Unbridled Homes

Spring Into Your Dream Home

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 19:57:36 GMT

Why Spring is the Perfect Time to Start Your Custom Build

As the days get longer, the weather warms up, and the flowers begin to bloom, there’s no better time to start planning for your dream home than in the spring. Just as the season represents new beginnings and fresh starts, it’s the ideal moment to turn your vision of a custom home into a reality. Whether you’ve been dreaming of a spacious open-concept living room, a gourmet kitchen, or a serene backyard oasis, now is the time to get the ball rolling.

Spring isn’t just about the weather; it’s about new opportunities, growth, and setting the stage for something truly special. Here are some reasons why you should take advantage of this season to begin your custom home journey:

1. Perfect Weather for Construction

Spring’s mild temperatures and clear skies create the ideal environment for construction. Unlike the scorching summer heat or unpredictable winter snowstorms, spring offers moderate weather that helps keep your build on track. Your builders will be able to work efficiently, moving from one phase to the next without major weather-related delays. Plus, the cooler temperatures make working on-site more comfortable for everyone involved.

2. Longer Days = More Build Time

As spring progresses, the days get longer, which means more daylight hours for construction. Longer days mean more time for builders to get more done, keeping your project moving at a steady pace. The extra hours of sunlight will allow for faster progress and could even help you move into your new home sooner.

3. Secure the Best Contractors and Materials

Spring kicks off the busy construction season, which means contractors are ramping up for new projects. By starting your custom home build now, you’ll have access to the best professionals in the industry—designers, vendors, and tradespeople who are eager to work on new homes. Additionally, because it's the beginning of the building season, you'll likely be able to secure materials at competitive prices before demand drives up costs later in the year.

4. Settle In Before Winter

Imagine moving into your brand-new home just in time for the cozy fall season or the upcoming winter months. Starting your build in spring allows you to have your custom home ready to go well before the colder weather arrives. This way, you can enjoy a warm, comfortable space with all the comforts you’ve dreamed of, and you’ll be settled in just as the snow begins to fall.

It’s Time to Make Your Dream Home a Reality!

Spring symbolizes renewal, growth, and fresh starts. It’s the perfect season to begin building your custom home, so you can enjoy a finished product by the time summer rolls around. Don’t let the months slip by—now is the ideal time to take that first step toward your dream home.

At Unbridled Homes , we’re excited to help you create a home that perfectly fits your lifestyle and vision. From initial concept to final touches, we’re with you every step of the way. Ready to start building your dream home this spring? Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward making your dream a reality!

Let’s bring your custom home vision to life—starting now. ��

Hosting Thanksgiving

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 15:13:37 GMT

8 Home Maintenance Tips for Turkey Day

Hosting Thanksgiving dinner is no small feat, no matter how many guests you might invite. We want you to enjoy the festivities, and not spend your holiday worrying. With that in mind, we put together a list of 8 essential home maintenance tips to help you prepare your space for a memorable Thanksgiving celebration.

1. Check Your Heating System

With cooler temperatures setting in, make sure your heating system is in good working order. Schedule a maintenance check for your furnace or heating system to ensure it’s operating efficiently. Change the filters and test your thermostat.

2. Inspect Your Plumbing

With more people in your home, your plumbing will be working overtime. Check for any leaks, running toilets, or slow drains. Clear any clogs and ensure your sinks and bathrooms are ready for extra use. It’s also a good idea to have a plunger handy, just in case!

3. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Safety is paramount, especially when cooking for an army. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re functioning properly. Replace batteries if needed, and consider installing additional detectors in key areas of your home for added safety.

4. Prepare Your Kitchen Appliances

Give your kitchen appliances a quick check-up. Clean your oven and stovetop to avoid unwanted smoke and odors. Ensure your refrigerator is at the right temperature and that it has enough space for all those Thanksgiving leftovers. Don’t forget to check the dishwasher, as it will likely be working hard after the big meal!

5. Declutter and Clean

A clean, clutter-free home is welcoming and enjoyable for guests. Take some time to declutter common areas, particularly the living and dining spaces. Dust surfaces, vacuum carpets, and mop floors to create a tidy environment that reflects your hospitality.

6. Check Lighting

Proper lighting sets the mood for your Thanksgiving celebration. Test all light fixtures and replace any burnt-out bulbs. Consider adding soft lighting options, such as candles or string lights, to create a cozy atmosphere for your dinner.

7. Prepare Outdoor Spaces

If you have outdoor areas, make sure they’re ready for any guests who may want to get some fresh air. Sweep patios, clear walkways of debris, and ensure outdoor lighting is functional. A welcoming outdoor space can be a great place for guests to gather before or after dinner, or to just escape from some uncomfortable political talk.

8. Secure Safety Measures

With more foot traffic in your home, ensure safety measures are in place. Secure area rugs to prevent slips, and make sure stairways are well-lit and free from clutter. If you have pets, consider setting up a safe and comfortable designated area for them to stay during the event.

By taking these home maintenance steps, you can create a warm, inviting atmosphere for your Thanksgiving gathering. A well-prepared home not only enhances your celebration but also allows you to focus on what truly matters—spending quality time with loved ones.

Wishing you a joyful and stress-free Thanksgiving from all of us at Unbridled Homes. May your home be filled with warmth, laughter, and gratitude this season.

Halloween at Home

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 20:10:08 GMT

5 Tips for a Spooktacular Halloween

As Halloween approaches, it’s time to get your home ready for trick-or-treaters! Here are a few festive tips to help you create a fun and safe atmosphere for handing out candy:

1) Create an Inviting Entrance

Make your home stand out with festive decorations! Use lights, pumpkins, and spooky decor to create an inviting atmosphere. A well-decorated entryway should not only attract trick-or-treaters, but also showcases the beautiful features of your home’s exterior.

2) Set Up a Treat Station

Consider setting up a designated treat station at your front door. Use a table or a decorative bowl to display treats in an organized way. This not only makes it easier for kids to grab their goodies, but also keeps your entryway tidy.

3) Practice Safety First

Ensure that your walkway is well-lit and free of obstacles. Now’s the time to put your outdoor lighting features to good use! It might be tempting to keep things dark and spooky, but a safely lit path helps prevent accidents and allows everyone to enjoy the festivities.

4) Offer a Variety of Treats

Cater to all tastes by offering a mix of treats—chocolates, gummies, and even non-candy options like stickers or temporary tattoos. Avoid potential allergens like candies with nuts. The variety will delight the children, and the allergy caution and candy alternatives will keep parents happy too.

5) Engage with Your Neighbors

Halloween is a great opportunity to connect with your community! Consider coordinating with neighbors for a “trick-or-treat street” collaboration. This can create a fun environment and encourage more families to visit your area.

We hope these tips help you create a memorable Halloween experience for you and your trick-or-treaters! If you’re looking for ways to enhance your home for future holidays, let us know. We’ll release more tips like these.

Happy Halloween from all of us at Unbridled Homes!

Enjoying Summer at Home

ryan@unbridledhomes.com (Ryan Band) — Wed, 03 Jul 2024 15:17:33 GMT

Essential Grill Safety Tips

Summer is here! There's nothing quite like firing up the grill and enjoying delicious meals outdoors with family and friends. At Unbridled Homes, we want you to have fun at home and stay safe doing it! That's why we're sharing some essential summer grill safety tips to ensure your outdoor cooking experiences are as safe as they are enjoyable:

1. Location, Location, Location

Where you place your grill matters more than you might think. Always ensure your grill is placed well away from your home's siding, deck railings, and overhanging branches. This prevents accidental fires and keeps the heat away from any potentially flammable materials.

2. Keep it Clean

Regular cleaning isn't just for hygiene—it's also crucial for safety. Grease buildup is a common cause of flare-ups that can quickly escalate. Make it a habit to clean your grill thoroughly after each use, removing grease and food debris from both the grates and the drip trays.

3. Check for Leaks

If you use a gas grill, inspect the gas tank and hose for leaks regularly. A simple mixture of soap and water can help you identify any leaks—apply it to the hose and connections, then open the valve briefly. If bubbles appear, you have a leak that needs to be addressed immediately!

4. Stay Attentive

It's easy to get caught up in conversation or activities while grilling, but it's crucial to remain attentive. Never leave your grill unattended while it's in use. Fires can start quickly. Staying nearby and keeping a constant lookout allows you to react swiftly when needed.

5. Dress Appropriately

When grilling, choose clothing that doesn't drape over the grill and that won't easily catch fire. Long aprons and loose sleeves can be hazardous around open flames, so opt for short sleeves and close-fitting clothing when you're the designated grillmaster.

6. Have a Plan

Accidents can happen even with the best precautions. Make sure you have a fire extinguisher nearby and know how to use it. A bucket of sand can also be effective for smothering small flare-ups.

7. Keep Kids and Pets at a Distance

Children and pets are naturally curious. Establish a safe zone around the grill where kids and pets know not to venture. This prevents accidental burns and reduces the risk of knocking over the grill.

8. Properly Store Propane Tanks

Store propane tanks outdoors in an upright position and away from any heat sources. Never store them indoors, in a garage, or in any enclosed spaces. This can lead to gas buildup and potential explosions.

9. Allow for Ventilation

If you're grilling in an enclosed space like a covered patio, ensure proper ventilation to prevent the buildup of carbon monoxide. Cooking produces this colorless, odorless gas, which can be deadly in high concentrations.

10. Follow Manufacturer's Guidelines

Lastly, always follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific grill model. They provide valuable information on setup, use, and maintenance that can enhance both safety and performance.

At Unbridled Homes, your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy a summer filled with delicious grilled meals and peace of mind. If you have any questions about outdoor living spaces or need further advice on maintaining your custom-built home, don't hesitate to reach out. Here's to a safe and enjoyable summer!

10 Essential Spring Maintenance Tips

ryan@unbridledhomes.com (Ryan Band) — Wed, 20 Mar 2024 20:20:22 GMT

As winter bids farewell and spring knocks on our doors, it's time to shake off the cold and embrace the renewal that this season brings. Spring isn't just about flowers blooming and birds chirping; it's also the perfect time to give your home some much-needed attention. At Unbridled Homes, we understand the importance of proper home maintenance, especially as the seasons change. Here are some essential tips to help you prepare your home for the arrival of spring:

Inspect Your Roof and Gutters: Winter weather can be tough on your roof. Start by inspecting it for any signs of damage, such as missing or damaged shingles. Clear out your gutters and downspouts of any debris to ensure proper drainage during spring rains.
Check Your Exterior for Damage: Take a walk around your home to inspect the exterior for any cracks, gaps, or damage caused by winter weather. Seal any cracks in the foundation. Caulk around windows and doors to prevent drafts and moisture intrusion.
Service Your HVAC System: Before the heat of summer arrives, schedule a professional HVAC inspection and service. Change air filters, clean vents, and ensure that your system is running efficiently to keep your home comfortable throughout the warmer months.
Clean and Maintain Outdoor Spaces: Give your outdoor spaces some TLC by cleaning and inspecting decks, patios, and walkways. Power wash surfaces to remove dirt and grime, and inspect for any signs of damage that may need repair.
Prep Your Lawn and Garden : Spring is the perfect time to get your lawn and garden ready for the growing season. Remove any debris, aerate the soil, and apply fertilizer to promote healthy growth. Trim back overgrown bushes and trees, and prune flowering plants to encourage new blooms.
Test Your Sprinkler System: If you have an automatic sprinkler system, now is the time to test it and make any necessary repairs or adjustments. Ensure that sprinkler heads are working properly and adjust the watering schedule as needed based on seasonal changes.
Inspect Outdoor Lighting: With longer days and warmer evenings, outdoor lighting becomes essential for both safety and ambiance. Inspect outdoor light fixtures for any damage or wear, and replace bulbs as needed. Consider adding new lighting fixtures or upgrading to energy-efficient LED bulbs for added savings.
Clean Windows and Screens: Let the sunshine in by cleaning your windows inside and out. Remove and clean window screens, and inspect them for any tears or damage that may need repair or replacement.
Check for Pest Infestations: As temperatures rise, pests become more active. Take the time to inspect your home for any signs of infestation. Look for droppings, gnaw marks, or entry points where pests may be gaining access to your home.
Prepare for Allergy Season: Springtime allergies can put a damper on the season, so take steps to minimize allergens in your home. Vacuum and dust regularly, wash bedding in hot water, and consider investing in an air purifier to improve indoor air quality.

By following these essential home maintenance tips, you can ensure that your home is ready to embrace the joys of spring.

If you're considering building a custom home or undertaking any major renovations, our team at Unbridled Homes is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you create the home of your dreams.

Homeownership Is Full of Financial Benefits

Thu, 27 May 2021 22:05:00 GMT

Homeownership Is Full of Financial Benefits

A Fannie Mae survey recently revealed some of the most highly-rated benefits of homeownership, which continue to be key drivers in today’s power-packed housing market. Here are the top four financial benefits of owning a home according to consumer respondents:

Additional financial advantages of homeownership included in the survey are having the best overall tax situation and being able to live within your budget.

Does homeownership actually give you a better chance to build wealth?

No one can question a person’s unique feelings about the importance of homeownership. However, it’s fair to ask if the numbers justify homeownership as a financial asset.

Last fall, the Federal Reserve released the Survey of Consumer Finances , a report done every three years, with the latest edition covering through 2019. Their findings confirmed that homeownership is a clear financial benefit. The survey found that homeowners have forty times higher net worth than renters ($255,000 for homeowners compared to $6,300 for renters).

Homeowners 65 and older have 47.6 times greater net worth than renters.

Bottom Line

The idea of homeownership as a direct way to build your net worth has met the test of time. Let’s connect if you’re ready to take steps toward becoming a homeowner. Let’s start building today!

The post Homeownership Is Full of Financial Benefits appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

Your Tax Refund and Stimulus Savings May Help You Achieve Homeownership This Year

Thu, 20 May 2021 22:05:00 GMT

Your Tax Refund and Stimulus Savings May Help You Achieve Homeownership This Year

If you’re planning to buy a home this year, saving for a down payment is one of the most important steps in the process. One of the best ways to jumpstart your savings is by starting with the help of your tax refund.

How can your tax refund help?

If you’re a first-time buyer, your tax refund may cover more of a down payment than you realize.

Not enough money from your tax return?

A recent paper from the National Bureau of Economic Research found that, of the households that received a stimulus check last year, “One third report that they primarily saved the stimulus money.” If you had the opportunity to save your Economic Impact Payments , you may consider putting that money toward your down payment or closing costs as well. Your trusted real estate professional can also advise you on the down payment assistance programs available in your area.

Bottom Line

Saving for a down payment can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. This year, your tax refund and your stimulus savings could add up big when it comes to reaching your homeownership goals.

The post Your Tax Refund and Stimulus Savings May Help You Achieve Homeownership This Year appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

How Much Time Do You Need To Save for a Down Payment?

Thu, 13 May 2021 22:05:00 GMT

How Much Time Do You Need To Save for a Down Payment?

One of the biggest hurdles homebuyers face is saving for a down payment. As you’re budgeting and planning for your home purchase, you’ll want to understand how much you’ll need to put down and how long it will take you to get there. The process may actually move faster than you think.

Using data from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and Apartment List , we can estimate how long it might take someone earning the median income and paying the median rent to save up for a down payment on a median-priced home. Since saving for a down payment can be a great time to practice budgeting for housing costs, this estimate also uses the concept that a household should not pay more than 28% of their total income on monthly housing expenses.

What if you only need to save 3%?

Bottom Line

Wherever you are in the process of saving for a down payment, you may be closer to your dream home than you think. Let’s connect to explore the down payment options available while you build a new home with us.

The post How Much Time Do You Need To Save for a Down Payment? appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

Will the Housing Market Bloom This Spring?

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 22:05:00 GMT

Will the Housing Market Bloom This Spring?

Spring is almost here, and many are wondering what it will bring for the housing market. Even though the pandemic continues on, it’s certain to be very different from the spring we experienced at this time last year. Here’s what a few industry experts have to say about the housing market and how it will bloom this season.

Danielle Hale, Chief Economist , realtor.com :

Ali Wolf, Chief Economist, Zonda :

Freddie Mac :

Mark Fleming, Chief Economist, First American :

Bottom Line

The experts are very optimistic about the housing market right now. If you pressed pause on your real estate plans over the winter, let’s chat to determine how you can re-engage this spring.

The post Will the Housing Market Bloom This Spring? appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

What Are the Benefits of a 20% Down Payment?

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 22:05:00 GMT

What Are the Benefits of a 20% Down Payment?

If you’re thinking of buying a home this year, you may be wondering how much money you need to come up with for your down payment. Many people may think it’s 20% of the loan to secure a mortgage. While there are plenty of lower down payment options available for qualified buyers who don’t want to put 20% down, it’s important to understand how a larger down payment can have great benefits too.

The truth is, there are many programs available that allow you to put down as little as 3.5%, which can be a huge benefit to those who want to purchase a home sooner rather than later. Those who have served our country may also qualify for a Veterans Affairs Home Loan ( VA ) and may not need a down payment . These programs have really cut down the savings time for many potential buyers, enabling them to start building family wealth sooner.

Here are four reasons why putting 20% down is a good plan if you can afford it.

1. Your interest rate may be lower.

A 20% down payment vs. a 3-5% down payment shows your lender you’re more financially stable and not a large credit risk. The more confident your lender is in your credit score and your ability to pay your loan, the lower the mortgage interest rate they’ll likely be willing to give you.

2. You’ll end up paying less for your home.

The larger your down payment, the smaller your loan amount will be for your mortgage. If you’re able to pay 20% of the cost of your new home at the start of the transaction, you’ll only pay interest on the remaining 80%. If you put down 5%, the additional 15% will be added to your loan and will accrue interest over time. This will end up costing you more over the lifetime of your home loan.

3. Your offer will stand out in a competitive market.

In a market where many buyers are competing for the same home, sellers like to see offers come in with 20% or larger down payments. The seller gains the same confidence as the lender in this scenario. You are seen as a stronger buyer with financing that’s more likely to be approved. Therefore, the deal will be more likely to go through.

4. You won’t have to pay Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)

What is PMI? According to Freddie Mac :

As mentioned earlier, when you put down less than 20% when buying a home, your lender will see your loan as having more risk. PMI helps them recover their investment in you if you’re unable to pay your loan. This insurance isn’t required if you’re able to put down 20% or more.

Many times, home sellers looking to move up to a larger or more expensive home are able to take the equity they earn from the sale of their house to put down 20% on their next home. With the equity homeowners have today, it creates a great opportunity to put those savings toward a 20% or greater down payment on a new home.

If you’re looking to buy your first home, you’ll want to consider the benefits of 20% down versus a smaller down payment option.

Bottom Line

If you’re thinking of buying a home and are already saving for your down payment, let’s connect to discuss new construction and how it fits best with your long-term plans.

The post What Are the Benefits of a 20% Down Payment? appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

Where Have All the Houses Gone?

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 22:05:00 GMT

Where Have All the Houses Gone?

explains

Does this mean houses aren’t being put on the market for sale?

Not exactly. While there are fewer existing homes being listed right now, many homes are simply selling faster than they’re being counted as current inventory. The market is that competitive! It’s like when everyone was trying to find toilet paper to buy last spring and it was flying off the shelves faster than it could be stocked in the stores. That’s what’s happening in the housing market: homes are being listed for sale, but not at a rate that can keep up with heavy demand from competitive buyers.

In the same realtor.com report, Hale explains:

The Good News for Homeowners

The health crisis has been a major reason why potential sellers have held off this long, but as vaccines become more widely available, homeowners will start making their moves. Ali Wolf, Chief Economist at Zonda , confirms :

With more homeowners getting ready to sell later this year, putting your house on the market sooner rather than later is the best way to make sure your listing shines brighter than the rest.

When you’re ready to sell your house, you’ll likely want it to sell as quickly as possible, for the best price, and with little to no hassle. If you’re looking for these selling conditions, you’ll find them in today’s market. When demand is high and inventory is low, sellers have the ability to create optimal terms and timelines for the sale, making now an exceptional time to move.

Bottom Line

Today’s housing market is a big win for sellers, but these conditions won’t last forever. If you’re in a position to sell your house now, you may not want to wait for your neighbors to do the same. Let’s connect to discuss purchasing a NEW CONSTRUCTION HOME this year.

The post Where Have All the Houses Gone? appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

3 Ways Home Equity Can Have a Major Impact on Your Life

Thu, 25 Mar 2021 22:02:00 GMT

3 Ways You’ll Win When You Buy a Home This Year

$17,000

U.S. Home Equity Report

38% of homes

How can equity help a household?

Having equity in your home can dramatically impact your life. Equity is like a savings account you can tap into when you need cash. Like any other savings, you should be sensible in how you use it, though. Here are three good reasons to consider using your equity.

1. You’re experiencing financial hardship (job loss, medical expenses, etc.)

Equity gives you options during difficult financial times. With equity, you could refinance your house to get cash which may ease the burden. It also puts you in a better position to talk to the bank about restructuring your home loan until you can get back on your feet.

Today, there are 2.7 million Americans who are currently in a forbearance program because of the pandemic. Ninety percent of those in the program have at least 10% equity. That puts them in a better position to get a loan modification instead of facing foreclosure because many banks will see the equity as a form of collateral in a new deal. If you’re in this position, even if you can’t get a modification, the equity allows you the option to sell your house and walk away with your equity instead of losing the house and your investment in it.

2. You need money to start a new business

We’ve all heard the stories about how many great American companies started in the founder’s garage (i.e., Disney, Hewlett Packard, Apple, Yankee Candle, Keeping Current Matters). What we might not realize, however, is the garage (along with the rest of the home) supplied the start-up money for many of these companies in the form of a refinance.

If you’re passionate about an idea you have for a new product or service, the equity in your home may enable you to make that dream a reality.

3. You want to invest in a loved one’s future

It’s been a long-standing tradition in this country for many households to help pay college expenses for their children. Some have tapped into the equity in their homes to do that.

Additionally, George Ratiu, Senior Economist for realtor.com , notes :

It’s safe to assume a percentage of that down payment money likely came from home equity.

Bottom Line

Savings in any form is a good thing. The forced savings you can earn from making a mortgage payment enables you to build wealth through home equity. That equity can come in handy in both good and more challenging times.

The post 3 Ways Home Equity Can Have a Major Impact on Your Life appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

Millennials: Is It Time to Buy a Bigger Home?

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 22:02:00 GMT

In today’s housing market, all eyes are on millennials. Not only are millennials the largest generation, but they’re also currently between 25 and 40 years old. These are often considered prime homebuying years when many people begin to form their own households and invest in real estate. If you’re like many millennials who are spending much more time at home these days, you may have a growing need for more space or upgraded features, making moving more desirable than ever.

For those millennials who already own a home, there’s a great opportunity to move up in 2021. Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at realtor.com , explains :

Even if you bought a home sometime in the last few years, you may have more equity than you realize, and that’s a big factor to consider when you’re thinking about moving. According to the Homeowner Equity Insights Report from CoreLogic :

Growing equity can be the driver you’re looking for to fund your next move, especially if what you need in a home is changing right now. As equity builds over time, it can be put toward the down payment on your next home.

In addition to equity gains, today’s housing market affordability is powered by record-low mortgage rates , so moving at a time when you can get more for your money may be more realistic than you think.

Bottom Line

If you’re a millennial thinking about moving this year, you’re not alone. Let’s connect to shed light on the equity you have in your current home and the opportunities it can create for a new construction home.

The post Millennials: Is It Time to Buy a Bigger Home? appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

6 Foundational Benefits of Homeownership Today

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 23:02:00 GMT

6 Foundational Benefits of Homeownership Today

As we continue to think about the future, our goals for the year, and what we want to achieve well beyond 2021, it’s a great time to look at the benefits of owning a home. Below are some highlights and quotes on the benefits of homeownership shared by the National Association of Realtors (NAR). From feel-good motivations to economic and social impacts on the local community, these items may give you reason to believe homeownership stretches well beyond your financial investment.

Non-Financial Benefits

Owning a home brings a sense of happiness, satisfaction, and pride.

Financial Benefits

Buying a home is also an investment in your financial future.

Economic Benefits

Homeownership is even a local economic driver.

Bottom Line

The benefits of homeownership go well beyond the basics. Homeownership is truly a way to build financial freedom, find greater satisfaction and happiness, and make a substantial impact in your community. If owning a home is part of your dream this year, let’s connect so you can begin the homebuying process today.

The post 6 Foundational Benefits of Homeownership Today appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

3 Ways You’ll Win When You Buy a Home This Year

Thu, 04 Mar 2021 23:02:00 GMT

There are so many great reasons to purchase a home, and over the past year, we’ve realized more of them than we ever thought possible. If you’re a first-time homebuyer, having a home of your own can give you a greater sense of security and accomplishment in a time that’s largely uncertain. If you’re a repeat buyer looking for your dream home, making a move might give you the space or features you need to find greater success and happiness in a new normal way of life. Whatever your motivations are, here are three reasons why becoming a homeowner now may help you win big in the long run.

1. Buying a Home Is a Great Investment

Several recent reports indicate that real estate is still a good investment , topping other options such as gold, stocks, bonds, and savings. Why? Real estate helps you build equity , a type of forced savings that grows your net worth. According to the latest Equity Report from ATTOM Data Solutions :

2. Mortgage Interest Rates Are Low

The Primary Mortgage Market Survey from Freddie Mac indicates interest rates for a 30-year mortgage have fallen since November 2018 when they hit 4.94%. In their latest forecast , Freddie Mac expects rates to remain low, leveling out to an average of 2.9% in 2021 .

When you purchase a home at a low mortgage rate, it will impact your monthly mortgage payment, giving you the opportunity to likely get more house for your money.

3. Investing in Your Future Pays Off

There are some renters who haven’t purchased a home yet because they’re uncomfortable taking on the obligation of a mortgage. What many renters don’t realize, though, is the financial power of equity.

As a homeowner, your monthly mortgage payment becomes a form of ‘forced savings’ you can reinvest later in life as you see fit. You can use it in a variety of ways, like to fund a loved one’s education, move up to a bigger home, or start your own business. As a renter, you’re actually growing your landlord’s equity instead of your own.

If you’re ready to put your monthly payments to work for you and take steps toward those dreams and goals, purchasing a home may be the way to go, especially as rental prices continue to rise .

Bottom Line

Buying a home sooner rather than later could lead to substantial savings and long-term financial growth. Let’s connect to determine if a new construction home is the right choice for you this year.

The post 3 Ways You’ll Win When You Buy a Home This Year appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

Are Home Prices Headed Toward Bubble Territory?

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 23:05:00 GMT

Are Home Prices Headed Toward Bubble Territory?

Talk of a housing bubble is beginning to crop up as home prices have appreciated at a rapid pace this year. This is understandable since the appreciation of residential real estate is well above historic annual averages. According to the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), annual appreciation since 1991 has averaged 3.8%. Here are the latest 2020 appreciation numbers from three reliable sources:

It’s easy to jump to the conclusion that house appreciation is out of control in today’s market. However, we need to put these numbers into context first.

Inflation and the Comeback from the Housing Crash

Following the housing crash, home values depreciated dramatically from 2007-2011. Values are still recovering from that unusually long period of falling prices. We must also realize that normal inflation has had an impact.

Bill McBride, the founder of the well-respected Calculated Risk blog, recently summed it up this way :

The COVID Impact on Home Prices

The pandemic caused many households to reconsider whether their current home still fulfills their lifestyle. Many homeowners now want larger yards that are both separate and private.

Their needs on the inside of the home have changed too. People now want home offices, gyms, and living rooms well-suited for video conferencing. Barbara Ballinger, a freelance writer and the author of several books on real estate, recently wrote :

At the same time, concerns about the pandemic have caused many homeowners to put their plans to sell on hold. Realtor.com just released their November Monthly Housing Market Trends Report . It explains:

More people buying and fewer people selling has caused home prices to escalate. However, with a vaccine on the horizon, more homeowners will be putting their houses on the market. This will better balance supply with demand and slow down the rapid appreciation.

That’s why major organizations in the housing industry are calling for much more moderate home appreciation next year. Here are the most recent forecasts for 2021:

This Is Nothing Like 2006

Finally, let’s put to rest some of the concerns that today’s scenario is anything like what led up to the last housing crash. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), explains why this is nothing like 2006 :

Bottom Line

Most aspects of life have been anything but normal in 2020. That includes buying and selling real estate. High demand coupled with restricted supply has caused home prices to appreciate above historic levels. With the end of the health crisis in sight, we will see price appreciation return to more normal levels next year.

The post Are Home Prices Headed Toward Bubble Territory? appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

Will Mortgage Rates Remain Low Next Year?

Thu, 17 Dec 2020 23:00:00 GMT

Will Mortgage Rates Remain Low Next Year?

The Challenge with Waiting

The challenge with waiting is that you can easily miss this optimal window of time and then end up paying more in the long run. Last week, mortgage rates ticked up slightly. Sam Khater, Chief Economist at Freddie Mac, explains :

Bottom Line

If you’re planning to buy a home and want to take advantage of today’s low rates, now is the time to do so. Don’t assume they’re going to stay this low forever. Let’s get started today on a new custom home today!

The post Will Mortgage Rates Remain Low Next Year? appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

Homeownership Is a Key to Building Wealth

Thu, 10 Dec 2020 23:00:00 GMT

Homeownership Is a Key to Building Wealth

For years, real estate has been considered the best investment you can make. A major reason for this is due to the net worth a household gains through homeownership. In fact, according to the 2019 Survey of Consumer Finance Data from the Federal Reserve, for the average homeowner:

How do homeowners gain wealth?

Most large purchases, like cars and appliances, depreciate in value as they age, so it’s understandable to question how owning a home can increase wealth over time. In a simple equation, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) explains how the combination of paying your mortgage and home price appreciation grow overall wealth:

Principal Payments + Price Appreciation Gains = Housing Wealth Gain

As home values increase and you make payments toward your home loan, you’ll gain wealth through equity . The same article from NAR also addresses how wealth gains tend to play out over time:

Taking a look at how equity has grown for the typical homeowner, it’s clear to see how real estate is a sound long-term investment. NAR notes:

Bottom Line

Whether you’re a current homeowner planning to put your equity toward a new home or have hopes of buying your first home soon, homeownership will always be a great opportunity to build your net worth and overall wealth. Owning a home is truly an investment in your financial future. Let’s chat to put your new home plan together for 2021.

The post Homeownership Is a Key to Building Wealth appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

Winter Will Bring a Flurry of Activity to the Housing Market

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 23:00:00 GMT

Winter Will Bring a Flurry of Activity to the Housing Market

In the second half of this year, the housing market surged with activity. Today, real estate experts are looking ahead to the winter season and the forecast is anything but chilly. As Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist for the National Association of Realtors (NAR), notes :

The typical winter slowdown in the housing market is simply not on the radar. Here’s why.

While today’s historically low mortgage rates are expected to remain low, they won’t be this low for much longer. This could be the last chance for homebuyers to secure such low rates, and they’re ready to take action. In a recent article , Bankrate explained:

As long as we continue to see low interest rates, we’ll see hopeful buyers on the hunt for their dream homes. Yun confirmed :

The challenge, however, is the lack of homes available for sale . With that in mind, all eyes are on homeowners to see if they’ll sell this winter or wait until spring. Danielle Hale, Chief Economist for realtor.com , says it’s best for sellers to capitalize on this moment sooner rather than later:

With buyers ready to stay active this winter, sellers who want to close a deal on the best possible terms shouldn’t wait until spring to put their homes on the market.

Bottom Line

Experts agree the winter housing market could potentially be bigger than ever. Whether you’re ready to buy or sell, let’s connect today so you can be in your custom dream home by the new year.

The post Winter Will Bring a Flurry of Activity to the Housing Market appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

Do You Have Enough Money Saved for a Down Payment?

Thu, 19 Nov 2020 23:00:00 GMT

One of the biggest misconceptions for first-time homebuyers is how much you’ll need to save for a down payment. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t always have to put 20% down to buy a house . Here’s how it breaks down.

A recent survey by Point2Homes mentions that 74% of millennials (ages 25-40) say they’re interested in purchasing a home over the next 12 months. The study notes, “ 88% say they have significantly less savings than the average national down payment amount, which is $62,600 .”

Thankfully, $62,600 is not the amount every buyer needs for a down payment in the United States. There are many different options available, especially for first-time homebuyers (millennial or not). That amount can also be significantly less, depending on the purchase price of the house.

According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), “ The median existing-home price for all housing types in August was $310,600 . ” (These are the latest numbers available). NAR also indicates that:

Knowing there are also programs like FHA where the down payment can be as low as 3.5% of the purchase price for a first-time buyer, that up-front cost could be significantly less – as little as $10,871 for the same home noted above. There are also other programs like USDA and loans for Veterans that waive down payment requirements.

Bottom Line

Be careful not to let big myths about homebuying keep you and your family out of the housing market. Let’s connect to discuss your options today.

The post Do You Have Enough Money Saved for a Down Payment? appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

Buyers Are Finding More Space in the Luxury Custom Home Market

Thu, 12 Nov 2020 23:00:00 GMT

A year ago, additional space and extra amenities had a very different feel for homebuyers. Today, the health crisis has brought to light how valuable more square footage and carefully designed floorplans can be. Home offices, multi-purpose rooms, gyms, and theaters are becoming more popular, and some families are finding the space they need for these upgrades in the luxury market.

The Institute for Luxury Home Marketing (ILHM) explains :

This was not the case at this time last year, as the most recent Luxury Market Report from ILHM emphasizes :

For today’s buyers looking for larger homes, steady increases in equity might be what makes a move possible. Leveraging home equity makes it easier to afford the down payment on a luxury home, and current low interest rates are making mortgage payments more affordable than they have been in years. The report from ILHM also notes:

Clearly, today’s strong gains in home equity paired with record-low interest rates make fall a great time to move up into the luxury market to meet those changing needs.

Bottom Line

If you’re ready to gain some breathing room in a larger home, let’s connect so you have the guidance you need to start a new home project with us.

The post Buyers Are Finding More Space in the Luxury Custom Home Market appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

Home Builder Confidence Hits All-Time Record

Thu, 05 Nov 2020 23:00:00 GMT

Last week, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) reported their Housing Market Index (HMI) hit an all-time high in the 35-year history of the series with a score of 83. The index gauges builder perceptions of current single-family home sales and sale expectations for the next six months, as well as the traffic of prospective buyers of new homes.

As the following chart shows, confidence dropped dramatically when stay-in-place orders were originally mandated earlier this year. Since then, it has soared back.

Confidence Is Validated by the Numbers

This confidence is definitely warranted. According to a recent NAHB report , single-family housing starts increased 4.1% to a 1.02 million annual rate, and single-family permits increased 6% to a 1.04 million unit rate, meaning newly constructed homes are on the rise.

A separate report from the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) shows mortgage applications for new home purchases increased by 33.3% compared to a year ago. Joel Kan, Associate Vice President of Economic and Industry Forecasting at MBA, commented on the numbers:

Bottom Line

If you’re thinking about putting your house on the market but are afraid you may not find a home to buy, let’s connect to discuss new construction opportunities in our area.

The post Home Builder Confidence Hits All-Time Record appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

The Cost of a Home Is Far More Important than the Price

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 22:03:00 GMT

Housing inventory is at an all-time low. There are 39% fewer homes for sale today than at this time last year, and buyer demand continues to set records. Zillow recently reported :

Whenever there is a shortage in supply of an item that’s in high demand, the price of that item increases. That’s exactly what’s happening in the real estate market right now. CoreLogic’s latest Home Price Index reports that values have increased by 5.5% over the last year.

This is great news if you’re planning to sell your house; on the other hand, as either a first-time or repeat buyer, this may instead seem like troubling news. However, purchasers should realize that the price of a house is not as important as the cost. Let’s break it down.

There are several factors that influence the cost of a home. The two major ones are the price of the home and the interest rate at which a buyer can borrow the funds necessary to purchase the home.

Last week, Freddie Mac announced that the average interest rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage was 2.87%. At this time last year, the rate was 3.73%. Let’s use an example to see how that difference impacts the true cost of a home.

Assume you purchased a home last year and took out a $250,000 mortgage. As mentioned above, home values have increased by 5.5% over the last year. To buy that same home this year, you would need to take out a mortgage of $263,750.

How will your monthly mortgage payment change based on today’s lower mortgage rate?

Bottom Line

Even though home values have appreciated, it’s a great time to buy a home because mortgage rates are at historic lows. Your money will go much farther! Call us today to see if a custom home is in your future.

The post The Cost of a Home Is Far More Important than the Price appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

Virtual School Is Changing Homebuyer Needs [INFOGRAPHIC]

Thu, 15 Oct 2020 22:03:00 GMT

The post Virtual School Is Changing Homebuyer Needs [INFOGRAPHIC] appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

How Low Inventory May Impact the Housing Market This Fall

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 22:03:00 GMT

Real estate continues to be called the ‘ bright spot ’ in the current economy, but there’s one thing that may hold the housing market back from achieving its full potential this year: the lack of homes for sale .

Buyers are actively searching for and purchasing homes, looking to capitalize on today’s historically low interest rates, but there just aren’t enough houses for sale to meet that growing need. Sam Khater, Chief Economist at Freddie Mac, explains :

According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), right now, unsold inventory sits at a 3.1-month supply at the current sales pace. To have a balanced market where there are enough homes for sale to meet buyer demand, the market needs inventory for 6 months. Today, we’re nowhere near where that number needs to be. If the trend continues, it will get even harder to find homes to purchase this fall, and that may slow down potential buyers. Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at realtor.com , notes :

Does this mean it’s a good time to sell?

Yes. If you’re thinking about selling your house, this fall is a great time to make it happen. There are plenty of buyers looking for homes to purchase because they want to take advantage of low interest rates. Realtors are also reporting an average of 3 offers per house and an increase in bidding wars, meaning the demand is there and the opportunity to sell for the most favorable terms is in your favor as a seller.

What will you do when it comes to buying a home?
If the lack of homes for sale is holding you back, Unbridled Homes can help! Building a custom home assures that you invest in the home of your dreams.

Bottom Line

If you’re considering selling your house, this is the perfect time to connect so we can talk about how you can benefit from starting a new home build now. Call us today!

The post How Low Inventory May Impact the Housing Market This Fall appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

Homes Are More Affordable Right Now Than They Have Been in Years

Thu, 17 Sep 2020 22:02:00 GMT

Today, home prices are appreciating. When we hear prices are going up, it’s normal to think a home will cost more as the trend continues. The way the housing market is positioned today, however, low mortgage rates are actually making homes more affordable, even as prices rise. Here’s why.

According to the Mortgage Monitor Report from Black Knight:

“While home prices have risen for 97 consecutive months, July’s record-low mortgage rates have made purchasing the average-priced home the most affordable it’s been since 2016.”

How is that possible?
Black Knight continues to explain:

“As of mid-July, it required 19.8% of the median monthly income to make the mortgage payment on the average-priced home purchase, assuming a 20% down payment and a 30-year mortgage. That was more than 5% below the average of 25% from 1995-2003.

This means it currently requires a $1,071 monthly payment to purchase the average-priced home, which is down 6% from the same time last year, despite the average home increasing in value by more than $12,000 during that same time period.

In fact, buying power is now up 10% year-over-year, meaning the average home buyer can afford nearly $32,000 more home than they could at the same time last year, while keeping their monthly payment the same.”

This is great news for the many buyers who were unable to purchase last year, or earlier in the spring due to the slowdown from the pandemic. By waiting a little longer, they can now afford 10% more home than they could have a year ago while keeping their monthly mortgage payment unchanged.

With mortgage rates hitting all-time lows eight times this year, it’s now less expensive to borrow money, making homes significantly more affordable over the lifetime of your loan. Mark Fleming, Chief Economist at First American, shares what low mortgage rates mean for affordability:

“In July, house-buying power got a big boost as the 30-year, fixed mortgage rate made history by moving below three percent. That drop in the mortgage rate from 3.23 percent in May to 2.98 percent in July increased house-buying power by nearly $15,000.”

The map below shows the last time homes were this affordable by state:Homes Are More Affordable Right Now Than They Have Been in Years | MyKCMIn six states – Arkansas, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, and West Virginia – homes have not been this affordable in more than 25 years.

Bottom Line
If you’re thinking of making a move, now is a great time to take advantage of the affordability that comes with such low mortgage rates. If you are thinking of building your dream home, let’s connect today to determine your next steps in the process.

The post Homes Are More Affordable Right Now Than They Have Been in Years appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

How Is Remote Work Changing Homebuyer Needs?

Thu, 03 Sep 2020 22:02:00 GMT

How Is Remote Work Changing Homebuyer Needs?

With more companies figuring out how to efficiently and effectively enable their employees to work remotely (and for longer than most of us initially expected), homeowners throughout the country are re-evaluating their needs. Do I still need to live close to my company’s office building? Do I need a larger home with more office space? Would making a move to the suburbs make more sense for my family? All of these questions are on the table for many Americans as we ride the wave of the current health crisis and consider evolving homeownership needs.

According to George Ratiu, Senior Economist for realtor.com:

“The ability to work remotely is expanding home shoppers’ geographic options and driving their motivation to buy, even if it means a longer commute, at least in the short term…Although it’s too early to tell what long-term impact the COVID-era of remote work will have on housing, it’s clear that the pandemic is shaping how people live and work under the same roof.”

Working remotely is definitely changing how Americans spend their time at home, and also how they use their available square footage. Homeowners aren’t just looking for a room for a home office, either. The desire to have a home gym, an updated kitchen, and more space in general – indoor and outdoor – are all key factors motivating some buyers to change their home search parameters.

A recent realtor.com-HarrisX survey indicates:

“In a June poll of 2,000 potential home shoppers who indicated plans to make a purchase in the next year, 63% of those currently working from home stated their potential purchase was a result of their ability to work remotely, while nearly 40% [of] that number expected to purchase a home within four to six months and 13% said changes related to pandemic fueled their interest in buying a new home.

Clearly, Americans are thinking differently about homeownership today, and through a new lens. The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) notes:

“New single-family home sales jumped in June, as housing demand was supported by low interest rates, a renewed consumer focus on the importance of housing, and rising demand in lower-density markets like suburbs and exurbs.”

Through these challenging times, you may have found your home becoming your office, your children’s classroom, your workout facility, and your family’s safe haven. This has quickly shifted what home truly means to many American families. More than ever, having a place to focus on professional productivity while many competing priorities (and distractions!) are knocking on your door is challenging homeowners to get creative, use space wisely, and ultimately find a place where all of these essential needs can realistically be met. In many cases, a new home is the best option.

In today’s real estate market, making a move while mortgage rates are hovering at historic lows may enable you to purchase more home for your money, just when you and your family need it most.

Bottom Line
If your personal and professional needs have changed and you’re ready to accommodate all of your family’s competing priorities, let’s connect today. Making a move into a larger home may be exactly what you need to set your family up for optimal long-term success.

The post How Is Remote Work Changing Homebuyer Needs? appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

A Remarkable Recovery for the Housing Market

Thu, 20 Aug 2020 22:00:00 GMT

Ali Wolf, Chief Economist, Meyers Research

“The housing recovery has been nothing short of remarkable…The expectation was that housing would be crushed. It was—for about two months—and then it came roaring back.”

Fannie Mae

“Recent home purchase measures have continued to show remarkable strength, leading us to revise upward our home sales forecast, particularly over the third quarter. Similarly, we bumped up our expectations for home price growth and purchase mortgage originations.”

Javier Vivas, Director of Economic Research for realtor.com

“All-time low mortgage rates and easing job losses have boosted buyer confidence back to pre-pandemic levels.”

James Knightley, Chief International Economist, ING

“At face value this is remarkable given the scale of joblessness in the economy and the ongoing uncertainty relating to the path of Covid-19…The outlook for housing transactions, construction activity and employment in the sector is looking much better than what looked possible just a couple of months ago.”

Bottom Line
The strength of the housing market is a bright spark in the economy and leading the way to what is truly being called a remarkable recovery throughout this country. If you’re thinking of buying a new home, make this year your year to make a move after all!

The post A Remarkable Recovery for the Housing Market appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

Mortgage Rates Fall Below 3%

Thu, 06 Aug 2020 22:00:00 GMT

Some Highlights
• Mortgage rates hit another all-time low, falling below 3% this month.
• If you’re ready to buy a home, now is a great time to truly get more for your money at this historic moment.
• Let’s connect today to determine your best next steps toward owning an Unbridled Home!

The post Mortgage Rates Fall Below 3% appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

Why This Summer Is the 2020 Real Estate Season

Thu, 23 Jul 2020 22:00:00 GMT

With stay-at-home orders starting to gradually lift throughout parts of the country, data indicates homebuyers are jumping back into the market. After many families put their plans on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic, what we once called the busy spring real estate season is shifting into the summer. In 2020, summer is the new spring for real estate.

Joel Kan, Economist at The Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) notes:

“Applications for home purchases continue to recover from April’s sizable drop and have now increased for five consecutive weeks…Government purchase applications, which include FHA, VA, and USDA loans, are now 5 percent higher than a year ago, which is an encouraging turnaround after the weakness seen over the past two months.”

Additionally, according to Google Trends, which scores search terms online, searches for real estate increased from 68 points the week of March 15th to 92 points last week. As we can see, more potential homebuyers are looking for homes virtually.

What’s the Opportunity for Buyers?
Another reason buyers are coming back to the market, even with forced unemployment and stay-at-home orders, is historically low mortgage rates. Sam Khater, Chief Economist at Freddie Mac indicates:

“For the fourth consecutive week, the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage has been below 3.30 percent, giving potential buyers a good reason to continue shopping even amid the pandemic…As states reopen, we’re seeing purchase demand improve remarkably fast, now essentially flat relative to a year ago.”

With mortgage rates at such low levels and states gradually beginning to reopen, there’s more incentive than ever to buy a home this summer.

What’s the Opportunity for Sellers?
Finding a home to buy, however, is still a challenge, as this spring sellers removed many listings from the market. Though more people are now putting their houses up for sale this month as compared to last month, current inventory is still well below last year’s level.

According to last week’s Weekly Economic and Housing Market Update from realtor.com:

“Weekly Housing Inventory showed continued tightening. New Listings declined 28% compared with a year ago, as sellers grappled with uncertainty and hesitated bringing homes to market. Total Listings dropped 20% YoY, a faster rate than in prior weeks, leaving very few homes available for sale. As Time on Market was 15 days slower YoY, asking prices moved up 1.5% YoY.”

If you’re thinking of selling your house this summer, now may be your best opportunity. With so few homes on the market for buyers to purchase, this season may be the time for your house to stand out from the crowd. Trusted real estate professionals can help you list safely and effectively, keeping your family’s needs top of mind. Buyers are looking, and your house may be at the top of their list.

Bottom Line
If you’re thinking of selling, many buyers may be eager to find a home just like yours. Let’s connect today to make sure we can get started building an Unbridled Custom Home for you right away!

The post Why This Summer Is the 2020 Real Estate Season appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

Are You Ready for the Summer Housing Market?

Thu, 09 Jul 2020 22:00:00 GMT

Are You Ready for the Summer Housing Market?

As the health crisis started making its way throughout our country earlier this spring, sellers have been cautious about putting their homes on the market. This hesitation stemmed primarily from fear of the spread of the coronavirus, and understandably so. This abundant caution has greatly impacted the number of homes for sale and slowed the pace of a typically busy spring real estate season. Mark Fleming, Chief Economist at First American notes:

“As more homeowners are reluctant to list their homes for sale amid the pandemic, the supply of homes available to potential home buyers continues to dwindle.”

With many states beginning a phased approach to reopening, virtual best practices and health and safety guidelines for the industry are in place to increase the comfort level of buyers and sellers. What we see today, though, is that sellers are still making a very calculated return to the market. In their latest Weekly Housing Trends Report, realtor.com indicates:

“New listings: On the slow path to recovery. Nationwide the size of declines held mostly steady this week, dropping 23 percent over last year, a slight increase over last week but still an improvement over the 30 percent declines in the first half of May.”

Although we’re starting to inch our way toward more homes for sale throughout the country, the number of homes on the market is still well below the demand from buyers. In the same report, Javier Vivas, Director of Economic Research for realtor.com shares:

“Sellers have yet to come back in full force, limiting the availability of homes for sale. Total active listings are declining from a year ago at a faster rate than observed in previous weeks, and this trend could worsen as buyers regain confidence and come back to the market before sellers.”

Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR) seems to agree:

“In the coming months, buying activity will rise as states reopen and more consumers feel comfortable about homebuying in the midst of the social distancing measures.”

What we can see today is that homebuyers are more confident than the sellers, and they’re ready to make up for lost time from the traditional spring market. Summer is gearing up to be the 2020 buying season, so including your house in the mix may be your best opportunity to sell yet. Interest in your house may be higher than you think with so few sellers on the market today. As Vivas says:

“More properties will have to enter the market in June to bring the number of options for buyers back to normal levels for this time of the year, nationwide and in all large markets.”

Bottom Line
If you’re ready to make a move, let’s connect today. Click the button below to schedule an appointment and get started on a new home today!

The post Are You Ready for the Summer Housing Market? appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

Why Home Equity Is a Bright Spark in the Housing Market

Thu, 25 Jun 2020 22:00:00 GMT

Given how we have seen more unemployment claims than ever before over the past several weeks, fear is spreading widely. Some good news, however, shows that more than 4 million initial unemployment filers have likely already found a new job, especially as industries such as health care, food and grocery stores, retail, delivery, and more increase their employment opportunities. Breaking down what unemployment means for homeownership, and understanding the significant equity Americans hold today, are important parts of seeing the picture clearly when sorting through this uncertainty.

One of the biggest questions right now is whether this historic unemployment rate will initiate a new surge of foreclosures in the market. It’s a very real fear. Despite the staggering number of claims, there are actually many reasons why we won’t see a significant number of foreclosures like we did during the housing crash twelve years ago. The amount of equity homeowners have today is a leading differentiator in the current market.

Today, according to John Burns Consulting, 58.7% of homes in the U.S. have at least 60% equity. That number is drastically different than it was in 2008 when the housing bubble burst. The last recession was painful, and when prices dipped, many found themselves owing more on their mortgage than what their homes were worth. Homeowners simply walked away at that point. Now, 42.1% of all homes in this country are mortgage-free, meaning they’re owned free and clear. Those homes are not at risk for foreclosure (see graph below):Why Home Equity is a Bright Spark in the Housing Market | MyKCMIn addition, CoreLogic notes the average equity mortgaged homes have today is $177,000. That’s a significant amount that homeowners won’t be stepping away from, even in today’s economy (see chart below):Why Home Equity is a Bright Spark in the Housing Market | MyKCMIn essence, the amount of equity homeowners have today positions them to be in a much better place than they were in 2008.

Bottom Line
The fear and uncertainty we feel right now are very real, and this is not going to be easy. We can, however, see strength in our current market through homeowner equity that has not been there in the past. That may be a bright spark to help us make it through.

The post Why Home Equity Is a Bright Spark in the Housing Market appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

Why Home Office Space Is More Desirable Than Ever

Thu, 11 Jun 2020 22:00:00 GMT

For years, we’ve all heard about the most desirable home features buyers are looking for, from upgraded kitchens to remodeled bathrooms, master suites, and more. The latest on the hotlist, however, might surprise you: home offices.

In a recent article by George Ratiu, Senior Economist with realtor.com, he notes how listings with an office are selling quickly:

“As more companies have been embracing remote work, buyers are driving demand for houses with home offices higher. Homes featuring the term ‘office’ are selling 9 days faster than the overall housing inventory.”

Today, more and more people are working remotely, and that’s not just because the current pandemic is prompting businesses to operate virtually. According to the same piece and the most recent data available, the number of employees working at home was fairly steady from 1997 – 2004 but has been climbing ever since (see graph below):Why Home Office Space Is More Desirable Than Ever | MyKCMClearly, the work-from-home population is growing, and technology is making it possible. Just last month, according to an article on Think Google, searches for telecommuting hit an all-time high, and that’s certainly no surprise given our current situation.

People all over the U.S. are looking for answers on how to be most effective at home, and it’s making the ideal workspace more and more desirable. In fact, best practices from seasoned work-from-home professionals, like Chris Anderson, Senior Account Executive at HousingWire, tout that having a dedicated space is a must for productivity.

With today’s increasing demand for home offices, it’s a great feature to highlight within your listing if you’re selling a house that may meet this growing need. From bright natural light with large windows to built-in bookshelves or a quiet and secluded atmosphere, whatever makes your office space shine is worth mentioning to buyers when you’re ready to list your house.

Ratiu concludes:

“For housing, the continued increase in the share of remote workers implies that demand for homes with offices or dedicated work spaces will continue to increase. The current coronavirus pandemic offers a dramatic indication of the fact that companies and employees will have to develop plans and clearer policies for remote work beyond the current crisis.”

Bottom Line
Remote work may become more widely accepted as this current crisis teaches businesses throughout the country what it takes to function virtually. So, what seems like a business challenge today may be more of the norm tomorrow. With that in mind, if you have a home office, your house may be more desirable to buyers than you think.

The post Why Home Office Space Is More Desirable Than Ever appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

What Impact Might COVID-19 Have on Home Values?

Thu, 21 May 2020 16:51:00 GMT

What Impact Might COVID-19 Have on Home Values?

A big challenge facing the housing industry is determining what impact the current pandemic may have on home values. Some buyers are hoping for major price reductions because the health crisis is straining the economy.

The price of any item, however, is determined by supply and demand, which is how many items are available in relation to how many consumers want to buy that item.

In residential real estate, the measurement used to decipher that ratio is called months supply of inventory. A normal market would have 6-7 months of inventory. Anything over seven months would be considered a buyers’ market, with downward pressure on prices. Anything under six months would indicate a sellers’ market, which would put upward pressure on prices.

Going into March of this year, the supply stood at three months – a strong seller’s market. While buyer demand has decreased rather dramatically during the pandemic, the number of homes on the market has also decreased. The recently released Existing Home Sales Report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) revealed we currently have 3.4 months of inventory. This means homes should maintain their value during the pandemic.

This information is consistent with the research completed by John Burns Real Estate Consulting, which recently reported:

“Historical analysis showed us that pandemics are usually V-shaped (sharp recessions that recover quickly enough to provide little damage to home prices).”

What are the experts saying?
Here’s a look at what some experts recently reported on the matter:

Ivy Zelman, President, Zelman & Associates

“Supported by our analysis of home price dynamics through cycles and other periods of economic and housing disruption, we expect home price appreciation to decelerate from current levels in 2020, though easily remain in positive territory year over year given the beneficial factors of record-low inventories & a historically-low interest rate environment.”

Freddie Mac

“The fiscal stimulus provided by the CARES Act will mute the impact that the economic shock has on house prices. Additionally, forbearance and foreclosure mitigation programs will limit the fire sale contagion effect on house prices. We forecast house prices to fall 0.5 percentage points over the next four quarters. Two forces prevent a collapse in house prices. First, as we indicated in our earlier research report, U.S. housing markets face a large supply deficit. Second, population growth and pent up household formations provide a tailwind to housing demand. Price growth accelerates back towards a long-run trend of between 2 and 3% per year.”

Mark Fleming, Chief Economist, First American

“The housing supply remains at historically low levels, so house price growth is likely to slow, but it’s unlikely to go negative.”

Bottom Line
Even though the economy has been placed on pause, it appears home prices will remain steady throughout the pandemic.

The post What Impact Might COVID-19 Have on Home Values? appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

Unbridled Homes Debuts New Website

Tue, 12 May 2020 16:30:00 GMT

Unbridled Homes announces the launch of a redesigned version of its website www.unbridledhomes.com. The new site offers a cleaner more attractive responsive design enabling users to utilize all the expanded capability and features. The site’s refreshed and simplified look, combined with enhanced content, social media links, improved search functionality, and optimization for mobile devices allows consumers to better interact with Unbridled Homes online. The website will be also be updated on a regular basis with new inventory, photos, corporate milestones, and news blogs.

We wanted an easier path for customers to get information about our homes, communities, and our team. We hope you love it!

The post Unbridled Homes Debuts New Website appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

Buying a Home Right Now: Easy? Maybe Not. Smart? Yes!

Thu, 07 May 2020 16:46:00 GMT

Buying a Home Right Now: Easy? No. Smart? Yes.

Through all the volatility in the economy right now, some have put their search for a home on hold, yet others have not. According to ShowingTime, the real estate industry’s leading showing management technology provider, buyers have started to reappear over the last several weeks. In the latest report, they revealed:

“The March ShowingTime Showing Index® recorded the first nationwide drop in showing traffic in eight months as communities responded to COVID-19. Early April data show signs of an upswing, however.”

Why would people be setting appointments to look at prospective homes when the process of purchasing a home has become more difficult with shelter-in-place orders throughout the country?

Here are three reasons for this uptick in activity:

1. Some people need to move. Whether because of a death in the family, a new birth, divorce, financial hardship, or a job transfer, some families need to make a move as quickly as possible.

2. Real estate agents across the country have become very innovative, utilizing technology that allows purchasers to virtually:

View homes
Meet with mortgage professionals
Consult with their agent throughout the process
All of this can happen within the required safety protocols, so real estate professionals are continuing to help families make important moves.

3. Buyers understand that mortgage rates are a key component when determining their monthly mortgage payments. Mortgage interest rates are very close to all-time lows and afford today’s purchaser the opportunity to save tens of thousands of dollars over the lifetime of the loan.

Looking closely at the third reason, we can see that there’s a big difference between purchasing a house last year and purchasing one now (see chart below):Buying a Home Right Now: Easy? No. Smart? Yes. | MyKCM

Bottom Line
Many families have decided not to postpone their plans to purchase a home, even in these difficult times. If you need to make a move, let’s connect today so you have a trusted advisor to safely and professionally guide you through the process.

The post Buying a Home Right Now: Easy? Maybe Not. Smart? Yes! appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

2019 Professional Builder Forty Under 40

Tue, 03 Mar 2020 10:00:00 GMT

Ryan Band, 39

President, Unbridled Homes, Louisville, Ky.

EDUCATION

• BS, Finance, Indiana University

CERTIFICATIONS

• Working toward Certified Graduate Builder designation

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

• Has grown company revenue 100 percent year over year since 2014 founding

• Board of directors for the Building Industry Association (BIA) of Greater Louisville and The Fuller Center for Housing

EXTRACURRICULAR

• Project manager and volunteer for the ACE Project, converting an abandoned home into a community center for local children and youth in Louisville with the support of the BIA of Greater Louisville and local news agency WHAS

SECRET LIFE

• Third-generation builder

• Favorite vacation spot: Treasure Island, Fla.; has been visiting since childhood

OFF THE CLOCK

• Sailing

• Whitewater kayaking

• Mountain biking

• Swimming

Click Here to Learn More

The post 2019 Professional Builder Forty Under 40 appeared first on Unbridled Homes .

An Honest Look at Unemployment Numbers

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 23:00:00 GMT

An Honest Look at Unemployment Numbers

Last Friday, the Bureau of Labor Statistics released the November Jobs Report . It revealed that, though headed in the right direction, the nation’s job recovery has slowed. The consensus reaction is best exemplified by a quote from Glassdoor Senior Economist , Daniel Zhao:

There’s no doubt that millions of households have been – and continue to be -devastated by the economic downturn caused by the pandemic.

We should, however, put the current situation into perspective. Where we currently stand is much better than where most experts thought we would be at this time. Jed Kolko, Chief Economist of Indeed , explained in his State of the Labor Market that, though the situation is not good, we’re doing better than original expectations:

With the announcement that vaccines should be available soon, we’re not far from the most damaged segments of the economy gaining momentum again.

Jeff Sparshott of the Wall Street Journal recently wrote :

Bottom Line

Though millions of Americans are still out of work, the situation was forecasted to be even direr than it is today. Once a vaccine becomes available, the economy should complete its comeback, and so should the labor market.

The post An Honest Look at Unemployment Numbers appeared first on Unbridled Homes .