According to Bankrate analyst, Greg Mcbride, two out of three economists are forecasting a recession in 2023, and many of our buyers are hesitant to make a move towards homeownership within a climate of economic uncertainty. However, the housing market and housing health in the Triangle area are not necessarily related to a recession. In fact, historically, mortgage rates decline during a recession, making it a better time to buy. Let's explore how mortgage rates and the economy have been related and how buyers can benefit from conditions.

Mortgage Rates and Recession

What is a recession? This is a period where the economy contracts, rather than expands. In the last six recorded recessions, 1980, 1981, 1991, 2001, 2008, and 2020, mortgage rates…

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Many people are thinking about buying homes in 2023. If you are new to home buying, you might be wondering if now is really the best time to buy. It is normal to second guess yourself when so much money and your future is on the line. There are a few national factors and also some considerations that are common knowledge to realtors, but might not be known to you, regarding the soundness of investing in real estate in 2023.

National Market Conditions

We are not seeing home prices fall dramatically. On the contrary, in some local markets, home prices are inching up. The Triangle is still experiencing a shortage of homes and many buyers can be frustrated by bidding wars and a continued advantage of sellers, however, this is indicative of a strong…

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Many homeowners in The Triangle are choosing to renovate their homes this Spring. Where home prices are still high and inventory is low, making renovations can be a popular alternative to moving. However, home renovations tend to be more costly right now due to still high material and labor costs and not everyone has the disposable income for extensive renovations. Additionally good, dependable contractors may be booked 6-12 months out so it could take longer than you might like to get your renovations completed. Financing home renovations is one way to make necessary renovations, without a large capital outlay upfront. Here are some of the best financing options for home renovations.

Home Equity Loan

Home equity is the difference between the…

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In this Blog we report on the housing options facing one of the largest segments of the population about to retire, the baby boomer generation. Traditionally, there have been two, rather limited, options: move in with extended family or downsize and then move to a facility for aging in place. The Triangle area offers excellent access to healthcare, the climate is moderate, and many generations enjoy the lifestyle here, making it one of the places that multiple generations are calling home. But, when to make the choice to move smaller or move to a facility, is by no means an easy one.

 

According to Jessica Lautz, Deputy Chief Economist and Vice President of Research at the National Association of Realtors (NAR) "As we see the transition of the…

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