Facebook
X
Pinterest
Copy Link
Pay cash for your new home? It may not be just a dream!
Did you ever think you could pay cash for your new home? Thanks to recent home price appreciation, homeowners have near record amounts of equity, which simply is the difference between what you owe on your home & what your home is worth.
On average, homeowners have $311K worth of equity. Once you sell, you can use it to fund your down payment on your next home or maybe even to buy a smaller house in cash. By paying cash, you avoid qualifying for a mortgage, mortgage fees & restrictions. You don’t need to pass an Appraisal, since you won’t be getting a loan, although I always advise to still get a home inspection.
There are a lot of benefits to paying cash, including instant equity in your new home, since you are not paying down a loan. You also won’t need to buy Mortgage Protection Insurance (MIP) which protects the lender of a loan, not you, AND, maybe the best feature of paying cash – you could be a more attractive buyer to a seller in this market, since you won’t be waiting for mortgage approval. Of course, you need to sell your home first to access the equity & cash for a new home purchase. Some clients have opted to sell, take a short-term rental while they are waiting to find their next cash home, and speeding up the process!
If you want to find out how much equity you have, call me. I can do a current market analysis (CMA). Maybe moving is a lot more feasible than you’d think!
Karen Daugerdas, Coldwell Banker REALTOR®, Pricing Advisor®, Seniors’ Real Estate Specialist®. 847.494.1102. #equity #cashforyournewhome #karenisourfamilyrealtor👱♀️
#karenbuysandsellshomes🏠
#CBProud💙#poweragent
Is America’s Housing Market Failing Older Adults?
The US population is aging. Within the next decade, older adults will outnumber children for the first time in American history. As Americans live longer, their housing needs will change, but our current housing market is ill prepared for this demographic shift, according to Linna Zhu and Amalie Zinn of Urban Wire/Institute.
Today, senior households—many of whom are on fixed incomes—are facing a combined crisis of housing affordability, accessibility, and availability. As the country’s population ages and without action by policymakers, the consequences will be severe.
Over the past two decades, the number of senior households considered severely cost burdened—those spending more than half their income on housing—has nearly doubled, rising from 5.2 million to nearly 11.7 million, according to American Community Survey data. And the share of severely cost–burdened senior households has increased. In 2000, 11.5 percent of households headed by someone 50 or older were severely cost burdened. By 2020, the share increased to more than 16 percent.
Housing cost burdens are driven not only by one’s rent or mortgage payments, but by the cost of utilities, home insurance, property taxes (PDF), maintenance, and other fees.
Some demographic groups are more affected than others. Renter households are more likely than owners to be cost burdened at all ages. Older seniors, those 75 and older, are more likely to be cost burdened than younger seniors. Other research finds that rising insurance premiums have also made senior living communities more expensive.
According to the Urban Institute analysis of 2000–23 American Community Survey, households are severely cost burdened if they spend more than 50% of their income on housing costs.
Unlike younger adults, who can change their spending in response to rising cost burdens, seniors, especially those on fixed incomes, have less flexibility. For older adults facing increased or unexpected housing costs, limited budgeting alternatives can lead to homelessness. Between 2019 and 2022, the share of older adults experiencing homelessness increased 37%.
Survey data suggest that most older adults want to remain in their current homes and communities as they age. But affordability and accessibility present challenges.
According to the latest data from the American Community Survey, more than 75% of senior households live alone or with only one other person, yet 60% of these households live in homes with at least three bedrooms. These homes may not only be too big—they might be too old or in poor condition. Nearly half of large homes rented and owned by seniors were built before 1980 and might require serious renovation or modification.
The Urban Institute analysis of 2020 Health and Retirement Study noted that a household is considered lacking the financial assets to modify their home if their financial assets are below the median out-of-pocket expenses paid for accessibility modifications by other seniors of the same tenure.
According to data from the latest Health and Retirement Study, 34% of households headed by someone older than 50 lack the financial resources to cover the median out-of-pocket expenditures on home modifications. Renters in particular are more likely to lack the resources for renovations, with 58% of older renting households unable to cover median expenditures compared with 27% of homeowners.
Even if older adults want and have the means to move, the severe housing supply shortage has led to a limited available housing stock, particularly at the affordable end of the market. Only 10% of the country’s housing units are ready to accommodate older people, as most homes have entryway steps, only upstairs bedrooms and bathrooms, and inaccessible bathrooms.
Research suggests that many older adults might want to move closer to their children, meaning they might be searching for housing in high-cost areas with amenities important to younger people, like employment opportunities and strong school districts. Older adults that require greater levels of care might face even more barriers, as the cost of independent- and assisted-living communities are prohibitively high, in part because of the high cost of housing development.
Increasing affordable housing supply—and especially the supply of smaller, accessible homes in areas where seniors want to live—can improve the well-being of senior households. To ensure that senior households can move if that is best suited for their needs, federal, state, and local policymakers can
- change zoning regulations to allow for multigenerational and intergenerational housing, as well as backyard accessory dwelling units;
- ease the way for more homes to get built, particularly at the affordable end of the market; and
- ensure the Federal Housing Administration has the resources to increase lending for senior living and health care facilities.
The housing needs of seniors will continue to evolve, especially as the country’s demographics shift and senior households make up a larger share of the population. To prepare for the coming decades—by building the necessary homes and making policy changes—we need research to make future needs clear.
Projections of future housing needs among older adults—especially those that account for climate vulnerability, insurance cost increases, health status, social connections, and changes in senior incomes and benefits—could provide crucial insights. The collection and publication of population-level data on senior housing decisions, challenges, and outcomes at detailed geographic levels can support this work and clarify problems and solutions.
Information and data provided by Linna Zhu and Amalie Zinn of Urban Wire/Institute.
If you have questions regarding housing for seniors, contact your local Seniors’ Real Estate Specialist®, Karen Daugerdas, Coldwell Banker REALTOR® at 847.494.1102 or karen.daugerdas@cbrealty.com.
Apply for Property Tax Exemptions NOW!
Exemption applications for the 2024 tax year are now available online. Exemptions are savings that contribute to lowering a homeowner’s property tax bill. The most common is the Homeowner Exemption, saving a property owner an average of $950 dollars each year. As a reminder, exemptions are reflected on the second installment property tax bill, so you would not have seen it on the first installment bill.
The deadline to apply is Monday, April 21, 2025. See the full list of exemptions here.
Here are three key things that homeowners should be aware of when applying for exemptions.
- New homeowners, first-time applicants, or those that need to reapply can now do so online by visiting, www.cookcountyassessor.com/exemptions. Homeowners are strongly encouraged to apply online so there is a digital record of their application.
- Homeowners need to submit annual filings for the “Senior Freeze” and Veterans with Disabilities Exemptions. Seniors and Veterans that need to reapply will be mailed application booklets in the mail, but are encouraged to apply online.
- The automatic renewal of the Homeowner, Senior, and Persons with Disabilities Exemptions will continue, postcards will be mailed to households confirming that the savings will be applied and no action is needed.
How to Check Your Exemptions
If homeowners are unsure of their existing exemptions, they can check by reviewing their “Property Details” and review the Exemption History & Status section.
Multilanguage Applications Available
The Assessor’s Office is proud to announce that exemption forms are available in English Spanish, Polish, and simplified Chinese. Applications can be downloaded at www.cookcountyassessor.com/exemptions.
Join a Virtual Workshop
Homeowners can join virtual and in-person workshops to learn about exemptions and how to apply. For a list of upcoming in-person and virtual outreach events, www.cookcountyassessor.com/event-list.
Staging Your Home for Sale
When staging your home for sale, where do you start? Highlight your home’s strengths, downplay its weaknesses, and appeal to the greatest possible pool of prospective buyers.
- Curb Appeal
First impressions matter, so make your home stand out the instant buyers pull up to the curb.
- Trim bushes, edge.
- Pressure wash
- Paint the front door
- Use planters and fill them with small evergreen shrubs. If you have window boxes, fill them with fresh greenery, too.
- Add chairs on the front porch to expand your outdoor living space.
- Reseal the driveway, update mailbox and house numbers, welcome mat and light fixtures.
- Give the Kitchen a Facelift
Kitchens sell houses, so any updates you make have the potential to go a long way. And they don’t have to be expensive:
- Show off storage. Pack up the seldom-used small appliances and holiday dishware, spices. Don’t have items or food falling out of the cabinets. No cereal boxes on top of the fridge.
- Clear off the countertops.
- Give cabinets a facelift with paint; go for classic white or try a dark neutral like gray or slate blue.
- Change the outdated hardware and faucet
- Try peel-and-stick faux tile, tin tile, beadboard paneling or try painting the existing tile.
- Brighten lighting, add art
- Make Bathrooms Shine
- Scrub the bathrooms, then scrub them all again. Nothing will turn off a potential buyer more than a dirty bathroom. Remove hard-water stains from faucets, make sure there is no sign of mold.
- Consider reglazing the tile.
- If grout is an issue, mix 9 parts water with 1 part bleach in a spray bottle and spray the grout. Or use grout cleaner. Recaulk if needed.
- Remove cosmetics and products in the vanity and medicine cabinet.
- INVEST in new shower curtains, rugs & bathmats (you can always take them with you when you move). Put out fluffy towels, candles, a few fancy soaps and make it a SPA.
- Make the Bedrooms Luxurious
- Create an inviting and serene main bedroom with great bedding, but not too fancy – make it GENDER NEUTRAL.
- Add extra pillows to the bed, tucking a large comforter into a soft-colored duvet will give your bed that plump and plush look that you see in high-end hotels.
- Add color with shams, throw pillows and extra blankets.
- Keep nightstands uncluttered and remove personal items.
- Add pops of color, REFLECTIVE SURFACES & let the light shine in.
- Pare Down Furniture
- Too much furniture. When professional stagers descend on a home being prepped for market, they remove HALF of furnishings so the house looks bigger.
- You should be able to move around each room without being blocked by furniture.
- Make sure buyers can access your home’s best features like the fireplace or built-in bookshelves and see out all the windows.
- Avoid a cluttered look by minimizing items on the coffee table and not piling so many pillows on the couch that nobody can sit on it.
It’s a mistake to think that rooms will feel larger if all the furniture is pushed against the walls. Allow 3 feet of clearance for your room’s main thoroughfares, if less traffic, 2 feet will suffice. Float furniture away from walls. Create cozy conversational groups, and place pieces so that the traffic flow in a room is obvious. Not only will this make the space more user-friendly, but it will open up the room and make it seem larger. Don’t focus on the TV!
- Add Functional Office Space
These days more people are HOMESCHOOLING & working from home so a workspace may be essential for your potential buyers. If you don’t have an entire room to dedicate to a home office, carve out a nook in a spare bedroom, a corner of the living room or even a closet.
- Use Window Coverings to Fool the Eye
Hung the right way, window treatments can help make a room look more spacious. Use drapes that are the same color as your walls so that the continuous hue will make the space look WIDER. Create the illusion of HEIGHT by hanging drapes above the window. They should start at the ceiling and just barely brush the floor. Don’t let them gather or puddle on the floor.
- Depersonalize/Declutter
Buyers need to picture themselves in your home, and that’s hard to do if all they see are your personal items. You may love that skull souvenir from Arizona, but not everyone does. Remove too many political and religious items, family photos, your kids’ artwork, framed diplomas and personal collections. Pack these items up to take to your new home and replace them with generic artwork.
- Show Off Your Storage
- Storage always ranks high on buyers’ priority list.
- Decluttering your closets and cabinets. Keep closets neat by stashing items in matching baskets and bins.
- Implement shoe racks and under-shelf baskets to demonstrate the versatility of your storage.
- Straighten out the linen closet and add a couple bins or baskets. Every single buyer I’ve had asks questions about storage. And YES THEY OPEN YOUR CLOSET DOORS! Don’t think that “hiding things” in the closet is decluttering!
- Paint
When in doubt, white it out. The professional decorating websites that were surveyed believe white paint will sell your home because not only does it provide future buyers with a blank slate, but it gives living rooms a fresh, clean, well-kept appearance that appeals to the masses. But try a warm white or off white. You don’t want it to give off a “cold” feel, which a white can do. Our tried-and-true white paint colors include Snowbound or Greek Villa from Sherwin Williams or White Dove and Chantilly Lace from Benjamin Moore. You can buy small cans of sample paints or “Patches” to paste on your walls to help you decide.
- Our Beloved Pets
We totally understand how much you love your pets (we do, too), but potential buyers may be turned off by pet odors or be allergic to fur and dander.
Thoroughly clean the areas where your pets spend most of their time and add air fresheners.
When potential buyers come calling, throw the pet beds, crates, toys, food dishes and litter boxes in your car then take Fido or Fluffy for a walk in the park.
If you have other questions about preparing your home for sale, call Karen Daugerdas, Coldwell Banker, 847.494.1102.
Why you should buy now & not wait until Spring
Buying a home at any time is challenging & even more in today’s mortgage rates. You might think it’s better to wait until Spring when more homes hit the market & rates might be lower.
But no one knows where mortgage rates will go from here. Waiting could mean facing more competition, higher prices & even more stress.
What if buying now before the spring rush might be better? Here are three reasons why that just might be the case, according to real estate advisor Keeping Current Matters:
- Less Competition from Other Buyers
The winter months tend to be quieter in the real estate market. Fewer people are actively looking for homes, which means you’ll likely face less competition when you make an offer. This makes the process feel less rushed & less stressful.
According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), homes sit on the market longer in winter compared to Spring & summer.
Fewer buyers in the market means you’ll likely have more time to make thoughtful decisions. It also means you may have more negotiating power. According to the Alabama Association of Realtors, a significant benefit of buying a home in winter is the reduced competition. Because of the perceived benefits of Spring, many buyers delay the start of their house hunt. As a result, you will find fewer people competing for the same properties during winter. Less demand can translate into more negotiating power as sellers may be more willing to entertain offers or agree to concessions to get a deal closed quickly.
- More Negotiating Power
With homes staying on the market longer, sellers may be more willing to negotiate. This can lead to better deals for you as a buyer, whether that means a lower price or added incentives, like sellers covering closing costs or making repairs. As Chen Zhao, an Economist at Redfin, points out:
“. . . buying during the off season means less competition from other buyers. That means potentially negotiating a better deal.”
Plus, when demand is lower, sellers often feel more pressure to work with serious buyers. This could give you an edge to negotiate terms that work best for your situation.
- Lock in Today’s Prices Before They Rise
Historically, home prices tend to be at their lowest point in the winter months, too. According to data from NAR, home prices last year were at their lowest in January, February & March — right before the Spring buying season kicked in.
This trend isn’t new — Bright MLS shows between 2010 & 2024, home prices in January & February were, on average, 15% lower than during the month of peak home prices (typically June). Buying in the off-season means you’re more likely to avoid paying the premium prices that come with the high demand of Spring.
On top of that, home prices generally appreciate over time, meaning they tend to go up year after year. That means if you’re ready to buy & you can make it happen, you’re not only taking advantage of what might be the lowest prices of the year, but you’re also locking in today’s price before it increases in the future.
While Spring may seem like the obvious time to buy, moving before the peak season can give you significant advantages, like less competition, more negotiation power & lower prices.
If you’re ready to explore your options, call Karen Daugerdas, Coldwell Banker Real Estate Broker, your local family agent at 847.494.1102. She’s here to help.
Energy usage going up? Try these tips …
Are you avoiding the winter weather and enjoying a cozy night in instead? It’s likely your energy usage is going up while staying warm inside and bingeing the new season of your favorite TV show, according to ComEd. And you’re not alone – the winter months can cause increases in your electric usage, which can impact your energy costs. Seasonal items like space heaters & dehumidifiers can increase your energy use, as can extra lighting to ward off those dark afternoons.
While it might feel like there’s no end in sight for those dark days and chilly temps, ComEd says you can help you cut back on your energy usage without curbing your binge-watching habits with these easy-to-follow tips:
- Clean or replace air filters– Heating and cooling consumes up to 50% of total home energy use in an average household. Dirty air filters make your furnace work harder to circulate air. By cleaning or replacing your filters, you can lower your heating and cooling system energy use by up to 15%.
- Insulate outlets and light switches– Outlets and light switches on the walls that separate your home from the outdoors are often overlooked sources of heating or cooling loss. Insulating these areas can reduce drafts and keep your home more comfortable.
- Clear areas around heating and cooling vents– Furniture, carpets and other objects can block vents and prevent heated or cooled air from traveling. This blockage makes your heating system work harder and prevents rooms from warming up quickly.
- Open your shades on winter days for natural light and warmth–Taking advantage of winter sunlight can help make a dent in your heating costs. Open blinds during the day to provide natural lighting and capture free heat.
- Unplug electronics when they’re not in use–Many gadgets, including televisions, DVR boxes, game consoles and computers, continue to use power even when they are off, so unplug electronics when you don’t need them. For convenience, plug devices into a power strip and turn it off.
This season, ComEd’s Energy Doctors remind customers of the following tips:
- When the sun is shining, open shades on south-facing windows and take advantage of natural light for warmth. Close the shades during the night to help insulate your home.
- Set your thermostat to as low a temperature as possible to maintain personal comfort. The smaller the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your overall heating bill will be. Overnight, you can also save by turning your thermostat down a few degrees while sleeping.
- Clear area around heating and cooling vents. Furniture, carpets, and other objects can block vents and prevent heated air from circulating in your home.
Information courtesy of Commonwealth Edison, www.comed.com.
Karen Daugerdas, Coldwell Banker Real Estate Broker, 847.494.1102.
What is the #1 Reason People Decide to Move?
Why do people move? If you’re looking for the Number One reason, it may surprise you to know that the National Association of Realtors (NAR) surveys say that the desire to be near family and friends is the number one reason people decide to make a change.
But what are the benefits of moving closer to family?
The desire to live near family and friends affects all types of homebuyers and demographics. While first-time buyers may prioritize affordability and location, many repeat buyers are increasingly focusing on emotional connections and personal relationships.
One noteworthy demographic in this trend is Baby Boomers. Many from this generation have built significant equity in their homes, giving them the flexibility to make choices that prioritize family connections.
Making the decision to move closer to family and friends is not just about goodwill. It brings a whole range of advantages that can enrich your daily life.
With proximity comes the ability to share everyday moments, whether it’s joining family for dinner, attending weekend activities, or simply having a friendly chat next door. The result? Stronger bonds and happier lives.
Living nearby also allows for practical exchanges, whether it’s childcare, borrowing tools for home improvement, or other household necessities. This sense of community can alleviate burden and enhance efficiency in daily tasks.
Moving closer means less driving, too. You can enjoy spontaneous visits, enhancing your quality of life and making it easier to respond to life’s surprises and emergencies.
The emotional support provided by nearby loved ones can make a huge difference during significant milestones and challenging times. Having family nearby fosters a sense of connection and care whether you’re celebrating graduations or lending a hand during tough times.
If you’re contemplating a change, reach out to me at 847.494.1102 or karen.daugerdas@cbrealty.com. I can provide insights into neighborhoods that will bring you closer to the things and people you value most.
Recap of 2024 Buyers, Sellers & the Real Estate Market
2024 was a very challenging year for real estate. The market was frozen, we had low inventory, high prices & high interest rates.
However, the 2nd half of this year began to turn around, although slightly. We saw a little more inventory & interest rates began to loosen.
Where people were “locked” into their existing, low interest rates on the home that they owned, they now have life changes, like retirement, divorce, children being added to or leaving the family, job changes, all of which contribute to home inventory loosening, because people have to move.
Think about it. One year ago we had 8 percent mortgage interest rate. But why didn’t the rates go down when the federal reserve cut the rate?
Well, the Federal Reserve does not control mortgage rates. What was affected by their cut was the rates on your credit cards & the interest you pay, as well as the rates paid on your savings, on what you earn.
We anticipate mortgage interest rates declining slightly next year, maybe to 6 percent. Unfortunately, we also see home prices at the beginning of 2025 staying at the same level or increasing. If you’re considering a move, a purchase or an investment, now may be the time! Contact Karen Daugerdas, Coldwell Banker Real Estate Broker, Pricing Strategy Advisor, Short Sale/Foreclosure Resource, Accredited Buyers’ Representative & Seniors’ Real Estate Specialist for market information & a complimentary home evaluation at 847.494.1102.
Navigating the Uncertain Fall Real Estate Market
The real estate market can often feel like a rollercoaster ride, with its ups & downs creating uncertainty for both buyers & sellers. If you’re feeling anxious about the current market conditions, you’re not alone. Many are grappling with questions about whether it’s the right time to buy or sell.
First of all, we need to understand the factors contributing to the current uncertainty in the real estate market:
- Interest Rates: Fluctuating interest rates can significantly impact mortgage affordability for buyers & the overall market dynamics. As rates rise, monthly payments increase, which can deter potential buyers & slow down sales.
- Economic Indicators: Inflation, job growth, the election & consumer confidence all play a role in shaping the real estate market. A strong job market can lead to increased demand for housing, while economic downturns can have the opposite effect.
- Supply & Demand: Inventory levels & buyer demand can vary widely by location, affecting pricing & competition. In some areas, a lack of available homes can drive prices up, while in others, an oversupply can lead to price reductions.
- Market Sentiment: Public perception of the market can influence buyer & seller behavior. If people believe the market is declining, they may hesitate to buy or sell, further contributing to market stagnation.
Common Fears for Buyers & Sellers
- Fear of Overpaying: Buyers worry about purchasing a home at a peak price, especially in a volatile market. This fear can lead to hesitation & missed opportunities.
- Fear of Selling Low: Sellers may be concerned about selling their property for less than its value, especially if they need to move quickly. This fear can result in homes being kept off the market longer than necessary.
- Fear of Missing Out: Both buyers & sellers may feel pressured to make decisions quickly, fearing they’ll miss out on opportunities. This can lead to rushed decisions that may not align with their long-term goals.
- Fear of Market Timing: Many buyers & sellers worry about timing the market perfectly. The truth is, no one can predict market fluctuations with certainty, & waiting for the “perfect” moment can lead to missed opportunities.
Tips for Buyers
- Do Your Research: Stay informed about local market trends. Look at recent sales in your desired area to gauge fair pricing. Your agent can provide valuable insights.
- Get Pre-Approved: Securing a mortgage pre-approval can give you a competitive edge & help you understand your budget. It shows sellers you’re a serious buyer & can expedite the purchasing process.
- Be Patient: Don’t rush into a purchase. Take your time to find a home that meets your needs & feels right for you. Consider making a list of must-haves versus nice-to-haves to help narrow your search.
- Consider Long-Term Value: Focus on properties that have the potential for appreciation over time, rather than just short-term gains. Look for homes in desirable neighborhoods with good schools, amenities, & future development plans.
- Explore Alternative Financing Options: If traditional financing seems daunting, consider exploring alternative options like FHA loans, VA loans, or even down payment assistance programs that may be available in your area.
Tips for Sellers
- Price Strategically: Work with your knowledgeable real estate agent to set a competitive price based on current market conditions & comparable sales. Overpricing can lead to extended time on the market, while underpricing can leave money on the table.
- Enhance Curb Appeal: Invest in minor renovations or staging to make your home more attractive to potential buyers. Simple improvements like landscaping, fresh paint, & decluttering can make a significant difference.
- Be Flexible: Consider flexible terms, such as closing dates, including appliances or offering a Home Warranty to make your property more appealing. Being open to negotiations can help you stand out in a competitive market.
- Market Effectively: What is your agent’s marketing plan? Make certain your agent utilizes digital marketing strategies to reach a broader audience, including social media & virtual tours. High-quality photos & engaging descriptions can attract more potential buyers.
- Prepare for Inspections: Be proactive by addressing any potential issues before listing your home. Conducting a pre-inspection can help you identify & fix problems that could deter buyers.
The Importance of Working with a Professional
In uncertain times, having a trusted real estate agent like Karen Daugerdas can make all the difference. She can provide valuable insights, help you navigate negotiations, & ensure you’re making informed decisions. Reach out to her at 847.494.1102 or karen.daugerdas@cbrealty.com with any questions.
Lower Mortgage Interest Rates Can Increase Home Buying Power
Buying a home is one of the most significant financial decisions many people make in their lives. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or looking to upgrade, one of the most critical factors influencing your purchasing power is the mortgage interest rate. When mortgage interest rates drop, it can substantially increase your ability to buy a home. Let’s break down how lower mortgage interest rates can enhance your buying power and what it means for you as a potential homeowner.
1. Lower Monthly Payments
One of the most immediate benefits of a lower mortgage interest rate is the reduction in monthly payments. The interest rate on your mortgage determines how much extra you’ll pay each month in addition to the principal loan amount. When the rate is lower, a larger portion of your monthly payment goes toward paying off the loan’s principal, and less goes toward interest. This means you can either save on monthly expenses or afford a larger mortgage while keeping your payment at a manageable level.
Example:
Let’s say you’re looking to buy a home priced at $400,000. With a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage at a 5% interest rate, your monthly mortgage payment would be approximately $2,147 (excluding taxes and insurance). However, if the rate drops to 3%, your monthly payment falls to about $1,686—a savings of over $460 per month! That’s significant and can free up cash for other expenses or savings.
2. Increase in Purchasing Power
Lower interest rates don’t just reduce your monthly payments—they also increase your overall buying power. Essentially, with a lower interest rate, you can afford a more expensive home without increasing your monthly mortgage payment. For example, if you could afford a $400,000 home at a 5% interest rate, you might be able to afford a home closer to $470,000 at a 3% rate with the same monthly payment. This could mean getting more space, moving to a more desirable neighborhood, or even securing features you thought were out of reach.
Example:
If you’re approved for a $2,000 monthly mortgage payment at a 5% interest rate, you’d be able to afford a home around $375,000. But if the rate drops to 3%, that same $2,000 monthly payment could stretch to cover a $470,000 home. A lower interest rate has essentially given you more financial flexibility.
3. Pay Off Your Loan Faster
For those focused on building equity and paying off their homes more quickly, lower interest rates provide an opportunity to shorten your loan term without drastically increasing your monthly payment. You could potentially switch from a 30-year mortgage to a 15-year mortgage and pay off your home much faster. Even though your monthly payments may increase slightly with a shorter loan term, lower interest rates minimize the cost difference and allow you to build equity more rapidly.
Example:
With a $300,000 mortgage at 5% over 30 years, your monthly payment is about $1,610. If rates drop to 3% and you refinance to a 15-year mortgage, your new payment might be around $2,071. While the payment increases slightly, you would save tens of thousands of dollars in interest over the life of the loan and pay off your home in half the time.
4. Afford More Home in a Competitive Market
In a competitive housing market, buyers often face bidding wars, and lower interest rates can be a game-changer in those scenarios. With increased buying power, you can stay competitive by bidding higher while keeping your mortgage affordable. This flexibility can help you stand out in a crowded market where homes are selling quickly, and price is often the deciding factor.
5. More Financial Security and Flexibility
Lower interest rates don’t just affect your mortgage—they can have a broader impact on your overall financial health. By reducing your housing expenses, lower interest rates free up money that can be used for other financial goals like saving for retirement, investing, or creating an emergency fund. This additional financial cushion can provide peace of mind, knowing that you’re not stretching your budget too thin.
Conclusion
The lowering of mortgage interest rates offers a tremendous opportunity to increase your buying power. By reducing monthly payments, allowing you to afford a more expensive home, and potentially shortening your loan term, lower rates can dramatically improve your financial position as a homebuyer. Whether you’re entering the housing market for the first time or considering a move, it’s essential to keep an eye on interest rates, as they can be the key to unlocking a better home within your budget.
If you’re thinking about buying a home or refinancing, now might be the perfect time to take advantage of low interest rates and increase your buying power.
Have real estate questions? I have answers! Call Karen Daugerdas, Coldwell Banker Real Estate Broker, Pricing Advisor, Senior’s Specialist & Accredited Buyer’s Representative at 847.494.1102.
