Janele Haan - Banner Bank Home Loans

10/16/2026

Across Los Angeles, builders are trending toward “new homes with old souls”—think cedar shingles, stone, large windows, traditional millwork and ADUs instead of cookie‑cutter modern boxes. Those design choices boost everyday livability (durable floors, functional pantry space, flexible layouts) and support stronger resale by fitting in organically with neighborhood character. Which design elements are on your list for your next home?

Interior designer Sam Donnelly wanted to build a new home with an old soul. She did it with traditional materials and timeless decor.

10/15/2026

Buying a home can feel more challenging in today’s market. The typical renter has saved just $2,600 for a downpayment, keeping many first-time buyers sidelined. But buyers may have more negotiating power today, thanks to softening prices and seller incentives in some markets. Before making a move, it's important to understand how your purchase fits into your long-term financial goals. Have questions about what's happening in our local market? Let's connect.

Still, most renters lack the funds for a down payment, and more buyers are turning to government-backed loans, suggesting that affordability remains a problem.

10/12/2026

A recent survey found many buyers believe outdated mortgage myths that can stop them from exploring a home purchase. Credit, down payment and rate requirements are often more flexible than would-be buyers assume. Options exist for credit scores near 620, low down payments and varying lender rates. Reach out if you want to find out if you’re more mortgage-ready than you think.

A recent survey found that many prospective buyers are in possession of incorrect or outdated information. It’s up to agents to set the record straight.

10/11/2026

Existing home sales rose 0.2% in April but are flat year-over-year amid higher mortgage rates and tight, slowly easing inventory. Affordability has improved slightly, and while some homes are still attracting multiple offers, others are taking longer to sell. If you’re selling, work with your realtor to consider your local market. If you’re buying, work with your lender to lock in rates and focus on whether the homes you’re looking at feel fairly priced for the location and neighborhood. Read the full article to learn more and feel free to reach out to explore your options.

Existing home sales increased by 0.2% in April. Month-over-month sales increased in the Midwest and South, were unchanged in the Northeast, and declined in the West, according to a report by the National Association of Realtors.

10/10/2026

Your credit score does more than help you qualify. It shapes the rate you get and the monthly payment you'll live with
for years. Here's a quick breakdown of how it works and what you can do to put yourself in the best position.

10/09/2026

Want to make your kitchen look instantly posh? Give aubergine a look—Pinterest searches for this rich hue have jumped nearly 500%, signaling a move from safe neutrals to luxe, intentional color. Designers are pairing this deep purple with walnut, veined stone and warm metals. Read on to learn more about this current color trend.

This deep purple hue sits on the sweet spot between dramatic and digestible

10/08/2026

Do you prefer your home’s exterior color to blend organically with its natural setting—or do you gravitate toward hues that make more of a statement? Many designers and homeowners are shifting away from stark color choices in favor of softer hues derived from nature. Sage, greige, terracotta and blue-gray tones hide dirt, age more gracefully and read as more livable—boosting curb appeal and marketability. What color would you choose if you were painting your home?

Experts reveal their top exterior colors for creating timeless nature-merged homes that sit in harmony with their surroundings

10/07/2026

Purchasing a starter home remains challenging for many buyers: There are about 300,000 fewer listings on the market today than pre‑pandemic and the typical starter price has risen from $256K to $344K. Message me if you’re looking to buy a home—I can help you explore options that fit your needs and budget.

The worst of the starter home crunch appears to be behind us, but the damage runs deep. There are roughly 300,000 fewer affordable listings on the market today than before the pandemic.

10/04/2026

Thinking of snagging a starter home? Remember, a "deal" can hide some costly surprises you don’t want after move-in day. Look beyond fresh paint and check for water damage, plumbing issues and aging roofs. Have you ever faced surprise repair costs or expenses after purchasing a home?

If you want to buy an existing starter home, the listing price is just the start of the financial investment, depending on the needed repairs.

10/03/2026

The U.S. housing market is gradually cooling, with price adjustments becoming more common as buyers remain selective. What could this shift mean for your home's value and resale potential? Understanding these trends is crucial for homeowners buying or selling in today's market.

The housing market is entering its anticipated summer slowdown, as sellers progressively modify their prices while buyer demand remains stable, according to the Realtor.com July 2026 Monthly Housing Trends Report.