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First-Time Home Buyer Advice and Preparation for 2026

Prepare early by organizing finances, checking credit, and getting pre-approved for a mortgage. The first quarter offers less competition and potential price advantages before spring. Affordability is expected to improve slightly due to stable or lower mortgage rates, slower home price growth, and rising incomes. Buyers should set realistic budgets, prioritize needs, and work with professionals to...

New-home mortgage demand edges higher

Mortgage demand for new homes rose 3.1% year over year in November but fell 7% month over month. New single-family home sales were estimated at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 755,000 units, down 2.1% from October. Average loan size decreased slightly. FHA loans accounted for 37.1% of applications, with 24% using adjustable-rate mortgages, reflecting buyers' efforts to improve affordability...