Month: February 2025

From Renting to Owning: One Employee’s Journey to Building Wealth 

Posted on by Michelle Tondu

From Renting to Owning: One Employee’s Journey to Building Wealth 

Across the nation, homeownership continues to be the cornerstone of building personal wealth. According to the Federal Reserve, household net worth increased by $968 billion solely due to rising home values. Another report from CoreLogic reveals that the average annual gain in homeowner equity was $33,400 per owner—a financial advantage that renters miss out on entirely. 

The difference in net worth between homeowners and renters is significant at every income level. The chart below, based on data from First American, illustrates just how much homeownership impacts financial stability. Even at lower income levels, homeowners have six figures more in net worth than renters—and that gap continues to grow as income rises. 

Why Owning Beats Renting

  • Fixed mortgage payments – Unlike rent, which typically increases, a mortgage offers predictable monthly payments. 
  • Equity & wealth-building – Every mortgage payment you make builds equity in your home—your own investment, not your landlord’s. 
  • Tax advantages & appreciation – Homeowners often qualify for tax benefits, and home values typically increase over time, helping build long-term wealth. 

Employee Success Story: How One Employee Made Homeownership Possible 

“I was tired of watching rent prices go up and feeling like homeownership was out of reach. My Employee Homeownership Program changed everything. They connected me with a trusted real estate agent and mortgage lender who walked me through every step. I qualified for down payment assistance and lender credits, which made buying a home more affordable than I ever expected. Now, instead of paying my landlord’s mortgage, I’m investing in my own future!” 
— Mark S., Employee Homeownership Program Member 

How Your Employee Homeownership Program Can Help

✔ Financial Fitness Consultation – Learn what you qualify for, improve your credit score, and create a customized plan to make homeownership possible. 

✔ Lower your upfront costs – Get access to down payment assistance, lender credits, and reduced real estate commissions to save money. 
✔ Expert guidance every step of the way – Work with trusted, program-approved real estate agents and lenders who help you navigate the homebuying process.

Ready to explore your homeownership options? Schedule your free consultation today

SupportSquad@AdvantageHomePlus.com | (800)511-2197

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.  

The Smartest Ways to Use Home Equity: Is a Cash-Out Refi Right for You? 

Posted on by Michelle Tondu

The Smartest Ways to Use Home Equity: Is a Cash-Out Refi Right for You? 

If you’ve been in your home for a while, you’ve likely built up equity—the difference between what your home is worth and what you owe on your mortgage. A cash-out refinance allows you to tap into that equity and use the funds for a variety of financial goals. But is it the right move for you? 

How a Cash-Out Refi Can Benefit You 

  • Pay Off High-Interest Debt – Credit cards and personal loans often come with double-digit interest rates. Using home equity to consolidate debt can lower your monthly payments and save you money over time. 
  • Fund Home Improvements – Want to remodel your kitchen or add an extra bedroom? Investing in your home can increase its value, making renovations a smart way to use equity. 
  • Boost Your Financial Future – Some homeowners use their equity to invest in a rental property, fund education costs, or start a business. If done wisely, this can be a strategic move for long-term wealth building. 

 Employee Success Story: How Refinancing Made a Big Impact 

“I wasn’t sure if refinancing was the right choice, but my Employee Homeownership Program walked me through my options. I used a cash-out refinance to consolidate debt and lower my monthly payments by $450! Now, I have more breathing room in my budget and peace of mind.” – Jessica M., Employee Homeownership Program Member 

How Your Employee Homeownership Program Helps 

✔ Free Refinance Analysis – Get expert guidance on whether refinancing makes sense for you. 
✔ Exclusive Savings – Reduce lender fees and closing costs with program-approved lenders. 
✔ Personalized Support – Work with trusted mortgage professionals who ensure you’re making the best financial decision. 

Find out if a cash-out refinance is right for you—Schedule your free refinance analysis today

SupportSquad@AdvantageHomePlus.com | (800)511-2197

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.  

The Fastest Ways to Improve Your Credit Score Before Buying a Home 

Posted on by Michelle Tondu

The Fastest Ways to Improve Your Credit Score Before Buying a Home 

Your credit score plays a major role in your ability to qualify for a mortgage and secure the best interest rates. If you’re thinking about buying a home, improving your credit now could save you thousands of dollars over the life of your loan. The good news? There are quick and effective ways to boost your score before you apply. 

Quick Strategies to Improve Your Credit Score 

  • Reduce Credit Utilization – Your credit utilization ratio (how much credit you use compared to your limit) makes up 30% of your score. Keep balances below 30% of your credit limit, and ideally below 10% for the best impact. 
  • Pay Down Balances Strategically – Instead of spreading payments across multiple accounts, focus on paying off high-interest debt first while making at least the minimum payment on all other accounts. 
  • Become an Authorized User – If you have a trusted family member with a well-managed credit card, becoming an authorized user on their account can add their positive payment history to your credit profile. 
  • Make On-Time Payments – Payment history is the largest factor in your credit score. Set up autopay or reminders to ensure all bills are paid on time. 

Credit Myths That Could Hurt You 

  • Closing Old Accounts Helps Your Score – Actually, closing accounts reduces your total available credit, which can increase your credit utilization and lower your score. 
  • Checking Your Credit Hurts Your Score – Checking your own credit score (soft inquiry) does NOT impact your score.  

How Your Employee Homeownership Program Can Help 

Not sure where to start? Your Employee Homeownership Program offers a free Financial Fitness Consultation to help you: 

✔ Understand where your credit stands and what mortgage options are available to you. 
✔ Identify specific ways to improve your credit before applying. 
✔ Get pre-approved with your employee homeownership program approved lender who can guide you through the best loan programs for your situation. 

Take the first step today! Schedule your free consultation to see how your employee benefits can help you achieve homeownership

SupportSquad@AdvantageHomePlus.com | (800)511-2197

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.  

Is Now the Right Time to Buy? What Experts Say About the Housing Market

Posted on by Michelle Tondu

Is Now the Right Time to Buy? What Experts Say About the Housing Market

With rising home prices and fluctuating mortgage rates, many employees are wondering: Should I buy a home now, or wait? While timing the market perfectly is nearly impossible, experts agree that the longer you wait, the more it could cost you. 

According to Fannie Mae’s Home Price Expectations Survey, home prices are projected to continue rising over the next five years. This means that delaying your purchase could mean paying more for the same home down the road. Additionally, while mortgage rates have been higher in recent years, many economists predict a gradual decline—making now a strategic time to start the home-buying process. 

Even in a shifting market, homeownership remains one of the most effective ways to build long-term wealth. By purchasing a home sooner rather than later, you can begin building equity now instead of paying rent that goes toward someone else’s investment

How Your Employee Homeownership Program Helps 

Your Employee Homeownership Program is designed to help you navigate the homebuying process with confidence while maximizing your savings. Here’s how: 

✔ Lower Your Costs – Take advantage of special lender credits, reduced real estate commissions, and down payment assistance programs to make buying more affordable. 

✔ Work with Experts You Can Trust – Get connected with vetted, program-approved real estate agents and mortgage professionals who specialize in guiding employees like you. 

✔ Get Mortgage-Ready – Schedule a free Financial Fitness Consultation to understand your buying power, improve your credit, and create a customized plan for homeownership success. 

Start planning today! Schedule your free consultation to explore your home-buying options  

SupportSquad@AdvantageHomePlus.com | (800)511-2197

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.  

Spring Home Selling: Maximize Your Profit with the Right Renovations  

Posted on by Michelle Tondu

Spring Home Selling: Maximize Your Profit with the Right Renovations  

Spring is the busiest season for home sales, with more buyers actively searching, meaning homes tend to sell faster and for top dollar. If you’re considering selling, now is the time to start preparing your home to stand out in a competitive market. 

The Right Repairs Will Matter More This Spring 
Housing inventory is higher than in previous years, and buyers are being more selective. According to Carlos Martin, Director of the Remodeling Futures Program at Harvard University’s Joint Center for Housing Studies, homeowners are increasing the pace and scope of home improvement projects to stay competitive. Some of the most common updates include replacing HVAC units, water heaters, and flooring—but which projects really offer the best return? 

Focus on High-ROI Upgrades 
Not all home improvements provide the same payoff. According to Zonda’s Cost vs. Value Report, the highest return on investment (ROI) comes from garage door replacements (194% ROI), manufactured stone veneers (153% ROI), and minor kitchen remodels (96% ROI). (See the Renovation Projects with the Highest ROI chart below.) 

How Your Employee Homeownership Program Can Help 

Before making any updates, connect with your Employee Homeownership Program to ensure you’re making smart investments that will maximize your home’s value and help you sell faster. Through the program, you’ll have access to: 

✅ Reduced real estate commissions through program-approved agents—helping you keep more profit from your sale. 
✅ A free market analysis to set the right price based on real-time data, not guesswork. 
✅ Staging recommendations and decluttering strategies to make your home more appealing to buyers. 
✅ Expert guidance on home improvements—so you focus on updates that provide the highest return. 
✅ Local, program-approved real estate agents who are neighborhood experts, understand what buyers are looking for, and will help you navigate the entire process smoothly. 

Spring is the best time to sell, but preparation is key. Take advantage of these exclusive benefits to make the most of your home sale! 

Thinking about selling? Schedule time to talk and learn about your program benefits! 

SupportSquad@AdvantageHomePlus.com  | (800)511-2197 

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.  

Make the Home Buying Market Work for You – Not Against You 

Posted on by Michelle Tondu

Make the Home Buying Market Work for You – Not Against You 

Trying to decide whether to buy a home now or wait? While market conditions matter, trying to perfectly time the market isn’t a realistic strategy—there are too many factors at play.  

That’s why experts say make the market work for you, not against you.  

According to Bankrate: 

“No matter which way the real estate market is leaning, though, buying now means you can start building equity immediately.” 

Each quarter, Fannie Mae’s Home Price Expectations Survey (HPES) polls over 100 economists and housing experts. Their latest projections show home prices will continue to rise through at least 2029, just at a more moderate pace. 

What does this mean for you? If you buy a $400,000 home in early 2025, expert forecasts suggest you could gain over $83,000 in home equity over the next five years. Meanwhile, renters miss out on these long-term wealth-building opportunities. 

Through your Employee Homeownership Program, you have access to exclusive savings, expert guidance, and down payment assistance programs that can help make homeownership more affordable—whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or refinance. 

Bottom Line: Don’t wait for the perfect market—take advantage of the resources available to you today and make the market work for you. Schedule time to talk with your Employee Homeownership Program to explore your options! 

Schedule a Time to Talk

SupportSquad@AdvantageHomePlus.com  |   (800)511-2197 

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.  

Navigating Today’s Housing Market How Employees Are Using Their Homeownership Benefits 

Posted on by Michelle Tondu

Navigating Today’s Housing Market How Employees Are Using Their Homeownership Benefits 

With home prices continuing to rise and mortgage rates fluctuating, many employees are wondering: Is now the right time to buy, sell, or refinance? According to industry experts, homeownership remains one of the most effective ways to build long-term wealth, and in today’s market, making informed decisions is more important than ever. 

That’s where your Employee Homeownership Program comes in—offering expert guidance, exclusive savings, and personalized financial planning to help employees navigate the process with confidence. Here are three employees who used their benefits to take control of their

Emily’s First Home 

Emily, a healthcare professional, had been renting for years, believing homeownership was out of reach. With student loan debt and limited savings, she wasn’t sure where to start. After connecting with her program’s financial coach, she learned about down payment assistance and improved her credit score. Nine months later, she closed on her first home with lower monthly payments than she was paying in rent. “This program turned my dream into a reality!” 

Mark’s Smart Refinance 

Mark, an IT specialist, refinanced his mortgage through the program to consolidate debt and lower his payments. The result? An extra $500 per month in savings. “I didn’t realize how much I could save until I talked to a program-approved lender. Now, I have financial breathing room.” 

Rachel’s Move-Up Home 

Rachel and her family needed more space but feared being stuck between selling and buying. Through the program, she secured financing to purchase her new home before selling her current one. “This program removed so much stress from the process.” 

Bottom Line: Make the Most of Today’s Market 

While housing market conditions are always shifting, the key to success is preparation and expert guidance. Understanding mortgage options, home values, and financial planning strategies can make all the difference when making a move. Even if you’re not ready to buy, sell, or refinance today, having a plan in place ensures that you’re prepared when the time is right. 

Your Turn! Thinking about buying, selling, or refinancing? Take advantage of your Employee Homeownership Program to explore your options and maximize your savings. Contact us today! 

Schedule a Time to Talk 

SupportSquad@AdvantageHomePlus.com | (800)511-2197

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.  

Refinancing Is on the Rise: Why 4 Out of 5 Homeowners Are Considering It in 2025   

Posted on by Michelle Tondu

Refinancing Is on the Rise: Why 4 Out of 5 Homeowners Are Considering It in 2025   

With refinancing activity projected to increase by 48% this year, more homeowners are exploring how refinancing can help them achieve their financial goals. According to industry reports, 4 out of 5 homeowners will consider a refinance in 2025 – but it’s not just about lowering interest rates. Many are taking advantage of strategic refinancing options to improve their financial flexibility, reduce monthly expenses, or make their homes work better for them. 

Here are the top reasons homeowners are refinancing this year and how it could benefit you: 

✅ Debt Consolidation: Free Up Cash & Reduce Monthly Expenses 
Many homeowners are using refinancing to consolidate high-interest debt, including credit cards, personal loans, and medical bills. This strategy allows them to: 

  • Lower their monthly debt payments, creating room in their budget. 
  • Redirect those savings toward retirement, investment accounts, or a financial safety net. 
  • Improve credit scores by reducing overall debt utilization. 

✅ Home Improvements: Build Equity & Improve Your Living Space 
A cash-out refinance can provide funds for renovations or upgrades, allowing homeowners to: 

  • Increase their home’s value while building equity. 
  • Enhance their lifestyle with modern upgrades and energy-efficient improvements. 
  • Avoid the cost of moving by customizing their current home instead of buying another. 

✅ Life Changes: Adjust Homeownership for New Circumstances 
Significant life changes—marriage, divorce, estate planning, or transitioning ownership—often require adjusting who is on the loan and title. Refinancing allows homeowners to: 

  • Remove a co-borrower (such as an ex-spouse) and establish sole ownership. 
  • Add a spouse, family member, or partner to the mortgage. 
  • Restructure the loan terms to align with new financial circumstances. 

✅ Lowering the Interest Rate: A Long-Term Financial Advantage 
While rates aren’t at historic lows, some homeowners still benefit from refinancing to: 

  • Secure a better rate than their current loan if market conditions improve. 
  • Reduce long-term interest payments, freeing up money for other financial goals. 
  • Stabilize monthly payments by switching from an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) to a fixed-rate loan. 

Bottom Line: 

Deciding whether to refinance is a personal decision; no two situations are the same. Whether you’re looking to lower your monthly payments, consolidate debt, fund home improvements, or adjust to life changes, refinancing can be a powerful financial tool—but it’s essential to make sure it’s the right move for you. 

Through your Employee Homeownership Program, you can access a free refinance analysis, where we’ll help you evaluate your options, run the numbers, and determine if refinancing aligns with your financial goals. Plus, by using your benefits, you can save money on lender closing costs, making the process even more affordable. 

Get expert guidance and exclusive savings—schedule your free consultation today! 

SupportSquad@AdvantageHomePlus.com  | (800)511-2197 

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.