Author: Henry Chu at Golden Gate Sotheby's International Realty

What You Need To Know About Today’s Down Payment Programs

Buying Tips / First-Time Buyers / For Buyers

What You Need To Know About Today’s Down Payment Programs

There’s no denying it’s gotten more challenging to buy a home, especially with today’s mortgage rates and home price appreciation. And that may be one of the big reasons you’re eager to look into grants and assistance programs to see if there’s anything you qualify for that can help. But...

Real Estate Is Still the Best Long-Term Investment [INFOGRAPHIC]

Equity / For Buyers / Infographics / Rent vs. Buy

Real Estate Is Still the Best Long-Term Investment [INFOGRAPHIC]

Some Highlights According to a recent poll from Gallup, real estate has been voted the best long-term investment for twelve straight years. That’s because a home is so much more just than a roof over your head. It’s also an asset that typically grows in value over time.  If you’ve...

Home Prices Aren’t Declining, But Headlines Might Make You Think They Are

For Buyers / For Sellers / Home Prices

Home Prices Aren’t Declining, But Headlines Might Make You Think They Are

If you’ve seen the news lately about home sellers slashing prices, it’s a great example of how headlines do more to terrify than clarify. Here’s what’s really happening with prices. The bottom line is home prices are higher than they were a year ago at this time, and they’re expected...

Selling Smart: Why a Real Estate Agent Makes All the Difference

For Sale by Owner / For Sellers / Selling Tips

Selling Smart: Why a Real Estate Agent Makes All the Difference

If you’re considering selling your house on your own as a “For Sale by Owner” (FSBO), you want to think about if it’s really worth the extra stress. Going this route means shouldering a lot of responsibilities by yourself – and, if you’re not an expert, that opens the door...

The Wealth-Building Power of Homeownership [INFOGRAPHIC]

Equity / First-Time Buyers / For Buyers / Infographics

The Wealth-Building Power of Homeownership [INFOGRAPHIC]

Some Highlights If you’re trying to decide if buying a home is worth it, consider the long-term benefits, like building equity as home values grow over time. According to the FHFA, home values have increased by 315.7% since 1991. Home equity is one reason owning your own place can really pay off in the...