All • April 24, 2025

30 Year Fix Rate Mortgage Averages 6.81%

by Rodney Ward

Freddie Mac today released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey ^® (PMMS^®), showing the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 6.81%.

“The average mortgage rate decreased slightly this week,” said Sam Khater, Freddie Mac’s Chief Economist. “Over the last couple of months, the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage has fluctuated less than 20 basis points, and this stability continues to bode well for buyers and sellers alike.”

The 30-year FRM averaged 6.81% as of April 24, 2025, down from last week when it averaged 6.83%. A year ago at this time, the 30-year FRM averaged 7.17%.
The 15-year FRM averaged 5.94%, down from last week when it averaged 6.03%. A year ago at this time, the 15-year FRM averaged 6.44%.

The PMMS^® is focused on conventional, conforming, fully amortizing home purchase loans for borrowers who put 20% down and have excellent credit.

Buying • April 24, 2025

Should I Buy Now or Wait?

by Rodney Ward

At some point, you’ve probably heard the saying: “Yesterday was the best time to buy a home, but the next best time is today.”

That’s because homeownership is about the long game – and home prices typically rise over time. So, while you may be holding out for prices to fall or rates to improve, you should know that trying to time the market rarely works.

Here’s what most buyers don’t always think about: the longer you wait, the more buying could cost you. And you deserve to understand why.

Forecasts Say Prices Will Keep Climbing

Each quarter, over 100 housing market experts weigh in for the Home Price Expectations Survey from Fannie Mae, and they consistently agree on one thing: nationally, home prices are expected to rise through at least 2029.

Yes, the sharp price increases are behind us, but experts project a steady, healthy, and sustainable increase of 3-4% per year going forward. And while this will vary by local market from year to year, the good news is, this is a much more normal pace – a welcome sign for the housing market and hopeful buyers (see graph below):

And even in markets experiencing more modest price growth or slight short-term declines, the long game of homeownership wins over time.

So, here’s what to keep in mind:

Next year’s home prices will be higher than this year’s. The longer you wait, the more the purchase price will go up.
Waiting for the perfect mortgage rate or a price drop may backfire. Even if rates dip slightly, projected home price growth could still make waiting more expensive overall.
Buying now means building equity sooner. When you play the long game of homeownership, your equity rewards you over time.

What You’ll Miss Out On

Let’s put real numbers into this equation, because it adds up quickly. Based on those expert projections, if you bought a typical $400,000 home in 2025, it could gain nearly $80,000 in value by 2030 (see graph below):

That’s a serious boost to your future wealth – and why your friends and family who already bought a home are so glad they did. Time in the market matters.

So, the question isn’t: should I wait? It’s really: can I afford to buy now? Because if you can stretch a little or you’re willing to buy something a bit smaller just to get your foot in the door, this is why it’ll be worth it.

Yes, today’s housing market has challenges, but there are ways to make it work, like exploring different neighborhoods, asking your lender about alternative financing, or tapping into down payment assistance programs.

The key is making a move when it makes sense for you, rather than waiting for a perfect scenario that may never arrive.

Bottom Line

Time in the Market Beats Timing the Market.

If you’re debating whether to buy now or wait, remember this: real estate rewards those who get in the market, not those who try to time it perfectly.

Want to take a look at what’s happening with prices in our local area? Whether you’re ready to buy now or just exploring your options, having a plan in place can set you up for long-term success.

All • Buying • Selling • April 22, 2025

What You Can Do When Mortgage Rates Are a Moving Target

by Rodney Ward

Have you seen where mortgage rates have been lately? One day they go down a little. The next day, they go back up again. It can feel confusing and even frustrating if you’re trying to decide whether now’s a good time to buy a home.

Take a look at the graph below. It uses data from Mortgage News Daily to show that after a relatively stable month of March, mortgage rates have been on a bit of a roller coaster ride in April:

This kind of up-and-down volatility is expected when economic changes are happening.

And that’s one of the reasons why trying to time the market isn’t your best move. You can’t control what happens with mortgage rates. But you’re not powerless. Even with all the economic uncertainty right now, there are things you can do.

You can control your credit score, loan type, and loan term. That way, you can get the best rate possible in today’s market.

Your Credit Score

Your credit score can really affect the mortgage rate you qualify for. Even a small change in your score can make a big difference in your monthly payment. Like Bankrate says:

“Your credit score is one of the most important factors lenders consider when you apply for a mortgage. Not just to qualify for the loan itself, but for the conditions: Typically, the higher your score, the lower the interest rates and better terms you’ll qualify for.”

Keeping your credit score up is key when it comes to qualifying for a home loan. If you’re not sure where your score stands or how to improve it, talk to a loan officer you trust.

Your Loan Type

There are also different types of loans out there, and each one comes with unique requirements for qualified buyers. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) explains:

“There are several broad categories of mortgage loans, such as conventional, FHA, USDA, and VA loans. Lenders decide which products to offer, and loan types have different eligibility requirements. Rates can be significantly different depending on what loan type you choose. Talking to multiple lenders can help you better understand all of the options available to you.”

Always work with a mortgage professional to figure out which loan makes the most sense for you and your financial situation.

Your Loan Term

Just like there are different loan types, there are also different loan terms. Freddie Mac puts it like this:

“When choosing the right home loan for you, it’s important to consider the loan term, which is the length of time it will take you to repay your loan before you fully own your home. Your loan term will affect your interest rate, monthly payment, and the total amount of interest you will pay over the life of the loan.”

Most lenders typically offer 15, 20, or 30-year conventional loans. Be sure to ask your loan officer what’s best for you.

Bottom Line

You can’t control what’s happening with the economy or mortgage rates, but you can work with a trusted lender and take steps that’ll help you get the best rate possible.

Let’s connect to talk about what you can do today to put yourself in a strong spot for when you’re ready to buy a home.

Videos • April 21, 2025

If the asking price isn’t compelling, it’s not selling.

by Rodney Ward

The best piece of advice for sellers today? Remember this phrase. If the asking price isn’t compelling, it’s not selling.

Unfortunately, the number of sellers who are having to reduce their price is on the rise. That’s because many aren’t factoring in current market conditions.

In today’s market, buyers have more options and they’re skipping overpriced homes without a second thought.

So, let’s work together. With my help, we can price it to pull people in, not push them away.

All • Buying • Selling • April 17, 2025

30-Year Fixed Mortgage Interest Rate Averages 6.83%

by Rodney Ward

Freddie Mac today released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey ^® (PMMS^®), showing the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 6.83%.

“The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage ticked up but remains below the 7% threshold for the thirteenth consecutive week,” said Sam Khater, Freddie Mac’s Chief Economist. “At this time last year, rates reached 7.1% while purchase application demand was 13% lower than it is today, a clear sign that this year’s spring homebuying season is off to a stronger start.”

The 30-year FRM averaged 6.83% as of April 17, 2025, up from last week when it averaged 6.62%. A year ago at this time, the 30-year FRM averaged 7.1%.
The 15-year FRM averaged 6.03%, up from last week when it averaged 5.82%. A year ago at this time, the 15-year FRM averaged 6.39%.

The PMMS^® is focused on conventional, conforming, fully amortizing home purchase loans for borrowers who put 20% down and have excellent credit.

Buying • April 17, 2025

Pre-Approval Clarity

by Rodney Ward

Pre-Approval Isn’t Commitment – It’s Clarity

If buying a home is on your radar – even if it’s more of a someday plan than a right now plan – getting pre-approved early is still one of the smartest moves you can make. Why? Because, like anything in life, the right prep work makes things clearer.

The best time to get serious about buying is before you’re ready to buy. Here’s why.

Pre-Approval Helps You Understand Your Numbers

One of the biggest benefits of pre-approval is how it helps you understand your buying power. As part of the pre-approval process, a lender will walk through your finances and tell you what you can borrow based on your income, debts, credit score, and more. That number is power.

Once you have that clarity, you’re no longer guessing. You know what you’re working with. And that gives you the information you need to be able to plan ahead. That way, you’re not falling in love with homes that are outside of your price range – or missing out on ones that aren’t.

Pre-Approval Helps You Move Quickly When You’re Ready

You don’t have to be ready to buy to be ready to buy.

It happens all the time – someone scrolls through listings just for fun, and then BAM – they fall in love with something they see online. But by the time they scramble to connect with an agent and then get pre-approved with a lender, someone else beats them to it, and they lose the home. And you don’t want that to happen to you.

While you can’t control when the right home shows up – you can be ready for it.

Pre-approval isn’t about jumping the gun or rushing your timeline. It’s about making sure you’re ready when it’s go-time. As Experian explains:

“Waiting too long to get a preapproval, however, could leave you at a disadvantage . . . you could find the perfect home, but another buyer could snatch it up while you’re waiting for the lender to review your preapproval application. . . getting a preapproval just before you begin actively looking at homes may be your best option.”

Instead of rushing to figure out your numbers, trying to get documentation for your home loan together, and watching the house you love slip away while you wait to hear from your lender, you’re already in the game.

It’s like showing up to the starting line with your shoes tied and your warm-up done – while everyone else is still looking for parking.

But pre-approvals do have an expiration date, so be sure to ask your lender how long it’s good for. Bankrate offers this insight:

“Many mortgage preapprovals are valid for 90 days, though some lenders will only authorize a 30- or 60-day preapproval. If your preapproval expires, getting it renewed can be as simple as your lender rechecking your credit and finances to ensure there have been no major changes to your situation since the first time ‘round.”

The thing is, if you’ve been pre-approved – even if you’re just thinking about casually looking – you have a much better sense of how to navigate your home search within your budget. Plus, you’ll be ready if the perfect home comes along. So why not make it happen?

Bottom Line

Getting pre-approved doesn’t mean you have to buy a house today. But it does mean you’ll know what you’re working with when the right one shows up. If you want to get pre-approved, connect with a lender to get that process started.

In the meantime, let’s have a conversation about what’s on your mind and what you’re looking for.

If the perfect house popped up tomorrow, would you be ready to make a move?

All • Buying • Selling • April 16, 2025

Crash Worries Arise, Again

by Rodney Ward

Lately, it feels like a lot of people have been asking the same question: “Is the housing market about to crash?”

If you’ve been scrolling through social media or watching the news, you might have seen some pretty scary headlines yourself. That’s why it’s no surprise that, according to data from Clever Real Estate, 70% of Americans are worried about a housing crash in 2025.

But before you hit pause on your plans to buy or sell a home, take a deep breath. The truth is: the housing market isn’t about to crash – it’s just shifting. And that shift actually works in your favor.

Today’s Inventory Keeps the Housing Market from Crashing

Mark Fleming, Chief Economist at First American, says:

“There’s just generally not enough supply. There are more people than housing inventory. It’s Econ 101.”

Think about it. If there’s a shortage of something – like tickets to a popular concert – prices go up. That’s what’s been happening with homes. We still have a shortage of supply. Too many buyers and not enough homes push prices higher.

Check out the white line for 2025 in the graph below. Even though the number of homes for sale is climbing, data from Realtor.com shows we’re still well below normal levels (shown in gray):

That ongoing low supply is what’s stopping home prices from dropping at the national level. As Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), says:

“… if there’s a shortage, prices simply cannot crash.”

More Homes for Sale Means Price Growth Is Easing

And, as more homes become available, that takes some of the intense upward pressure off home price growth – leading to healthier price appreciation.

So, while prices aren’t falling nationally, growing inventory means they also aren’t rising as fast as they were. What we’re seeing is price moderation (see graph below):

And according to Freddie Mac, that moderation should continue through the rest of this year:

“In 2025, we expect the pace of house price appreciation to moderate from the levels seen in 2024, while still maintaining a positive trajectory.”

Put simply, that means prices will continue going up in most areas, just not as quickly. That’s good news for anyone who’s been having trouble finding a home and feeling sticker shock from the rapid price appreciation of the past few years.

But of course, what’s happening with prices and inventory is going to vary by local market. So, talk to your agent to find out what’s happening where you live.

Bottom Line

Don’t let the talk scare you. Experts agree that a housing market crash is unlikely in 2025. As Business Insider reports:

“. . . economists who study housing market conditions generally do not expect a crash in 2025 or beyond unless the economic outlook changes.”

Instead, we’re heading into a housing market that’s healthier and more balanced, with slower price growth and more opportunity.

Let’s chat about what’s happening in our local market and how you can make the most of it.

Videos • April 11, 2025

What’s the Impact of a Recession on the Housing Market?

by Rodney Ward

Are you hearing all the talk about a recession and wondering what that would mean for the housing market? Here’s what the data tells us about every recession going back to the 1980s.
While everyone remembers 2008, what happened then wasn’t the norm. That was the only time there was a big drop in prices. It hasn’t happened since.
And mortgage rates? They usually come down – but don’t expect the return of 3%.
While the answer to the question of whether we’re headed toward a recession is uncertain, you don’t have to worry about what that would mean for housing.
What else are you hearing about the housing market that you’d like more information on? DM me or drop a comment below.

All • April 10, 2025

30-Year Mortgage Continues Weekly Average Below 7%

by Rodney Ward

Freddie Mac today released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey ^® (PMMS^®), showing the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 6.62%.

“The average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage continues to trend down, remaining under 7% for the twelfth consecutive week,” said Sam Khater, Freddie Mac’s Chief Economist. “As purchase applications continue to climb, the spring homebuying season is shaping up to look more favorable than last year.”

The 30-year FRM averaged 6.62% as of April 10, 2025, down from last week when it averaged 6.64%. A year ago at this time, the 30-year FRM averaged 6.88%.
The 15-year FRM averaged 5.82%, unchanged from last week. A year ago at this time, the 15-year FRM averaged 6.16%.

The PMMS^® is focused on conventional, conforming, fully amortizing home purchase loans for borrowers who put 20% down and have excellent credit.

Here’s Reaction from National Association of Realtors Deputy Economist Jessica Lautz:

Facts: The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate from Freddie Mac decreased to 6.62%, down from 6.64% last week. At this rate, with a 20% down payment, the monthly mortgage payment amounts to $2,048 for a home priced at $400,000. With a 10% down payment, the typical payment would be $2,304.

Level set: The 30-year fixed mortgage has been on a roller coaster ride this week, and the weekly average is below today’s mortgage rate quotes. This is due to the bond market reacting in real time to real-time decisions. Home buyers could have locked in the lowest rates seen in months earlier this week.

Watch: As a reaction to the mortgage rate turbulence, savvy shoppers jumped on lower rates, and mortgage applications increased 20%. If home buyers are ready to buy and on solid financial footing, stay in close contact to find the perfect home and lock in the lowest rate amid daily changes.

Videos • April 4, 2025

Things To Avoid After Applying For A Mortgage

by Rodney Ward

Here’s an important homebuying tip you don’t want to miss.
Once you’ve applied for your mortgage, consistency is key. That means no new credit cards, no big purchases (yes, even that sectional couch), and no changing banks. You don’t want to do anything that could put your application at risk.
The best advice I can give? Before making any financial moves, talk to your lender first.

30 Year Fix Rate Mortgage Averages 6.81%

Should I Buy Now or Wait?

Forecasts Say Prices Will Keep Climbing

What You’ll Miss Out On

Bottom Line

What You Can Do When Mortgage Rates Are a Moving Target

Your Credit Score

Your Loan Type

Your Loan Term

Bottom Line

If the asking price isn’t compelling, it’s not selling.

30-Year Fixed Mortgage Interest Rate Averages 6.83%

Pre-Approval Clarity

Pre-Approval Isn’t Commitment – It’s Clarity

Pre-Approval Helps You Understand Your Numbers

Pre-Approval Helps You Move Quickly When You’re Ready

Bottom Line

Crash Worries Arise, Again

Today’s Inventory Keeps the Housing Market from Crashing

More Homes for Sale Means Price Growth Is Easing

Bottom Line

What’s the Impact of a Recession on the Housing Market?

30-Year Mortgage Continues Weekly Average Below 7%

Things To Avoid After Applying For A Mortgage

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