Stacy Yu

If you guessed C) 54%, you’re right (though I feel anyone who answered D).

According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. rent increased by about 54% between 2015 and 2025 — roughly double the pace of general inflation.

That means a renter paying about $1,500/month in 2015 could be paying around $2,300/month today.

Meanwhile, homeowners with fixed-rate mortgages saw something very different ⬇️

Their principal and interest payments stayed largely the SAME month after month.

In my experience, those are two of the biggest long-term advantages of homeownership:

1️⃣ Predictable housing costs
2️⃣ The ability to build equity over time
And here’s something many people don’t realize:
💡 You don’t necessarily need 20% down
💡 Some loan programs allow down payments as low as 3–5%
💡 Many renters are closer to qualifying than they think

This isn’t about saying renting is wrong — renting makes sense for a lot of people at different stages of life.

But if you’ve ever wondered whether buying could be possible for you, it might be worth taking a look at the numbers.

If you’re curious how your current rent compares to a potential mortgage payment, comment or message me COMPARE and I’ll send you the details to run a quick comparison – no credit pull required!

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Consumer Price Index – Rent of Primary Residence.

Here are a few things you'll want to gather in preparation for your pre-approval.

Buying a home can feel unpredictable, but understanding what you can influence versus what you can’t helps you make smarter decisions and reduces stress.

You can control:

✅ Getting pre-approved – Know exactly how much you can afford before you start house hunting
✅ Choosing the right mortgage team – Work with a loan officer who guides you through every step
✅ Your mindset & expectations – Stay realistic about timelines, costs, and compromises
✅ Your budget – Determine what monthly payment fits comfortably into your finances

You can’t control:

❌ Interest rates – They fluctuate based on the market, not your timing
❌ Market inventory – Homes available may vary depending on location and season
❌ Appraisal value – Determined by independent appraisers
❌ Your neighbor’s lawn – Some things are just out of your hands

Focusing on the things you can control — like getting pre-approved and budgeting wisely — puts you in a stronger position and helps you act confidently when the right home comes along.

💬 Message me today and let’s create a plan that maximizes what’s in your control and prepares you for a smooth homebuying journey.

If you feel ready to buy, purchasing a home now may save you a significant amount of money over time based on historical affordability trends. Reach out today to determine if now is the right time for you to make your move!

What financial wins are you celebrating this year?

Whether it’s paying off debt, raising your credit score, or hitting a big savings goal, these moments are worth celebrating—because each one gets you closer to your dream home!

If you’ve recently refinanced for better terms, that’s a huge win! Securing lower payments or better loan terms for your situation can mean more money in your pocket every month.

Haven’t refinanced yet? It’s never too late! If you’re looking to lower your payments, secure a better interest rate, or access your home’s equity, I’m here to help.

No matter where you are in your financial journey, every step forward counts. Let’s talk about how to help you reach your next goal—whether it’s buying, refinancing, or just getting pre-approved!

What’s your biggest or most recent financial win? Share below! 👇