14 Years Running: Why Real Estate Is Still America’s Favorite Investment Quick gut reaction. Which investment do Americans trust more than stocks, gold, savings accounts, and bonds? The answer hasn't changed in 14 years.  It's real estate. And this year, that answer comes with even more conviction b

The “Take It or Leave It” Attitude Is Fading from the Market – What That Means for You Negotiations are back. More buyers are asking for better deals, and more sellers are giving them. Builders are throwing in extras, too.  That’s why whether you’re buying or selling today, there are two terms you’l

Why More Sellers Are Hiring a Real Estate Agent Some Highlights More homeowners are realizing they need an agent’s help in this complex market – and that’s why a record-lownumber of people are selling without a pro by their side. Without an agent’s help, tackling pricing, staging and repairs, paperw

What To Expect from the Housing Market in the Second Half of 2026 If the first half of this year has left you feeling stuck, you're not the only one. Mortgage rates stayed higher than people wanted. Affordability remained tight. And uncertainty overseas added another layer of pressure nobody saw com

What Buying or Selling a Home Gives Back to Your Community Buying or selling a home is a big financial decision. And right now, it feels even bigger. Inflation is high, costs are high, and you want to be sure the timing is right before you make your move.  But if you do decide to go for it, whether

The 1 Factor That Explains Everything Happening with Home Prices Right Now You've probably heard that home prices are cooling off. And that's true – nationally. But zoom in on individual marketsacross the country, and the picture looks completely different depending on where you are. Some areas are

Is It Still a Seller's Market? Here's What the Data Says. Remember a few years back when sellers held all the power and buyers were stuck offering way over asking or waiving inspections just to get a chance at the house? In many markets, those days are behind us. While it’s going to vary by area, mo

The Pricing Mistake That Could Cost You Your Sale Most sellers come into the market with one number in mind. And it’s often the one that costs them the most. That's their asking price.  A survey from Realtor.com shows about 8 in 10 (80%) of sellers expect to sell at or above their asking price today

3 Things That Are Not Going To Happen in Today's Housing Market There’s a lot of uncertainty right now and that’s leading to some dramatic headlines. And if you’re thinking about buying a home, that can make you feel a little less sure about your decision. A recent study by CNBC asked homebuyers wha

Lower Asking Prices Are a Win for Today’s Buyers If affordability has been the biggest thing standing between you and a home, there's a little good news.  Asking prices have started to come down. The typical seller listed their house for a median of $429,500 in May. That’s 2.4% lower than a year ago

The Mid-Year Housing Market Update: Why Forecasts Changed in 2026 If the housing market feels confusing right now, you’re not alone. Mortgage rates have risen. Home sales haven't picked up like expected. And many buyers and sellers are wondering when things are going to feel easier or be more afford