Jared Blank's Blog Posts

Once you’ve applied for a mortgage to buy a home, there are some key things to keep in mind. While it’s exciting to start thinking about moving in and decorating, be careful when it

If you own a home, your net worth likely just got a big boost thanks to rising home equity. Equity is the current value of your home minus what you owe on the loan. And today, based on

As people realize their needs are changing, some are turning to luxury housing to find their dream home. Investopedia helps define what pushes a home into this category. In a recent

If you’re looking to buy your first home, you’re likely balancing several factors. Because both mortgage rates and home prices have risen this year, it costs more to

Are you thinking about selling your current home? If so, the biggest question on your mind may be: if I sell now, where will I go? If this resonates with you, there’s something you

Some HighlightsIt’s important to understand history proves an economic slowdown does not equal a housing crisis.In 4 of the last 6 recessions, home prices actually 

June is National Homeownership Month, and it’s the perfect time to reflect on how impactful owning a home can truly be. When you purchase a house, it becomes more than just a space you

In today’s housing market, many are beginning to wonder if we’re returning to the riskier lending habits and borrowing options that led to the housing crash 15 years ago. 

If you’re thinking of buying or selling a house, you’re at an exciting decision point. And anytime you make a big decision like that, one thing you should always

If you’re thinking of buying or selling a home, chances are you’re focusing on the many extraordinary ways it’ll change your life. But do you know it has a

As mortgage rates started to rise this year, many homeowners began to wonder if the value of their homes would fall. Here’s the good news. Historically, when mortgage rates rise by a

Because buying or selling a home is such a big decision in our lives, the need for clear, trustworthy information and guidance is crucial. And while no one can give you

Some HighlightsIf recent headlines about rising inflation are making you wonder if it’s still a good time to buy, here’s what experts have to say.Housing is an asset that

A recession does not equal a housing crisis. That’s the one thing that every homeowner today needs to know. Everywhere you look, experts are warning we could be heading toward a recession, and

If you're trying to decide whether to rent or buy a home, you're probably weighing a few different factors. The financial benefits of homeownership might be one of the reasons you want to

If you’re thinking about buying a home, you’ve probably heard mortgage rates are rising and have wondered what that means for you. Since mortgage rates have increased over

Are you thinking about selling your house? If so, you may want to make it a priority to start the process soon. According to realtor.com, the sweet spot for sellers is just around the

Life events can have a major impact on what you need from your home, and retirement is one of the biggest changes many of us face. This period of your life can mean doing more of the things you,

In the last few weeks, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate from Freddie Mac inched up to 5%. While that news may have you questioning the timing of your home search, the truth is,

Homeownership has become a major element in achieving the American Dream. A recent report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) finds that over 86% of buyers agree

If you’re planning to buy a home this season, you’re probably thinking about what you’ll need to do to get your offer accepted. In previous years, it was common for

If you’re following along with the news today, you’ve likely heard about rising inflation. You’re also likely feeling the impact in your day-to-day life as prices go up for gas,

If you’re in the market to buy a home this season, stick with it. Homebuyers face challenges in any market, and today’s is no exception. But if you persevere, your decision to purchase a

Even if you haven’t been following real estate news, you’ve likely heard about the current sellers’ market. That’s because there’s a lot of talk about how strong

Some HighlightsIf you’re thinking about selling your house this season, focusing on a few quick and easy updates outside can help your home look its best.78% of real estate agents

With a limited number of homes for sale today and so many buyers looking to make a purchase before mortgage rates rise further, bidding wars are common. According to&

Many consumers are wondering what will happen with home values over the next few years. Some are concerned that the recent run-up in home prices will lead to a situation similar to the 

If you’re planning to sell your home this season, rising prices are great news for you. But it’s important to understand why prices are rising to begin with. One

If you’re buying or selling a home this year, you’re likely saving up for a variety of expenses. For buyers, that might include things like your down payment and closing

If you’re a first-time buyer looking to break into the housing market but struggling to find a home to buy, condominiums (or condos) could be a great alternative for you.Here are a few reasons

Some HighlightsIf you’re a homeowner, your net worth has gotten a big boost. That’s because recent home price appreciation has increased your equity.Your equity grows

With today’s real estate market moving as fast as it is, working with a real estate professional is more essential than ever. They have the skills, experience, and expertise it takes

How an Energy Efficient Home Can Be a Bright Idea [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsWith inflation driving up the cost of everyday items, seeking out an energy-efficient home can be a great way to

If you’re ready to move up, you may be trying to decide whether you want to buy a home that's already on the market or build a new one. And since the supply of homes available

If you’re a current homeowner, you should know your net worth just got a big boost. It comes in the form of rising home equity. Equity is the current value of your home minus what you owe

Some HighlightsIf you’re thinking about selling your house this spring, here are some things you’ll want to tackle before you list.Spend your time on tasks that make it feel

For the first time in a long time, the number of newly listed homes is beginning to rise. In their latest monthly release, realtor.com reveals the number of existing homes entering

Don’t Get Caught Off Guard by Closing CostsAs a homebuyer, it’s important to plan and budget for the expenses you’ll encounter when you purchase a home. While most people

This Spring Presents Sellers with a Golden OpportunityIf you’re thinking of selling your house this year, timing is crucial. After all, you’ll want to balance getting the most

Key Terms for Homebuyers [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsKnowing key housing terms and how they relate to today’s market is important. For example, when mortgage rates and 

Key Factors That Impact Affordability TodayYou can’t read an article about residential real estate without the author mentioning the affordability challenges that today’s buyers face.

How Global Uncertainty Is Impacting Mortgage RatesIf you’re thinking about buying or selling a home, you’ll want to keep a pulse on what’s happening with

Why It’s Critical To Price Your House RightWhen you make a move, you want to sell your house for the highest price possible. That might be why many homeowners are eager to list in

Supply and Demand in Today’s Market [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsToday’s housing market is the direct result of low supply and high buyer demand. Here’s

Are Home Prices Continuing To Rise?Many analysts projected home price appreciation would slow dramatically in the fall of 2021 and then continue to soften throughout 2022. So far, that hasn

Down Payment Assistance Programs Can Help You Achieve HomeownershipFor many homebuyers, the thought of saving for a down payment can feel daunting, especially in today’s market. That’s

The Difference Between Renting and Owning [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsIf you’re deciding whether to rent or buy, consider the many financial benefits that come with owning a.

The #1 Reason To Sell Your House TodayAlmost every industry is currently struggling with supply chain disruptions. This also applies to the current U.S. housing market, where buyer demand far

How Supply and Demand Can Impact Your Buying and Selling GoalsIn today’s housing market, there are far more buyers looking for homes than sellers listing their houses. Based on the

The Perks of Owning More Than One HomeMany things have changed over the past couple of years, and real estate is no exception. One impact is an increased desire to own more than one home. According

Real Estate Voted the Best Investment Eight Years in a RowIn an annual Gallup poll, Americans chose real estate as the best long-term investment. And it’s not the first time it&rsquo

What’s Driving Today’s High Buyer Demand? [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsThere’s an influx of buyers looking for homes today, and that means your house is in high demand. Here

What Every Seller Needs To Know About Renovating This YearIf you’re planning to sell this year, you’re probably thinking about what you’ll need to do to get your house ready to

How To Win as a Buyer in a Sellers’ Market [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsEven in today’s sellers’ market, there are still ways for buyers to win big.Build a team of trusted

Want Top Dollar for Your House? Now’s the Time To List It.When you’re selling any item, you usually want to sell it for the greatest profit possible. That happens when there’s a

How Remote Work Impacts Your Home Search [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsIf your workplace is delaying its return to office plans or is allowing permanent work from home options, that may open

Millions of Americans Have Discovered the Benefits of Multigenerational HouseholdsIf your needs are changing, you may be thinking about sharing a home with additional loved ones, such as,

The Top Indicator if You Want To Know Where Mortgage Rates Are HeadingMortgage rates have increased significantly since the beginning of the year. Each Thursday, Freddie Mac releases its

Why Your Home Inspection Matters [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsBuying a home and wondering if your inspection is necessary? While some buyers may decide to waive their inspection,

Americans Choose Real Estate as the Best Investment [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsAccording to a Gallup poll, real estate has been rated the best long-term investment for eight years in a.

When Is the Right Time To Sell [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsIf you’re trying to decide when to list your house, the time is now. There are plenty of buyers eagerly waiting for

How To Hit Your Homebuying Goals This Year [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsIf you’re looking to buy a home, you may want to put these items on your to-do list to ensure you hit your goals.It

There Won’t Be a Wave of Foreclosures in the Housing MarketWhen mortgage forbearance plans were first announced and the pandemic surged through the country in early 2020, many homeowners were

How Much Do You Need for Your Down Payment?As you set out on your homebuying journey, you likely have a plan in place, and you’re working on saving for your purchase. But do you know how much

5 Tips for Making Your Best Offer on a HomeAs a buyer in a sellers’ market, sometimes it can feel like you’re stuck between a rock and a hard place. When you’re ready to make

Key Things To Avoid After Applying for a MortgageOnce you’ve found your dream home and applied for a mortgage, there are some key things to keep in mind before you close. It’s exciting

The Perks of Putting 20% Down on a HomeIf you’re thinking of buying a home, you’re probably wondering what you need to save for your down payment. Is it 20% of the purchase price, or

The Average Homeowner Gained $56,700 in Equity over the Past YearWhen you think of homeownership, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Chances are you might focus on the non

2022 Housing Market Forecast [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsWhat does the coming year hold for the housing market? Here’s what experts project for 2022.Mortgage rates are projected

A Happy Tail: Pets and the Homebuying Process [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsIt’s no secret that we love our furry friends - about 70% of U.S. households have pets. What may come as a

Struggling To Find a Home To Buy? New Construction May Be an Option.There’s no question that the financial benefits of selling a house are outstanding today. Now is truly a great

A Checklist for Selling Your House This Winter [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsIf you’re planning to sell your house this winter, you’ll want it to look its best inside and out

Why Now Is a Great Time To Sell Your HouseAs we near the end of the year, more homeowners are realizing the benefits of today’s sellers’ market. Record-breaking home price

Reasons To Hire a Real Estate Professional [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsWhether you’re buying or selling, there are many perks that come from working with a real estate advisor

Don’t Believe Everything You Read: The Truth Many Headlines OverlookThere are a lot of questions right now regarding the real estate market as we head into 2022. The forbearance program is

Your Journey to Homeownership [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsWhen it comes to buying a home, there are a number of key milestones along the way.The process includes everything from building your

Retirement May Be Changing What You Need in a HomeThe past year and a half brought about significant life changes for many of us. For some, it meant entering retirement earlier than expected. Recent

Sellers: You’ll Likely Get Multiple Strong Offers This SeasonAre you thinking about selling your house right now, but you’re not sure you’ll have the time to do so as the

Should I Update My House Before I Sell It? [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsIf you’re deciding whether you should make updates before you sell your house, lean on your &

VA Loans: Helping Veterans Achieve Their Homeownership DreamsThe purpose of Veterans Affairs (VA) home loans is to provide a pathway to homeownership for those who have sacrificed so much by serving

How Sellers Win When Housing Inventory Is LowIn today’s housing market, the number of homes for sale is much lower than the strong buyer demand. As a result, homeowners ready to sell

Numbers Don’t Lie – It’s Still a Great Time To Sell [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsHeading into the end of the year, you might wonder if it’s still a good time to sell your.

Experts Project Mortgage Rates Will Continue To Rise in 2022Mortgage rates are one of several factors that impact how much you can afford if you’re buying a home. When rates are low, they help

The Mortgage Process Doesn’t Have To Be Scary [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsApplying for a mortgage is a big step towards homeownership, but it doesn’t need to be one you fear. Here

Does Your House Have What Buyers Want?The rise in remote work is changing what many Americans want in their homes. Many companies are choosing to delay reopening or go remote full-time,

Housing Challenge or Housing Opportunity? It Depends.The biggest challenge in real estate today is the lack of available homes for sale. The low housing supply has caused homes throughout the

There Are More Homes Available Now than There Were This SpringThere’s a lot of talk lately about how challenging it can be to find a home to buy. While housing inventory is still low, there

Knowledge Is Power When It Comes to Appraisals and InspectionsBuyers in today’s market often have questions about the importance of getting a home appraisal and an inspection. That’s

Your Home Equity Is Growing [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsIf you’re a homeowner, today’s rising equity is great news. On average, homeowners have gained $51,500 in equity

Looking To Move? It Could Be Time To Build Your Dream Home.While today’s supply of homes for sale is still low, the number of newly built homes is increasing. If you’re

What Does the Future Hold for Home Prices?If you’re looking to buy or sell a house, chances are you’ve heard talk about today’s rising home prices. And while this increase in

Homebuyer Tips for Finding the One [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsThe best advice carries across multiple areas of life. When it comes to homebuying, a few simple tips can help you stay on track

What Do Past Years Tell Us About Today’s Real Estate Market?As you follow the news, you’re likely seeing headlines discussing what’s going on in today’s housing market.

The Big Question: Should You Renovate or Move?The last 18 months changed what many buyers are looking for in a home. Recently, the American Institute of Architects released their AIA

What’s Causing Today’s Competitive Real Estate Market? [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsToday’s strong sellers’ market is the direct result of high demand and low 

4 Tips To Prep for Your Home Sale This FallEven in a hot sellers’ market like today’s in which homes are selling so quickly, it’s still important to make a good first

Reasons Renters Buy [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsWhen deciding whether you should rent or buy, make sure you’re considering these factors.Buying a home means consistent monthly

It’s Still a Sellers’ Market [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsDue to low supply and high demand, today is one of the strongest sellers’ markets we’ve seen

Two Reasons Why Waiting a Year To Buy Could Cost YouIf you’re a renter with a desire to become a homeowner, or a homeowner who’s decided your current house no longer fits your needs, you

Is a 20% Down Payment Really Necessary To Purchase a Home?There’s a common misconception that, as a homebuyer, you need to come up with 20% of the total sale price for your down payment.

Have You Ever Seen a Housing Market Like This? [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsWhether you’re buying or selling – today’s housing market has plenty of good news to

Fact or Fiction: Homebuyer Edition [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsWhen it comes to the current housing market, there are multiple misconceptions – from what the current supply of

Your Agent Is Key When Pricing Your House [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsPricing your house right takes market experience and expertise.To find the best list price, your agent balances current

Your Checklist To Get Ready To Sell [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsWhen it comes to selling your house, you want it to look its best inside and out.It’s important to focus on tasks that

What To Do with Your Vacation Home as Summer EndsAs summer comes to a close, is it time to think about selling your vacation home? Based on recent data and expert opinions, it’s something you

Sellers Are in a Sweet Spot [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsIn today’s sellers’ market, you’re set up to win big when you list your house.That’s because homes are 

Demand for Vacation Homes Is Still StrongThe pandemic created a tremendous interest in vacation homes across the country. Throughout the last year, many people purchased second homes as a

Why You May Want To Cash in on Your Second HomeWhen stay-at-home mandates were enforced last year, many households realized their homes didn’t really fulfill their new lifestyle needs. An

Dreaming of a Bigger Home? Why Not Buy It This Year?Are you clamoring for extra rooms or a more functional floorplan in your house? Maybe it’s time to make a move. If you’ll be able to

Why This Is a Great Year to Sell Your Vacation HomeAs vaccines are administered and travel resumes, many of us are beginning to plan for those long-awaited vacations we missed out on over the past

Multigenerational Housing Is Gaining Momentum [INFOGRAPHIC]Some HighlightsIf your house is feeling a little cramped with the addition of adult children or aging parents, it might be time to consider

The Luxury Market Is Attracting Buyers in 2021As more people continue to identify their changing needs this year, some are turning to the upscale housing sector for more space or finer features. In

How Remote Work Can Power Your Vacation Home SaleThis year, the opportunity to work remotely has increased the demand for vacation homes. Gay Cororaton, Senior Economist and Director of Housing

Should You Buy a Retirement Home Sooner Rather than Later?Every day in the U.S., roughly 10,000 people turn 65. Prior to the health crisis that swept the nation in 2020, most people had to

Is it Time to Move into a Single-Story Home?Once the kids have left the nest, you may be wondering what to do with all of the extra space in your home. Chances are, you don’t need four

Buyers Are Finding More Space in the Luxury Home MarketA year ago, additional space and extra amenities had a very different feel for homebuyers. Today, the health crisis has brought to light how

Opportunity in the Luxury Market This YearHomes priced in the top 25% of a price range for a particular area of the country are considered “premium homes.” At the start of last,

The Many Benefits of Aging in a CommunityThere’s comfort in being around people who share common interests, goals, and challenges. That comfort in a community doesn’t wane with age ;

Does “Aging in Place” Make the Most Sense?A desire among many seniors is to “age in place.” According to the Senior Resource Guide, the term means,“…that

Should I Sell My House This Year?If one of the questions you’re asking yourself today is, “Should I sell my house this year?” the current Housing Opportunities and

Where Homebuyers Are Heading By Generation [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights:Whether capitalizing on job opportunities, affordability, or warm-weather places to retire, Americans are making moves to

2020 Luxury Market ForecastBy the end of last year, many homeowners found themselves with more equity than they realized, and at the same time their wages were increasing. When those two factors

5 Reasons to Consider Living in a Multigenerational HomeDid you know that 1 in 6 Americans currently live in a multigenerational household?According to Generations United, the number of

Depending on the Price, You’re Going to Need AdviceTo understand today’s complex real estate market, it is critical to have a local, trusted advisor on your side – for more reasons

Now’s the Time to Move-Up and Upgrade Your Current Home!Homes priced at the top 25% of the price range for a particular area of the country are considered "premium homes." In today’s

What is Important to Boomers when Selling their House?If you are a “baby boomer” (born between 1946 and 1964), you may be thinking about selling your current home. Your children may have

Multigenerational Homes Are on the RiseAs loved ones start to get older, we start to wonder: how long will they be able to live alone? Will they need someone there to help them with daily life?&

Are Older Generations Really Not Selling Their Homes?Many studies suggest one of the main reasons for the inventory shortage in today’s market of homes for sale is that older

Your Fabulous New Dream Home is Now AvailableOver the last several years, many “baby boomers” have undergone a metamorphosis. Their children have finally moved out and they can now dream

What to Consider When Choosing Your Home To Retire InAs more and more baby boomers enter retirement age, the question of whether they should sell their homes and move has become a hot topic. In&

Buying A Vacation Property? Now Is A Good Time!Every year around this time, many homeowners begin the process of preparing their homes in case of extreme winter weather. Some others skip winter all

Baby Boomers are Downsizing, Are You Ready to Move?For a while now baby boomers have been blamed for a portion of the housing market’s current lack of housing inventory, but should they really

Will Your Current House Fit Your Needs in Retirement?As more and more baby boomers enter retirement age, the question of whether or not to sell their homes and move will become a hot topic. In today

Dreaming of a Luxury Home? Now’s the Time!If your house no longer fits your needs and you are planning on buying a luxury home, now is a great time to do so! Recently, the Institute for

7 Factors to Consider When Choosing A Home to Retire InAs more and more baby boomers enter retirement age, the question of whether or not to sell their homes and move will become a hot topic. In

Should Boomers Buy or Rent after Selling?In a recent CNBC article, it was reported that many baby boomers are selling their current homes and moving into rentals, rather than purchasing

Want to Keep up with the Joneses? Now’s the TimeDoes your current house fit your needs? Does it seem like everyone else is moving up and moving on to more luxurious surroundings? Are you

Buyer’s Market Helps Premium Home Sales SoarWe previously reported how a shortage of inventory in the starter and trade-up home markets is driving prices up and causing bidding wars,

The Importance of Home Equity in Retirement PlanningWe often discuss the difference in family wealth between homeowner households and renter households. Much of that difference is the

Is 2017 the Year to Move Up to Your Dream Home? If So, Do It Early!If you are considering moving up to your dream home, it may be better to do it earlier in the year than later. The two components

Looking to Move-Up to a Luxury Home? Now’s the Time!If your house no longer fits your needs and you are planning on buying a luxury home, now is a great time to do so! We recently shared