Is Now the Right Time to Refinance? Your Employee Homeownership Benefits Can Help You Decide

Is Now the Right Time to Refinance? Your Employee Homeownership Benefits Can Help You Decide

With mortgage rates trending down again, many homeowners are wondering if now is the perfect time to refinance and reduce their monthly payments. If you’re one of them, the answer isn’t always straightforward. That’s why having the right tools and guidance through your employee homeownership benefits program can make all the difference

Refinancing can offer huge savings over the life of your loan, but timing is key—and it’s about more than just watching interest rates. Your Employee Homeownership Program provides a Free Refinance Analysis to help you evaluate your options and decide if a refi makes sense for your goals. Plus, the Rate Notification Service will alert you when rates hit your target, so you’re ready to lock in savings when the moment is right

Why Refinancing Could Be a Smart Move Right Now 

According to recent trends, mortgage rates have dropped by more than a percentage point compared to last year. Lower rates can mean saving hundreds of dollars each month, depending on your loan size and remaining term. 

But interest rates aren’t the only factor. If you’ve been paying on your current mortgage for a few years, refinancing might also allow you to tap into your home’s equity, shorten your loan term, or switch to a different type of mortgage that better suits your needs.

Pro Tip: If you’re considering refinancing, take advantage of your employee homeownership benefits to get a free refinance analysis. Your benefits advisor will work through all the numbers and help you determine if refinancing is the best move for your unique financial situation. This analysis is designed to save you time and money, giving you peace of mind that you’re making an informed decision.

Real Savings: Why a Free Refinance Analysis Matters 

To show how beneficial a refinance can be, consider one of the employees currently in the process of refinancing. When he reached out, we conducted a detailed refinance analysis and identified an opportunity to lower his rate. The result? He’s on track to save more than $300 a month on his mortgage payment just by locking in a lower interest rate! That’s over $3,600 a year in savings that he can now put toward his other financial goals. 

What If Rates Aren’t Low Enough Yet? 

If today’s rates aren’t quite where you want them to be, that’s okay! It’s smart to be strategic, and our Rate Notification Service can help. We’ll monitor rates for you and notify you the moment they drop to your desired level, so you can lock in the savings before rates bounce back up. This is especially important in a volatile market where a difference of just a few hours can impact your bottom line. 

Pro Tip: With refinancing, timing is everything. Your program’s Rate Notification Service means you’ll be notified when the market shifts in your favor. When rates dip, they can bounce back quickly, so having someone watching out for you is key to maximizing your savings.

Bottom Line: Get the Most Out of Your Refinance 

With rates moving and competition in the market increasing, now could be the ideal time to explore your refinancing options. Your employee homeownership benefits program is here to guide you every step of the way—whether it’s providing a comprehensive refinance analysis, helping you lock in a lower rate, or helping you reduce your closing costs.  

Ready to see if refinancing is the right move for you? Reach out today to schedule your Free Refinance Analysis and start exploring the possibilities. With our guidance and exclusive benefits, you can make a smart financial move that positions you for long-term success. Contact Us to Get Started! 

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The information contained and the opinions expressed in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Advantage Home Plus does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision.  

This is the Sweet Spot Homebuyers Have Been Waiting For 

This is the Sweet Spot Homebuyers Have Been Waiting For 

If you’ve been holding off on buying a home because of high mortgage rates and rising prices, you might want to rethink your strategy. The market is shifting, and recent trends show that right now might be the sweet spot buyers have been waiting for. 

After months of affordability challenges, mortgage rates have started trending downward, and there’s been a noticeable improvement in buying conditions. This unique moment presents an opportunity that may not last long, making now an ideal time to consider making your move. 

What Makes Today’s Market Different? 

The recent dip in mortgage rates is opening the door for many potential buyers who were previously priced out. According to a survey from Bankrate, more than half of homeowners said they would be motivated to buy if rates dropped below 6%. We’re already in the low 6% range, so that threshold isn’t far off. As more buyers step back into the market, competition will increase, and home prices could begin to climb again. 

As Nadia Evangelou, Senior Economist and Director of Real Estate Research at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), explains: 

“The downside of increased demand is that it puts upward pressure on home prices as multiple buyers compete for a limited number of homes. In markets with ongoing housing shortages, this price increase can offset some of the affordability gains from lower mortgage rates.” 

Pro Tip: In a shifting market, being prepared is key. With more buyers expected to re-enter the market soon, you’ll want to be ready to move quickly when you find the perfect home. Take advantage of your employee homeownership benefits to get pre-approved at no cost, giving you a head start on other buyers. Plus, schedule a free financial fitness consultation to ensure you’re in the best position to make a strong offer. This way, you can secure your dream home without delays and potentially save thousands on closing costs!

Affordability Has Already Improved 

With easing mortgage rates, the cost of buying a typical home has already come down. Mike Simonsen, Founder of Altos Research, highlights: 

“Mortgage payments on the typical-price home are 7% lower than last year and are 13% lower than the peak in May 2024.” 

That’s a significant drop and a great opportunity to buy a home before rates rise again or competition intensifies. At the same time, the supply of homes is higher than it’s been in years, giving you more options to choose from. According to Ralph McLaughlin, Senior Economist at Realtor.com: 

“The number of homes actively for sale continues to be elevated compared with last year, growing by 35.8%, a 10th straight month of growth, and now sits at the highest since May 2020.” 

This means you’re more likely to find the right home without feeling pressured by a limited selection. 

Pro Tip: Navigating the current market is easier when you have the right team supporting you. By using your employee homeownership benefits, you gain access to trusted real estate agents who are familiar with your program’s exclusive savings opportunities. These agents not only understand your needs but can also guide you through the process seamlessly—whether it’s finding hidden gems in your desired neighborhood or securing a pre-approval for free. With their help, you’ll have everything you need to make a confident offer and unlock significant savings when it’s time to close!

Why Waiting Could Cost You 

If you’re waiting for the perfect time to buy, it’s important to remember that timing the market is nearly impossible. The longer you wait, the more likely it is that conditions will shift in a way that makes buying harder, not easier. 

As Greg McBride, Chief Financial Analyst at Bankrate, warns: 

“It’s one of those things where you should be careful what you wish for. A further drop in mortgage rates could bring a surge of demand that makes it tougher to actually buy a house.” 

This means that if you wait too long, you might find yourself competing with a flood of new buyers, driving prices up and reducing your chances of securing the home you want.

Pro Tip: It’s a great time to buy, but competition could increase quickly as more buyers enter the market. Stand out from the crowd by using your program benefits to get pre-approved early and have a personalized buying plan in place. A complimentary consultation with your Benefits Advisor will show you how to make the most of your exclusive perks, such as reduced closing costs and special discounts, potentially saving you thousands on your home purchase.

Bottom Line: Take Advantage of Today’s Market Conditions

Right now, with fewer buyers in the market and more homes available, you have a rare opportunity to buy with less competition and greater negotiating power. This buyer sweet spot might not last long, so don’t wait until conditions change.

Ready to take the next step?  Reach out to us today and see how you can make your homeownership dreams a reality while saving money and your employee benefits. 

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The information contained and the opinions expressed in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Advantage Home Plus does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision.  

Tips for Selling Your Home Quickly—Even in Today’s Market 

Tips for Selling Your Home Quickly—Even in Today’s Market 

Selling your home can be a complex process, especially in today’s market, where buyers have more options, and the pace of sales has slowed down. You may have heard about homes lingering on the market longer than expected, which can be frustrating when you’re eager to move forward.  

According to data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the average time a house spends on the market has increased over the past few years (see graph below): 

So, what’s the trick to selling quickly without sacrificing value? 

One of the best ways to get your home sold fast is to work with an experienced real estate agent who truly understands the local market and how to position your home to attract the right buyers. But what makes one agent better than another? It all comes down to strategy, expertise, and knowing how to highlight the unique benefits your home offers. 

1. Start with the Right Price: 

Pricing your home accurately from the beginning is critical. Overpricing with the hope of negotiating down later often backfires, as buyers tend to skip over homes they perceive as overpriced. Your real estate agent can conduct a comprehensive analysis of comparable properties in your area to help determine a fair market value that attracts buyers quickly while maximizing your return. 

As U.S. News says:  

“. . . setting an unrealistically high price with the idea that you can come down later doesn’t work in real estate . . . A home that’s overpriced in the beginning tends to stay on the market longer, even after the price is cut, because buyers think there must be something wrong with it.” 

Pro Tip: By using your employee homeownership benefit, you’ll have access to local agents who specialize in competitive pricing and understand your market’s unique dynamics. Plus, you may be eligible for reduced real estate commissions, ensuring you get the most from your sale and keep more money in your pocket.

2. Make a Great First Impression: 

Buyers form their first impressions of your home before they even walk through the front door. A property that’s clean, well-maintained, and staged thoughtfully is more likely to catch their eye and stand out from the competition. Take some time to boost your home’s curb appeal by tidying up the lawn, adding a few potted plants, and making minor repairs. Inside, declutter and consider a fresh coat of paint to give the home a brighter, more welcoming feel. 

As Ramsey Solutions notes: 

“In the spirit of selling your home fast, take care of things now that will be a problem in the closing process. Talk to your agent about fixes you’ll need to make to pass the home inspection, like: plumbing problems, roof damage, electrical issues, HVAC glitches. . . These are issues you’ll be expected to take care of before any buyers close on your house—you might as well get ahead of the game to help your home sell faster.” 

Pro Tip: Using your benefits program means partnering with experienced agents who have a keen eye for the upgrades and improvements that will yield the highest return. They can also connect you to a network of vetted service providers, helping you save on repairs and renovations, ensuring your home looks its best without breaking the bank.

3. Consider Offering Incentives: 

Sometimes offering a little extra can tip the scales in your favor. Consider adding small incentives like a home warranty, help with closing costs, or even including certain furnishings as part of the deal. These extras can set your home apart and appeal to buyers who might be deciding between a few similar options. 

Forbes advises: 

“When time is of the essence, you can’t afford to take a chance on an inexperienced housing professional. Instead, you’ll want to work with a real estate agent who knows your market and has helped sellers in your situation before.” 

Pro Tip: When you use your employee homeownership benefits, your agent can recommend targeted incentives that have been successful in your local market. Because these agents are part of your benefits program, they’re focused on helping you maximize your return, while still offering perks that attract serious buyers.

4. Lean on Local Expertise: 

One of the advantages of using your employee homeownership benefit is the network of trusted local agents available to help. These agents know the nuances of your neighborhood, what buyers are looking for, and how to position your home to sell quickly. They’re familiar with the special benefits offered through your program, which means they’re equipped to guide you through the process and keep your specific needs in mind. 

As Realtor.com highlights: 

During the week ending Sept. 14, homes stayed on the market eight days longer compared to last year. With more choices available and mortgage rates expected to fall, buyers are taking their time, which means sellers will need to be patient and flexible.” 

Pro Tip: By working with an agent approved through your employee program, you gain the advantage of local expertise plus access to program-specific savings, such as reduced commission fees and closing cost credits. This combination ensures you’re not only selling quickly but doing so at the lowest cost.

5. Already Sold? Contact Us to Use Your Benefits Again! 

If you’ve already sold your home, don’t forget that your employee homeownership benefits can also be used when you’re ready to buy your next one! Whether you’re looking to upsize, downsize, or move to a new area, our team can help you find an experienced, program-approved agent to guide you through your next purchase. 

Pro Tip: Before reaching out to any agent, get in touch with your Benefits Manager. They’ll connect you with a vetted real estate professional who understands your unique benefits and will work to save you money on your next transaction—no matter where you’re headed.

Bottom Line: Make Your Move with Confidence 

Selling your home doesn’t have to be stressful or time-consuming. With the right strategy and your Employee Homeownership Program in your corner, you can feel confident that your home is positioned for a quick and successful sale. We are here to support you—whether you’re selling, buying, or just exploring your options. 

Ready to take the next step? Let’s connect to make sure you’re set up for success. Reach out to us today and see how you can get the most for your home while saving money in the process.  

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The information contained, and the opinions expressed, in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Advantage Home Plus does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence 

How to Manage the Stress of Buying and Selling a Home at the Same Time 

How to Manage the Stress of Buying and Selling a Home at the Same Time 

For many homeowners, the thought of selling one home while buying another is overwhelming. Coordinating two transactions, managing timelines, and keeping finances in check can quickly lead to stress. In fact, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), one of the top stressors for homeowners is timing – trying to buy and sell at just the right moment without being temporarily homeless or juggling two mortgages. 

Why Is It So Stressful to Buy and Sell at the Same Time? 

Here are some of the top reasons homeowners feel overwhelmed during the process: 

  • Coordinating Timelines: Ideally, you’d sell your current home just as you’re ready to move into the new one. But often, there’s a gap, which can leave you without a place to stay or make you carry two mortgage payments. 
  • Managing Finances: Not having the funds from your home sale in time to purchase the new one can lead to renting in the interim, tapping into savings, or taking out short-term loans just to bridge the gap. 
  • Emotional Pressure: Moving is one of life’s most stressful events. Adding in the complexities of selling and buying simultaneously only increases the pressure. 

How One Amtrak Employee Made It Work 

Sarah K., an Amtrak employee, faced this challenge when she decided to sell her home and move closer to family. She was nervous about handling both transactions. But using her employee homeownership benefits made a huge difference. 

“When I decided it was time to sell my home and find something closer to family, I knew it would be a complicated process. But using my company’s homeownership benefits program made everything so much easier—and saved me a lot of money in the process!” 

Sarah was connected to a program-approved real estate agent and mortgage professional who introduced her to a special program that allowed her to buy her next home without needing to sell her current one first. This option was a game-changer, letting her move into her new home without rushing to sell. 

“I didn’t have to worry about selling my house before I could move into my new one. That flexibility meant I could take my time getting everything set up and avoid the stress of trying to time everything perfectly.” 

How Your Employee Homeownership Program Can Help 

If you’re considering selling your home and buying another, your employee homeownership benefits can help by offering: 

  • Free Financial Consultations: Get a clear picture of your budget and timing before listing your home. 
  • Access to Special Programs: Financing options allow you to buy without waiting to sell your current home. 
  • Reduced Fees: Enjoy lower closing costs and reduced real estate commissions. 
  • Expert Guidance: Work with vetted agents experienced in handling complex transactions. 

Tips for Reducing Stress When Buying and Selling Simultaneously 

  1. Get Pre-Approved Before You List: Having a pre-approval in hand means you’re ready to make an offer as soon as you find the right property. Through your benefits, you can access free pre-approvals and additional guidance. 
  1. Use a Bridge Loan or Special Financing: These programs can help you tap into the equity of your current home to secure a down payment on the new one before you sell. 
  1. Work with a Program-Approved Agent: Not all agents can handle the nuances of simultaneous buying and selling. Using a program-approved agent ensures you have someone who understands your goals. 

Bottom Line 

Buying and selling a home at the same time is challenging, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By using your employee homeownership benefits, you can save money, reduce stress, and gain more flexibility. 

Thinking about making a move?   

Reach out today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about the unique options available to you. Let’s make your next move as seamless and cost-effective as possible!

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The information contained, and the opinions expressed, in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Advantage Home Plus does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence