Melissa Schwartz, Branch Manager / Mortgage Guide NMLS #77046

06/14/2026

Two Big Reasons To Move This Summer

Could waiting until later this year work out? Sure. But it's important to understand what you may gain by moving now too – that way you have the full picture before you decide.

If a 2026 move is on your radar, let’s connect and talk about what matters most to you. Depending on your priorities, Summer could be your moment.

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

06/13/2026

A lot of buyers think affordability is impossible right now.

But sometimes it’s not about giving up on homeownership. It’s about expanding where you’re looking.

Yes, some states are significantly more affordable than others. This list breaks down the top 10. But that doesn’t mean you have to make a cross-country move to find better options.
Even in expensive markets, there are usually neighborhoods, towns, and communities nearby where home prices, property taxes, or overall costs are a lot more manageable.

The key is knowing where to look – and a local agent can help you find those opportunities.

Curious what's out there? Broadening your search, even just a little outside of town, might open up more options than you'd expect.

Drop a comment below or send a message if you want some advice on where to look based on your price point.

06/12/2026

Lower Asking Prices Are a Win for Today’s Buyers

If affordability has been your top concern, the recent dip in prices is an opening. Want to see what that looks like in our area? Let’s connect.

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

06/11/2026

5.0 star review received on Experience.com for Melissa Schwartz by Charles C - Great people can answer any questions that I have clear

Click to see all 323 reviews of Melissa Schwartz, Branch Manager

06/11/2026

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.

06/11/2026

A mortgage isn’t decided by one factor alone. It’s a combination of things working together behind the scenes. *Other documentation may be required for your specific loan program option selected. Reach out to a loan officer.

06/10/2026

This is normal, right?

You find the perfect house online.
You schedule a showing.
You fall in love.

Then you start looking for a mortgage.

The problem?

❌ You might find out the house costs more than you can afford.

❌ You could miss out on loan programs or down payment assistance that could save you thousands.

❌ You may not know what monthly payment actually fits your budget.

❌ And while you're figuring all that out, another buyer who's already pre-approved may submit an offer first.

Getting pre-approved before you start house hunting doesn't mean you're committing to buy a home.

It simply helps you with:
✔️ How much home can you afford
✔️ Have more people take you seriously
✔️ How much money can you save

The best first step in buying a home isn't finding a house.

It's finding out what you can buy before you start shopping.
Reach out to me or send me a message if you want to start looking around or have any questions.

06/10/2026

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.

06/09/2026

5.0 star review received on Experience.com for Melissa Schwartz by Timothy A - Melissa seemed to take a personal interest in our situation and did everything she could to make things work. She was kind, considerate, and professional.

Click to see all 322 reviews of Melissa Schwartz, Branch Manager

06/09/2026

Summer Guides for Buying or Selling a Home

Moving this Summer, and not sure where to start? The new Summer Guides for buying or selling a home have your answers. For your free digital copy, let’s connect.