Found 6 blog entries tagged as First-Time Homebuyers.

Westchester Condo Inventory Hits Highest Level in 3 Years

As homebuyers work to balance budget constraints with lifestyle priorities, condominiums are becoming one of the most practical choices on the market. Whether you're a first-time buyer aiming to build equity or looking to downsize while staying in a prime location, today’s condo market offers strong opportunities — with inventory levels peaking at their highest level since 2021.

 

START YOUR CONDO SEARCH HERE


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The Buy Now vs. Wait Calculator

Just in time for National Homeownership Month, MGIC’s Buy Now vs. Wait Calculator gives first-time homebuyers a clear comparison of the financial impact of buying now versus waiting to save for a 20% down payment.  Waiting might lower your future mortgage payment, but rent doesn’t build equity — and there’s no guarantee rates, prices, or inventory will improve. This tool gives you an instant, detailed breakdown to help you make a confident decision.

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Get Rewarded for Renting

Rocket Mortgage has introduced a new initiative, Rocket Rent Rewards, aimed at assisting renters in transitioning to homeownership by offering up to $5,000 toward closing costs. This program allows eligible homebuyers to receive a credit equivalent to 10% of their total rent payments over the past year when they secure a mortgage through Rocket Mortgage.

  • Eligibility: Renters who have consistently made payments over the last 12 months finance a home through Rocket Mortgage.

  • Benefit Calculation: 10% of the total rent paid in the previous year, up to $5,000.

Ralph’s Take

This is a strategic way to make homeownership a little more accessible for renters. Consistently…

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Gen Z Homeowners? Believe It. Here’s How:

Generation Z is actively pursuing homeownership, and they are employing innovative strategies to navigate the financial challenges and a competitive housing market. Defined as those born in the years between 1997 and 2012, they comprise only about 3% of current home buyers, but Gen Z’ers are entering the market earlier than previous generations. Notably, 27.8% of 24-year-old Gen Z’ers own homes, surpassing the 24.5% of millennials and 23.5% of Gen X’ers who owned homes at the same age. Here’s how they’re doing it:

  • Rent-vesting: Buying in less expensive areas while renting in cities, aka equity growth without relocation.

  • House Hacking: Purchasing properties with multiple…

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Unexpected Costs for New Homeowners

A recent analysis by Real Estate Witch reveals that 81% of homeowner expenses are higher than anticipated, with 69% expressing regrets related to those unforeseen costs. Nearly half of homeowners (46%) say they did not accurately estimate the cost of repairs and improvements before buying. The survey also exposes how little many buyers may know about the true cost of homeownership prior to their purchase. Here’s a breakdown:

Ralph’s Take

Homeownership is a long-term commitment, so it’s crucial to understand as many costs as possible up front. Before signing a purchase contract, I recommend your buyer’s agent:

  • Request the most recent utility and landscaping…

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CoreLogic: First-Time Homebuyers at Higher Risk of Overpaying for Homes

Courtesy of CoreLogic

First-time homebuyers are at a higher risk of overpaying for homes due to appraisal gaps, according to a new report by CoreLogic. Appraisal gaps occur when the appraised value of a home is lower than the agreed-upon sales price. These gaps often lead to delays, renegotiation, additional payments from buyers to cover the shortfall, or even the cancelation of the sale. In June 2024, 8.6% of U.S. home sales were appraised below the contract price, down from 10.7% a year earlier. Here's the breakdown:

  • Starter Homes: 9.6% had appraisal gaps, down from 12.1%.

  • Homes of 3,500sf or More: 7.1% had appraisal gaps, down…

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