Have You Considered Bi Weekly Mortgage Payments?
When you think of a mortgage payment, you probably picture one payment each month for 30 years. This is simple, familiar, and completely accurate. but, it is not the only…
Should You Max Out Your Downpayment? Maybe Not.
Conventional wisdom often encourages you to make the largest downpayment you can afford - which isn't necessarily bad advice. A larger downpayment reduces the size of…
Further Market Insights for November 2025
Luke published his monthly analysis of the local housing market earlier this week and had some good thoughts and insights for buyers, sellers and homeowners. You can…
Contract to Buy a Home Now and Start Making Mortgage Payments in February!
Thinking about buying a home this month? Here's a little-known benefit of timing: If you go under contract in mid-November and close in mid-December, your first mortgage…
Home Sales and Prices Holding Steady in Harrisonburg and Rockingham County
Happy Wednesday, Friends! The year is flying along... only 49 days until 2026!?! I hope you are enjoying your Fall in the Shenandoah Valley! It's been a fun time in my…
The Median Age of First Time Homebuyers Is Now 40
If you're a young professional who hasn't yet purchased a home, you may find yourself wondering: when do most people actually buy their first home? It's a good question…
The Mortgage Rate Lock Is Starting to Soften
Lots of people bought a home or refinanced their mortgage when mortgage interest rates were quite low! Three years ago (in mid 2022) over 60% of mortgage holders had…
Land Sales Are Down in Rockingham County
Over the past few years, we've seen a notable decline in the number of land sales -- specifically for lots of 2 acres or more -- in Harrisonburg and Rockingham County. In…
Harrisonburg or Rockingham? Factoring Property Taxes Into Your Housing Decision
More thoughts from Luke this week... on the surprising difference between the tax rate in the City and County! When you're thinking about buying a home, it's easy to…
Will Home Prices Spike if Mortgage Rates Drop?
You might be one of many buyers watching interest rates closely. Maybe you're not quite ready to buy yet, but you're hopeful that rates will drop soon, making things a…
What Is a Historically Normal Mortgage Interest Rate?
Mortgage rates have been a frequent topic of conversation lately. The average 30-year fixed rate is now in the low 6% range, currently about 6.27%. Still, after a few…
When (and How) to Use a Home Equity Line of Credit
More from Luke this week... on home equity lines! Enjoy! If you've owned your home for a while, you've probably built up some equity. That's the portion of your home you…