Debra Burke’s Post

When it comes to the current housing market, there are some myths circling around right now. Some of the more common ones are that it’s better to wait for mortgage rates to fall or prices to crash. But there are others about the supply of homes for sale and down payments. Let’s connect so you have an expert to help separate fact from fiction in today’s housing market. #realestatetipsoftheday If you are thinking about moving, buying, selling or investing, Let's talk! 717-823-8488

Over the past year or so, a lot of people have been talking about how tough it is to buy a home. And while there’s no arguing affordability is still tight, there are signs it’s starting to get a bit better and may improve even more throughout the year. 1. Mortgage Rates Despite the recent volatility, rates are still lower than they were last fall when they reached nearly 8%. On top of that, most experts still think they’ll come down some over the course of the year. Any drop in rates can make a difference for you. When rates go... #realestatenews #realestateagent If you are thinking about moving, buying, selling or investing, Let's talk! 717-823-8488

You may have seen reports in the news recently saying it’s more affordable to rent right now than it is to buy a home. How Equity Changes the Game If you rent, your monthly rental payments only go toward covering your housing costs and your landlord’s expenses. So other than saving a bit more per month and maybe getting your rental deposit back when you move, the money you spent on housing each month is gone – forever. When you buy, your monthly mortgage payment pays for your shelter, but it also acts as an investment. That... #firsttimehomebuyer #opportunity If you are thinking about moving, buying, selling or investing, Let's talk! 717-823-8488

If you’ve got a move on your mind, you may be wondering whether you should wait to sell until mortgage rates come down before you spring into action. Here’s some information that could help answer that question for you. In the housing market, there’s a longstanding relationship between mortgage rates and buyer demand. Typically, the higher rates are, you’ll see lower buyer demand. That’s because some people who want to move will be hesitant to take on a higher mortgage rate for their next home. So, they decide to wait it out and put... #housingmarket #sellyourhouse If you are thinking about moving, buying, selling or investing, Let's talk! 717-823-8488

Have you been saving up to buy a home this year? If so, you know there are a number of expenses involved – from your down payment to closing costs. But did you also know your tax refund can help you pay for some of these expenses? While how much money you may get in a tax refund is going to vary, it can be encouraging to have a general idea of what’s possible. But if you do get a refund, here are a few examples of how you can use it when buying a home. According to Freddie Mac: • Saving for a down payment – One of the biggest barriers... #housegoals #starterhome If you are thinking about moving, buying, selling or investing, Let's talk! 717-823-8488

If you’re about to retire, or just did, downsizing can be a good way to try to cut down on some of your expenses. Smaller homes typically have lower energy and maintenance costs. Plus, you may have enough equity built up to fuel your move. If you're thinking about moving to a smaller home, let’s go over your goals and look at your options in our local market. #downsizing #emptynest If you are thinking about moving, buying, selling or investing, Let's talk! 717-823-8488

There’s no arguing it, affordability is still tight. And if you’re trying to buy a home, that may mean you need to look at smaller houses to find one that’s still in your budget. But there is a silver lining: builders are focused on building these smaller homes right now and they’re offering incentives. And that can help give you more options that fit the bill. Newly Built Homes Are Trending Smaller During the pandemic, homebuyers wanted (and could afford) larger homes – and builders delivered. They focused on homes that were... #firsttimehomebuyer #starterhome If you are thinking about moving, buying, selling or investing, Let's talk! 717-823-8488

When mortgage rates spiked up over the last few years, some homeowners put their plans to move on pause. Maybe you did too because you didn’t want to sell and take on a higher mortgage rate for your next home. But is that still the right strategy for you? In today’s market, data shows more homeowners are getting used to where rates are and thinking it may be time to move. What Would Motivate You To Move? Now that you know why other people would move, take a minute to think about what would make a move worth it for you. Is it time... #expertanswers #stayinformed If you are thinking about moving, buying, selling or investing, Let's talk! 717-823-8488

You may have heard headlines in the news lately about agents in the real estate industry and discussions about their commissions. And if you’re following along, it can be pretty confusing. But here’s the thing you really need to know – expert advice from a trusted real estate agent is priceless, now more than ever. And here’s why. A real estate agent does a lot more than you may realize. 1. Deliver Industry Experience The right agent – the professional – will coach you through everything from start to finish. 2. Provide Expert Local... #realestate #homeownership If you are thinking about moving, buying, selling or investing, Let's talk! 717-823-8488

If you have student loans and want to buy a home, you might have questions about how your debt affects your plans. Do you have to wait until you’ve paid off those loans before you can buy your first home? Or is it possible you could still qualify for a home loan even with that debt? Here’s a look at the latest information so you have the answers you need. A Bankrate article explains: “Roughly 60 percent of U.S. adults who have held student loan debt have put off making important financial decisions due to that debt . . . For Gen Z and... #firsttimehomebuyer #homegoals If you are thinking about moving, buying, selling or investing, Let's talk! 717-823-8488