Renting vs. Buying: Pros and Cons

When it comes to housing, one of the biggest questions people face is whether to rent or buy. Both options come with their own pros and cons, and the right choice often depends on your financial situation, lifestyle, and long-term goals. It used to be that monthly rent was lower than a mortgage payment, that is not really the case anymore, depending on how much of a down payment you have and the price of the home you are buying.

It is also important to note that the rent your landlord charges does include their costs, mortgage, property taxes, and if applicable, condo or association fees. If done correctly, it will also include their insurance and a percentage for ongoing maintenance and risk, usually around 5%.

Typically, you are responsible for all utilities, water, hydro, gas, and of course internet, tv, home phone. You are also required to have insurance. There are instances, for the most part, with condos, that some of these could be included, however, not internet, tv, phone, and your insurance. 

That said, this is a personal choice for each person and their unique situation.  

Pros of Renting

• Flexibility: Renting gives you more freedom to move. If you’re not sure how long you’ll be living where you are, renting might be the better option.

• Lower upfront costs: Renters don’t have to worry about a down payment, closing costs, or other expenses tied to purchasing a home. In a range of 1.5% to 4% of the price of the home. included are land transfer tax, legal fees, home inspection fees, appraisal fees, and title costs. First-time homebuyers may be eligible for rebates, such as the First-Time Home Buyers' Tax Credit and Land Transfer Tax rebates, which can help offset these expenses. 

• No maintenance responsibilities: Repairs and upkeep are typically the landlord’s responsibility. Note that landscaping and snow removal could be the renters responsibility, under specific agreements.

• Predictable payments: Rent is usually fixed for the length of the lease, making it easier to budget.

Cons of Renting

• Less stability: A landlord may decide not to renew your lease or could increase rent when your lease ends. (There are rules and procedures to follow. There are limits to the increase allowed and landlords cannot have you leave, except for specific circumstances, for example, they are moving back in, they are selling and the new owner is moving in.) I strongly suggest reading the Landlord Tenant Act!

• No equity building: Your rent payments don’t go toward ownership; they’re simply an expense.

• Limited control: You can’t always customize or renovate your rental to suit your preferences.

Pros of Buying

• Equity building: Every mortgage payment helps you build ownership in your home, which can grow your wealth over time.

• Stability: You don’t have to worry about moving because a landlord wants to sell or increase the rent.

• Creative freedom: You can renovate, decorate, and make the space truly yours.

• Potential appreciation: Ottawa real estate has historically increased in value over the long term, which can benefit homeowners when it comes time to sell.

• Financial advantage: Unlike renting, your payments contribute to an asset you own. Over time, as your mortgage balance decreases and your home’s value increases, you build equity that strengthens your financial position. Homeowners can also borrow against their equity if needed — an option renters don’t have.

Cons of Buying

• Upfront costs: You’ll need a down payment, closing costs, and other fees when purchasing a home.

• Ongoing responsibilities: Maintenance, repairs, and property management all fall on you.

• Market risk: Home values can fluctuate, and go down as well as up, depending on the market, just like the stock market and unless you are selling, over time, this is less of an issue.

In closing, it is a very personal decision, and for some like it was for my mother, owning is not an option. Times have changed, the salary to purchase price ratio has made it tougher to buy a first home. If you are willing to go the route that my friends, colleagues, family and I had to do, buy a starter home, and work up to your dream home, there are options that I am happy to discuss with you.

Click HERE if you have questions or would like to discuss your options. 

You’ve submitted an offer on a home—maybe even your forever home. One of the most important conditions of your offer is the home inspection. If this is your first time buying, the process might feel new and overwhelming. Even if you’ve been through it before, consider this a helpful refresher.

Let’s walk through the role of a home inspector, the inspection process, and why it’s such a valuable step in your purchase.

🕵️ The Role of Your Home Inspector

As a certified home inspector, my job is to carefully examine the property and identify any current or potential issues as per a set standards of practice. I provide a detailed report so you and your Realtor can make informed decisions about next steps.

Here’s what you can expect:
• ⏱ A typical detached home inspection takes about 3 hours, though larger homes may take longer.
• 📑 You’ll receive a full written report—usually within 24 hours—including photos and clear explanations.
• 🤝 We’ll review the findings together so you leave with a solid understanding of the home’s condition.

💡 Extra Peace of Mind: Every inspection also comes with a warranty. This provides added protection beyond the inspection itself, so you can move forward with more confidence. 👉 Click the link for full details. Warranty.

❓ Why Have a Home Inspection?

Here are the Top 5 Reasons every buyer should consider:

1. 🕵️‍♂️ Uncover Hidden Issues – Problems like leaks, faulty wiring, or foundation cracks often go unseen during showings.

2. 💰 Save Money Long-Term – Catching issues early can prevent expensive surprises down the road.

3. 🤝 Negotiating Power – Use the results to renegotiate price or request repairs before closing.

4. 🧘 Peace of Mind – Knowing the home’s true condition gives you confidence in your purchase.

5. 📅 Future Planning – Even non-urgent issues give you a roadmap for future maintenance.

🔍 What Gets Inspected

During an inspection, I examine five key areas:

1. 🏠 Roof & Exterior – Shingles, flashing, gutters, siding, grading.

2. 🧱 Structure & Foundation – Stability, settling, cracks, moisture concerns.

3. 🚰 Plumbing – Pipes, drains, water pressure, hot water tank.

4. 💡 Electrical Systems – Wiring, panels, outlets, overall safety.

5. ❄️🔥 Heating, Cooling & Ventilation – Furnace, AC, ductwork, efficiency.

⚠️ Note: Only safe and accessible areas are inspected—anything unsafe, hidden, or blocked can’t be evaluated.

📋 The Process Step by Step

Here’s how a typical inspection flows:

• 🌳 Exterior First – We start outside, working around the home. I use a drone to safely inspect the roof, shingles, vents, chimney, and flashing. Windows, doors, siding, bricks, and the garage (including openers) are also checked.

• 🏠 Interior Check – Inside, we’ll go through each level, inspecting doors, windows, outlets, smoke detectors, plumbing, and evidence of leaks.

• 🪜 Attic & Insulation – I’ll look for leaks, ventilation issues, and confirm insulation levels.

• 🌡 Thermal Imaging – Used as needed to help reveal hidden issues behind walls.

• 💬 Review & Tips – I explain everything in plain language, offer helpful maintenance advice, and answer your questions throughout.

🎯 My goal? For you to feel confident and knowledgeable about the home when we’re done. And if you think of questions later, I’m always available to clarify.

💰 Investment

• Condo inspections start at $425 + HST
• Freehold inspections start at $525 + HST
• 📑 Written report within 24 hours (with photos + clear explanations)
• 🤝 In-person review of findings so you leave with confidence

💡 Extra Peace of Mind: Every inspection comes with a warranty.  

🏘 Home Inspections for Sellers, Too

Inspections aren’t just for buyers—they’re just as valuable for sellers. A pre-listing inspection gives you the chance to:

• 🛠 Address repairs before hitting the market.
• 💵 Price the home realistically if you can’t fix certain issues.
• 🚫 Prevent surprises during negotiations.
• 🧘 Provide buyers with peace of mind up front.

I’ve partnered with Steve for over 5 years, and when you list with him, a pre-inspection can be part of your selling strategy. It’s a proactive step that sets you apart in today’s market.

✅ Bottom Line

Whether you’re buying or selling, a home inspection is one of the smartest investments you can make. It protects your wallet 💵, safety 🛡, and peace of mind 🧘.

Thank you Ken for this great information. To learn more about Ken and Dragonfly Home Inspections, click here

Yes, you do! A home inspection is one of the smartest steps you can take when buying any type of property—whether it’s a single-family home, townhome, semi-detached, stacked unit, or condo. Many people assume condos don’t need inspections, but that’s a costly mistake you’ll want to avoid.

When people hear the word “condo,” they often think of apartment-style living. But condos come in many forms—condo-townhomes, stacked condos, or even semi-detached condos. Regardless of the style, you are still responsible for the interior of your unit, and that means any issues with plumbing, electrical, appliances, or structure could end up being your problem after closing.

Here’s another reason inspections matter: although most condo boards require approval for changes inside an apartment-style unit, not everyone follows the rules. Sometimes owners make renovations without permission, and don’t always hire a professional. These changes can cause safety or even structural issues.

For example, I recently showed a condo where the owner had enlarged the washroom, removed the tub, and installed a massive jacuzzi tub around 30 inches high, with three unsafe steps. The top step was a shocking 16 inches from the top of the tub—imagine climbing out of that! Definitely not safe, a hazard a buyer would want to avoid! To make matters worse, they tucked a very small shower behind the tub and toilet, so that to access the shower, you would have to step over the toilet, or shimmy between the very narrow space between the toilet and tub!.

🏡 8 Smart Things Every Home Buyer Should Do Before Making an Offer

Buying a home is a big deal—whether it’s your first place or your fifth.
And while it’s easy to fall in love with a big backyard or those perfect kitchen counters, it’s even more important to slow down and make sure the home you love is actually the right one for you.

These 8 smart steps will help you avoid costly surprises, feel more confident, and buy your next home with peace of mind.

1. 💳 Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

Before you even start looking at homes, connect with a mortgage specialist and get pre-approved. It’s one of the smartest first steps you can take. Here’s why it matters:

1. Know your true budget: A pre-approval gives you a realistic price range so you’re not wasting time (or falling in love with homes you can’t afford).

2. Lock in your rate: Many lenders will hold your interest rate for 90–120 days—helpful if rates are on the rise.

3. Strengthen your offer: Sellers take your offer more seriously when you’re pre-approved. It shows you’re ready and financially capable.

4. Identify financial issues early: If there’s anything holding you back—like income verification or debt ratios—you’ll find out now, not during a deal.

5. Check your credit report: Before applying, request your credit reports from both Equifax and TransUnion to ensure they’re accurate. Mistakes happen—and even a small error could affect your mortgage approval or interest rate.

Pro tip: Online mortgage calculators are helpful, but nothing beats sitting down with a real person who can give you strategy, options, and answers. Don’t have a Mortgage Specialist, click HERE

2. 🔍 Look Beyond the Surface

A fresh coat of paint and cute décor can make a home look amazing—but don’t let cosmetics distract you from the big picture. Look for:

• Cracks in walls or ceilings

• Water stains or musty smells (signs of moisture problems)

• Uneven floors or doors that don’t close properly

• Poor ventilation in kitchens or bathrooms

A good-looking home isn’t always a good investment—so pay attention to the structure and systems.

3. 📍 Check the Location (More Than Once)

The house might check every box, but how does the neighbourhood feel?

• Visit at different times of day (morning, evening, weekend)

• Take note of traffic, noise, and lighting

• Check proximity to schools, stores, parks, and transit

• Look into nearby developments or rezoning plans

• Research crime rates and walkability

You’re not just buying a house—you’re joining a community.

4. 🛠️ Pay Attention to Big-Ticket Items

Be sure to ask the seller (or your inspector) about the age and condition of:

• The roof

• Windows and doors

• Furnace and A/C

• Electrical and plumbing

These major systems can be expensive to replace, and knowing their condition helps you budget and plan.

5. 💡 Ask About Energy Efficiency

An energy-efficient home is more comfortable and more affordable to live in. Ask about:

• Updated windows and insulation

• High-efficiency furnace or A/C

• Energy Star-rated appliances

• Smart thermostats or water-saving fixtures

A drafty home may cost you more in heating and cooling than you expect.

6. 💰 Know the Real Costs

Your mortgage isn’t the only cost to consider. Budget for:

• Property taxes

• Utility bills

• Home insurance

• Maintenance and repairs

• Condo or association fees (if applicable)

Understanding the full picture of your monthly expenses will help you avoid financial stress after you move in.

7. 👷‍♂️ Never Skip the Home Inspection

Even if the home looks “move-in ready,” a professional inspection is a must.

Inspectors will check:

• Foundation and structure

• Roof and attic

• Electrical and plumbing

• HVAC, moisture issues, and more

This gives you peace of mind—or leverage to renegotiate if needed. Learn More HERE

8. 🧠 Pause, Reflect, and Decide

It’s easy to feel rushed, especially in a competitive market. But this is a big decision—one worth thinking through.

• Sleep on it before submitting an offer

• Picture your day-to-day life in the home

• Discuss it with someone you trust

• Make sure it meets your needs now and in the future

A well-thought-out decision is one you won’t regret.

Final Thoughts

There’s a lot to think about when buying a home—but taking the time to do your homework will pay off in confidence, savings, and peace of mind.

If you're starting your home search and want someone by your side who can spot red flags, explain the fine print, and help you make the right call, I’d be happy to help.

📩 Let’s connect and get you one step closer to your new home. Reach me here: Connect

Would you like this turned into a printable checklist, email series, or carousel post for Instagram? Just let me know HERE—happy to help!

💰 How Do I Increase My Home’s Value Before Selling?

So—you’re thinking about selling your home, but you’re also wondering:
“What can I do to boost my home’s value before I list it?”
You’re not alone, and the good news is: you don’t need to break the bank to make a big impact.

In fact, some of the most effective improvements are simple, affordable, and make a huge difference in the eyes of potential buyers.

Let’s walk through 8 smart ways you can increase your home’s value (and maybe even spark a bidding war 👀).

1. 🚪 First Impressions Matter: Boost Curb Appeal

Buyers start forming opinions before they even walk through the door.

• Tidy the front yard

• Add potted plants or flowers

• Paint the front door, maybe the garage door too!  

• Replace worn-out house numbers or outdated outdoor lights

It doesn’t have to be fancy—just fresh, clean, and welcoming.

2. 🧼 Deep Clean Every Inch

This one’s non-negotiable. A clean home feels bigger, brighter, and better cared for.

• Clean windows, baseboards, light fixtures, and grout

• Shampoo carpets and polish floors

• Declutter every room—less really is more

Pro tip: Hire a professional cleaning service for a one-time deep clean. It’s worth it. (I can HELP with this.)

3. 🎨 Fresh Paint = Instant Upgrade

A fresh coat of paint is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to update your home.

Stick with light, neutral colours like soft greys, beige, or warm whites. These shades appeal to the widest audience and make spaces feel open and bright.

4. 💡 Update Lighting & Fixtures

Dated lighting can instantly age a space. Swapping in modern, energy-efficient fixtures is easy and budget-friendly.

Also, make sure every room is well-lit. Open blinds, turn on lamps, use LED bulbs, they allow you to use a higher watt bulb, to really brighten things up, and let natural light shine wherever possible.

5. 🛁 Refresh the Bathroom

You don’t need a full reno to make your bathroom sparkle:

• Replace old faucets or cabinet hardware

• Re-caulk tubs and sinks

• Hang crisp new towels

• Add a new mirror or light fixture for a modern touch

A sparkling bathroom signals to buyers that the home is well-maintained.

6. 🍽️ Kitchen: Keep It Clean & Functional

No need for a full remodel.

• Paint cabinets or update hardware

• Swap out dated appliances if your budget allows

• Clear off all countertops, ensure sinks are clean and free of sponges etc. during showings

• Add a vase of flowers or bowl of fruit for a welcoming touch

The goal? Clean, functional, and move-in ready.

7. 🛠️ Take Care of Repairs

That leaky faucet? The squeaky door? That burnt-out lightbulb?
Fix them.
Buyers notice the little things—and they assume that small neglect = bigger hidden problems.

A home that feels “ready” often sells faster and for more money.

8. 🏡 Stage It (Even Just a Little)

You don’t have to rent furniture or redecorate the whole house.

Sometimes, simple staging like this is enough:

• Rearranging furniture for better flow

• Removing personal items and family photos

• Adding a few cozy, modern touches like pillows or plants

Help buyers see themselves living in your space—that’s the goal.

I provide a Staging Consultation when I help you sell your home!

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a full renovation to make your home shine before it hits the market.
With a bit of planning, elbow grease, and the right guidance, you can boost your home’s value, attract more buyers, and walk away with more in your pocket.

If you're thinking about selling and want help deciding where to focus your time and budget, I’d be happy to walk through your home with you and give you a Personalized Game Plan.

📩 Just Reach Out—no pressure, no obligation.

Want more tips like this? Follow along or SUBSCRIBE for monthly homeowner advice, local market updates, and selling secrets that actually work. 

Let me know HERE, if you’d like this turned into a checklist or downloadable seller guide!

Bank of Canada Holds Interest Rate Steady at 2.75% 🏦

Today, the Bank of Canada decided to keep its key interest rate at 2.75%. This means borrowing costs—like those for mortgages, loans, and credit—won’t change for now.

Why? There’s a lot of uncertainty in the air, especially due to shifting U.S. trade policies and unpredictable tariffs. These changes have made it harder to predict how the economy will perform, both in Canada and around the world.

The Bank of Canada looked at two possible scenarios:
1️⃣ In the first, trade tensions stay high, but tariffs are limited. Canada’s economy would slow a bit, but inflation (the rise in prices) would stay close to the Bank’s 2% target.
2️⃣ In the second, a full-blown trade war breaks out. This could push Canada into a recession and drive up inflation to over 3% by next year.

Because these changes are so unpredictable, it’s harder than usual for experts to know exactly how things will play out. But for now, the Bank is holding steady—and keeping a close eye on what comes next.

If you own a car, you're probably aware that ownership costs extend beyond just loan payments and fuel. You also need to budget for maintenance and repairs, which can be more expensive for older vehicles. The same principle applies to your home. It's important to budget for expected repairs and maintenance to avoid surprises.

Experts suggest setting aside 1% of your home's value each year for maintenance. For instance, if your home is worth $500,000, you should budget $5,000 annually. This is a general guideline, and if your home is older, you might need to allocate more.

Another approach is to budget $1 per square foot. So, for a 2,500 square foot home, you should set aside $2,500. Again, this amount should be higher for older homes.

When planning your budget, consider items that might need replacing in the next three years, such as roof shingles, furnace, air conditioning unit, deck, fence, plumbing, and windows. For example, a new air conditioning unit can cost around $4,000, depending on the size, model and efficiency. Planning for such expenses can help you avoid unexpected financial stress.

Remember, budgeting for repairs and maintenance doesn’t mean you’ll spend that money every year. However, having the budget available provides peace of mind, knowing you're prepared for any necessary expenses.

If you're considering buying a home in Ontario, one of the most crucial steps you can take early in the process is obtaining a mortgage pre-approval. A pre-approval offers several benefits that can help streamline your home-buying journey and provide you with a competitive edge in the housing market.

1. Understanding Your Budget

A mortgage pre-approval gives you a clear picture of how much you can afford to borrow. By providing your lender with financial documents such as income verification, credit history, and debt information, you’ll receive a specific loan amount that you qualify for. This helps you narrow down your home search to properties within your budget, saving you time and energy.

2. Increased Bargaining Power

Having a pre-approval letter shows sellers that you are a serious and qualified buyer. In competitive markets like Ontario, this can be a significant advantage. Sellers are more likely to consider offers from pre-approved buyers because it indicates financial readiness and reduces the risk of the deal falling through due to financing issues.

3. Locking in Interest Rates

Interest rates can fluctuate, and securing a pre-approval can lock in your rate for a set period (typically 60 to 120 days). This can protect you from potential rate increases while you search for your home. Knowing your interest rate in advance also allows you to budget more accurately for your monthly mortgage payments. In some cases, if the rates go down, you will get that lower rate.

4. Speeding Up the Closing Process

Since a large part of the mortgage application process is completed during pre-approval, the time required to finalize the loan once you’ve found a home is significantly reduced. This can make the closing process faster and smoother, which is appealing to sellers looking for a quick sale.

5. Highlighting Financial Issues Early

During the pre-approval process, lenders thoroughly review your financial situation. If there are any issues with your credit score, debt levels, or income that could impact your ability to secure a mortgage, you will find out early. This allows you to address these issues before you start house hunting, improving your chances of final approval.

6. Providing Peace of Mind

Knowing that you are pre-approved for a mortgage provides peace of mind. It allows you to focus on finding the perfect home without worrying whether you’ll be able to secure the necessary financing. This assurance can make the home-buying experience less stressful and more enjoyable.

To obtain a mortgage pre-approval in Ontario, follow these steps:

1. Gather Your Financial Documents : Collect proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns), credit history, identification, and details of your assets and liabilities.
2. Choose a Lender : Research and choose a lender or mortgage broker who offers competitive rates and terms.
3. Complete the Application : Fill out the pre-approval application and submit your financial documents.
4. Await Approval ✅: The lender will review your application and documents, and if everything is in order, they will issue a pre-approval letter stating the loan amount you qualify for.

Obtaining a mortgage pre-approval is a strategic step that offers numerous benefits for home buyers in Ontario. It not only helps you understand your budget and strengthens your offer but also locks in your interest rate, speeds up the closing process, and identifies potential financial issues early on. By taking this step, you position yourself as a serious and prepared buyer, ready to navigate the competitive Ontario housing market with confidence.

For more information on mortgage pre-approvals, visit the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) or consult with your preferred lender.

If you do not have a preferred mortgage specialist, please let me know. I am happy to provide a few specialists. 

Thinking of listing your home soon?
Here’s a smart move that can save you time, stress, and surprises down the line:
👉 Get a pre-inspection before you list.

Here’s why it works:

✅ Spot Issues Early
A pre-inspection helps identify potential problems—like plumbing, roofing, or electrical—before buyers ever step inside. This gives you time to fix them on your terms.

✅ Speed Up the Sale
Buyers love transparency. When they see a home that’s already been inspected, they’re more confident and more likely to act fast.

✅ Gain Negotiation Power
No last-minute surprises = more control during negotiations. You stay in the driver’s seat.

✅ Boost Trust & Value
A pre-inspection shows you’ve taken great care of your home. That kind of reassurance can mean better offers and more serious buyers.

💡 Bonus: Addressing small issues now could actually increase your home’s value and marketability.

And here's the best part...
💥 Pre-inspections are INCLUDED with my listing services. No extra stress, just a smoother path to SOLD.

I just read a comment from a former Realtor, now a real estate mentor. In her comment, she mentions how she is driven crazy when a Realtor posts, “It is always a good time to buy or sell!”

She makes the point that it all depends on each person’s current situation, and I agree. It is not always the best time for a person to buy or sell, and as a Realtor, it is incumbent on us, when someone reaches out, to determine what their current situation is, and each situation, even if it may be similar to someone else’s, is unique. There are many factors to consider. It may not be a good time for them.

I get what some Realtors mean when they write that “It is always a good time to buy or sell!” I believe what they are trying to say is, that throughout the year, there is no bad time to buy or sell. There was a time that it was always best to sell during the spring market, which was late March to mid-June.  That was when there were many buyers out looking.

While it is true that more homes do sell during the spring market, the spring market is now starting before spring officially starts and depending on weather, it can be very busy! The spring market does also tend to drift into the summer, which unlike many years ago, is still a pretty solid market. There are still times when there are competing offers.

Each season brings some challenges. If you are selling your home, and decide to list in the spring, you have the challenge that many homeowners are doing the same, so you face heightened competition (this hasn't been the case in recent years due to a lack of available homes). Summers are a slower time to sell, folks are on vacation and less people are out buying.

The market does tend to pick up in the fall, and then taper off into December and into February. That was the time, as it was, and may still be with buying antiques, that with less buyer competition, you may be able to negotiate a better price. In recent years, the market is still fairly robust in December and January.

All that said, there are other factors involved with the market. Here in Ottawa, even before Covid, we have had a lack of available homes on the market, pushing home buyers into competitive, multiple offer situations, driving up prices. It does not help that every level of government has gotten way behind in new home construction.

I have had people tell me recently, that they are waiting for the fall to buy, when the Bank of Canada cuts the key lending rate again. There is no guarantee this will happen.  Here is the thing, interest rates are a factor for sure when buying a home. People still buy homes when interest rates are higher. When I bought my first home, I paid 12.25%, during the recession of the 1980’s.

What is more of a factor here in Ottawa is the lack of available homes. So, let’s just say that the Bank of Canada does in fact lower the key interest rate another .25 % or even .50%. If the number of available homes remains the same as today, and the majority of buyers also wait for the rate drop, you now have more buyers competing for those homes, which will result in more competitive, multiple offer situations, driving up the prices, so whatever gain was made with the lower interest rate, is countered by the increase you will have to pay for that home, which potentially, you may have been able to purchase for less had you bought now.

Another consideration is, if you are pre-approved now, the lender will hold the interest rate for you for up to 120 days, depending on the lender. That means that while you are looking during that period, and interest rates go up, you will not be affected, you will have the rate that was given at the time of the pre-approval. However, if the rate goes down, you will get the lower rate.

You would have to verify with your lender to see, if they offer this: Let’s say you buy your home now in July, and the possession date, the day you take ownership, is in late September. Your lender still may give you the rate at the time of possession, if it is lower than the rate at the time the offer was accepted, and the sale became firm. If it is within the rate holding period. This would help you avoid potentially higher competition for the home, and still benefit from the better interest rate!

So, all this to say, there are many factors to consider when exploring the idea of potentially selling or buying your home. That begins and ends with your unique personal situation.

Find a Realtor who asks questions, listens attentively, answers your questions, then presents you with options based on your responses, and lets you decide if you wish to proceed.  Someone who will respect your decision and does not try to persuade you to sell or buy. If you would be more comfortable, have a family member or close friend with you. If you do not want to buy or sell, no one should be attempting to persuade you to change your mind! You should never feel pressured or rushed, even if you already wanted to, or do decide to sell, you should not be rushed into having your home on the market. Take the time you need.

Note: If someone knocks on your door, and asks if you are thinking of selling your home and you say no. They should simply thank you for your time and be on their merry way. They should not attempt to persuade you that you should sell! I was told of this happening recently to a woman in her late 70’s and it was definitely not in her best interest. You should be the one initiating the conversation, not the other way around.