Have you heard the term “Silver Tsunami” getting tossed around recently? If so, here’s what you really need to know. That phrase refers to the idea that a lot of baby boomers are going to move or downsize all at once. And the fear is that a sudden influx of homes for sale would have a big impact on housing. That’s because it would create a whole lot more competition for smaller homes and would throw off the balance of supply and demand, which ultimately would impact home prices. But here’s the thing. There are a couple of faults in that logic. Let’s break them down and put your mind at ease....
If you’re taking a look at your expenses as you retire, saving money where you can has a lot of appeal. One long-standing, popular way to do that is by downsizing to a smaller home.When you think about cutting down on your spending, odds are you think of frequent purchases, like groceries and other goods. But when you downsize your house, you often end up downsizing the bills that come with it, like your mortgage payment, energy costs, and maintenance requirements. Realtor.com shares:“A smaller home typically means lower bills and less upkeep. Then there’s the potential windfall that comes from...
Have you ever heard the term “Silver Tsunami” and wondered what it’s all about? If so, that might be because there’s been lot of talk about it online recently. Let’s dive into what it is and why it won’t drastically impact the housing market.What Does Silver Tsunami Mean?A recent article from HousingWire calls it:“. . . a colloquialism referring to aging Americans changing their housing arrangements to accommodate aging . . .”The thought is that as baby boomers grow older, a significant number will start downsizing their homes. Considering how large that generation is, if these...
If you’re thinking about retirement or have already retired this year, it’s a good time to consider if your current house is still a good fit for the next chapter in your life.Fortunately, you may be in a better position to make a move than you realize. Here are a few things to think about as you decide whether or not to sell and make a move.How Long You’ve Been in Your HomeFrom 1985 to 2008, the average length of time homeowners typically stayed in their homes was only six years. But according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), that number is rising today, meaning many homeowners...
Does the rising cost of just about everything these days make your dream of owning your own home feel less within reach? According to Bankrate, many people are seeking additional income through side hustles, possibly to cope with those increasing expenses and save for a home. This trend is particularly popular with younger individuals who may be dealing with student loan debt (see graph below): Here are two strategies that can not only make homeownership more affordable in the short term, but turn it into a lucrative side hustle that can pay off down the road.Transforming the Challenge of a...
Everyone has their own idea of the American Dream, and it’s different for each person. But, in a recent survey by Bankrate, people were asked about the achievements they believe represent the American Dream the most. The answers show that owning a home still claims the #1 spot for many Americans today (see graph below): In fact, according to the graph, owning a home is more important to people than retiring, having a successful career, or even getting a college degree. But is the dream of homeownership still alive for younger generations?A recent survey by 1000watt dives into how the two...
Life is a journey filled with unexpected twists and turns, like the excitement of welcoming a new addition, retiring and starting a new adventure, or the bittersweet feeling of an empty nest. If something like this is changing in your own life, you may be considering buying or selling a house. That’s because through all these life-altering events, there is one common thread—the need to move.Reasons People Still Need To Move TodayAccording to the National Association of Realtors (NAR) there have been a lot of this type of milestone or life change over the last two years (see graph below): And,...
For more than 79 years, Veterans Affairs (VA) home loans have helped millions of veterans buy their own homes. If you or someone you care about has served in the military, it’s essential to learn about this program and its advantages.Here are some important things to know about VA loans before you buy a home.The Many Advantages of VA Home LoansVA home loans provide a pathway to homeownership for those who have served our nation, and they’re a great benefit for buyers who qualify. According to the Department of Veteran Affairs:Options for No Down Payment: Qualified borrowers can often purchase...
Some HighlightsIf you’re ready to buy a home but are having a hard time affording it on your own, or, if you have aging loved ones you need to care for, you might want to consider a multi-generational home.Living with siblings, parents, and even grandparents can help you save money, give or receive childcare, and spend quality time together.Talk to a local real estate agent to find a home in our area that’s perfect for you and your loved one’s needs.
Maybe you’re in the market for a home and are having a hard time finding the right one that fits your budget. Or perhaps you’re already a homeowner in need of extra income or a place for loved ones. Whether as a potential homebuyer or a homeowner with changing needs, accessory dwelling units, or ADUs for short, may be able to help you reach your goals.What Is an ADU?As AARP says:“An ADU is a small residence that shares a single-family lot with a larger, primary dwelling.”“An ADU is an independent, self-contained living space with a kitchen or kitchenette, bathroom and sleeping area.” “An ADU...