Team Fosgate
Trusted News From The Experts

Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Only an Expert Agent Can Give You an Accurate Value of Your Home

Automated online home valuation tools often fail to capture the full picture, missing crucial details like the home's condition and local market trends. Expert real estate agents bridge this gap with comprehensive assessments, including walk-throughs and current comparable sales data. For the most accurate home value estimate, partnering with a knowledgeable agent ensures you consider all unique factors and receive tailored insights based on real-time market conditions.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

What Homebuyers Need To Know About Credit Scores

Data shows 7 out of 10 prospective homebuyers don’t know the minimum credit score required by lenders or that it varies by lender and loan type. According to Experian, the range is anywhere from 500 to 700 for the minimum credit score. That means you don’t need perfect credit to buy a home. Your credit score is important – but that doesn’t mean it needs to be perfect. Work with a lender to learn more about home loan options that may work for you.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

The Top 2 Reasons To Look at Newly Built Homes

The availability of newly built homes is increasing, now constituting nearly 29% of the market, offering fresh options for buyers struggling with low existing home inventory. Additionally, builders are responding to affordability concerns by constructing smaller, more budget-friendly homes. Partnering with a knowledgeable real estate agent ensures you navigate builder contracts effectively, enhancing your opportunity to find a home that meets both your needs and budget.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Why Moving to a More Affordable Area Makes Sense

As living costs rise, relocating to more affordable areas offers a viable solution for financial relief. Lower housing costs, insurance premiums, and daily expenses are significant draws. Working with a knowledgeable real estate agent ensures you find a home that suits your budget and lifestyle needs, providing a fresh start and improved quality of life amidst economic pressures.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

What Will It Take for Prices To Come Down?

Despite hopes for a drop in home prices, the current market conditions suggest stability due to a persistent imbalance in supply and demand. The U.S. faces a significant housing shortfall, with demand outstripping the available supply, a trend exacerbated by years of underbuilding post-2008 crisis. Experts predict that while home prices may continue to rise, the growth will likely slow to a healthier pace next year. Local market variations do exist, underscoring the importance of consulting with a real estate expert to navigate these dynamics effectively.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Why More Sellers Are Hiring Real Estate Agents

The trend of homeowners opting for real estate agents rather than selling independently as "For Sale by Owner" (FSBO) is increasing due to the complexities of today’s market. Data from the National Association of Realtors indicates a decline in FSBO sales, highlighting the value of expert guidance in pricing accurately and managing legal paperwork. Real estate agents leverage their market knowledge and experience to streamline the selling process, ensuring competitive pricing and compliance, thus facilitating a smoother transaction.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Why This Winter Is the Sweet Spot for Selling

Thinking about selling your house? Here are a few reasons why you may want to do it this season. Buyers looking right now are serious about moving and the number of homes for sale is typically lower this time of year – helping your house stand out. While inventory is higher this year than it’s been in the last few winters, you'll still be in this year’s sweet spot.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Why Owning a Home Is Worth It in the Long Run

Despite today's fluctuating mortgage rates and rising home prices, the long-term value of homeownership remains strong. Historical data shows significant appreciation in home values over the past decades, with average national increases of over 320% in 30 years. This growth underscores the potential for substantial wealth accumulation through real estate, making a compelling case for buying a home even in a complex market.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

When Will Mortgage Rates Come Down?

Mortgage rates are anticipated to stabilize and slightly decrease in 2025 after recent volatility. Factors like inflation, unemployment, and new government policies will influence these rates. While precise predictions are challenging, staying informed through trusted experts and focusing on personal financial readiness can help you navigate future home purchases effectively.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Sell Your House During the Winter Sweet Spot

Winter may be the unexpected sweet spot for selling your home. With typically fewer listings during the colder months, your property stands out more to serious buyers active during this season. This strategic timing allows you to tap into the market before the spring surge, potentially leading to a quicker sale.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Should You Sell Your House As-Is or Make Repairs?

Deciding between selling your home as-is or making repairs depends on your circumstances and market conditions. Selling as-is means fewer hassles but potentially lower offers and slower sales. Making repairs can attract more buyers and higher offers. Consult with a real estate agent to evaluate the best strategy for your specific situation and market dynamics.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Investors Are Not Buying Up All the Homes

There’s a misconception Wall Street is buying all the homes on the market. But data proves that isn’t true. Experts agree the share of homes bought by investors is declining – and most are smaller investors, like your neighbor who owns a second home, not Wall Street. No matter what you’ve heard, the majority of homes are still being purchased by everyday homebuyers like you – not big investors. Let’s connect if you have questions.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Make Your House the Top Thing on Every Buyer’s Wish List This Season

Selling your home during the holiday season might be advantageous due to serious buyers actively searching, reduced competition from fewer listings, and the charming appeal of holiday decor. Managing showings around your holiday schedule and capitalizing on the festive ambiance can make your home particularly attractive to potential buyers.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Control the Controllables If You’re Worried About Mortgage Rates

While external economic factors like Federal Reserve decisions and market trends can influence mortgage rates, homebuyers should focus on what they can control. Prioritizing factors such as credit score, loan type, and loan term can position buyers advantageously regardless of rate fluctuations.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

How Co-Buying a Home Helps with Affordability Today

Co-buying a home, where you purchase property with friends or family, can make homeownership more accessible in today's market. It allows for sharing costs, accessing better properties, investment opportunities, and dividing maintenance responsibilities. However, it's crucial to navigate the financial and relational aspects carefully.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Why Today’s Mortgage Debt Isn’t a Sign of a Housing Market Crash

Despite high mortgage debt, the current housing market isn't headed for a crash due to significant homeowner equity and low delinquency rates. Homeowners have triple the equity compared to debt, providing a buffer against foreclosures, even if home values dip. Low unemployment and effective loan assistance programs also contribute to market stability.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

How To Get Your House Ready To Sell in 2025

If you’re planning to list your house in 2025, it’s already time to start working on any repairs. But where do you start? Your local agent will be able to help you prioritize projects that will help you get the best return on your investment and appeal to what today’s buyers really want. If your goal is to sell your house next year, let’s connect so you know what to start working on now.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Don’t Miss Out on the Growing Number of Down Payment Assistance Programs

The number of down payment assistance (DPA) programs has increased, offering more opportunities for homebuyers. With an average benefit of $17,000, these programs help cover significant costs, making homeownership more accessible. Consult real estate professionals to find suitable programs for your needs.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

What’s Behind Today’s Mortgage Rate Volatility?

Today's mortgage rate volatility is influenced by political events, economic indicators, and Federal Reserve policies. Election outcomes and economic data like inflation and employment rates play significant roles in fluctuating rates. Understanding these dynamics can help buyers and sellers make informed decisions in a fluctuating market.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Is Wall Street Really Buying All the Homes?

The belief that Wall Street is buying up all available homes is largely a myth. Most property investors are small, mom-and-pop operations, not large corporations. Recent data shows that five out of every six homes are bought by regular homebuyers, and investor purchases are declining, making room for everyday buyers in the market.

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