Blog

Author: Mark McGowan

  • The best and worst states for first-time home buyer assistance in 2026

    The best and worst states for first-time home buyer assistance in 2026

    Navigating the path to homeownership as a first-time buyer can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to upfront costs. As someone who believes that knowledge is power, I make it a priority to help you understand the range of state assistance options available for 2026. Some states offer generous forgivable loans and grants, while others provide more limited repayable aid—with significant differences in loan terms, income limits, and even special benefits like student debt relief. My approach is to break down these details, highlight what matters most for your situation, and translate market realities into actionable steps. With Redfin’s high-volume, team-based model, I’m able to recognize trends as they emerge and guide you through the advantages and potential challenges, so you can make informed decisions with confidence.

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  • 2027 Brings Promising Homebuying Opportunities Ahead

    2027 Brings Promising Homebuying Opportunities Ahead

    If you’re waiting for a big drop in homebuying costs, it’s important to know what the data is signaling for 2027. Current projections suggest mortgage rates will remain close to 7%, and home prices are expected to rise another 2.2%. This upward pressure is fueled by inflation and persistently high building costs, which means affordability may not improve—even if prices dip a bit in 2026.

    In my experience, understanding these trends and their underlying causes is key to making confident decisions, whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned homeowner. I’m committed to helping you navigate these market realities with clarity. By staying closely connected to daily shifts and emerging patterns through Redfin’s team-based approach, I aim to provide the timely, practical insights you need to chart the right course for your goals.

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  • U.S. Starter Buyers Gain Leverage | The 495 and Metrowest Real Estate Advisor

    Navigating the starter-home market has become a very different experience for first-time buyers in the US. We're seeing a more balanced landscape—one that brings more choices, fewer bidding wars, and stronger negotiating positions than in years past. This shift means that buyers can now consider options like seller credits, closing-cost assistance, rate buydowns, post-inspection repairs, longer inspection periods, and sometimes even extra perks like included appliances or furnishings.

    While homes that are well-priced and in top condition still tend to move quickly, those that are lingering on the market—whether due to price or condition—are giving buyers more room to negotiate on price and concessions. Of course, affordability remains a real challenge: average 30-year mortgage rates hovered around 7% throughout Q3 2026.

    From my perspective, forged through years of working with clients and watching market shifts up close, this current window is less about frenzied competition and more about strategic opportunity for those who are financially ready. As always, the key is to keep savings, credit, and your monthly budget in alignment so that homeownership becomes a solid foundation for your future. My goal is to help you understand not just the options, but also the nuances—so you can make informed, confident decisions at every step.

  • Discover this property for $680,000—a great opportunity that truly stands out.

  • Discover this property for $899,000—a great opportunity that truly stands out.

  • What Smaller U.S. Homes Could Mean for Buyers | The 495 and Metrowest Real Estate Advisor

    Over the past decade, we've seen a notable shift: the average new single-family home in the U.S. has decreased in size from 2,700 sq ft to 2,400 sq ft, while the price per square foot has jumped approximately 72%. In 2025, one in four new single-family homes sold measured under 1,800 sq ft—a significant change from about one in six a decade ago. At the same time, homes 3,000 sq ft or larger dropped from roughly one in three sales to one in five. Builders have moved toward smaller designs to help balance the growing costs of land, labor, and materials, keeping homes accessible even as mortgage rates linger between 6% and 7%.

    For first-time and budget-conscious buyers, these more compact homes can reduce both down payments and monthly expenses, though the increased price per square foot underscores that affordability remains a challenge. My role—rooted in a commitment to empowering clients with clear, timely insights—is to help you understand how these trends could affect your options and your bottom line. As someone who values data-driven guidance and real-world context, I’m here to help you navigate these evolving market realities so you can move forward with confidence.

  • Buy now or wait until fall? Tips for homebuyers in 2026

    Buy now or wait until fall? Tips for homebuyers in 2026

    Navigating the question of whether to buy now or wait until fall is a classic challenge for homebuyers, especially in a market where mortgage rates have reached a one-year high of 6.66%, and average home prices are up 1.8% to $440,600. With housing supply currently at 4.6 months, each option brings its own set of considerations. Buying now can offer greater home security as prices rise modestly, while waiting might open up opportunities for lower prices and less competition. My approach—shaped by years of real estate experience and a background in Fortune 100 leadership—is to break down these market realities and help you weigh the trade-offs. Leveraging technology and real-time data from Redfin’s high-volume team, I strive to ensure you’re equipped with the knowledge to make decisions that align with your goals, whether you’re a first-time buyer or seasoned investor. Understanding the nuances of this market empowers you to move forward with confidence, whatever your timeline.

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  • Inventory Expands in Adams, MA: More Choices for Buyers

    Inventory Expands in Adams, MA: More Choices for Buyers

    Adams, MA is seeing a notable shift this summer: inventory has climbed 38% compared to last year, giving buyers a wider range of options to consider. In my work, I’m passionate about arming clients with the timely, real-world insights that can shape your experience—because knowledge is power, especially in moments like these. With more homes available, you have a greater chance to find something that truly fits your needs. My team’s daily immersion in the local market means I spot these changes as they happen, so you can navigate the evolving landscape confidently and make decisions that support your goals.

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  • Templeton Inventory Expands: More Choices for Buyers

    Templeton Inventory Expands: More Choices for Buyers

    This summer, Templeton’s real estate market is offering something we haven’t seen in a while: a significant increase in available inventory. For buyers, this translates to more options and greater flexibility when searching for the right home. As someone who is deeply engaged with local market trends every day, I see firsthand how a shift like this can open up new opportunities—and sometimes introduce fresh considerations. My approach is rooted in providing clients with the information and context that matter most, so you can navigate these new choices with confidence. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to make your next move, understanding how this expanded inventory impacts your path is key to making a decision you’ll feel great about.

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  • More Homes Hit the Market as Demand Cools | The 495 and Metrowest Real Estate Advisor

    In the four weeks ending August 23, new US listings ↑0.4% weekly, while total homes for sale ↑0.5%, reaching their highest levels since Early-Q2.
    Pending US home sales ↓1.1% weekly to a 6-mo low, as high housing costs kept many buyers sidelined despite inventory improving nationally.
    The median US home-sale price ↑1.9% yearly to >$400K, while the avg. mortgage rate sat near 7%, close to a 13-mo high.
    Rising inventory and softer demand created buyer-friendly conditions, giving active shoppers more room to negotiate price cuts or concessions in many US markets.
    Experts said homes listed for several weeks often offered the best leverage, while sellers benefited from realistic pricing instead of chasing prices from prior years.