Uncategorized • July 16, 2026

Real Estate is America’s Favorite Investment

by Rich Iarossi

14 Years Running: Why Real Estate Is Still America’s Favorite Investment

Quick gut reaction. Which investment do Americans trust more than stocks, gold, savings accounts, and bonds? The answer hasn’t changed in 14 years.

It’s real estate. And this year, that answer comes with even more conviction behind it. New data shows people aren’t just saying homeownership is a smart move, they’re feeling better about it than they have in years. Let’s dig into why.

Real Estate Takes the Top Spot – Again

Every year, Gallup asks Americans to name the best long-term investment. And for the 14th year in a row, real estate came out on top (see graph below):

That’s not a fluke or a hot streak. That’s 14 straight years of beating out stocks, gold, and everything else.

Think about everything that’s happened in that stretch – rising rates, market swings, election years, you name it. Through all of it, Americans kept picking real estate. That kind of staying power says something about how people view homeownership – and it makes sense. Historically, it’s one of the best ways to build wealth in this country.

As Michelle Egan, Head of Credit Solutions, Impact Finance at JPMorgan Chase, explains:

“Owning a home has long been considered one of the most reliable ways to build wealth. Beyond providing shelter, a home is a valuable asset that can appreciate over time, build equity, and serve as a financial resource for generations.”

Now, you may have seen chatter online saying home prices are falling and wondered if that changes the math. It really shouldn’t. Nationally, home prices are still rising – just at a slower pace than a few years ago.

Yes, some local markets are seeing slight dips, but those dips are small compared to how much home values have grown over the past 5 years. Generally speaking, home prices almost always rise. As long as you plan to live there for a good length of time, you should still have the chance to build equity.

More People Say Buying Beats Renting

And while it’s true homeownership has been seen as a worthwhile pursuit for years now, something interesting is happening. It may actually be gaining a bit more popularity again.

According to Bank of America‘s latest Homebuyer Insights Report, 53% of people now say it’s better to buy a home than to rent or move in with family. That’s the first time buying has taken the lead since 2023 (see graph below):

In that same report, here are a few other signals that confidence in homeownership is on the rise:

90% of people say a home is a valuable investment, up from 79% just last year.
And 94% say owning a home provides stability, up from 83% the year prior.

Those are relatively big jumps in a short amount of time. And here’s what may be driving it.

It’s About More Than Money

Sure, affordability is still tight and some markets are still hard to break into, but that hasn’t changed what people feel about homeownership as a goal. And the reason why is simple – it’s not just a financial decision. It’s a lifestyle choice.

A home pays you back in ways stocks never could. As Sheharyar Bokhari, Principal Economist at Redfin, says:

“For many homeowners, a home is more than a place to sleep and store belongings—it’s a reflection of who they are. Homeownership can help people put down roots, build relationships and create a space that feels uniquely their own.”

You can’t get that from a brokerage account. A home is the one investment that grows your wealth and gives you a place to build your life. And that means something.

Bottom Line

For 14 years straight, Americans have called real estate the best long-term investment, and confidence in owning a home is on the rise. If you’ve been weighing whether buying is worth it, let’s connect and talk through what that first step could look like for you.

I can help you buy or sell a home in MD. Call Rich at 443.995.9595 Cell or 410.266.9005 Office.

Richard Iarossi, REALTOR®
Century 21 New Millennium
1730 West St., Suite 200, Annapolis, MD 21401
443.995.9595 Cell
410.266.9005 Office
eMail: rich@richsellshomes.com
Web: https://richsellshomes.com

A portion of every commission goes to support St. Jude charity directly

#AnnapolisRealEstate, #CroftonMDHomes, #BowieMDRealEstate, #SevernaParkHomes, #PasadenaMDHomes, #GambrillsRealEstate, #ArnoldMDRealEstate, #EdgewaterMDHomes, #MillersvilleMDHomes, #OdentonRealEstate

Real Estate • July 15, 2026

Buyers are buying right now!

by Rich Iarossi

Think Nobody’s Buying Homes Right Now? Think Again.

If you’ve been thinking about selling, you’ve probably seen plenty of headlines suggesting buyers have just about disappeared. But there’s a big difference between a slow market and a stalled one.

Yes, mortgage rates are still higher than most people would like. Homes aren’t selling as fast as they were. And every week seems to bring another headline about buyers sitting on the sidelines. But here’s what you haven’t heard.

Despite everything going on, buyer demand has been remarkably resilient.

In fact, more sellers are getting to put up the “pending sale” sign now than during the last two years. What’s even more surprising is that they’re doing it at a time of year when activity usually starts to slow down.

And if you’re thinking about selling, that’s a trend worth paying attention to.

Buyers Are More Active Than You Think

One of the best ways to measure buyer demand is by looking at pending home sales. Those are homes that have gone under contract but haven’t closed yet. Think of them as a real-time pulse check on the market and whether buyers are still buying.

HousingWire Data shows more homes are going under contract than at the same time the past 2 years (see graph below):

While it may come as a surprise, the numbers speak for themselves. It doesn’t mean buyers are everywhere, but it does mean they’re still active right now. And even if this ebbs and flows a bit in the weeks ahead, right now we’re still ahead of where we’ve been lately. That’s encouraging news if you’re thinking about selling because it tells us something important…

People haven’t stopped buying homes. Serious buyers are still making moves.

And a lot of these people are buying because they decided they can’t keep waiting. Whether it’s a growing family, a new job, retirement, or simply wanting a different home, life keeps moving… even when mortgage rates stay higher than we’d like. As Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), explains:

“A late spring buyer rush—even with mortgage rates not budging—is an indication of pent-up housing demand and consumers’ acceptance of above-6% mortgage rates as the new normal.”

So, if you’ve been worried no one’s buying, this data should give you some confidence. Today’s buyers aren’t just casually browsing open houses on a Sunday afternoon, they’ve spent months waiting for rates to improve and now they realize they can’t wait anymore.

That means they have a purposeand a timeline. And that’s exactly the kind of motivated buyer you want to work with.

What This Means for Your Sale

Does that mean every house will sell instantly? No.

Today’s market is more balanced than it was a few years ago. So, you can’t just price your house however you want or skip preparing it for the market.

Now buyers have choices, and they’re willing to wait for the right home at the right price. But sellers who understand today’s market (and price and position their homes right) are still finding success. Because the idea that “no one’s buying right now” just isn’t supported by the data.

The buyers are there.

The opportunity is there.

The key is having the right strategy to capture it.

Bottom Line

This year’s housing market may be moving slower than many of us hoped. But, buyer demand is more resilient than the headlines suggest.

If you’re wondering whether there are enough buyers for your house, let’s connect. I’ll show you what’s happening in our local market and build a strategy that helps you take advantage of the momentum that’s already here.

I can help you buy or sell a home in MD. Call Rich at 443.995.9595 Cell or 410.266.9005 Office.

Richard Iarossi, REALTOR®
Century 21 New Millennium
1730 West St., Suite 200, Annapolis, MD 21401
443.995.9595 Cell
410.266.9005 Office
eMail: rich@richsellshomes.com
Web: https://richsellshomes.com

A portion of every commission goes to support St. Jude charity directly

#AnnapolisRealEstate, #CroftonMDHomes, #BowieMDRealEstate, #SevernaParkHomes, #PasadenaMDHomes, #GambrillsRealEstate, #ArnoldMDRealEstate, #EdgewaterMDHomes, #MillersvilleMDHomes, #OdentonRealEstate

Real Estate • June 23, 2026

That House That’s Been Sitting Could Be Your Best Shot at a Deal

by Rich Iarossi

That House That’s Been Sitting Could Be Your Best Shot at a Deal

Open up a home search and you’ll see them. Listings that have been on the market for two months. Three. Some longer.

Most buyers scroll right past them, assuming something’s wrong with the house. But that instinct could be costing you, since the longer a home sits, the more motivated the seller usually gets.

Where Some Buyers Are Finding Better Deals

If affordability has been your #1 hurdle to buying, here’s a surprisingly simple strategy that could help you finally get your foot in the door. Start with the homes that have been sitting the longest. That’s often where the best deals are.

Here’s why. Data from Realtor.com shows there’s a connection between longer time on the market and lower sales prices. Basically, the longer a house sits, the more likely it is that the seller will reduce the price (see graph below):

The blue line tracks how long homes stay on the market, while the green line tracks the share of homes getting a price reduction. As one climbs, so does the other.

And if you focus on these homes that are just sitting and waiting, the opportunity for you is bigger than you may think right now.

Redfin data shows there’s $347 billion worth of stale listings on the market right now – more than ever before for this time of year. So, ask your agent to filter listings for you from oldest to newest. The home that fits your budget might already be there. Just further down the list than you thought.

Lingering Doesn’t Always Mean Something’s Wrong

Let’s say you do that and something catches your eye. Still, you might be questioning why the home has been sitting in the first place. Just remember, sometimes it has nothing to do with the home itself.

According to Redfin, common causes are:

The asking price was set too high to start
The home didn’t show well online
There are a lot of homes for sale in the area, so it just got buried

So, nothing that’s necessarily a dealbreaker, or even anything that’s wrong with the home itself. If there’s a real issue, a thorough inspection will surface it. And that’s information you can use to negotiate. Not a reason to assume it’s a house worth skipping over.

How To Turn a Lingering Listing into a Win

So how do you capitalize on a lingering listing? According to USA Today, you have two main levers to pull.

The first is price. Work with your agent to study what comparable homes recently sold for, then build an offer around that. Coming in below asking price is fair game when a home has been sitting.

The second is concessions. If a seller won’t budge much on price, they may still help in other ways, like covering some closing costs, repair credits, or even a mortgage rate buydown that lowers your monthly payment.

A local agent has the context to tell which homes are the real opportunities and which are skippable.

Bottom Line

A house sitting on the market isn’t always a glaring red flag. In today’s market, it may be your best opportunity yet.

For help deciding which lingering listings are actually worth a second look, let’s connect.

I can help you buy or sell a home in MD. Call Rich at 443.995.9595 Cell or 410.266.9005 Office.

Richard Iarossi, REALTOR®
Century 21 New Millennium
1730 West St., Suite 200, Annapolis, MD 21401
443.995.9595 Cell
410.266.9005 Office
eMail: rich@richsellshomes.com
Web: https://richsellshomes.com

A portion of every commission goes to support St. Jude charity directly

#AnnapolisRealEstate, #CroftonMDHomes, #BowieMDRealEstate, #SevernaParkHomes, #PasadenaMDHomes, #GambrillsRealEstate, #ArnoldMDRealEstate, #EdgewaterMDHomes, #MillersvilleMDHomes, #OdentonRealEstate

Real Estate • May 28, 2026

The Real Reason Some People Are Still Moving Right Now

by Rich Iarossi

Richard Iarossi Realtor

I’m writing this post because over the course of my first career in telecommunications I’ve moved multiple times. Of course, they were all at the needs of the company, and all successful. Moving is such a personal matter in most cases, and we all have our own reasons to move. As you can see from the chart below, some reasons are good, and other’s not so good.

You may be telling yourself you’re going to wait to move – maybe you’re hoping mortgage rates will come down, prices will fall, or the market will feel a little easier.

And honestly? A lot of people feel that way right now. But here’s what some are starting to realize.

Waiting doesn’t usually fix the thing that made you want to move in the first place.

Your family still desperately needs more room. Your empty nest still feels too…empty.

Your parents or grandparents still need you to live closer.

You just got married… or divorced.

Your vision of retirement has you living somewhere else.

Eventually, life can reach a point where waiting feels harder than moving.

That’s why some people are still deciding to buy right now, even in today’s market. Not because conditions are perfect. But because the life changes behind their move never really went away.

And maybe that’s exactly where you are too. If so, you’re certainly not alone.

The Real Reasons People Move

Data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows 1 in 5 buyers last year said they felt like they had to purchase a home at that time, no matter the market.

That’s an important reminder right now. Sure, the dollars and cents of your move have to make sense for you. But big life changes happen whether mortgage rates and home prices are high, low, or somewhere in between.

And those big life events happen more than you may think. NAR says roughly 22.5 million people experience major life changes in a typical two-year span (see graph below):

These are exactly the kinds of things that can change how much space you need, where you want to live, or what kind of lifestyle makes sense now. Chen Zhao, Head of Economics Research at Redfin, explains:

“Life doesn’t stand still—people get new jobs, grow their families, downsize after retirement, or simply want to live in a different neighborhood.”

And that’s what makes waiting so hard. Every month you spend hoping the market changes is another month living in a house that no longer works for your life. It’s stressful to feel stuck. And that feeling usually doesn’t disappear.

There May Be More Opportunity Than You Think

But while affordability is still a challenge, there may still be a way for you to make your move.

The number of homes for sale has been growing for 4 straight years (see graph below). That means more homes to choose from and, in some markets, more room to negotiate than buyers had just a few years ago.

That doesn’t mean moving is suddenly easy. But it does mean some buyers are finding ways to make a move work. So, if you’ve been putting your plans on hold, maybe the question isn’t just:

“What’s the market doing?” or “When will it get better?”

Maybe ask yourself this, too: “Can I still live where I’m at right now and make it work?”

If the answer to that second question is “no,” it may be worth having a conversation about what your options look like today – despite where rates or prices are. You could find your move is still possible after all. With more homes for sale, there’s a better chance to find one that fits your life (and your budget) right now.

Bottom Line

Life changes. Priorities shift. Families grow. Kids move out. Careers evolve. And eventually, the house you’re in may stop fitting the life you’re living.

If that’s been weighing on you lately, let’s talk through what your options could realistically look like today, no matter where rates or prices are.

Life can’t always wait for perfect market conditions. Maybe you don’t have to either.

I can help you buy or sell a home in MD. Call Rich at 443.995.9595 Cell or 410.266.9005 Office.

Richard Iarossi, REALTOR®
Century 21 New Millennium
1730 West St., Suite 200, Annapolis, MD 21401
443.995.9595 Cell
410.266.9005 Office
eMail: rich@richsellshomes.com
Web: https://richsellshomes.com

A portion of every commission goes to support St. Jude charity directly

#AnnapolisRealEstate, #CroftonMDHomes, #BowieMDRealEstate, #SevernaParkHomes, #PasadenaMDHomes, #GambrillsRealEstate, #ArnoldMDRealEstate, #EdgewaterMDHomes, #MillersvilleMDHomes, #OdentonRealEstate

Real Estate • May 28, 2026

VA Loans

by Rich Iarossi

What Most Veterans Don’t Know About Their VA Home Loan Benefit

Nearly half of Veterans (49%) feel homeownership is currently out of reach, according to a recent survey from NewDay USA.

But many are closer than they think. And you might be, too.

If you’re a Veteran, you probably know the Veterans Affairs (VA) home loan benefit exists – it’s been around for over 80 years. What you might not know is what it actually covers. Three misconceptions trip up Veterans the most (see graph below):

As a Veteran myself I love assisting incoming military to get into a home in the area’s of Ft. Meade and Joint Base Andrews. I’m local and help veteran’s hit the ground running so they can get back to their real jobs serving our country. VA Loans are one of the best options for the military to accomplish this. Let’s take a look at a couple of myths though.

Any one of those beliefs could be holding you back. Let’s walk through all three, so you have the information you really need.

You May Not Have To Put Any Money Down

The potential to put zero money down is probably the biggest perk of a VA loan, but most homebuyers don’t even realize that’s an option. According to the NewDay USA survey, many respondents guessed they’d need to save somewhere between $10,000 and $19,900 before they could buy. That’s years of saving for an upfront cost that isn’t always required.

You May Have Lower Closing Costs

According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, with VA loans, there can be limits on the types of closing costs buyers have to pay. That means more money stays in your pocket on closing day – and you have less to save up for before you can buy. The benefit combined with the down payment perk can speed up your buying timeline.

Your Monthly PMI Costs Could Be $0

Unlike many other loan options, VA loans typically don’t require private mortgage insurance (PMI), even with low or no money down. If you take out a conventional loan instead, you could pay $100 to $300 a month in PMI until you hit 20% equity, according to NewDay USA. Over time, that’s a difference of thousands of dollars.

Your BAH & BAS May Help You Qualify for More

If you’re on active duty or if you’re a qualifying reservist, your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) and Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS) may count toward income qualification on a VA loan. So, if you were running the numbers without factoring your BAH or BAS in, you could qualify for more than you thought. Both BAH and BAS are non-taxable, so they can help raise the amount you can qualify for.

Bottom Line

VA home loans can put homeownership within reach, and a trusted lender can help make sure you understand the details before you move forward.

If you’re active duty, you’ve served, or know someone who has, connect with a trusted lender who can walk you through whether you’d qualify and what the VA benefit offers. You may be able to buy a home sooner than you thought.

I can help you buy or sell a home in MD. Call Rich at 443.995.9595 Cell or 410.266.9005 Office.

Richard Iarossi, REALTOR®
Century 21 New Millennium
1730 West St., Suite 200, Annapolis, MD 21401
443.995.9595 Cell
410.266.9005 Office
eMail: rich@richsellshomes.com
Web: https://richsellshomes.com

A portion of every commission goes to support St. Jude charity directly

#AnnapolisRealEstate, #CroftonMDHomes, #BowieMDRealEstate, #SevernaParkHomes, #PasadenaMDHomes, #GambrillsRealEstate, #ArnoldMDRealEstate, #EdgewaterMDHomes, #MillersvilleMDHomes, #OdentonRealEstate #PCS

Real Estate • May 22, 2026

New Home Prices Hit a 5 Year Low

by Rich Iarossi

Newly Built Home Prices Hit a 5-Year Low

If you’ve always assumed a newly built home is just not in your budget, you should know the math just got a little friendlier.

The median sale price of a newly built home is now at its lowest level since 2021, according to the latest data from the Census. And on top of that, builders are still rolling out incentives to bring buyers through the door.

Here’s what’s happening, and what it means if you’re shopping right now.

Prices on Newly Built Homes Have Come Down

After a steep climb during the pandemic years, prices have eased a bit. The median sale price of newly built homes is sitting at about $390,000. That’s the lowest it’s been in nearly five years (see graph below):

While local markets vary, the national trend is moving in your favor, especially if you’re a first-time buyer. According to Zonda, prices in the entry-level price range have dropped roughly 2.7% over the past 12 months – more than any other price tier.

That doesn’t mean every home in every market is suddenly affordable. But it does mean that, broadly, you’ll see the best prices on new builds since 2021, if you’re buying now.

Why This Isn’t a Repeat of 2008

And just in case you’re thinking it, lower prices don’t mean the new home market is in trouble. Builders today are being intentional about how much inventory they have, so it doesn’t pile up the way it did in 2008.

If you look back up at the graph, you’ll see that even after the recent improvement in new home prices, they’re still higher than pre-pandemic norms. So, this isn’t a crash. It’s a builder strategy to keep inventory moving.

Homebuilders Are Still Sweetening the Deal

Lower sticker prices aren’t the only break buyers are getting. According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), 60% of builders are currently offering some form of incentive to attract buyers. Those typically include:

Help with closing costs: Some builders are covering thousands of dollars in fees to reduce the upfront cost of buying.
Extra upgrades: Think premium finishes, appliance packages, and designer features, often added at no extra cost.
Mortgage rate buydowns: When the builder pays to lower your mortgage rate, which reduces your monthly payment.
Price cuts: Over one in three builders (36%) are cutting prices right now, averaging about 5% off list price (see graph below):

That last point catches a lot of buyers off guard – most assume that builders won’t budge on price.

But builders need to move what they’ve built. That’s a different mindset than a homeowner deciding whether to budge on price. So, you may find they’re more open to adjusting the price than you’d think. As Joel Berner, Senior Economist at Realtor.com, puts it:

“. . . many existing-home sellers resort to taking down their listing instead of taking less than their desired price, but builders are more motivated to sell their inventory than owner-occupants . . .”

And if you use the version of the graph that shows 2008 prices, you can even reference that in this explainer.

And if here, should I change the last sentence of the lede?

Bottom Line

Builder incentives and lower new home prices are working to your advantage in a way they haven’t in years. Want to see what’s available in your area and what kind of deal a builder may be willing to make? Let’s connect.

I can help you buy or sell a home in MD. Call Rich at 443.995.9595 Cell or 410.266.9005 Office.

Richard Iarossi, REALTOR®
Century 21 New Millennium
1730 West St., Suite 200, Annapolis, MD 21401
443.995.9595 Cell
410.266.9005 Office
eMail: rich@richsellshomes.com
Web: https://richsellshomes.com

A portion of every commission goes to support St. Jude charity directly

#AnnapolisRealEstate, #CroftonMDHomes, #BowieMDRealEstate, #SevernaParkHomes, #PasadenaMDHomes, #GambrillsRealEstate, #ArnoldMDRealEstate, #EdgewaterMDHomes, #MillersvilleMDHomes, #OdentonRealEstate

Real Estate • January 12, 2026

Credit Score and Home Buying

by Rich Iarossi

The Credit Score Myth That’s Holding Would-Be Buyers Back

Would-be homebuyers aren’t sitting on the sidelines because they don’t want to buy. They’re sitting out because they think they can’t. And sometimes, it’s their credit score that’s holding them back.

According to a Bankrate survey, 2 out of every 5 (42%) Americans believe you need excellent credit to qualify for a mortgage. That may be why, when renters are asked why they don’t own yet, “my credit isn’t good enough” comes up often.

Maybe you’re in the same boat. You look at your score, see it’s not where you want it to be, and assume buying your first place just isn’t realistic right now.

But here’s what you need to know.

Even though a lot of people assume you need flawless credit to buy a house, that’s not necessarily the case.

You Don’t Need Perfect Credit To Buy a Home

So, where’s this myth come from? Part of the confusion stems from the fact that the typical homebuyer today does have a fairly strong credit score. In fact, according to data from the NY Fed, the median credit score for all buyers is 775.

But that doesn’t mean you need a score that high to qualify.

Looking at recent homebuyers, a number were able to get a mortgage with scores below that threshold. Data shows 10% of scores were around 660. Which means some were higher than that and some were lower, but the median in that lowest 10th percentile was around that range (see graph below):

So, even if your score isn’t as high as you want, that doesn’t automatically close the door. FICO explains there is no universal credit score you absolutely have to have when buying a home:

“While many lenders use credit scores like FICO Scores to help them make lending decisions, each lender has its own strategy, including the level of risk it finds acceptable. There is no single ‘cutoff score’ used by all lenders, and there are many additional factors that lenders may use . . .”

The best thing to do is to talk to a trusted lender to see what’s possible for you. Because a portion of buyers are buying with scores in the 600s – and maybe that means you can too.

Bottom Line

Your credit score is important. But that doesn’t mean it has to be perfect.

If credit has been the reason you’ve been waiting to buy a home, it might be time to take another look at your options. If you want help understanding where you stand and what your next step could be, connect with a local lender.

You don’t need to have everything figured out to start the conversation.

I can help you buy or sell a home in MD. Call Rich at 443.995.9595 Cell or 410.266.9005 Office.

Richard Iarossi, REALTOR®
Century 21 New Millennium
1730 West St., Suite 200, Annapolis, MD 21401
443.995.9595 Cell
410.266.9005 Office
eMail: rich@richsellshomes.com
Web: https://richsellshomes.com

A portion of every commission goes to support St. Jude charity directly

#AnnapolisRealEstate, #CroftonMDHomes, #BowieMDRealEstate, #SevernaParkHomes, #PasadenaMDHomes, #GambrillsRealEstate, #ArnoldMDRealEstate, #EdgewaterMDHomes, #MillersvilleMDHomes, #OdentonRealEstate

Real Estate • December 7, 2025

Why More Homeowners Are Giving Up Their Low Mortgage Rate

by Rich Iarossi

Why More Homeowners Are Giving Up Their Low Mortgage Rate

If you’re like a lot of homeowners, you’ve probably thought: “I’d like to move… but I don’t want to give up my 3% rate.” That’s fair. That rate has been one of your best financial wins – and it can be hard to let go. But here’s what you need to remember…

A great rate won’t make up for a home that no longer works for you. Life changes, and sometimes, your home needs to change with it. And you’re not the only one making that choice.

The Lock-In Effect Is Starting To Ease

Many homeowners have been frozen in place by something the experts call the lock-in effect. That’s when you won’t move because you don’t want to take on a higher rate on your next home loan. But data from Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) shows the lock-in effect is slowly starting to ease for some people.

The share of homeowners with a mortgage rate below 3% (the yellow in the graph below) is slowly declining as more people move. And while some of the people with a rate over 6% are first-time buyers, the number of homeowners with a rate above 6% (the blue) is rising as others take on higher rates for their next home:

And while it may not seem that dramatic, it’s actually a pretty noteworthy shift. The share of mortgages with a rate above 6% just hit a 10-year high (see graph below). That shows more people are getting used to today’s rates as the new normal.

Why Are More People Moving Now, if It Means Taking on a Higher Rate?

It’s simple. Sometimes they can’t put their life on pause anymore. Families grow, jobs change, priorities shift, and a house that once fit perfectly may not fit at all anymore – no matter how good their rate was. And that’s okay. As Chen Zhao, Head of Economic Research at Redfin, explains:

“More homeowners are deciding it’s worth moving even if it means giving up a lower mortgage rate. Life doesn’t standstill—people get new jobs, grow their families, downsize after retirement, or simply want to live in a different neighborhood. Those needs are starting to outweigh the financial benefit of clinging to a rock-bottom mortgage rate.”

First American refers to these life motivators as the 5 Ds:

Diplomas: People with college degrees typically earn more, and that adds up to more buying power. Maybe you bought your house when you were younger and now that you’ve graduated and have a rising career, you’re ready to move up.
Diapers: You’ve outgrown your space. If you’re welcoming a new baby, your current home might not be cutting it anymore.
Divorce: Whether it’s ending a marriage (or starting one), it can create the need for a new place to call home.
Downsizing: You’re ready to downsize. Maybe the kids have moved out and it’s time to simplify. Smaller house, less maintenance, more freedom.
Death: If you’ve recently lost a loved one, maybe you’ve realized you want to be closer to family. Life’s too short to live far from the people who matter most.

Whatever your reason, here’s what you need to think about. Yes, your low rate is great. But staying put means your life may stay on hold. And maybe that’s not working for you anymore.

According to Realtor.com, nearly 2 in 3 potential sellers have already been thinking about moving for over a year. That’s a long time to press pause on your plans. On your needs. On your family’s goals. So, maybe the question isn’t: “Should I move?”

It’s actually: “How much longer am I willing to stay somewhere that no longer fits my life?”

Because we’ve already seen rates come down from their peak earlier this year. And they’re expected to ease a bit more in 2026. When you stack that on top of the very real reasons you may need a new home, it may be enough to finally move the needle for you.

Bottom Line

Life doesn’t wait for the perfect rate. Maybe you shouldn’t either.

With mortgage rates down from their peak and forecast to dip slightly more in 2026, moving may be more feasible than you think. If you’re ready to see what’s possible in our market, let’s talk.

I can help you buy or sell a home in MD. Call Rich at 443.995.9595 Cell or 410.266.9005 Office.

Richard Iarossi, REALTOR®
Century 21 New Millennium
1730 West St., Suite 200, Annapolis, MD 21401
443.995.9595 Cell
410.266.9005 Office
eMail: rich@richsellshomes.com
Web: https://richsellshomes.com

A portion of every commission goes to support St. Jude charity directly

#AnnapolisRealEstate, #CroftonMDHomes, #BowieMDRealEstate, #SevernaParkHomes, #PasadenaMDHomes, #GambrillsRealEstate, #ArnoldMDRealEstate, #EdgewaterMDHomes, #MillersvilleMDHomes, #OdentonRealEstate

Real Estate • November 24, 2025

4 Reasons Your House Is High on Every Buyer’s Wish List This Season

by Rich Iarossi

When the holidays roll around, travel plans, family gatherings, and all the chaos of the season may make you think it’s better to pull your listing off the market or to wait until 2026 to sell your house. But here’s the thing.

Waiting could mean missing out on a great window of opportunity. Because while other sellers are stepping away, you can lean in – and that might actually give you the edge. Here are 4 reasons selling now may be the better bet.

1. Buyers This Time of Year Are Serious

Don’t let the season fool you. While casual browsers tend to step back around the holidays, serious buyers stay in the game. The people looking for homes right now usually aren’t just browsing. They’re ready to make a move and they usually want to close before the new year. As Zillow says:

“While more buyers have tended to shop in the spring and summer months, those shopping in the winter are likely to be motivated — often moving because of a job relocation, change in financial situation, or change in family needs.”

Their timelines are real and missing them would create a hassle for the buyer, so they’re eager to get the deal done. And that’s exactly the kind of buyer you want to work with.

2. You Have Control Over Your Schedule (and Showings)

Some homeowners decide not to sell this time of year because they don’t want to juggle showings during the holiday rush. They’re anticipating traveling to see family and thinking about buyers in their home only adds another layer of complexity.

But here’s what no one’s reminded them. You can control your showings and can set times that work for your schedule. You don’t have to stop your plans to keep your sale on track. The right agent can help you manage your calendar, your showings, and your stress level.

3. Other Sellers May Step Back, Which Means Less Competition

Because fewer sellers tend to list this time of year, the number of homes for sale usually falls a bit. Lisa Sturtevant, Chief Economist at Bright MLS, explains:

“As we approach the end of the year, listing activity tends to slow and would-be sellers decide to wait until after the new year to list . . .”

And in a year when inventory has been steadily rising, that seasonal slowdown works in your favor. With the potential for fewer sellers on the market, your house will stand out. So, a seasonal dip in listings could help you get noticed, especially if your home is priced right and presented well.

4. Homes Decorated for the Holidays Can Feel More Inviting

You may not realize it, but seasonal decor can actually help you appeal to buyers. Maybe it’s that they have an easier time picturing themselves making memories in the home. Maybe it just feels cozier and more inviting. Whatever the reason, it works. Sometimes tasteful seasonal touches can make it easier to sell your house.

But don’t go overboard. Keep your choices simple to let your home’s charm shine through.

Bottom Line

There are plenty of good reasons to put (or keep) your house on the market during this time of year.

If you want to talk strategy for how to make the most of this season in our market, let’s connect.

I can help you buy or sell a home in MD. Call Rich at 443.995.9595 Cell or 410.266.9005 Office.

Richard Iarossi, REALTOR®
Century 21 New Millennium
1730 West St., Suite 200, Annapolis, MD 21401
443.995.9595 Cell
410.266.9005 Office
eMail: rich@richsellshomes.com
Web: https://richsellshomes.com

A portion of every commission goes to support St. Jude charity directly

#AnnapolisRealEstate, #CroftonMDHomes, #BowieMDRealEstate, #SevernaParkHomes, #PasadenaMDHomes, #GambrillsRealEstate, #ArnoldMDRealEstate, #EdgewaterMDHomes, #MillersvilleMDHomes, #OdentonRealEstate

Uncategorized • November 19, 2025

What Couples Should Discuss Before Retiring

by Rich Iarossi

What Couples Should Discuss Before Retiring

Compromise is an important part of marriage. From deciding how much to spend on a new living room set to what to watch on TV tonight, compromise is constant.

It can also be a big part of retirement conversations. While agreeing on the financial and logistical issues around retirement is great if you can get there, chances are, there are some aspects of a life together without work that will be a compromise. Getting on the same page before retirement can make it a lot easier.

Here are some topics couples should talk about before retirement:

When to Retire
Do you both plan on retiring at the same time? Maybe one person wants to wait until age 70 to receive the most Social Security benefits, while the other wants to collect them when they’re first eligible at age 62.

What Are Your Retirement Goals?
Each person may have different dreams of what retirement should be. One may want to travel immediately, while the other wants to stay home.

Both can be done, of course. Discussing what you want to do in retirement is one of the best things about planning for it. Doing those things together—after figuring out what they are—can make your retirement dreams come true.

How to Pay for It
Social Security is an important part of funding retirement, but it shouldn’t be the only way. If your goals are bigger than your assets, you’ll have to make some adjustments. To determine how much money you’ll have in retirement, a couple should meet with their financial advisor.

Each spouse should have access to their savings, investments, pension, insurance and other accounts, and have a short monthly meeting on where they stand. Make sure each person is listed on the paperwork for each account, and that beneficiary information is complete.

What’s in Your Will?
This is the unpleasant part of planning for retirement, but it’s something worth doing. Set up a will together so that your family knows how your estate will be handled, and what they should do about taxes and other financial issues. Your financial advisor should be able to help, as should an attorney.

This is the final step of retirement, and of life, and it’s one you don’t want to avoid. With proper planning, it will be after a long and enjoyable retirement.

Where to Find Free Help With Taxes
Preparing your tax returns can be a chore. The good news is that filing your taxes is free—if you can figure out how to fill out the forms accurately. If not, you may want to buy some tax preparation software or hire a tax preparer to do the detailed work for you.

If you prefer not to spend money for tax prep help, or don’t have the money for it, there are some free alternatives. Here are a few ways to get free help preparing and filing your taxes:

Free E-File Forms From the IRS
The IRS offers free file forms that can be completed online. The program operates from January through mid-October, when accounts are erased from the server. Estimated tax payments can be paid online, and tax refunds can be paid through direct deposit to your bank.

For incomes above $64,000, free file forms are available. The forms offer only basic guidance, and you must know how to do your taxes yourself. You must have your tax return available, and state tax prep isn’t available.

Free File
For incomes below $64,000, another IRS program, called Free File, offers help. It works with a dozen tax software companies in the Free File Alliance to provide free tax filing assistance.

The program is geared toward low- and moderate-income taxpayers. Some may have restrictions on age and where you live, and the program will walk you through programs that meet your criteria. After selecting the software that works best for your tax situation, you’ll be transferred from IRS.gov to the company’s website to complete your returns.

AARP Aide
The AARP Foundation offers free help through its Tax-Aide program that’s run by volunteers.

The program has helped nearly 50 million low- to moderate-income taxpayers since 1968, and is available to anyone 50 and older who can’t afford a tax preparation service.

It’s offered at more than 5,000 locations in libraries, malls, banks, community centers and senior centers. AARP membership isn’t required.

Volunteer Income Tax Association
Known as VITA, this program from the IRS offers free tax help to people who generally make $54,000 or less, persons with disabilities, and limited English-speaking taxpayers. IRS-certified volunteers provide free basic income tax return preparation with electronic filing.

Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE)
The TCE program is another IRS program, offering free help for all taxpayers, but focusing on people 60 and older. Its volunteers specialize in questions and pensions and retirement issues that are unique to seniors. It’s offered at the same types of sites where the AARP program is, and many of the TCE sites are operated by the AARP Tax-Aide volunteers. Some sites also offer free help with web-based tax prep software to file basic federal and state tax returns.

I can help you buy or sell a home in MD. Call Rich at 443.995.9595 Cell or 410.266.9005 Office.

Richard Iarossi, REALTOR®
Century 21 New Millennium
1730 West St., Suite 200, Annapolis, MD 21401
443.995.9595 Cell
410.266.9005 Office
eMail: rich@richsellshomes.com
Web: https://richsellshomes.com

A portion of every commission goes to support St. Jude charity directly

#AnnapolisRealEstate, #CroftonMDHomes, #BowieMDRealEstate, #SevernaParkHomes, #PasadenaMDHomes, #GambrillsRealEstate, #ArnoldMDRealEstate, #EdgewaterMDHomes, #MillersvilleMDHomes, #OdentonRealEstate

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<img decoding="async" src="https://files.keepingcurrentmatters.com/KeepingCurrentMatters/content/images/20251202/20251204-Share-of-Mortgages-with-Rates-Above-6--Climbs-to-10-Year-High-original.png" data-eio="l" />Why Are More People Moving Now, if It Means Taking on a Higher Rate?

Bottom Line

1. Buyers This Time of Year Are Serious

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Bottom Line

What Couples Should Discuss Before Retiring

Why Are More People Moving Now, if It Means Taking on a Higher Rate?