As a homeowner contemplating your next move in Southern Maine, you might be toying with the idea of using your current house as a short-term rental (STR) rather than selling it. As an alternative to a hotel stay, STRs have gained popularity as an investment option in recent years. The concept of a

  If you're on a quest to find your dream home in Southern Maine, you've probably noticed that the pickings are somewhat slim. It can be frustrating when your property search yields limited results. However, there's a gleaming beacon of hope: new-home construction. An article from the National Assoc

  When it comes to selling your house, you want three things: to sell it for the most money you can, to do it in a certain amount of time, and to do all of that with the fewest hassles. And, while the current housing market is generally favorable to sellers due to today’s limited housing supply, the

  Navigating today's housing market might feel like solving a complex puzzle - there are fewer homes available, yet a surplus of buyers are eagerly searching for their dream property. To give you a clearer picture, let's dive into some recent data concerning the active listings, or homes up for sale

If you've been giving buying a home some thought, you've probably been frequently monitoring every piece of news about the housing market you can get your hands on. News outlets, social media, chats with your real estate agent, or even casual supermarket conversations - they're all sources of insigh

  The American Dream is a unique concept, interpreted differently by everyone. For many, it symbolizes success, freedom, and prosperity - all of which can be achieved through homeownership. A recent survey conducted by Bankrate asked participants to identify which achievements best symbolize the Ame

  As a prospective homeowner in today's somewhat challenging market, developing a strategic approach is crucial, particularly with the current state of mortgage rates. The borrowing cost has significantly increased, prompting many to carefully reassess their home feature wishlist. It's about underst

Some Highlights An agent is a really important part of selling your home because they bring a lot of skill and expertise to the sales process. They’ll explain what’s happening today, what that means for you, and how to price and market your house. They’re also skilled negotiators and well versed in

Feeling hesitant about selling your house because you're unsure if you'll find your next home in today's market? Don't worry, you're not alone. But, there's some encouraging news that might just put your mind at ease. New home construction has seen a significant increase and is now a major contribut

In the shadow of the 2008 housing crisis, it's understandable that some potential homebuyers today may be wary of a similar fate befalling the current housing market. However, there are many reasons why the present market differs greatly from that of 2008, one of the most critical being the distinct

  In light of the recent increase in mortgage rates, inflation, and talks of a potential economic downturn, many prospective homebuyers are left wondering: is buying a home this year still a sound decision? Despite the unique challenges that this year brings, it's crucial to keep in mind the endurin

Unloading your house isn't a walk in the park. Many homeowners contemplate going the FSBO (For Sale by Owner) route, a path that can be riddled with obstacles without the guidance of a seasoned real estate agent. If you're mulling over selling your house solo, there are a few things you should be aw

  Considering buying a house? Well, one thing you should be aware of is how your credit score is a huge part of the home loan equation. Lenders scrutinize your credit to see if you're the type who can handle timely payments, pay off debts, and more. Plus, your credit score is a significant player in

  As summer kicks off, are you contemplating selling your house? It's vital to know that buyers today value energy efficiency and eco-friendly features more than ever. This growing trend is underscored by the 2023 Realtors and Sustainability Report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), wh

This week, we are anticipating the latest Existing Home Sales (EHS) report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), a monthly deep dive into the sales volume and price trajectory of pre-owned homes. The forecast suggests a decline in home prices, which may seem perplexing if you've been keep

A survey by Freddie Mac reinforces this point: “. . . nearly a third of prospective homebuyers think they need a down payment of 20% or more to buy a home. This myth remains one of the largest perceived barriers to achieving homeownership.” Here's the reality: a 20% down payment isn't mandatory. You

Thinking about buying or selling a home in Southern Maine? Whether it's here in Cumberland County or a more rural locale within Androsocoggin County, you should know that your real estate decisions don't just affect your life. They ripple outwards, impacting the local community, and our vibrant econ

  You might be seeing news discussing a decrease in homeowner equity. It's crucial to note that equity is closely linked to the value of homes. When home prices increase, so does equity, and vice versa. Let's look at how this dynamic has unfolded recently. During the 'unicorn' years, home prices sur

  As life unfolds, change is inevitable. For many, this could mean contemplating a shift in their living situation. If you're considering selling your house in Southern Maine, it's essential to keep your focus on the reasons behind your decision, rather than getting sidetracked by variables like mor

  Deciphering media narratives surrounding home prices can be a complex task. The main source of confusion stems from the data being used and the aspects they choose to highlight. Home prices, especially in dynamic markets such as those found in Cumberland and York Counties of Southern Maine, are of