Why Buyers Shouldn't Overlook a Fall Move


You've been waiting for something to change before you buy. It just might not be the thing you expected…
While everyone’s paying attention to mortgage rates, only the savviest buyers know that the changing season can start tipping things in their favor. 
Because every fall, buyers tend to get more to choose from, better prices, and more room to negotiate. And that’s why Hannah Jones, Senior Economist at Realtor.com, says:
“We always see that the best time to buy window usually falls in the early fall around October.”
And that’s exactly why, if you've been waiting for a better moment to buy, this season may be worth a closer look – even with rates where they are.
1. There Are More Homes To Choose From
One of the biggest frustrations buyers have had over the past few years has been a lack of choices. Fall tends to help with that.
Based on seasonal trends, Realtor.com data shows there a ...

Thinking About Tapping into Your 401(k) To Buy a Home? Read This First.


Lately, headlines have floated an eye-catching idea about tapping into your 401(k) to cover a down payment on a home. Maybe you've caught the buzz and wondered whether that money could get you into a home faster, especially with affordability as tough as it is. 
Here’s what you need to remember. Pulling from your retirement savings is a big decision, so take time to weigh all your options first and be sure to talk with a financial expert before you do anything.
Why Dipping into a 401(k) Can Be Tempting
Data from Empower shows many Americans have built up considerable retirement savings. The median 401(k) amount for anyone in their 40s-60s is six figures (see graph below):
And when you've got a good chunk saved and your dream home is right there, reaching for it can feel like an easy call.
But dipping into your retirement savings to buy a home could cost you a penalty and set back your finance ...

Worried About a Housing Crash? The Numbers Tell a Calmer Story.


A recent survey from Talker Research asked Americans to pick one word to describe how 2026 has felt so far. The winner? Stressful. And honestly, there’s been a lot going on.
So, it’s understandable if you've been putting off buying or selling a home until things settle down. But you may be waiting on something that's already happened. While everything else has felt shaky, the housing market has become one of the steadiest things out there. Look at the data.
Home Prices Have Leveled Out
After years of fast increases, data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows home prices have been remarkably steady for the past 4 years (see graph below):
And experts say that's what to expect going forward, too. As Selma Hepp, Chief Economist at Cotality, explains:
"In 2026, we expect home prices to remain broadly stable, with modest appreciation at a national level."
No wild swings. Just slow, steady ...

Most Home Sales Close – Here’s How To Keep Yours on Track


Few things are as rattling as the thought of your home sale falling through at the last minute, right before closing. All that waiting, all that progress, out the window.
But if you’re getting ready to sell, here’s what you should know. Even in today’s market, it rarely comes to that. Buyerswho are moving at today’s rates and prices are generally moving because of some big life change. That means they’re motivated, and eager to get all the way to the closing table.
According to the latest data from Redfin, only about 1 in 7 pending sales are falling through. Meaning the vast majority make it all the way to closing.
And the single biggest thing that puts a deal at risk is the one you have the most power to prevent. It just takes a little smart planning before your house hits the market.
Why Some Deals Fall Apart Before Closing
A Redfin survey sheds light on the most common thi ...

One Number Could Change Everything About Your Next Move


When's the last time someone told you what your house is worth? Not what some online valuation tool guessed. Not what your neighbor's house sold for. What yours is actually worth right now.
For a lot of homeowners, it's been years. And if you've been thinking about moving, but higher home prices or mortgage rates have made you hesitate, here’s why it’s time to take a second look at that number.
Your House May Be Worth More Than You Think
Home values have climbed significantly over the past 5-10 years. And even though today's market is more balanced, homeowners are building wealth every day just by owning their homes. That’s how equity works. As home values rise, and as you make your monthly payments, your equity grows. And it adds up fast.
According to Cotality, the typical homeowner with a mortgage now has $310,500 in equity. That's not a small number. It’s six figures.
And that’s only th ...