drop by The Local Yocal, renowned for its farm-fresh offerings and commitment to sustainable practices, or grab a sweet pick-me-up from Layered, known for its delectable pastries?
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            As a real estate enthusiast, I find it quite thrilling to note the growth our city continues to embrace. The downtown McKinney area, in particular, is seeing a surge in interest. Its a hotspot for both historical and contemporary - ideal for those who appreciate a blend of the old with the new.
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            ﻿
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            If you'd like to stay updated with more happenings around town or have questions about the real estate opportunities in McKinney, you can always reach out to me, Michelle Gifford, at 469-667-8468 or email at michelle@mywdr.com. Visit my website at
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           michellegifford.realtor
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            for more exciting updates. See you around town!
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      <pubDate>Mon, 07 Jul 2025 18:57:12 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.michellegifford.realtor/what-s-happening-in-mckinney-texas-week-of-july-7th-2025</guid>
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    <item>
      <title>Should You Rent Out or Sell Your House?</title>
      <link>https://www.michellegifford.realtor/en/2024/07/31/should-you-rent-out-or-sell-your-housea1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601</link>
      <description>Figuring out what to do with your house when you're ready to move can be a big decision.</description>
      <content:encoded>&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          Figuring out what to do with your house when you're ready
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/07/11/why-moving-to-a-smaller-home-after-retirement-makes-life-easier/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           to move
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          can be a big decision. Should you sell it and use the money for your next adventure, or keep it as a rental to build long-term wealth?
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          It's a question many homeowners face, and the answer isn't always straightforward. Whether you're curious about the potential income from renting or worried about the responsibilities of being a landlord, there’s a lot to consider.
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          Let’s walk through some key questions to ask to help you make the best decision for
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/07/09/why-your-asking-price-matters-even-more-right-now/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           your situation
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          .
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         Is Your House a Good Fit for Renting?
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&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          Even if you're interested in becoming a landlord, your current house might not be ideal for renting. Maybe you're moving
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/07/22/how-affordability-and-remote-work-are-changing-where-people-live/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           far away
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    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          , so keeping up with the ongoing maintenance would be a hassle, the neighborhood isn't great for rentals, or the house needs significant repairs before you could rent it out.
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  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          If any of this sounds like it might apply,
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/06/25/how-long-will-it-take-to-sell-my-house/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           selling
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          might be your best option.
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         Are You Ready for the Realities of Being a Landlord?
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          Managing a rental property isn't just about collecting rent checks. It's a time-consuming and sometimes challenging job.
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          For example, you may get calls from tenants at all hours of the day with maintenance requests. Or you may find a tenant causes damage you have to
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    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/07/17/why-fixing-up-your-house-can-help-it-sell-faster/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           repair
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          before the next lease starts. You may even have to deal with people falling behind on payments or breaking their lease early.
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    &lt;a href="https://www.investopedia.com/financial-edge/1011/top-6-tips-for-turning-your-home-into-a-rental-property.aspx" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
        
            Investopedia
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          highlights:
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         Do You Have a Good Understanding of What It’ll Cost?
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          If you're thinking about renting out your home primarily to generate extra income, remember that there are additional costs you’ll want to plan for. As an article from
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           Bankrate
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          explains:
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         Bottom Line
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          To sum it all up,
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           selling
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          or renting out your home is a personal decision that depends on your circumstances. Whatever you decide, taking the time to evaluate your options will help you make the best choice for your future.
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          Make sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully and consult with professionals so you feel supported and informed as you make your decision. A
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/07/15/why-working-with-a-real-estate-professional-is-crucial-right-now/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           real estate agent
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          can be a great person to go to for advice.
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      <pubDate>Wed, 31 Jul 2024 10:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.michellegifford.realtor/en/2024/07/31/should-you-rent-out-or-sell-your-housea1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string" />
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    <item>
      <title>The Biggest Mistakes Sellers Are Making Right Now</title>
      <link>https://www.michellegifford.realtor/en/2024/07/30/the-biggest-mistakes-sellers-are-making-right-nowa1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601</link>
      <description>The housing market is going through a transition.</description>
      <content:encoded>&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          The
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/06/28/housing-market-forecast-for-the-2nd-half-of-2024-infographic/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           housing market
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          is going through
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/7/18/unlocking-homebuyer-opportunities-in-2024/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           a transition
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          . Higher
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/06/18/worried-about-mortgage-rates-control-the-controllables/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           mortgage rates
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          are causing more moderate buyer activity at the same time the supply of homes for sale is growing.
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          And if you aren’t working with an agent, you may not realize that. Here’s the downside. If you’re not informed, you can’t adjust your strategy or expectations to today’s market. And that can lead to a number of costly mistakes.
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          Here’s a look at some of the most common ones – and how an agent will help you avoid them
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/05/23/questions-you-may-have-about-selling-your-house/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           when you sell
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          . 
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         1. Overpricing Your House
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          Many sellers set their
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/07/09/why-your-asking-price-matters-even-more-right-now/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           asking price
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    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          too high and that’s why there’s an uptick in homes with
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/06/12/home-prices-arent-declining-but-headlines-might-make-you-think-they-are/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           price reductions
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    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          today. An unrealistic price will deter potential buyers, cause an appraisal issue, or lead to your house sitting on the market
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    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/06/25/how-long-will-it-take-to-sell-my-house/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           longer
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    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          . An article from the
          &#xD;
    &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
      
           National Association of Realtors
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    &lt;/em&gt;&#xD;
    
          (NAR)
          &#xD;
    &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/em&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.nar.realtor/determining-asking-price" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           explains
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          :
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          To avoid falling into this trap, partner with a pro. An agent uses recent sales of similar homes, the condition of your house, local market trends, and so much more to find the price that’ll attract more buyers and open the door for multiple offers and a faster sale.
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         2. Skipping the Small Stuff
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          You may try to skip important
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/7/17/why-fixing-up-your-house-can-help-it-sell-faster/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           repairs
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    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          , thinking you can pass the task on to your buyer. But visible issues (even if they’re small) can turn off potential buyers and result in lower offers or demands for concessions. As
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    &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
      
           Money Talks News
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    &lt;/em&gt;&#xD;
    
          says:
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  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          If you want to get your house ready to sell, the best place to turn to for advice is your
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/07/15/why-working-with-a-real-estate-professional-is-crucial-right-now/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           agent
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    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          . They’ll be able to do a walk-through with you and point out anything you’ll need to tackle before the photographer comes in.
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         3. Not Looking at Things Objectively
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          Buyers today are feeling the pinch of high home prices and mortgage rates. With affordability that tight, they may come in with an offer that’s lower than you’d want to see – especially if you didn’t stage, price, or
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/05/29/how-an-agent-helps-market-your-house/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           market the house
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    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          well.
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          It’s important you don’t take this personally. Getting overly emotional can put the sale at risk. As an article from
          &#xD;
    &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
      
           Ramsey Solutions
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    &lt;/em&gt;&#xD;
    
          says:
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&lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
  
         4. Being Unwilling To Negotiate
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          The
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/05/16/the-number-of-homes-for-sale-is-increasing/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           supply of homes
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          for sale has grown. That means buyers have more options, and with that comes more negotiation power. As a seller, you may see more buyers getting an inspection, requesting repairs, or asking for help with closing costs today. You need to be prepared to have those conversations. As
          &#xD;
    &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
      
           U.S. News
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    &lt;/em&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
      
           Real Estate
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          explains:
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          An agent will walk you through what levers you may want to pull based on your own goals, budget, and timeframe.
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&lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
  
         5. Not Using a Real Estate Agent
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  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          Notice anything? For each of these mistakes, partnering with an agent helps prevent them from happening in the first place. That makes trying to sell your house without an agent’s help the
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/06/21/the-downsides-of-selling-your-house-without-an-agent/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           biggest mistake
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          of all.
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  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/05/14/thinking-of-selling-you-want-an-agent-with-these-skills/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           Real estate agents
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          have experience and expertise in pricing, marketing, negotiating, and more. That knowledge streamlines the selling process and usually results in drumming up more interest and ultimately can get you a higher final price.
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&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
  
         Bottom Line
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&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          If you want to avoid making mistakes like these, you need to work with a real estate agent.
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&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
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      <pubDate>Tue, 30 Jul 2024 10:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.michellegifford.realtor/en/2024/07/30/the-biggest-mistakes-sellers-are-making-right-nowa1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string" />
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    <item>
      <title>Are Home Prices Going To Come Down?</title>
      <link>https://www.michellegifford.realtor/en/2024/07/29/are-home-prices-going-to-come-downa1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601</link>
      <description>Today’s headlines and news stories about home prices are confusing and make it tough to know what’s really happening.</description>
      <content:encoded>&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          Today’s headlines and news stories about home prices are confusing and make it tough to know what’s really happening. Some say home prices are heading for a correction, but what do the facts say? Well, it helps to start by looking at what a correction means.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          Here’s what Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at
          &#xD;
    &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
      
           Realtor.com
          &#xD;
    &lt;/em&gt;&#xD;
    
          ,
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://money.com/housing-market-correction-federal-reserve/" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           says
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          :
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          In the context of today’s housing market, it doesn’t mean home prices are going to fall dramatically. It only means prices, which have been increasing rapidly over the last couple years, are normalizing a bit. In other words, they’re now growing at a slower pace.
          &#xD;
    &lt;b&gt;&#xD;
      
           Prices vary a lot by local market, but rest assured, a big drop off isn’t what’s happening at a national level.
          &#xD;
    &lt;/b&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
  
         The Real Estate Market Is Normalizing
        &#xD;
&lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          From 2020 to 2022, home prices skyrocketed. That rapid increase was due to high demand, low interest rates, and a shortage of homes for sale. But, that kind of aggressive growth couldn’t continue forever.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          Today, price growth has started to slow down, which is a sign the market is beginning to normalize. The most recent
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.spglobal.com/spdji/en/indices/indicators/sp-corelogic-case-shiller-20-city-composite-home-price-nsa-index/#news-research" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           data
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          from
          &#xD;
    &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
      
           Case-Shiller
          &#xD;
    &lt;/em&gt;&#xD;
    
          shows that after being basically flat for a couple of months last year, prices are going up at a national level – just not as quickly as before (
          &#xD;
    &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
      
           see graph below
          &#xD;
    &lt;/em&gt;&#xD;
    
          ):
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          Of course, that’s what’s happening now, but you may be wondering what’s next for prices. Marco Santarelli, the Founder of
          &#xD;
    &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
      
           Norada Real Estate
          &#xD;
    &lt;/em&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
      
           Investments
          &#xD;
    &lt;/em&gt;&#xD;
    
          ,
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.noradarealestate.com/blog/real-estate-forecast-next-5-years/" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           says
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          :
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          It’s all about supply and demand. Increasing inventory plus limited buyer demand, due to relatively high mortgage rates, will continue to ease some of the upward pressure on prices.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
  
          What This Means for You
        &#xD;
&lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;b&gt;&#xD;
      
            
          &#xD;
    &lt;/b&gt;&#xD;
    
          If you’re thinking about
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/07/19/the-biggest-mistakes-homebuyers-are-making-right-now/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           buying a home
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          , slowing price growth is welcome news. Skyrocketing home prices during the pandemic left many would-be homebuyers feeling priced-out. 
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          While it’s still a good thing to know the
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/07/03/homeowners-gained-28k-in-equity-over-the-past-year/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           value
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          of the home you buy will likely continue to
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/07/02/real-estate-still-holds-the-title-of-best-long-term-investment/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           go up
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          once you own it, slowing price gains are making things feel
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/07/18/unlocking-homebuyer-opportunities-in-2024/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           more manageable
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          . Odeta Kushi, Deputy Chief Economist at
          &#xD;
    &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
      
           First American
          &#xD;
    &lt;/em&gt;&#xD;
    
          ,
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://x.com/NatMortgageNews/status/1810856489231217052" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           says
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          :
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
  
         Bottom Line
        &#xD;
&lt;/h3&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          At the national level, home prices are not going down. And most experts forecast they’ll continue growing moderately moving forward. But prices vary a lot by local market. That’s where a trusted
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/07/15/why-working-with-a-real-estate-professional-is-crucial-right-now/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           real estate agent
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          comes into play. If you have
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/07/16/how-to-determine-if-youre-ready-to-buy-a-home/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           questions
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          about what’s happening with prices in your area, reach out to an agent.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
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      <pubDate>Mon, 29 Jul 2024 10:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.michellegifford.realtor/en/2024/07/29/are-home-prices-going-to-come-downa1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string" />
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/804771e0/dms3rep/multi/20240729-Are-Home-Prices-Going-To-Come-Down-original.png">
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    <item>
      <title>Unlocking the Benefits of Your Home's Equity</title>
      <link>https://www.michellegifford.realtor/en/2024/07/26/unlocking-the-benefits-of-your-homes-equitya1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601</link>
      <description>Equity is the difference between what your house is worth and what you still owe on your mortgage.</description>
      <content:encoded>&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;a href="https://irp.cdn-website.com/804771e0/dms3rep/multi/Unlocking-the-Benefits-of-Your-Home-Equity-MEM-original.jpg" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/804771e0/dms3rep/multi/Unlocking-the-Benefits-of-Your-Home-Equity-MEM-original.jpg" alt="A flyer about home equity in the united states" title=""/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
  
         Some Highlights
        &#xD;
&lt;/h3&gt;</content:encoded>
      <enclosure url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/804771e0/dms3rep/multi/Unlocking-the-Benefits-of-Your-Home-Equity-KCM-Share-original.jpg" length="34086" type="image/jpeg" />
      <pubDate>Fri, 26 Jul 2024 10:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.michellegifford.realtor/en/2024/07/26/unlocking-the-benefits-of-your-homes-equitya1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string" />
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/804771e0/dms3rep/multi/Unlocking-the-Benefits-of-Your-Home-Equity-KCM-Share-original.jpg">
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    <item>
      <title>How the Economy Impacts Mortgage Rates</title>
      <link>https://www.michellegifford.realtor/en/2024/07/25/how-the-economy-impacts-mortgage-ratesa1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601</link>
      <description>As someone who’s thinking about buying or selling a home, you’re probably paying close attention to mortgage rates – and wondering what's ahead.</description>
      <content:encoded>&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          As someone who’s thinking about
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/07/19/the-biggest-mistakes-homebuyers-are-making-right-now/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           buying
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          or
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/07/17/why-fixing-up-your-house-can-help-it-sell-faster/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           selling
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          a home, you’re probably paying close attention to mortgage rates – and wondering
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/06/28/housing-market-forecast-for-the-2nd-half-of-2024-infographic/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           what's ahead
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          .
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          One thing that can affect mortgage rates is the Federal Funds Rate, which influences how much it costs banks to borrow money from each other. While the
          &#xD;
    &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
      
           Federal Reserve
          &#xD;
    &lt;/em&gt;&#xD;
    
          (the Fed) doesn’t directly control mortgage rates, they do control the Federal Funds Rate.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          The relationship between the two is why people have been watching closely to see when the Fed might lower the Federal Funds Rate. Whenever they do, that’ll put downward pressure on mortgage rates. The Fed meets next week, and three of the most important metrics they’ll look at as they make their decision are:
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          Here’s the latest data on all three.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
  
         1. The Rate of Inflation
        &#xD;
&lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          You’ve probably heard a lot about inflation over the past year or two – and you’ve likely felt it whenever you’ve gone to buy just about anything. That’s because high inflation means prices have been going up quickly.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          The Fed has stated its goal is to get the rate of inflation back down to 2%. Right now, it’s still higher than that, but moving in the
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.investing.com/economic-calendar/core-pce-price-index-905" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           right direction
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          (
          &#xD;
    &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
      
           see graph below
          &#xD;
    &lt;/em&gt;&#xD;
    
          ):
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          The Fed is also watching how many new jobs are created each month. They want to see job growth slow down consistently before taking any action on the Federal Funds Rate. If fewer jobs are created, it means the economy is still strong but cooling a bit – which is their goal. That appears to be exactly what’s happening now.
          &#xD;
    &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
      
           Inman
          &#xD;
    &lt;/em&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.inman.com/2024/07/05/mortgage-rates-retreating-from-7-on-massive-revision-to-jobs-report/" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           says
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          :
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          So, while employers are still adding jobs, they’re not adding as many as before. That’s an indicator the economy is slowing down after being overheated for quite some time. This is an encouraging trend for the Fed to see.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
  
         3. The Unemployment Rate
        &#xD;
&lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          The unemployment rate is the percentage of people who want to work but can’t find jobs. So, a low rate means a lot of Americans are employed. That’s a good thing for many people.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          But it can also lead to higher inflation because more people working means more spending – which drives up prices. Right now, the
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.bls.gov/news.release/empsit.nr0.htm" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           unemployment rate
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          is low, but it’s been rising slowly over the past few months (
          &#xD;
    &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
      
           see graph below
          &#xD;
    &lt;/em&gt;&#xD;
    
          ):
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
  
         What Does This Mean Moving Forward?
        &#xD;
&lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          While mortgage rates are going to continue to be volatile in the days and months ahead, these are signs the economy is headed in the direction the Fed wants to see. But even with that, it’s unlikely they'll cut the Federal Funds Rate when they meet next week. Jerome Powell, Chair of the Federal Reserve,
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2024/07/02/powell-says-fed-has-made-quite-a-bit-of-progress-on-inflation-but-needs-more-confidence-before-cutting.html" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           recently said
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          :
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          Basically, we’re seeing the first signs now, but they need more data and more time to feel confident that this is a consistent trend. Assuming that direction continues, according to the
          &#xD;
    &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
      
           CME FedWatch Tool
          &#xD;
    &lt;/em&gt;&#xD;
    
          , experts say there’s a projected
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.cmegroup.com/markets/interest-rates/cme-fedwatch-tool.html" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           96.1%
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          chance the Fed will lower the Federal Funds Rate at their September meeting.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          Remember, the Fed doesn’t directly set mortgage rates. It’s just that whenever they decide to cut the Federal Funds Rate, mortgage rates should respond.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          Of course, the timing of when the Fed takes action could change because of new economic reports, world events, and other factors. That’s why it's usually not a good idea to try to
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/06/26/focus-on-time-in-the-market-not-timing-the-market/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           time the market
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          .
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
  
         Bottom Line
        &#xD;
&lt;/h3&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          Recent economic data may signal that hope is on the horizon for mortgage rates. Count on a local
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/07/15/why-working-with-a-real-estate-professional-is-crucial-right-now/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           real estate agent
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          you can trust to keep you up to date on the
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/07/12/how-do-presidential-elections-impact-the-housing-market-infographic/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           latest trends
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          and what they mean for you.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
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      <pubDate>Thu, 25 Jul 2024 10:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.michellegifford.realtor/en/2024/07/25/how-the-economy-impacts-mortgage-ratesa1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string" />
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/804771e0/dms3rep/multi/20240725-How-the-Economy-Impacts-Mortgage-Rates-original.png">
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    <item>
      <title>A Newly Built Home May Actually Be More Budget-Friendly</title>
      <link>https://www.michellegifford.realtor/en/2024/07/24/a-newly-built-home-may-actually-be-more-budget-friendlya1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601</link>
      <description>If you’re in the market to buy a home, there’s some exciting news for you.</description>
      <content:encoded>&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          If you’re in the market to
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/07/18/unlocking-homebuyer-opportunities-in-2024/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           buy a home
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          , there’s some exciting news for you. Many people assume that newly built homes are more expensive than existing ones (houses that have already been lived in), but that’s not always the case. In fact, exploring newly built homes can sometimes lead to more cost-effective options, especially today. Hard to believe, right? But the data doesn’t lie.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          Here are two key reasons working with your agent to look into new home construction could help you find a more budget-friendly option.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
  
         Reason 1: Lower Median Prices for Newly Built Homes
        &#xD;
&lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          Why is that? Builders are focused on building what they can sell. And right now, there’s a very real need for
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/05/03/builders-are-building-smaller-homes-infographic-1/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           smaller
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          and more affordable homes – so that’s what they’ve been bringing to the market. At the same time, there are also more newly built homes already on the market than there have been over the past few years, so
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/07/08/not-a-crash-3-graphs-that-show-how-todays-inventory-differs-from-2008/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           builders
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          are motivated to make sure they’re selling what they’ve got available before adding more.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
  
         Reason 2: Attractive Incentives from Home Builders
        &#xD;
&lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          Another big reason to consider a newly built home is the range of incentives that many home builders are offering. Again, since builders are aiming to sell their current inventory, some are providing special deals to sweeten the pot for
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/07/16/how-to-determine-if-youre-ready-to-buy-a-home/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           homebuyers
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          .
          &#xD;
    &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
      
           HousingWire
          &#xD;
    &lt;/em&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.housingwire.com/articles/housing-starts-dropped-19-3-in-may-as-builder-confidence-continues-to-slide/" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           explains
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          today’s trend:
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          One of the most appealing incentives right now is how builders are able to offer competitive mortgage rates. They may also provide other incentives, such as covering
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/03/25/what-every-homebuyer-should-know-about-closing-costs/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           closing costs
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          , or offering free upgrades.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
  
         Why This Matters to You
        &#xD;
&lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          Considering a newly built home could open up opportunities you hadn’t thought of before. With competitive pricing and attractive incentives, you might just find that a brand-new home is the most appealing option for you.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
  
         Bottom Line
        &#xD;
&lt;/h3&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/05/30/the-biggest-mistakes-buyers-are-making-today/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           Buying a home
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          is a big decision, and it’s essential to consider all your options. By looking into newly built homes, you might find a perfect fit for your needs and your budget.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          Let’s explore the possibilities together. If you have any questions or want to see what’s available, reach out to a local real estate agent.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
      <enclosure url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/804771e0/dms3rep/multi/20240724-A-Newly-Built-Home-May-Actually-Be-More-Budget-Friendly-original.png" length="309574" type="image/png" />
      <pubDate>Wed, 24 Jul 2024 10:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.michellegifford.realtor/en/2024/07/24/a-newly-built-home-may-actually-be-more-budget-friendlya1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string" />
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/804771e0/dms3rep/multi/20240724-A-Newly-Built-Home-May-Actually-Be-More-Budget-Friendly-original.png">
        <media:description>thumbnail</media:description>
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    <item>
      <title>Why a Foreclosure Wave Isn’t on the Horizon</title>
      <link>https://www.michellegifford.realtor/en/2024/07/23/why-a-foreclosure-wave-isnt-on-the-horizona1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601</link>
      <description>Even though data shows inflation is cooling, a lot of people are still feeling the pinch on their wallets.</description>
      <content:encoded>&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          Even though data shows inflation is cooling, a lot of people are still feeling the pinch on their wallets. And those high costs on everything from gas to groceries are fueling unnecessary concerns that more people are going to have trouble making their mortgage payments. But, does that mean there’s a big wave of
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/04/24/foreclosure-numbers-are-nothing-like-the-2008-crash/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           foreclosures
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          coming?
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          Here's a look at why the data and the experts say that’s not going to happen.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
  
         There Aren’t Many Homeowners Who Are Seriously Behind on Their Mortgages
        &#xD;
&lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          One of the main reasons there were so many foreclosures during the last
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/07/08/not-a-crash-3-graphs-that-show-how-todays-inventory-differs-from-2008/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           housing crash
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          was because relaxed lending standards made it easy for people to take out mortgages, even when they couldn’t show they’d be able to pay them back. At that time, lenders weren’t being as strict when looking at applicant credit scores, income levels, employment status, and debt-to-income ratio.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          But since then, lending standards have gotten a whole lot tighter. Lenders became much more diligent when assessing applicants for home loans. And that means we’re seeing more qualified buyers who have less of a risk of defaulting on their loans.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          What this means is that, not only are borrowers more qualified, but they’re also finding ways to navigate through their challenges, exploring their repayment options, or maybe even using the record amount of equity they have to sell and avoid foreclosure entirely.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
  
         The Answer Is: There’s No Sign of a Wave Coming
        &#xD;
&lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          Before there can be a significant rise in foreclosures, the number of people who can’t make their mortgage payments would need to rise significantly. But, since so many buyers are making their payments today and homeowners have so much
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/07/03/homeowners-gained-28k-in-equity-over-the-past-year/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           equity
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          built up, a wave of foreclosures isn’t likely.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          Take it from Bill McBride of 
          &#xD;
    &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
      
           Calculated Risk –
          &#xD;
    &lt;/em&gt;&#xD;
    
          an expert on the housing market who, after closely following the data and market leading up to the crash, was able to see the foreclosure crisis coming in 2008. McBride
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://calculatedrisk.substack.com/p/q1-update-delinquencies-foreclosures" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           says:
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
  
         Bottom Line
        &#xD;
&lt;/h3&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          If you’re worried about a potential foreclosure crisis, know there’s nothing in the data to suggest that’ll happen. Buyers are more qualified now, and that’s one reason why they’re not falling seriously behind on their mortgage payments. 
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
      <enclosure url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/804771e0/dms3rep/multi/20240723-Why-a-Foreclosure-Wave-Isn-t-on-the-Horizon-original.png" length="140871" type="image/png" />
      <pubDate>Tue, 23 Jul 2024 10:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.michellegifford.realtor/en/2024/07/23/why-a-foreclosure-wave-isnt-on-the-horizona1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string" />
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/804771e0/dms3rep/multi/20240723-Why-a-Foreclosure-Wave-Isn-t-on-the-Horizon-original.png">
        <media:description>thumbnail</media:description>
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    <item>
      <title>How Affordability and Remote Work Are Changing Where People Live</title>
      <link>https://www.michellegifford.realtor/en/2024/07/22/how-affordability-and-remote-work-are-changing-where-people-livea1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601</link>
      <description>There’s an interesting trend happening in the housing market.</description>
      <content:encoded>&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          There’s an interesting trend happening in the
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/07/12/how-do-presidential-elections-impact-the-housing-market-infographic/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           housing market
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          . People are increasingly
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/07/11/why-moving-to-a-smaller-home-after-retirement-makes-life-easier/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           moving
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          to more affordable areas, and remote or hybrid work is helping them do it.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
  
         Consider Moving to a More Affordable Area
        &#xD;
&lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          Today’s high
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/06/18/worried-about-mortgage-rates-control-the-controllables/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           mortgage rates
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          combined with continually rising
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/06/12/home-prices-arent-declining-but-headlines-might-make-you-think-they-are/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           home prices
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          mean it’s tough for a lot of people to afford a home right now. That’s why many interested buyers are moving to places where homes are less expensive, and the cost of living is lower. As Orphe Divounguy, Senior Economist at
          &#xD;
    &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
      
           Zillow
          &#xD;
    &lt;/em&gt;&#xD;
    
          ,
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2024/01/23/10-metros-where-people-are-moving-for-affordable-housing-good-jobs.html" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           explains
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          :
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          If you’re hoping to
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/06/19/what-you-need-to-know-about-todays-down-payment-programs/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           buy a home
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          soon, it might make sense to broaden your search area to include places where homes that fit your needs are more affordable. That’s what a lot of other people are doing right now to find a home within their budget.
          &#xD;
    &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
      
           Extra Space Storage
          &#xD;
    &lt;/em&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.extraspace.com/blog/moving/where-are-people-moving/" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           explains
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          :
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
      
           “55% of American adults are looking to relocate to a different state or city for more affordable homes and lower costs of living. . . Specifically, states with a strong economy, lower costs of living, and remote work options continue to be the ideal places to live in the U.S.”
          &#xD;
    &lt;/em&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
  
         Remote Work Opens Up More Home Options
        &#xD;
&lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          If you work remotely or drive into the office only a few times each week, you have many more possibilities when looking for your next home. That’s because you can cast a broader net and include more suburban or rural areas nearby. As
          &#xD;
    &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
      
           Market Place Homes
          &#xD;
    &lt;/em&gt;&#xD;
    
          says:
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
  
         How a Real Estate Agent Can Help
        &#xD;
&lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          A real estate agent can help you find the
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/07/10/the-price-of-perfection-dont-wait-for-the-perfect-home/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           perfect home
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          for your budget. They’re especially valuable if you’re moving to a new, unfamiliar area.
          &#xD;
    &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
      
           Bankrate
          &#xD;
    &lt;/em&gt;&#xD;
    
          says:                                                                                         
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          So, if you're thinking about relocating to somewhere with more affordable homes, what are you waiting for? With the added flexibility of remote work, you might have more options than before.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
  
         Bottom Line
        &#xD;
&lt;/h3&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          Dreaming of a place where your money goes further? Connect with a real estate agent so you have someone to help you find your
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/06/26/focus-on-time-in-the-market-not-timing-the-market/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           next home
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          . Together, you’ll make your dream of homeownership a reality.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
      <enclosure url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/804771e0/dms3rep/multi/20240722-How-Affordability-and-Remote-Work-Are-Changing-Where-People-Live-original.png" length="194023" type="image/png" />
      <pubDate>Mon, 22 Jul 2024 10:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.michellegifford.realtor/en/2024/07/22/how-affordability-and-remote-work-are-changing-where-people-livea1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string" />
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/804771e0/dms3rep/multi/20240722-How-Affordability-and-Remote-Work-Are-Changing-Where-People-Live-original.png">
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    <item>
      <title>The Biggest Mistakes Homebuyers Are Making Right Now</title>
      <link>https://www.michellegifford.realtor/en/2024/07/19/the-biggest-mistakes-homebuyers-are-making-right-nowa1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601</link>
      <description>Want to know the biggest mistakes homebuyers are making today?</description>
      <content:encoded>&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;a href="https://irp.cdn-website.com/804771e0/dms3rep/multi/20240719-The-Biggest-Mistakes-Homebuyers-Are-Making-Right-Now-MEM-original.jpg" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/804771e0/dms3rep/multi/20240719-The-Biggest-Mistakes-Homebuyers-Are-Making-Right-Now-MEM-original.jpg" alt="A poster showing the mistakes to avoid when buying a house" title=""/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
  
         Some Highlights
        &#xD;
&lt;/h3&gt;</content:encoded>
      <enclosure url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/804771e0/dms3rep/multi/20240719-The-Biggest-Mistakes-Homebuyers-Are-Making-Right-Now-KCM-Share-original.jpg" length="54504" type="image/jpeg" />
      <pubDate>Fri, 19 Jul 2024 10:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.michellegifford.realtor/en/2024/07/19/the-biggest-mistakes-homebuyers-are-making-right-nowa1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string" />
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp.cdn-website.com/804771e0/dms3rep/multi/20240719-The-Biggest-Mistakes-Homebuyers-Are-Making-Right-Now-KCM-Share-original.jpg">
        <media:description>thumbnail</media:description>
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    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Unlocking Homebuyer Opportunities in 2024</title>
      <link>https://www.michellegifford.realtor/en/2024/07/18/unlocking-homebuyer-opportunities-in-2024a1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601</link>
      <description>There’s no arguing this past year has been difficult for homebuyers.</description>
      <content:encoded>&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          There’s no arguing this past year has been difficult for
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/06/11/savings-strategies-every-first-time-homebuyer-needs-to-know/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           homebuyers
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          . And if you’re someone who has started the process of searching for a home, maybe you put your search on hold because the challenges in today’s
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/06/17/do-elections-impact-the-housing-market/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           market
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          felt like too much to tackle. You’re not alone in that. A
          &#xD;
    &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
      
           Bright MLS
          &#xD;
    &lt;/em&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.brightmls.com/article/market-survey-sellers-increasingly-offering-concessions-to-close-the-deal" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           study
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          found some of the top reasons buyers paused their search in late 2023 and early 2024 were:
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          If any of these sound like why you stopped looking, here’s what you need to know. The housing market is in a transition in the
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/06/28/housing-market-forecast-for-the-2nd-half-of-2024-infographic/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           second half of 2024
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          . Here are four reasons why this may be your chance to jump back in.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
  
         1. The Supply of Homes for Sale Is Growing
        &#xD;
&lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          One of the most significant shifts in the market this year is how the months’ supply of
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/05/16/the-number-of-homes-for-sale-is-increasing/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           homes for sale
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          has increased. If you look at
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.nar.realtor/topics/existing-home-sales" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           data
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          from the
          &#xD;
    &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
      
           National Association of Realtors
          &#xD;
    &lt;/em&gt;&#xD;
    
          (NAR), you’ll see how inventory has grown throughout 2024 (
          &#xD;
    &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
      
           see graph below
          &#xD;
    &lt;/em&gt;&#xD;
    
          ):
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;a href="https://irp.cdn-website.com/804771e0/dms3rep/multi/20240718-Inventory-of-Existing-Homes-Improving-original.png" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/804771e0/dms3rep/multi/20240718-Inventory-of-Existing-Homes-Improving-original.png" alt="A graph showing the inventory of existing homes improving." title=""/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          This graph shows the months’ supply of existing homes – homes that were previously lived in by another homeowner. The upward trend this year is clear.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          This increase means you have a better chance of finding a home that suits your needs and preferences. And if the biggest reason you put off your home search was difficulty finding the right home, this is a big relief.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
  
         2. There’s More New Home Construction
        &#xD;
&lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          And if you still don’t see an existing home you like, another big opportunity lies in the rise of
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/06/13/homebuilders-arent-overbuilding-theyre-catching-up/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           new home construction
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          . Builders have worked to increase the supply of
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/07/08/not-a-crash-3-graphs-that-show-how-todays-inventory-differs-from-2008/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           newly built homes
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          this year. And they’ve turned their attention to crafting
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/05/03/builders-are-building-smaller-homes-infographic-1/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           smaller
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          , more affordable homes based on what’s most needed in today’s market. This helps address the long-standing issue of housing undersupply throughout the country, and those smaller homes also offset some of the affordability challenges you’re feeling today.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          According to data from the
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.census.gov/housing/hvs/data/histtabs.html" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
        
            Census
           &#xD;
      &lt;/em&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          and
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.nar.realtor/research-and-statistics/housing-statistics/existing-home-sales" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           NAR
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          , one in three homes on the market is a newly built home (
          &#xD;
    &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
      
           see graph below
          &#xD;
    &lt;/em&gt;&#xD;
    
          ):
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;a href="https://irp.cdn-website.com/804771e0/dms3rep/multi/20240718-Today-1-in-3-Homes-Are-New-Construction-original.png" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/804771e0/dms3rep/multi/20240718-Today-1-in-3-Homes-Are-New-Construction-original.png" alt="A graph shows that today 1 in 3 homes are new construction" title=""/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          This means, that if you didn’t previously look at
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/05/09/the-top-2-reasons-to-consider-a-newly-built-home/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           newly built homes
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          as part of your search, you may have been cutting your pool of options by a third. Not to mention, some builders are also offering incentives like buying down mortgage rates to make it easier for buyers to get a home that fits their budget.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          So, consider talking to your agent about what builders have to offer in your area. Your agent’s expertise on builder reputations, contracts, and more will help you weigh your options.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
  
         3. Less Buyer Competition
        &#xD;
&lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/04/23/the-best-way-to-keep-track-of-mortgage-rate-trends/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           Mortgage rates
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          are still hovering around 7%, so buyer demand isn’t as fierce as it once was. And when you combine that with more housing supply, you have a better chance of avoiding an intense bidding war. Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at
          &#xD;
    &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
      
           Realtor.com
          &#xD;
    &lt;/em&gt;&#xD;
    
          , highlights the positive trend for the latter half of 2024,
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.realtor.com/research/existing-home-sales-may-2024/" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           saying
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          :
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          This creates a unique opportunity for you to find a home you want to buy with less stress and at a potentially better price.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
  
         4. Home Prices Are Moderating
        &#xD;
&lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          Speaking of prices,
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/06/12/home-prices-arent-declining-but-headlines-might-make-you-think-they-are/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           home prices
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          are also showing signs of moderation – and that’s a welcome shift after the rapid appreciation seen in recent years (
          &#xD;
    &lt;em&gt;&#xD;
      
           see graph below
          &#xD;
    &lt;/em&gt;&#xD;
    
          ):
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;a href="https://irp.cdn-website.com/804771e0/dms3rep/multi/20240718-Home-Prices-Are-Moderating-original.png" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/804771e0/dms3rep/multi/20240718-Home-Prices-Are-Moderating-original.png" alt="A graph showing the year over year change in home prices." title=""/&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;span&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;/span&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          This moderation is mostly due to supply and demand. Supply is growing and demand is easing, so prices aren’t rising as fast. But make no mistake, that doesn’t mean prices are falling – they’re just
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/06/26/focus-on-time-in-the-market-not-timing-the-market/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           rising
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          at a more normal pace. You can see this in the graph. The bars are still showing prices increasing, just not as dramatic as it was before.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          The average forecast for
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/05/13/home-prices-are-climbing-in-these-top-cities/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           home price appreciation
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          in 2024 is for positive growth around 3% to 5%, which is more in line with historical norms. That moderation means that you are less likely to face the steep price increases we saw a few years ago.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;h4&gt;&#xD;
  
         The Opportunity in Front of You
        &#xD;
&lt;/h4&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          If you’re ready and able
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/04/19/myths-about-the-2024-housing-market-infographic/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           to buy
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          , you may find that the
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/06/24/housing-market-forecast-whats-ahead-for-the-2nd-half-of-2024/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           second half of 2024
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          is a bit easier to navigate. There are still challenges, but some of the biggest hurdles you’ve faced are getting better as time wears on.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          On the other hand, you could choose to wait. But if you do, here’s
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/05/30/the-biggest-mistakes-buyers-are-making-today/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           the risk
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          you run. As more buyers recognize the shift in the market, competition will grow again. On a similar note, if
          &#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2024/06/18/worried-about-mortgage-rates-control-the-controllables/?a=1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           mortgage rates
          &#xD;
    &lt;/a&gt;&#xD;
    
          do come down (as forecasts say), more buyers will flood back into the market. So, making a move now helps you take advantage of the current market conditions and get ahead of those other buyers.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;&#xD;
&lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
  
         Bottom Line
        &#xD;
&lt;/h3&gt;&#xD;
&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;p&gt;&#xD;
    
          If you’ve put your dream of homeownership on hold, the second half of 2024 may be your chance to jump back in. Connect with a real estate agent to talk more about the opportunities you have in today’s market.
         &#xD;
  &lt;/p&gt;&#xD;
&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
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      <pubDate>Thu, 18 Jul 2024 10:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://www.michellegifford.realtor/en/2024/07/18/unlocking-homebuyer-opportunities-in-2024a1000027427-ed06c9ae95d4ec04e840b911ce90e601</guid>
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