New Year New Home

Lynch Home Team December 11, 2023

Real Estate Advice

Heading into the New Year

THINKING ABOUT BUYING?

Don’t let the higher rates deter you. I work with multiple lenders with various loan programs to help you get into a home you love with a payment you’re comfortable with. Experts do not predict prices to drop anytime soon, and prices are projected to end this year up 2.8%. So waiting will only cost you.

WHERE ARE RATES HEADED?

While there's some dispute on if and how much rates will decrease, the general consensus is that mortgage rates will go down in 2024...maybe to 6% by the end of the year.

1. Drive around the neighborhood

If you've seen the house and you love it, drive around the neighborhood and surrounding area. Find out what's nearby, dine at a nearby restaurant, and even talk with the neighbors if you see any outside! Don't be afraid to drive around at different times, such as rush hour and on the weekend.

2. Join a local Facebook Group or Nextdoor App

Most areas have a local Facebook Group or Nextdoor App, where you can ask the locals their favorite neighborhoods or what they like and dislike about the area.

3. Lean on your agent

Your agent is the local expert, and their goal is to find you the place that best suits your want and needs: both for your home and the area you are moving to. Make sure you identify your priorities and non-negotiables and think about your lifestyle and must-have amenities.

4. Do your own online research

Use the power of the internet to gather information about potential neighborhoods. Websites like neighborhoodscout.com provide basic information about a neighborhood for free, or you can subscribe for more detailed reports on crime, schools, and more. Niche.com can give you insight into the local schools based on key statistics and parent reviews.