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 

How Owning a Home Can Boost Your Well-Being

September is Self-Care Month: How Owning a Home Can Boost Your Well-Being 

As we embrace September’s theme of self-care, it’s the perfect time to reflect on how our surroundings contribute to our overall well-being. While self-care often brings to mind spa days and meditation, did you know that owning a home can also play a significant role in enhancing your physical and mental health? 

Let’s explore how investing in a home can be a powerful form of self-care and how our Employee Homeownership Program can guide you in making this beneficial life change. 

The Health Benefits of Homeownership 

Owning a home is more than just having a place to live; it offers a host of benefits that contribute to a healthier, happier life. Here’s how: 

Stability and Security: Homeownership provides a sense of stability and security, which is a cornerstone of well-being. Studies show that homeowners are more likely to feel in control of their lives, leading to reduced stress and anxiety. 

Community Connection: Being a homeowner often encourages greater community engagement. Research from the National Association of Realtors shows that homeowners are more likely to volunteer, vote, and participate in community activities, fostering a sense of belonging and support. 

Financial Wellness: Owning a home is a significant step toward building wealth and financial security. The U.S. Federal Reserve reports that the net worth of a homeowner is typically 40 times greater than that of a renter. This financial stability can reduce stress and provide peace of mind, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your life. 

Long-term Health Benefits: According to a study published in the American Journal of Public Health, homeowners report better physical and mental health outcomes compared to non-homeowners. The stability and predictability of homeownership contribute to these positive health effects.  Make Homeownership Part of Your Self-Care Routine 

With all these benefits, why not consider making homeownership a part of your self-care routine? Your Employee Homeownership Program is here to support you every step of the way. We provide expert guidance and exclusive benefits that can help you save money and navigate the home-buying process with confidence and ease. 

Why Choose Your Employee Homeownership Program? 

Expert Guidance: Gain access to a wealth of knowledge from industry experts who will guide you through the home-buying process, ensuring you make informed decisions. 

Exclusive Benefits: Enjoy special benefits that can save you thousands when buying, selling, or refinancing your home. 

Tailored Support: Our program is designed to simplify the home-buying process and maximize your savings, empowering you to achieve your homeownership goals. 

Bottom Line 

This Self-Care Month, take a step toward enhancing your well-being by exploring the benefits of homeownership. With the stability, community connection, and financial security that comes with owning a home, you’ll be investing in a healthier, happier future for yourself and your loved ones. 

Let’s connect and see how our Employee Homeownership Program can help you on this rewarding journey. Contact us today to learn more! 

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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 

What Every Homeowner Should Know About Their Equity 

What Every Homeowner Should Know About Their Equity 

Curious About Selling Your Home? Understanding how much equity you have is the first step to unlocking what you can afford when you move. The real estate market has seen some exciting trends over the past few years, and understanding how much equity you have is the first step to unlocking what you can afford when you move. With home prices having risen significantly, many homeowners have more equity than they realize. 

So, what exactly is home equity, and how can it help you when selling your home? Let’s dive in!  

Home Equity: What Is It and How Much Do You Have? 

Home equity is essentially the portion of your home that you truly own, free and clear. It’s the difference between your home’s current market value and what you still owe on your mortgage. For example, if your house is worth $400,000 and you only owe $200,000, your equity is a whopping $200,000! 

Recent data from the Census and ATTOM reveals that Americans are sitting on substantial equity right now. In fact, more than two out of three homeowners have either completely paid off their mortgages or have at least 50% equity in their homes.  

This means that today, more homeowners are getting a larger return on their homeownership investments when they sell. Imagine the possibilities that come with that kind of financial leverage! 

Using Your Employee Homeownership Program to Maximize Your Sale 

Here’s where your Employee Homeownership Program comes into play. This incredible resource empowers you with the knowledge and tools to navigate the complexities of selling a home, ensuring you make informed decisions every step of the way. Whether you’re considering buying, selling, or refinancing, our program can help you save money and simplify the process.  

What You Should Do Next 

Thinking about selling your house? Here’s how to proceed: 

Understand Your Equity: Knowing your home equity is crucial. It provides a clear picture of your financial standing and helps you set realistic expectations for your next move. 

Leverage Expert Advice: Work with your Employee Homeownership Program and tap into the expert resources available to you. These experts will guide you through the selling process, helping you understand market conditions, pricing strategies, and how to maximize your equity.  

Bottom Line 

The rise in home prices means your equity has likely increased too. By connecting with the right team and utilizing your Employee Homeownership Program, you can confidently move forward when you sell your home. Let’s explore how much equity you have and discover the potential it holds for your future. Contact us today to learn more and start planning your next steps!  

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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 

  Unlocking Your Home’s Equity for a Better Life   

   Unlocking Your Home’s Equity for a Better Life   

Did you know that many Americans are sitting on a goldmine of home equity? Over the past few years, home prices have soared, and with them, the equity in our homes. This September, as we focus on self-care, let’s explore how you can use that equity to improve your life and well-being. 

Understanding Home Equity 

Home equity is the difference between your home’s market value and what you owe on your mortgage. For many homeowners, this equity has grown significantly due to rising property values. According to recent studies, U.S. homeowners have more equity than ever before. This presents a fantastic opportunity to use your home’s value to enhance your quality of life. 

Using Equity for Self-Care and Life Improvement 

Home Renovations: One of the most rewarding ways to use home equity is by investing in renovations that make your living space more comfortable and enjoyable. Whether it’s creating a cozy home office, upgrading your kitchen, or adding a relaxation area, these improvements can boost your well-being and increase your home’s value. 

Debt Consolidation: If high-interest debts are causing stress, using your home equity to consolidate them can be a smart move. By paying off high-interest credit cards and loans, you can improve your financial stability and reduce stress, making it easier to focus on self-care and other priorities. 

Education and Skill Development:  Investing in education or skill development can open doors to new opportunities and personal growth. Whether you’re considering going back to school, learning a new skill, or funding your child’s education, your home equity can provide the financial support you need to achieve these goals. By using equity to pay for tuition or training, you can ease the burden of educational expenses and ensure a brighter future for yourself and your family. 

Retirement Planning:  Your home equity can also play a crucial role in planning for a secure and comfortable retirement. By strategically using your equity, you can bolster your retirement savings and ensure peace of mind as you look to the future. 

Leveraging Your Employee Homeownership Program 

Your Employee Homeownership Program is here to help you make the most of your home equity. With personalized advice, financial planning, and significant savings, we provide the support you need to navigate your options confidently. Your homeownership benefits program empowers you to make informed decisions that align with your goals and improve your life. 

Steps to Access Your Home Equity 

  1. Evaluate Your Equity:  Start by determining how much equity you have. Your Homeownership Program Advisor can assist you in assessing your home’s value and mortgage balance, giving you a clear picture of your financial standing. 
  1. Explore Your Options:  Consider how you want to use your equity and what aligns with your self-care goals. Consult with your Employee Homeownership Program Specialist to explore the best options tailored to your situation. 
  2. Take Action:  Your Homeownership Specialist can guide you through accessing your equity, whether through refinancing, a home equity loan, or a home equity line of credit (HELOC), ensuring a smooth and informed process.  

Bottom Line 

Your home equity is a valuable asset that can help you improve your life in meaningful ways. This Self-Care Month, consider how you can use it to enhance your well-being, reduce stress, and invest in your future. Reach out today to learn more about how your Employee Homeownership Program can help you unlock the full potential of your home equity and achieve your dreams. 

Let’s embark on this journey together and make the most of the opportunities your home equity provides!   

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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 

Why Fixing Up Your House Can Help it Sell Faster 

Why Fixing Up Your House Can Help it Sell Faster 

If you’re thinking about selling your house, you should know there are buyers who are ready and able to pay today’s high prices. But they want a home that’s move-in ready. A recent press release from Redfin explains: 

“Buyers are still out there and they’re willing to pay today’s high prices, but only if the house is in really good shape. They don’t want to spend extra money on paint or new appliances.” 

It makes sense when you think about it. They’re having to pay a lot of money for a house in today’s market. That means they may not be able to easily afford upgrades after they move in. So, if your home is outdated or needs some work, buyers might pass it by or offer a lower price than you were hoping for. 

And there are a lot of homes that need upgrades right now. Millions are entering their prime remodel years, meaning they’re between 20 and 39 years old. Maybe yours is one of them. According to John Burns Research and Consulting (JBRC), the number of homes in their prime remodel years is high and growing (see graph below):

If your house falls into this category, it’s important to consider making selective updates to help it appeal to buyers, so it sells faster. But how do you know where to spend your time and money? 

How Your Employee Homeownership Program Can Help 

Leveraging the insights from your Employee Homeownership Program can significantly enhance your home-selling strategy. Understanding what today’s buyers are looking for and what they’re willing to pay for it can be the difference between a profitable sale and costly, ineffective upgrades. As experts in local market trends, our program advisors can guide you away from unnecessary expenses. For instance, while granite countertops might seem like a valuable addition, they may not always offer a return on investment if buyers in your area are not particularly swayed by such upgrades. Our program helps you focus on renovations and improvements that truly increase your home’s appeal and market value, ensuring you invest wisely and maximize your returns.

Bottom Line 

Selling a house right now requires more than just putting up a For Sale sign. You need to make sure it’s in good condition to attract buyers who are willing to pay today’s high prices. The way to do that is by making smart improvements that will give you the best return on your investment. Let’s work together so you know what buyers are looking for and what your house needs before selling. 

Schedule a Time to Talk


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. 

Celebrating Empowerment and New Beginnings: Brittany’s Homeownership Journey 

Celebrating Empowerment and New Beginnings: Brittany’s Homeownership Journey 

August is a month filled with celebrations of empowerment, from National Women’s Day to Women’s Equality Day, and it’s also a time to boost our financial savvy on Financial Awareness Day. At Advantage Home Plus, we’re dedicated to empowering individuals through education and support, helping them to achieve their dreams of homeownership. This month, we’re thrilled to share the inspiring story of Brittany, a nurse in the neuro ICU at Baylor University Hospital, whose journey embodies the spirit of independence and financial empowerment. 

A Leap into Homeownership 

As a single woman and first-time homebuyer, Brittany faced the daunting challenge of navigating the housing market alone. “I was very nervous and unsure where to start,” Brittany recalls. Her journey began with attending one of our webinars, which are designed to demystify the home buying process and outline the pivotal steps towards homeownership. Feeling inspired and equipped, Brittany took the next step by scheduling a personal consultation with our team. “They were patient, moved at my pace, and helped me figure out my budget,” she says. Understanding her financial landscape was crucial, and our team made sure Brittany felt confident and informed every step of the way. 

Expert Guidance and Negotiation 

With a clear budget in mind and a pre-approval in hand, Brittany was ready to enter the market. We connected her with one of our local real estate experts, renowned for their negotiation skills. This proved invaluable, as her agent successfully negotiated with the seller to pay for a lower interest rate on her mortgage—a financial maneuver that will save Brittany several thousands of dollars over the life of the loan.

Home Sweet Home 

Today, Brittany is the proud owner of a beautiful townhome, a sanctuary to return to after her demanding shifts at the hospital. “I am so excited to come home each day to a place that my job helped me get,” she shares, beaming with pride and accomplishment. The photo of Brittany in her new dining room, her face lit up with joy, is a powerful testament to her journey.

A Message to Future Homebuyers 

Brittany’s experience is more than just a success story; it’s a beacon of possibility for others. “I highly recommend this program to anyone considering buying a home,” she insists. “I’d still be renting if it wasn’t for this program.” Her journey from uncertainty to homeownership illustrates the transformative power of having the right support and resources. 

Empower Your Homeownership Dreams 

Are you considering buying a home? Let Brittany’s story inspire you. With our dedicated team, comprehensive resources, and supportive community, we are here to guide you through every step of your homeownership journey. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, our program is designed to help you navigate the complexities of the real estate market with confidence and ease. 

Join us in celebrating empowerment and new beginnings this August. Reach out to us today, and start writing your own success story.

Schedule a Time to Talk


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 Price of Perfection: Waiting for the Perfect Home

In life, patience is a virtue – but in the world of homebuying, waiting too long in hopes of finding the perfect home isn’t always wise. That’s because the pursuit of perfection can come at a cost. And in this case, that cost may be delaying your dream of homeownership. As Bankrate explains: 

“One of the most common first-time homebuyer mistakes is looking for a home that checks each of your boxes. Looking for perfection can narrow your choices and lead you to pass over good, suitable options for starter homes in the hopes that something better will come along.” 

The Cost of Holding Out for Perfection 

Nothing in life is ever perfect – and that’s true when you search for a home too. Unless you’re building a brand-new home from the ground up, chances are there are going to be some features or finishes you wouldn’t have picked yourself. It may be as simple as paint colors, a light fixture, or the tile in the bathrooms or kitchen. Or even that the backyard isn’t fenced in. It could also be that the home itself is great, but it’s not the ideal location you were hoping for. But here’s the trade-off you could be making without even realizing it. In all that time you’d spend searching for the perfect place, you could be overlooking a lot of homes that would’ve worked for you. U.S. News explains: 

“. . . you may miss opportunities if you enter the process with blinders on and aren’t open-minded . . . Countless potential buyers never buy because of this, and thus miss great investments or never move on to the next chapter of their lives.” 

It’s Time To Redefine Perfection 

Especially with affordability and inventory where they are today, buying a home that needs some updates, is a few neighborhoods away from your ideal location, or doesn’t have all your desired features can be a smart move. Here’s why. 

For starters, these homes are usually more affordable, which is important at a time when some buyers are struggling to find options in their budget. And they give you a chance to make the space your own or discover a whole new area of town. You may find out you actually love that neighborhood. Or, swapping out a feature here or there after move-in isn’t such a big deal. So, look past the green shag carpet and see the bones of the house. With a little vision and creativity, you can turn a good house into a fantastic home.

How an Agent Helps You Explore Your Options 

If you’re open to a home that needs a little elbow grease or is a bit further out, let your agent know. They’ll be happy to show you how this can really open up your pool of homes to pick from. They’ll also help coach you through this process by: 

  1. Prioritizing Your Must-Haves: Your agent will want to revisit your wish list and separate your non-negotiables from your nice-to-haves. From there, they’ll focus on what’s really most important to you as they come up with a bigger list of options for you to choose from. 
  2. Coaching You To See the Potential: As you tour these added options, your agent will help you look beyond cosmetic flaws and imagine what the home could be with a little work. Simple updates like a fresh coat of paint or new flooring can make a big difference. 
  3. Connecting You with Local Pros: And an agent’s support goes one step further. If they know what you’re hoping to change after you move in, they can connect you with local pros who can get the job done. That way it’s less work for you, and you don’t have to worry about tracking down contractors. 

Bottom Line 

Remember, there is no perfect home. But with expert help and an open mind, we can find you the right home – even in today’s market. Let’s connect to see what’s out there.

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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. 

Why Your Asking Price Matters Even More Right Now 

If you’re thinking about selling your house, here’s something you really need to know. Even though it’s still a seller’s market today, you can’t pick just any price for your listing. 

While home prices are still appreciating in most areas, they’re climbing at a slower pace because higher mortgage rates are putting a squeeze on buyer demand. At the same time, the supply of homes for sale is growing. That means buyers have more options, and your house may not stand out as much if it’s not priced right. 

Those two factors combined are why the asking price you set for your house is more important today than in recent years. 

And some sellers are finding that out the hard way. That’s leading to more price reductions. Mike Simonsen, Founder and President of ALTOS Research,explains

“Looking at the price reductions data set . . . It all fits in the same pattern of increasing supply and homebuyer demand that is just exhausted by high mortgage rates. . . As home sellers are faced with less demand than they expected, more of them have to reduce their prices.” 

That’s because they haven’t adjusted their expectations to today’s market. Maybe they’re not working with an agent, so they don’t know what’s happening around them. Or they’re not using an agent who prioritizes being a local market expert. Either way, they aren’t basing their pricing decision on the latest data available – and that’s a miss. 

If you want to avoid making a pricing mistake that could turn away buyers and delay your sale, you need to work with an agent who really knows your local market. If you lean on the right agent, they’ll help you avoid making mistakes like: 

  • Setting a Price That’s Too High: Some sellers have unrealistic expectations about how much their house is worth. That’s because they base their price on their gut or their bottom line, not the data. An agent will help you base your price on facts, not opinions, so you have a better chance of hitting the mark. 
  • Not Considering What Houses Are Actually Selling for: Without an agent’s help, some sellers may use the wrong comparable sales (comps) in their area and misjudge the market value of their home. An agent has the expertise needed to find true comps. And they’ll use those to give you valuable insights into how to price your house in a way that’s competitive for you and your future buyer.
  • Overestimating Home Improvements: Sellers who have invested a significant amount of money in home improvements may overestimate how much those upgrades affect their home’s value. While certain improvements can increase a home’s appeal, not all upgrades are going to get a great return on their investment. An agent factors in what you’ve done and what buyers in your area actually want as they set the price. 
  • Ignoring Feedback and Market Response: Some sellers may be resistant to lowering their asking price based on feedback they’re getting in open houses. An agent will remind the seller how important it is to be flexible and respond to market feedback in order to attract qualified buyers. 

In the end, accurate pricing depends on current market conditions – and only an agent has all the data and information necessary to find the right price for your house. The right agent will use that expertise to develop a pricing strategy that’s based on current market conditions and designed to get your house sold. That way you don’t miss the mark. 

Bottom Line 

The right asking price is even more important today than it’s been over the last few years. To help you understand what’s happening in your market and how to get the most money for your home, your Employee Homeownership Program has local real estate agents ready to answer your questions. You will receive a FREE certified market analysis report, a list of things to fix, staging advice, and a net proceeds analysis. To avoid making a costly mistake, use your Employee Homeownership Program.

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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.