Laurie Mattingly- Realtor

A lot of buyers think waiting for interest rates to drop will save them money—but the numbers tell a different story.

If you buy now, refinance later, and let your home appreciate, you’re building equity while lowering your future payment.

Buying today locks in a lower price and gives you a payment of $3,398/month after refi. Wait two years, and you could be paying $3,764/month—even if rates drop—because home prices keep rising.

And here's where it really hits.

Buying today could give you $56,872 in equity after two years, versus just $21,425 if you wait.

Waiting might feel safe, but it’s costing you money and wealth growth. Want to run numbers specific to your situation? Let’s talk!

5 new food & drink venue in The Heights!

Be sure to follow along as I will be posting more business and real estate happenings in The Heights and surrounding neighborhoods!

Source: The Leader News

January check in

A few highlights from January:
- Spent lots of time playing the snow
- Prioritized healthy routines and habits
- Tons of showings and appointments

Welcome February! Swipe for a few things going on this month in Houston and what I'm seeing in the market.

One thing about me: I love helping my buyers find a deal...

And the answer is yes, there are still deals out there.

This is what I keep my eyes peeled for ↓

1) CONTRACT CANCELLATIONS 🏷️
- Not every sale crosses the finish line, and when they don't, it's a usually a great opportunity
- "Back on Market" listings are often priced better than the original listing and the sellers are motivated

2) HIGHER "DAYS ON MARKET" 😴
- Homes that have been on the market a while (~45+ days), sellers more willing to negotiate
- Could be sitting because of pricing, lackluster listing photos or required lots of TLC
- A trained eye can spot value (or necessary updates)

3) BUILDER CLOSEOUTS 🏗️
- Builders are in the business of selling homes, not owning them
- If a new construction home is move-in ready, chances are the builder is eager to sell... (👋 discounts & builder credits)

4) MOTIVATED SELLERS 📅
- A seller might be motivated to offer a great price or terms due to sudden life changes - job relocation, divorce, death, or the need to liquidate
- This is where an agent's intel on the seller can work to your advantage

5) HIDDEN GEMS 💎
- Sometimes a really great property gets overlooked because it has an unusual floor plan, an outdated kitchen, or is outside of the most popular neighborhoods
- As long as a property has "fixable" issues within the buyers budget, the pros could outweigh the cons

DM me for a list of great deals in Houston under $450K