JD Martell, Realtor

If you're a buyer in today's competitive real estate market, you'll need to be patient during your home search. It may take time to find a home you love. Once you do, however, be ready to move forward quickly. Here's how: 1. Get preapproved for a mortgage 2. Be ready to make a competitive offer from the start 3. Understand that a shortage in inventory may lead you into a bidding war... 4. Calculate just how far you're willing to go to secure a home 5. Lean on your real estate professional as an expert guide along the way See more

MARKET UPDATE Historically low mortgage rates are a big motivator for homebuyers right now. In 2020 alone, rates hit new record-lows 16 times, and the trend continued into the early part of this year. Many hopeful homebuyers are now wondering if they should put their plans on hold and wait for the lowest rates imaginable. However, the reality is that acting sooner rather than later may be the actual win if you're ready to buy a home.... While only a slight increase in mortgage rates is projected for 2021, some experts believe they will start to rise. Over the past week, for example, the average mortgage rate ticked up slightly, reaching 2.79%. This is still incredibly low compared to past trends. As mortgage rates rise, the increase impacts the overall cost of purchasing a home. The higher the rate, the higher your monthly mortgage payment, especially as home prices rise too. Right now, the inventory of houses for sale is also at a historic low, making it more challenging than normal to find a home to buy in many areas. As more buyers hit the market in the spring buying season, it may become even harder to find a home in the coming months. While today's low mortgage rates provide great opportunities for homebuyers, we may not see them stick around forever. If you're ready to buy a home, chances are that locking in a low monthly mortgage payment is a smart move.

Thanks for the awesome review, Chris! I work hard to meet expectations like yours, and I am happy to hear I hit the mark for you.

Wishing you and yours health and prosperity in the new year!