Choosing the Mortgage Term That is Right for You!

Negotiating mortgages can be difficult for first-time buyers due to the risks and costs. A 15-year mortgage offers lower interest rates but higher monthly payments, which can strain finances. A 30-year mortgage is often more manageable for first-time buyers due to lower payments. Adjustable-rate mortgages may benefit those planning to resell quickly. Refinancing options are … Continued

How Refinancing Your Mortgage Could Save You Money

Refinancing your mortgage when interest rates drop can save you money by lowering monthly payments, shortening the loan term, or reducing total interest paid. Factors affecting refinance rates include credit score, loan amount, and loan type. Consider refinancing if rates fall by about 1%, but account for closing costs of 3-6%. Using a mortgage refinance … Continued

Cities With the Fastest-growing Home Prices in Idaho

Idaho cities have seen rapid home price growth, with some areas experiencing over 75% increases in five years. Notable cities include Hailey, Coeur d'Alene, Boise, and Rexburg, with typical home values ranging from around $278K to over $1 million. Both metro and non-metro areas show strong appreciation, reflecting a robust housing market statewide. Continue to … Continued

Smart Investors Thrive in Buyer’s Market

A buyer’s market emerges when supply outpaces demand, giving purchasers greater negotiation power and price flexibility. Increased listings, slower sales, and longer selling times signal stronger buyer leverage across the market. Economic shifts—like oversupply or reduced demand—push prices down and extend time on market. Sellers compete by lowering prices and offering incentives, making properties more … Continued

End-2025 Rate Cut: Déjà Vu of 2024 Home Sales Growth?

The Fed’s September rate cut dropped mortgage rates, echoing 2024’s late-year trend. 2024 showed rate cuts fueled 4th-quarter home sales rebounds, lifting total annual sales above prior year. Lower rates are bringing hesitant buyers back, bridging the gap between costs and inaccessibility. However, markets reversed after further cuts as inflation and strong labor signals worried … Continued

Found a Good Mortgage Rate? Lock It In!

Obtaining the lowest mortgage interest rate is crucial for prospective homeowners, as lower rates lead to reduced monthly payments. However, advertised rates may not be available by the time of closing due to daily fluctuations. A mortgage rate lock guarantees a specific rate, protecting borrowers from rising rates but potentially preventing them from benefiting from … Continued

Homebuying Opportunities in the Fall

Acadiana’s housing market remains stable, with median prices up 3% year-to-date and Lafayette’s average home price at $299,010. Homes now spend about 81 days on the market, down from 90 in spring, showing gradual improvement. Realtors emphasize staging and strategic pricing as key for sellers to stand out in a competitive fall market. Interest rates … Continued

Infrastructure, zoning, incentives: Idaho housing study committee homes in on recommendations

Idaho lawmakers and stakeholders prioritize water and sewer infrastructure, affordable housing incentives, zoning reforms, and addressing House Bill 389's impact on local budgets. They emphasize funding for infrastructure to support growth, promoting gentle density and accessory dwelling units, and expanding the Workforce Housing Fund. Concerns include high infrastructure costs, tax incentives, and budget constraints limiting … Continued

Cities With the Most Expensive Homes in Idaho

Sun Valley tops Idaho's most expensive home markets with a typical value of $1.17M, rising 10.6% in a year and 90.8% over five years. Coolin and Hayden Lake follow, with values over $1M. Sandpoint leads with eight cities in the top 30, followed by Coeur d'Alene with five. Home values in these cities have generally … Continued