Potential capital gains tax changes discussions in Washington are a topic that homeowners—particularly longtime homeowners—may want to keep an eye on. The Trump administration is reportedly considering changes to the way capital gains are treated when someone sells a primary residence. Among the ideas being discussed are increasing the amount of home-sale profit that can
How much money do you need to buy a house? This is one of the questions I hear most often! “Lise, how much money do you need to buy a home?” After helping buyers throughout Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Montgomery County, Washington, DC, and the surrounding area for nearly four decades, I can tell you this
The crystal ball prediction guaranteed to surprise is the statement by the National Association of Realtors’ Chief Economist, Lawrence Yun, that the national median home price could reach $1 million by the year 2050. At first glance, that number sounds unbelievable. But consider this: in 1990, the national median home price was only about $90,000.
What Today’s Housing Market Means for First-Time Buyers and Homeowners Watching the Market If you’ve been wondering whether it’s finally becoming easier to buy a home, there are some encouraging signs in the latest housing market data. One of the biggest developments is that first-time homebuyers now make up 35% of all buyers, the highest
How the Government Shutdown Could Impact Mortgages, Rates, and Flood Insurance Homebuyers and homeowners concerned about the government shutdown can take some comfort — many key mortgage programs remain operational. Mortgage lending continues for most borrowersFannie Mae and Freddie Mac have announced temporary policies to support borrowers whose income or employment is affected by the
The transfer of wealth by boomers in the next two decade represents a change in the economy that will reshape financial markets, housing, and businesses. Alongside cherished family stories and sentimental keepsakes, older generations are set to pass down an astonishing $84 trillion—the largest wealth transfer in history. A fortune in the Marking Baby boomers
Rising homeowner insurance costs are occuring due to several interconnected factors, many of which reflect broader economic and environmental trends. Here are some key components of those rising costs.
When you should refinance is a big question on the minds of many homeowners now that rates have started to move downward. How do you know when is the right time for you to start the paperwork? Should you wait a few months or start the process now? With the current talk about interest rates dropping refinancing a mortgage can be a smart financial move, but the timing and circumstances need to be right. Here’s a breakdown of the best time to refinance, things to consider, and how your home equity impacts the process:
Investments in mid-term rentals can be an attractive addition to your financial portfolio. The mid-term rental market is booming! In 2023, nights sold for 30+ day bookings in the U.S. increased year over year by 94%. This rise is driven by a growing demographic of digital nomads, remote workers, and students, all seeking flexible housing solutions.
Mandatory radon testing for MOCO rentals is here. On November 1, 2022, the County Council passed a new bill, 26-22, which mandates radon testing for all rental properties on the ground floor, first or second floors. Unlike the residential resale provision which is limited to single family homes, this statue applies to single family homes and multifamily homes. (It still has an exemption for condos and coops, even if they are townhomes.)