Fannie & Freddie Just Shook Up Credit Scoring
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac now accept VantageScore 4.0, expanding mortgage access by using rent, utility, and telecom data to help more buyers qualify.
Updated 4/7/2026
Articles
Home Buying & Selling Articles
Practical, plain-English articles for buyers and sellers.
Helpful Tools for Buyers & Sellers
Looking for quick answers? Use these tools to estimate affordability, compare agents, and understand commission costs.
Weekly Market Update
Phoenix Metro
Phoenix Metro Real Estate Snapshot
Weekly snapshot of Phoenix Metro real estate: median prices, listings, mortgage rates, cancellations, and buyer/seller tips - April 05, 2026
Updated 4/6/2026
Understanding Commissions: What Sellers Should Really Know
Commissions are negotiable—learn how competition between agents helps you keep more of your equity.
Updated 4/7/2026
Offers and Negotiations: How to Win or Choose the Best Deal
Learn how to make a winning offer—or evaluate one—by understanding what really matters beyond price.
Updated 3/21/2026
Smart Start: What Today’s Real Estate Market Means for You
Get a clear view of today’s housing market trends so you can make smarter decisions when buying or selling your home.
Updated 3/21/2026
Selling a Home During Divorce or Probate: Key Tips
Protect your equity and stay in control when selling a home due to divorce or probate.
Updated 3/19/2026
How the Fed Rate Cut Affects Homebuyers and Owners
The Fed just cut rates. Here’s how it impacts mortgages, refinancing opportunities, and the long-term housing market outlook.
Updated 12/10/2025
Peace of Mind for Sellers: How Transparency Builds Trust
Selling your home doesn’t have to feel uncertain—learn how transparency and choice create confidence.
Updated 10/8/2025
How to Maximize Equity When Preparing Your Home to Sell
Simple, cost-effective ways to prepare your home for sale and keep more of your equity.
Updated 10/8/2025
Timing the Market: Should You Sell Now or Wait?
Weigh current housing trends, mortgage rates, and personal goals to decide the best time to sell.
Updated 10/8/2025
How Agent Competition Helps Sellers Save More
See how comparing multiple agent offers can save you thousands when selling your home.
Updated 10/8/2025
Avoid These First-Time Homebuyer Mistakes
Avoid the most common first-time homebuyer mistakes with practical tips that help you stay confident, prepared, and stress-free throughout the process.
Updated 9/16/2025
Feeling Outgunned? - What Sellers See in First-Time Buyers
First-time home buyers often face challenges in a competitive market. Discover what sellers prioritize when choosing an offer.
Updated 9/15/2025
Mortgage Rates Recap: What Buyers Should Know
You can’t control rates, but you can control when and how you buy. Here’s a simple breakdown of everything you’ve learned.
Updated 8/6/2025
How Bonds and Global Events Shape Mortgage Rates
Mortgage rates don’t just follow inflation and the Fed—they react to global events and market uncertainty. Here’s how it all ties together.
Updated 8/6/2025
How the Federal Reserve Influences Mortgage Rates
The Fed doesn’t set mortgage rates directly—but it influences them. Here’s how their actions ripple through the housing market.
Updated 8/6/2025
How Inflation Impacts Today’s Mortgage Rates
Rising inflation can push mortgage rates higher. Learn how this affects homebuyers and what you can do about it.
Updated 8/6/2025
What Really Drives Mortgage Rates
Mortgage rates aren’t random. Learn how inflation, the Fed, and economic signals shape what you’ll pay on a home loan.
Updated 8/6/2025
Fannie & Freddie Just Shook Up Credit Scoring
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac now accept VantageScore 4.0, what that means
Updated 7/11/2025
The 20% Down Payment Myth: What First-Time Buyers Should Know
You don’t need 20% down to buy a home. Learn the real options—from 0% to 20%—and how to choose the best down payment for your situation.
Updated 4/18/2025
Save Big on Your Home Journey (or Help a Friend!)
Guide for home buyers/sellers or referrers: set goals, prep finances, pick an agent. Save 1-2% or MORE! with Seeking Agents®.
Updated 4/18/2025
What Most Buyers Wish They Knew Before Buying a Home
Avoid rookie regrets. Learn what experienced buyers wish they had known before buying their first home.
Updated 4/16/2025
Inspections, Appraisals & Escrow: What to Expect
The deal isn’t done yet. Here’s what to expect (and how to avoid delays) during inspections, appraisals, and the escrow period.
Updated 4/16/2025
How to Spot a Smart Buy (and Avoid a Money Pit)
Learn how to look past the staging and spot red flags before making an offer—so your dream home doesn’t become a regret.
Updated 4/16/2025
Credit & Pre-Approval Tips for First-Time Home Buyers
Learn how to strengthen your credit and get pre-approved—two of the most powerful steps a first-time buyer can take.
Updated 4/16/2025
Closing Day and Beyond: What to Expect and What Comes Next
What to expect at closing and how to prepare for life after the sale—whether you’re moving in or moving on.
Updated 4/16/2025
Open House & Home Tour Tips for Buyers and Sellers
From prepping your home to evaluating others, here’s how buyers and sellers can make the most of open houses and private tours.
Updated 4/16/2025
Get Your Home Market-Ready: What to Do Before You List
First impressions matter. Here’s how to prep your home to sell faster and stand out in today’s competitive market.
Updated 4/16/2025
Choose Wisely: The Wrong Agent Can Cost You
Not all agents are equal. Learn how to choose the right one and why it can mean thousands saved—or lost—in your next real estate move.
Updated 4/16/2025
Know Your Numbers: Real Estate Budgeting Basics
Learn how to budget, estimate costs, and understand financing basics for buying or selling a home—plus tips to lower commissions and upfront expenses.
Updated 4/16/2025
PMI, Loan Types & Budgeting Tips for First-Time Buyers
Learn how different loan types affect your budget, what PMI really is, and how to choose a financing plan that fits your first home.
Updated 4/16/2025
Complete Guide to Selling Your Home - A Step-by-Step guide
Selling your home can feel overwhelming, but the right plan makes it rewarding. Follow this step-by-step guide to navigate the process with confidence.
Updated 10/30/2024
The Ultimate Checklist for Homebuyers
Buying a home is a major milestone. Simplify the process with our ultimate checklist, guiding you from budgeting to closing.
Updated 10/28/2024
The Role of Credit in Buying Your First Home
Your credit score affects your mortgage rate and affordability. Learn how boosting it can simplify homebuying and save you money.
Updated 10/28/2024
How to Save for a Down Payment as a First-Time Buyer
Saving for a home down payment can feel overwhelming, but with smart strategies and support from government programs, your goal is within reach.
Updated 10/28/2024
First-Time Homebuyer Programs - What You Need to Qualify
Buying your first home? Explore local and national programs offering financial help, lower down payments, reduced rates, and more.
Updated 10/28/2024
Understanding the Mortgage Process for Homebuyers
This guide simplifies the mortgage process for home buyers—covering steps, loan types, and tips for securing the best rate.
Updated 10/28/2024
Rent vs. Buy - Is It Time to Make the Leap?
Deciding between renting and buying is a major financial choice. Learn the key factors to consider for your financial situation, lifestyle and goals.
Updated 10/27/2024
Why Location Matters - Choosing the Right Neighborhood
Location is crucial when buying a home. Learn how to evaluate neighborhoods and choose the perfect spot for your first home with this guide.
Updated 10/27/2024
The True Cost of Buying a Home - Beyond the Price Tag
When buying a home, hidden costs can surprise first-time buyers. Discover the expenses to consider for a smooth homeownership journey.
Updated 10/27/2024
Preparing for Your Home Inspection - What to Expect and Ask
Learn how to prepare for your home inspection, what to expect on inspection day, and key questions to ask so you can buy with clarity and confidence.
Updated 10/25/2024
How to Budget for Renovations After You Buy
Buying a home is just the start. Plan and budget for renovations and repairs with this guide to keep your finances steady.
Updated 10/25/2024
How to Compete in a Hot Real Estate Market
In a hot market, first-time buyers face bidding wars and fast decisions. Learn strategies to make competitive offers while staying on budget.
Updated 10/25/2024
The Benefits of Using a Buyer’s Agent
Buying your first home can be overwhelming. Discover how a buyer’s agent simplifies the process and ensures the best deal for first-time buyers.
Updated 10/25/2024
The Hidden Risks of Dual Agency and How to Avoid Them
Buying a home is a big investment—dedicated representation is key. Learn why avoiding dual agency ensures your interests come first.
Updated 10/25/2024
Homebuying Terms You Need to Know
The homebuying process can be confusing. This glossary covers essential real estate terms to boost your confidence and help you make informed decisions.
Updated 10/25/2024