Thursday, May 1, 2025 / by Vic Markarian
Talks of a potential recession are making headlines again—and naturally, buyers and homeowners are asking: “Will my home lose value?” “Will mortgage rates spike again?”
Let’s break down what typically happens in the housing market when the economy slows down—and why you may not need to panic.
A Recession Doesn’t Always Equal Falling Prices
Many people assume a recession means home prices will drop, like they did in 2008. But that downturn was unique—and driven by overbuilding, loose lending, and a foreclosure crisis.
In fact, home prices have actually increased in 4 of the last 6 recessions.
As you can see, only 1991 and 2008 saw declines, and 2008 was the real outlier at nearly -20%. Today’s market is very different—inventory is still tight, especially in Los Angeles County. Demand continues to outpace supply, and that’s keeping prices stable or rising in most markets.
So, if you're worried about a cra ...
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Tuesday, March 25, 2025 / by Vic Markarian
?? Your Roadmap to Homeownership in Los Angeles
Thinking about buying a home in Los Angeles? Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or making a move, navigating the homebuying process can feel overwhelming. Here's a simple roadmap filled with expert tips to help you move from dreaming to owning—stress-free.
1. Assemble Your Dream Team
Start by partnering with a top Los Angeles real estate agent and a trusted mortgage lender. Having the right professionals in your corner makes all the difference.
2. Check Your Credit Score
Lenders will review your score, so check it first. A higher credit score can lead to better mortgage rates and more loan options.
3. Boost Your Savings
Prepare for a down payment, closing costs, and moving expenses. Explore homebuyer assistance programs in California to see if you qualify for financial support.
4. Get Pre-Approved
A mortgage pre-approval helps you understand your budget and shows sellers you're serious when it's time to make an offer.
k ...
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Thursday, December 5, 2024 / by Vic Markarian
One of the biggest questions on everyone’s minds right now is: when will mortgage rates come down? After several years of rising rates and a lot of bouncing around in 2024, we’re all eager for some relief.
While no one can project where rates will go with complete accuracy or the exact timing, experts offer some insight into what we might see going into next year. Here’s what the latest forecasts show.
Mortgage Rates Are Expected To Ease and Stabilize in 2025
After a lot of volatility and uncertainty, the most updated forecasts suggest rates will start to stabilize over the next year, and should ease a bit compared to where they are right now (see graph below):
As Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), says:
“While mortgage rates remain elevated, they are expected to stabilize.”
Key Factors That’ll Impact the Future of Mortgage Rates
It’s ...
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Tuesday, November 26, 2024 / by Vic Markarian
One major reason why we’re not heading toward a foreclosure crisis is the high level of equity homeowners have today. Unlike in the last housing bubble, where many homeowners owed more than their homes were worth, today’s homeowners have far more equity than debt.
That’s a big part of the reason why even though mortgage debt is at an all-time high, this isn’t 2008 all over again. As Bill McBride, Housing Analyst for Calculated Risk, explains:
“With the recent house price increases, some people are worried about a new housing bubble – but mortgage debt isn’t a concern . . .”
Today’s homeowners are in a much stronger position than ever before. So, let’s break it down and see why today’s mortgage debt isn’t anything to fear.
More Equity, Less Risk of Foreclosures
According to the St. Louis Fed, total homeowner equity is nearly triple the tota ...
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Thursday, November 21, 2024 / by Vic Markarian
If you’ve been keeping an eye on mortgage rates lately, you might feel like you’re on a roller coaster ride. One day rates are up; the next they dip down a bit. So, what’s driving this constant change? Let’s dive into just a few of the major reasons why we’re seeing so much volatility, and what it means for you.
The Market’s Reaction to the Election
A significant factor causing fluctuations in mortgage rates is the general reaction to the political landscape. Election seasons often bring uncertainty to financial markets, and this one is no different. Markets tend to respond not only to who won, but also to the economic policies they are expected to implement. And when it comes to what’s been happening with mortgage rates over the past couple of weeks, as the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) says:
“. . . the primary reason interest rates have been on the rise pertains to the uncertainty surrouk ...
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