Mortgage Rates, Maintenance Reminders, and Prepping for Fall!

September Market Update

Freddie Mac announced that mortgage rates have dropped again this week! The average rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is now at 6.35%, the lowest it's been since early May 2023. This is great news for both buyers and sellers, and it should boost housing market activity this fall.
For buyers, lower mortgage rates mean homes are more affordable. For homeowners looking to sell, these lower rates make it easier to find buyers. There has been about a three percentage point difference between rates on new and existing mortgages, which has discouraged some homeowners from listing their properties. But as rates decline, this gap becomes less of a hurdle for sellers.
We're already seeing an increase in inventory, and new listings are expected to continue rising this fall. The housing market is moving toward a better balance, though buyers should still be prepared for competition. Mortgage rates may fluctuate over the next few weeks, but there’s anticipation that they will settle between 6.2% and 6.4% by the end of the year.
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September Home Maintenance Checklist

Check walkways for cracks : Before the leaves and maybe even snow cover the grass, or it gets too chilly to go outside, take a moment to check your walkways for any cracks or loose pavers. Fixing these areas now can help prevent any tripping or falling accidents when the weather turns slippery.
Sweep Chimney: When temperatures finally fall, you’ll want to be ready to light your fireplace. But before your first toasty blaze of the season, make sure your chimney has been cleaned.
Clean Siding: After a long summer, your siding might look a bit dirty or even mildewed. September is the perfect time to grab a pressure washer and give it a good clean. While you're at it, take a moment to check for any rotten or warped spots and inspect the caulking, as it can shrink and crack over time. This way, you'll be all set before winter arrives!

Dates To Remember & Celebrate

As summer wraps up, the fun doesn't have to end!
There's something for everyone to enjoy with all the exciting September holidays and observances - here are a few:

September 2nd, Labor Day
September 8th, Grandparents Day
September 22nd, Autumn Begins
Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15 to Oct. 15)

Easy Ways to Transition Decor from Summer to Fall

Try these easy seasonal decorating ideas to welcome the crisp temperatures and falling leaves!

Update Mantel Decor: Fireplaces are focal points, so elevate yours this fall with updated mantel decor. Layer art pieces by placing larger prints in the back and smaller framed artworks and trinkets in front. Use the rule of thirds for smaller decor, grouping items of different heights in sets of three.

Switch Out Throw Pillows + Blankets: Give your sofa a seasonal makeover with throw pillows and blankets. Use orange, yellow, and burgundy for a cozy fall vibe. Instead of buying new pillows every season, just get removable covers to save money.

Refresh Your Porch: A porch is like a handshake—it’s your home’s first impression. Refresh it for fall with potted mums, pumpkins, or gourds. Add cozy blankets and pillows to your swing for extra charm.

Layer Textures: Add a plaid blanket to your bed or a faux sheepskin on a chair for instant warmth. Keep it minimal for easy adjustments and a perfect autumn feel.

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