Month: January 2026

Why construction “visibility” matters more than you think A recent HousingWire commentary from a military veteran-turned-built-environment professional highlights something many homeowners and buyers sense—but can’t always name: construction often lacks consistent accountability and real-time visibility. On a jobsite, dozens of moving parts must align: materials, permits, inspections, subcontractors, weather windows, and financing milestones. When roles … Read more

What’s happening in New Jersey—and why it matters A New Jersey bill is gaining attention because it aims to clarify how reverse mortgages are treated under state law. The National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association (NRMLA) has publicly backed the proposal, arguing that the current statute doesn’t match how reverse mortgages are actually structured or used … Read more

Why “the first agent you talk to” often wins A recent HousingWire report highlights a simple reality in today’s housing market: most buyers hire the first real estate agent they speak with. Even though people have more tools than ever—search portals, reviews, social media, neighborhood data—many buyers still commit quickly once they make initial contact. … Read more

The “mortgage rate lockdown” story is changing For the last couple of years, a common explanation for low housing inventory has been the “mortgage rate lockdown” theory: homeowners with ultra-low rates (think 2–3%) won’t sell because moving would mean trading their cheap mortgage for a much higher one. That idea made sense—until now. New homeowner … Read more

What HUD Changed—and Why It Matters If you’re buying a home with an FHA loan (or selling to someone who is), the appraisal is one of the most important checkpoints in the process. HUD recently announced tighter rules for the FHA appraiser roster, strengthening the link between an appraiser’s state licensing status and their ability … Read more