🏡 Assumable Mortgages: A Smart Strategy in Today's Market In an environment of rising interest rates, assumable mortgages offer a valuable opportunity for both buyers and sellers. An assumable mortgage allows a buyer to take over the seller's existing home loan, including its interest rate, repayment schedule, and remaining balance. This can be especially beneficial if the seller’s mortgage has a lower interest rate than what’s currently available. Benefits for Buyers: Lower Interest Rates: Buyers can lock in a significantly lower rate by assuming a seller’s existing loan. Reduced Closing Costs: Many traditional lending fees can be minimized or avoided. Faster Closing Timeline: The process is often more streamlined than applying for a new loan. Benefits for Sellers: Increased Marketability: Homes with assumable loans tend to attract more interest in high-rate environments. Stronger Offers: Sellers may receive full-price offers and fewer concessions when the assumable mortgage is the main incentive. 💼 Real-Life Example from Navarre, FL I recently helped a seller close on their home in Navarre, Florida, where the buyers assumed the seller’s low-interest mortgage. Because of this built-in value, the home received a full asking price offer with minimal concessions. The assumable loan became the key selling point, allowing the seller to stand out in a competitive market.

Why Emerald Coast Buyers and Sellers Need a Real Estate Pro in Today’s MarketFlorida’s Emerald Coast real estate market is shifting. With rising inventory, fluctuating interest rates, and changing buyer demands, it’s no longer the fast-paced seller’s market of years past. Whether you’re buying or selling a home in Destin, Fort Walton Beach, or along 30A, understanding current market trends is key.That’s why now, more than ever, working with an experienced Emerald Coast real estate agent is essential. A local pro can help buyers find the right property at the right price—and guide sellers in pricing, marketing, and staging for today’s competitive market.From navigating insurance costs to evaluating new listings, having the right real estate professional by your side ensures you make smart, informed decisions.Ready to buy or sell a home on the Emerald Coast? Let’s talk—your success starts with local expertise.

Home prices maintained their momentum in late 2023. The S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller U.S. National Home Price Index posted a 5.5% annual gain in December, up from a 5.1% gain in November, according to the latest report.

There’s a lot of confusion in the market about what’s happening with day-to-day movement in mortgage rates right now, but here’s what you really need to know: compared to the near 8% peak last fall, mortgage rates have trended down overall.

Wondering if it still makes sense to sell your house right now? The short answer is, yes. And if you look at the current number of homes for sale, you’ll see two reasons why.An article from Calculated Risk shows there are 15.6% more homes for sale now compared to the same week last year.