Ann Cummings and Jim Lee - Seacoast New Hampshire Real Estate Experts

06/15/2026

After a year or more of rates coming down, things have changed. And lately, mortgage rates have been climbing again.

And if that's made you wonder whether you should delay your move until they drop, you're not the only one.

The honest truth is that rates probably won't come down much until inflation cools off and some of the global uncertainty settles. And no one knows exactly when that'll be.

But what most headlines won't tell you is that rates aren't the only thing that affects affordability. Sure, they’re a big factor, but not all of the affordability news is bad.

Wages, home prices, and inventory are all trending in a direction that could still help make your move possible.

Want to know what that actually looks like for your situation? Drop a comment or send me a DM.

Because even though rates are higher, there are pockets of opportunity in any market, if you know where to look.

06/15/2026

💲 With mortgage rates still sitting in the mid‑6% range, many buyers are asking the same question:

“Should I negotiate a lower purchase price… or ask the seller to help buy down my interest rate?” 💰

Here’s the surprising part — in many cases, a seller‑paid rate buydown can lower your monthly payment far more than a small price reduction.

For example, on a home around $670,000:

A $10,000 price reduction might save you about $60–$70 per month.

But a $10,000 seller credit toward a rate buydown could reduce your payment by $180–$220 per month, depending on the loan program.

That’s a big difference in affordability. 😮

Buydowns have become a powerful negotiation tool in today’s market, and many sellers are open to them — especially when it helps a buyer feel confident moving forward.

Let's talk soon,
Jim Lee
RE/MAX Shoreline
603‑436‑1221
https://www.newhampshiremainerealestate.com/

06/14/2026

Describe city life in 3️⃣ words! ⬇️

Coastal living starts here! 🌊 Ann Cummings & Jim Lee, REALTORS® | RE/MAX Shoreline
"Experts you can trust." Explore homes: www.NewHampshireMaineRealEstate.com

06/14/2026

Inflation is still above where the Fed wants it, and that means mortgage rates are likely to stay elevated for a while. But for people who need to move, strategy matters far more than trying to perfectly time the market.

Wondering what this means for your specific situation? Reach out today. Let's cut through the noise together and make a plan that actually works for you.

Data shows inflation is moving in the wrong direction. But before the headlines send anyone into a panic, here's what's actually going on, why it matters for the housing market, and what it means if you're thinking about buying or selling.

06/14/2026

Moving this Summer? Whether you're buying or selling, you probably have questions.

My new Summer Buyer & Seller Guides have the answers.

Inside, you'll find out what higher inventory means for you, what’s going on with affordability right now, what strategies for buying or selling are actually working this season, and more.

Stop guessing and start moving forward with confidence. DM or drop a comment with "BUYER" or "SELLER" below to get your free digital copy.

06/13/2026

If affordability has been the biggest thing standing between you and a home, there’s a little bit of good news.

Asking prices have started to ease – the typical asking price this May came in under where it was a year ago.

And these lower prices are good news for your move – not a sign the market’s in trouble. It points to a market that’s rebalancing with more realistic seller expectations and a little more breathing room for buyers again.

So, if you’ve been waiting for an opening, let’s connect. I’ll help you see what that looks like in our area.

06/12/2026

Because even though you want rates to come down, experts say this latest inflation data could actually set the stage for rates to stay “higher for longer.”

So, what can you do about it? Should you just wait?

My advice is simple. Focus on what you can control.

Even in a market like this, there are things you can do to get the best mortgage rate possible. Because sometimes you need to move no matter what’s happening – and that’s okay.

You just need the right strategy.

Let's talk about what this means for your situation and your timing. Drop a comment below or send over a message.

Because you don’t have to figure it out alone. And there are still ways to move forward.

06/12/2026

Still waiting for the "perfect time" to make your move? Summer might already be it. More fresh listings for buyers, stronger offers for sellers, but the window closes fast once fall hits. Read why summer could be your best play this year.

If you’ve been on the fence about making a move this year, you’re probably wondering whether now is really the right time — or if you should just hold off a little longer. It’s a question a lot of people are asking. But here’s what most people don’t realize: summer isn’t just another s...

06/12/2026

Is the greenery in this bathroom relaxing or overwhelming?

Coastal living starts here! 🌊 Ann Cummings & Jim Lee, REALTORS® | RE/MAX Shoreline
"Experts you can trust." Explore homes: www.NewHampshireMaineRealEstate.com

06/12/2026

A lot of people who want to move are telling themselves the same thing: "Maybe I'll just wait until later this year."

But before you decide, make sure you understand what you could be giving up too. Because moving this Summer does have its advantages.

For buyers, it could give you more options in your price point. Historically, there are over 30% more fresh listings in the Summer compared to the rest of the year.

For sellers, it can mean a better sales price. Data shows, on average homes sell for 4% more in the typical Summer month compared to usual month in the Fall or Winter (when demand typically falls off).

The point isn't to rush into anything. It's just to make sure you have the full picture before deciding whether waiting is really your best move.

DM me if you want to talk through your options. No pressure, just perspective based on years of experience.