Jason Froehlich at HomeServices Lending

08/10/2026

🏡 Why does a newly built home cost what it does? There’s more behind the price tag than materials and labor.

According to NAHB estimates, federal, state and local regulations now account for $131,734, or 26.4%, of the average price of a newly built single-family home. That’s up more than 40% since 2021.

For real estate agents, that’s valuable context when helping buyers understand new-construction pricing and the market forces shaping affordability.

Knowing what’s behind the numbers can make for better conversations from the start.

08/07/2026

📉 Rates are only part of the story.
Inventory is shifting, buyers may be gaining leverage, and the latest economic data is shaping what comes next.
Read this week’s Market Update for the full picture. 👇

https://bit.ly/4bwxTmL

This Market Update is written by our Capital Market specialists each week to bring you insight into what's happening in the market and how it may affect mortgage rates and real estate trends.

08/05/2026

Earnest money, a down payment and closing costs can all affect how much cash a buyer needs, but they are not interchangeable. 🏠

🔑 Earnest money is a good-faith deposit typically made after an offer is accepted and held according to the purchase contract. If the sale closes, it may be credited toward the buyer’s down payment or closing costs.

🏡 The down payment is the portion of the purchase price the buyer pays rather than finances. The amount varies by loan program and borrower qualifications.

🧾 Closing costs cover expenses associated with the mortgage and ownership transfer, such as lender fees, appraisal, title services and prepaid taxes or insurance.

Real estate colleagues, save and share this breakdown with your buyers!

08/04/2026

Summer homebuying season can heat up quickly. ☀️🏡

With CompetitivEdge®, qualified buyers may be able to strengthen their offer and approach the process with added confidence. Connect with us before you begin your home search to learn how the program works and whether you may qualify.

Be sure you have the edge when the home you love comes along this summer.

08/03/2026

A home purchase can create an economic ripple that continues long after closing. 🏠

Modeled data shows buyers of newly built and existing homes spend nearly $9,000 more during the first year than comparable households that do not move. That added spending supports appliances, furnishings, remodeling, repairs and the businesses providing them.

For real estate professionals, it’s another reminder of how every home sale can support the broader local economy.

08/03/2026

✨Starting your week with a spark of inspiration. Let’s make it a great one! 💪

07/31/2026

Condo financing isn’t becoming more difficult across the board—but it is becoming more detailed. 🏢

Following several positive guideline updates in March, two important changes are ahead:

📅 Beginning August 3, more condo projects may require a Full Review.
📈 In January 2027, association reserve requirements will increase from 10% to 15% of the annual budget.

For real estate professionals, early due diligence will be more important than ever. Connect with us early to help identify potential concerns before they become closing-day surprises.

07/29/2026

An inspection, appraisal and final walkthrough may all involve someone looking at the home, but they answer three very different questions. 🏠

🔍 Inspection: What condition is the home in?
Usually arranged by the buyer, a professional inspection evaluates the visible condition of the home’s structure, systems and components. The findings may inform the buyer’s next steps under the purchase contract, such as requesting repairs. It does not replace an appraisal.

📋 Appraisal: What is the property worth?
Typically ordered through the lender, an appraisal provides an independent opinion of value based on the property, comparable sales and market conditions. It helps the lender determine whether the property supports the requested loan amount. It does not replace a home inspection.

🔑 Final walkthrough: Is the home being delivered as agreed?
Usually completed shortly before closing, the final walkthrough gives buyers an opportunity to confirm that negotiated repairs appear complete, agreed-upon items remain and the property has not sustained new damage. It is not a second inspection.

Three steps. Three different purposes. Real estate colleagues, save and share this breakdown with your buyers!

07/28/2026

☀️ Sunshine, grilling, gardening, and...home maintenance? 🌿🔥

A few easy seasonal tasks can help keep your home running smoothly while you enjoy everything summer has to offer. From keeping your A/C efficient to grilling safely, we've got four quick tips to help you make the most of the season.

👉 Swipe through for this week's Summer Home Tip Tuesday!

07/27/2026

📉 The long-term outlook points to gradual improvement—not a dramatic overnight drop.

This five-year forecast projects 30-year fixed mortgage rates easing from 6.25% in 2026 to 5.70% by 2030, driven by both a lower Treasury yield forecast and a narrowing spread between Treasury and mortgage rates.

For real estate professionals, it’s helpful context when buyers ask whether they should wait: forecasts can suggest a direction, but they can’t predict exactly when—or how quickly—the market will move. 🏠