Navy Fellas Realty Group

Real Estate, Residential sales and purchase

The National Homebuyer Fund’s Role in National Homeownership Month

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June is National Homeownership Month, a special time to celebrate the dream of owning a home and highlight programs that help make homeownership more attainable. One standout resource for many aspiring homeowners is the National Homebuyer Fund (NHF), an organization dedicated to providing vital financial assistance to low-to-moderate income families striving to buy their first home.

What Is the National Homebuyer Fund?
The NHF is a nonprofit that offers down payment and closing cost assistance to qualified homebuyers. This support often comes in the form of grants or forgivable loans, meaning that recipients may not have to repay the funds if they meet program requirements, making the dream of homeownership more affordable and achievable.

NHF’s assistance programs are typically paired with government-backed loans such as FHA, VA, and USDA loans, which themselves are designed to lower barriers for buyers who might not qualify for conventional mortgages. By combining these programs, the NHF helps bridge the financial gap that often prevents many families from making the leap to homeownership.

Why NHF Is Essential for Aspiring Homeowners
One of the biggest obstacles to buying a home is coming up with the upfront costs—particularly the down payment and closing costs. Even with low-interest rates, these initial expenses can be a significant hurdle. The NHF’s assistance programs directly target this challenge by providing funds that reduce the amount buyers need to bring to the table at closing.

Moreover, the NHF places a strong emphasis on helping first-time buyers and families who otherwise might be overlooked by traditional lending practices. By easing the financial burden, the fund empowers these buyers to build stability, equity, and wealth through homeownership.

Aligning with National Homeownership Month
National Homeownership Month is about more than celebrating—it’s about creating opportunities and removing barriers. The National Homebuyer Fund fits perfectly into this mission. As housing affordability continues to be a pressing issue in many communities, NHF’s support ensures that the path to owning a home is accessible to more families.

Programs like NHF remind us that homeownership is a powerful tool for economic security and community strength. They also highlight the importance of targeted assistance and education to help buyers make informed decisions and succeed long term.

How You Can Benefit or Help Spread the Word
If you’re a prospective buyer, learning about the NHF and how it partners with various loan programs can be a game-changer. Real estate professionals and lenders can also play a crucial role by informing clients about NHF’s resources, helping them apply, and connecting them with homebuyer education programs.

During this month, consider sharing information about the NHF with your network. Whether you’re a buyer, an agent, or a community advocate, spreading awareness can help unlock homeownership for more families.

HUD’s Role in Homeownership and Supporting the American Dream

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June is National Homeownership Month, a time to celebrate the value of owning a home and to promote opportunities for more Americans to achieve that goal. One of the key players helping make homeownership more accessible, especially for first-time buyers and those with limited financial resources, is the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

HUD plays a critical role in advancing the mission of National Homeownership Month by providing essential resources, education, and support for homebuyers. Established in 1965, HUD’s mission is to create strong, sustainable, inclusive communities and quality affordable homes for all. This month is the perfect time to spotlight HUD’s efforts in making the dream of homeownership a reality for millions of Americans.

Making Homeownership More Attainable
One of HUD’s most impactful contributions to homeownership is through its Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loan program. FHA loans are designed to help buyers who may not qualify for conventional financing due to lower credit scores or smaller down payments. By insuring loans through approved lenders, HUD makes it easier for individuals and families to qualify for mortgages and achieve homeownership.

In the spirit of National Homeownership Month, HUD encourages homebuyers to explore these flexible financing options and understand how government-backed programs can lower the barrier to entry.

Educational Resources for First-Time Buyers
HUD also empowers future homeowners with education. Its network of HUD-approved housing counselors offers free or low-cost advice on buying a home, budgeting, understanding credit, and navigating the mortgage process. These counselors are particularly helpful for first-time buyers who may feel overwhelmed or uncertain about where to begin.

National Homeownership Month emphasizes the importance of education in making informed housing decisions. HUD’s focus on financial literacy and buyer readiness supports this effort by ensuring individuals are well-prepared before taking on a mortgage.

Addressing Housing Inequality
HUD is also instrumental in addressing systemic housing challenges, including affordability, discrimination, and lack of access in underserved communities. Through initiatives like the Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO), HUD works to protect buyers from discrimination and ensure that everyone has a fair chance at homeownership.

During National Homeownership Month, these efforts serve as a powerful reminder that the dream of owning a home should be within reach for all Americans, regardless of income, background, or location.

Looking Ahead
As we celebrate National Homeownership Month, it’s essential to recognize the behind-the-scenes work that HUD continues to do every day to support this vision. Whether through financial assistance, education, or advocacy, HUD is helping open doors, literally and figuratively, for those ready to make the move into homeownership.

If you or someone you know is considering buying a home, now is a great time to explore the resources available through HUD. Their support could be the difference between waiting and walking through the front door of a home you can call your own.

How HomeReady and Home Possible Open Doors During National Homeownership Month

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June is National Homeownership Month, a time dedicated to celebrating the American dream of homeownership and spotlighting the tools and resources that help make that dream a reality. For millions of aspiring homeowners, especially those with modest incomes, programs like Fannie Mae’s HomeReady® and Freddie Mac’s Home Possible® provide a critical pathway forward.

These two government-backed loan programs are specifically designed to increase access to affordable mortgage options for low-to-moderate income borrowers. In a market where rising home prices and limited inventory can feel discouraging, HomeReady® and Home Possible® are helping more people achieve the stability and wealth-building potential that comes with owning a home.

What Is HomeReady®?
Fannie Mae’s HomeReady® program was created to support creditworthy borrowers who may not meet the typical requirements for a conventional loan. With features like down payments as low as 3%, income flexibility, and homeownership education, HomeReady® is especially helpful for:

  • First-time homebuyers
  • Multigenerational households (co-borrowers who don’t live in the home can help qualify)
  • Borrowers with limited savings

HomeReady® also allows for non-traditional income sources to be considered, which can make a big difference for gig workers or those who supplement their income with part-time jobs or family support.

What Is Home Possible®?
Freddie Mac’s Home Possible® program offers similar benefits with additional flexibility. It’s designed to help low-income borrowers and first-time homebuyers overcome some of the most common barriers to homeownership. Highlights include:

  • Down payment options starting at just 3%
  • Flexible credit requirements
  • Reduced mortgage insurance costs
  • The ability to include rental income (like from a basement apartment) to help qualify

Home Possible® also supports homebuyers in underserved areas, promoting more equitable access to homeownership across diverse communities.

Why These Programs Matter During National Homeownership Month
This month is more than a celebration, it is a call to action. As we continue to face affordability challenges and widening wealth gaps, HomeReady® and Home Possible® represent real, tangible solutions. They align perfectly with the mission of National Homeownership Month by:

  • Expanding access to first-time and underrepresented buyers
  • Promoting education and responsible borrowing
  • Encouraging multigenerational and community-focused homeownership

These programs are proof that responsible, sustainable homeownership is still within reach, even in today’s competitive market.

Helping More Families Say “Yes” to Homeownership
The dream of owning a home shouldn’t be limited by income alone. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac’s initiatives help bridge the gap between renters and homeowners by offering smart, flexible options designed for today’s realities. For real estate professionals, lenders, and community leaders, this month is an opportunity to raise awareness about these programs and help more families step confidently into the next chapter of their lives.

Recognizing the Power of Having a Place to Call Home During Homeownership Month

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June is National Homeownership Month, it is a time to celebrate the American dream of owning a home and to reflect on what homeownership means to individuals, families, and communities. I believe in the power of homeownership to build stability, create generational wealth, and provide a true sense of belonging. Whether you are already a homeowner or still working toward that goal, this month is dedicated to you.

National Homeownership Month was originally recognized as National Homeownership Week in 1995. In 2002, President George W. Bush expanded it to the entire month of June to stress the importance of homeownership and make it more accessible to more Americans. Today, it continues to serve as a reminder of the value of owning a home and the support available to those who aspire to buy one.

Why Homeownership Matters
Owning a home is more than just having a place to live, it is about putting down roots and investing in your future. Homeownership offers financial benefits such as building equity, potential tax advantages, and protection against rising rent costs. The benefits go far beyond finances, a home offers a sense of security, control over your living space, and the freedom to personalize it in ways that reflect your style and values.

Resources and Support Are Available
One of the key goals of National Homeownership Month is to make sure potential buyers know about the resources available to help them along the journey. Organizations like the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the National Association of REALTORS®, and Habitat for Humanity offer valuable guidance, tools, and programs designed to assist first-time buyers, low-income families, and others facing challenges in today’s housing market. We will discuss them more this month.

If you are dreaming of buying a home, this month is the perfect time to explore your options. From down payment assistance programs to affordable financing options, there are many paths to homeownership that might be more within reach than you think.

Local Efforts and How You Can Get Involved
Throughout June, many local communities and real estate professionals host events to promote homeownership, share educational resources, and connect buyers with trusted experts. Whether it is a homebuyer workshop, an open house tour, or one-on-one consultations, these efforts are designed to empower you with knowledge and confidence.

If you have been thinking about making a move, we would love to help guide you through the process and explore your opportunities. National Homeownership Month is more than just a celebration, it is an invitation to take that first (or next) step toward a home you can truly call your own.

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – June 16th, 2025

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The CPI and PPI have yet to reveal the impacts of the tariff policies that were placed temporarily, which gives some potential insight that there might be a path forward for the Federal Reserve to look at potential rate cuts. However, economists across many industries are expecting inflation to increase temporarily as an impact for the policies that were put in place.

Significant uncertainty remains across many import and export markets, with major players opting to err on the side of caution while awaiting a final decision from the administration regarding its policies. Consumer sentiment has shown a slight improvement for the first time in six months, offsetting the largely negative outlook that has dominated the market since the onset of the trade wars.

Consumer Price Index
Top Federal Reserve officials and Wall Street economists still think higher U.S. tariffs will cause prices to increase over the summer, however. The evidence was thin in May. The consumer-price index rose a mere 0.1% last month, the Bureau of Labor Statistics said Wednesday. That was a tick below Wall Street’s forecast. The 12-month increase in consumer prices edged up to 2.4% from a four-year low of 2.3%.

Producer Price Index
Americans have yet to feel any sting of inflation from the Trump tariffs when they go shopping. Now, a new look at wholesale prices suggests the coast might be clear for at least a little while longer. The producer-price index rose a scant 0.1% in May, the government said Thursday, coming in below the Wall Street forecast.

Consumer Sentiment
The University of Michigan’s closely watched gauge of U.S. consumer sentiment rose to 60.5 in a preliminary June reading from 52.2 in the prior month. This was the first improvement in six months. The gain was larger than forecast. Economists polled by the Wall Street Journal had expected sentiment to rise to 54 from the month-earlier reading of 52.2.

Primary Mortgage Market Survey Index
o 15-Yr FRM rates saw a decrease of -0.02% for this week, with the current rate at 5.97%
o 30-Yr FRM rates saw a decrease of -0.01% for this week, with the current rate at 6.84%

MND Rate Index
o 30-Yr FHA rates saw a decrease of -0.02% for this week. Current rates at 6.45%
o 30-Yr VA rates saw a decrease of -0.03% for this week. Current rates at 6.47%

Jobless Claims
Initial Claims were reported to be 248,000 compared to the expected claims of 246,000. The prior week landed at 248,000.

What’s Ahead
The next FOMC Rate Decision is up ahead next week. Nothing is expected from this rate decision, as the Federal Reserve has stated repeatedly they have no plans to change things until policies are settled. Leading indicators have also been a significant player in the latest releases with many things being very uncertain.

What Every Homebuyer Should Look For During a House Tour

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Touring homes is one of the most exciting parts of the homebuying process. But it’s easy to get caught up in the moment, beautiful staging, new finishes, or fresh paint can sometimes distract from more important details. That’s why having a checklist is essential.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned mover, knowing what to look for during a house tour can help you make a smart and informed decision.

Curb Appeal
Curb appeal is important, but do not stop there. As you approach the home, observe the driveway, sidewalks, landscaping, and roofline. Cracks in pavement, standing water, or damaged gutters may be signs of larger maintenance issues.

Entryways and Doors
Check the condition and fit of the front door. It should open and close easily and fit securely in its frame. Inside, test interior doors to ensure they latch properly and do not stick or swing open, signs that could point to structural settling or foundation shifts.

Layout and Flow
Picture your daily routine as you move through the home. Is there a natural flow between rooms? Do the bedrooms offer enough privacy? Does the home feel open or segmented? Look beyond furniture and staging to assess whether the space truly fits your lifestyle.

Walls, Floors, and Ceilings
Be alert for cracks, stains, or uneven surfaces. Cracks near doors and windows can indicate foundation issues, while discoloration on ceilings might signal water damage. Floors should feel level and solid underfoot.

Bathrooms
Check for functionality and signs of moisture. Run faucets, flush toilets, and turn on the shower to test water pressure. Inspect under sinks for leaks or mold, and confirm that ventilation fans are working to prevent future moisture problems.

Kitchen Functionality
Open cabinets and drawers to assess storage space. Test appliance doors if allowed, and check outlets and lighting. Don’t forget to inspect under the sink for leaks or evidence of past water issues. A beautiful kitchen is great, but it also needs to be functional.

Electrical and HVAC
Test light switches and look for signs of updated electrical systems. Ask about the age of the HVAC system and water heater. Is the home adequately cooled or heated? Check for visible ductwork or thermostats and make sure everything appears to be in good condition.

Laundry Area
If there’s a designated laundry space, evaluate its location and practicality. Is it near bedrooms or tucked away in a garage or basement? Are there proper hookups and ventilation? This often-overlooked space can impact your daily routine.

Windows and Insulation
Check that windows open and close smoothly and look for any signs of drafts or condensation. Ask whether the home is equipped with energy-efficient windows and adequate insulation. Comfort and energy savings can hinge on these features.

Exterior and Yard
Walk around the outside of the home. Look for issues with siding, gutters, roof shingles, and foundation. Is the yard sloped to direct water away from the home? Are fences and retaining walls in good condition? These outdoor elements play a critical role in long-term upkeep.

Take Notes and Photos
It’s easy to confuse details when touring multiple homes. Bring a notebook or use your phone (with permission) to record observations and photos. Comparing these later can help you make a clearer decision.

Ask the Right Questions
Do not hesitate to ask your agent about utility costs, age of major systems, HOA dues, or neighborhood features. These answers will help you evaluate whether the home is a good long-term fit.

Confidence Comes from Clarity
A home tour isn’t just about falling in love with a space, it is about making sure it works for you. By walking in with a checklist and a critical eye, you will protect your investment and avoid unexpected surprises down the road.

What’s on your personal must-check list during a tour? Let us know in the comments.

Why You Should Always Check the Street Name Before Buying a Home

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When your house hunting, you are likely focused on the big things like: location, price, layout, and condition. But there is one small detail that can have a surprising impact on your homeownership experience, the street name. While it may seem insignificant at first, the name of your street can affect everything from resale value and first impressions to daily convenience and even safety.

Curb Appeal Starts With the Address
First impressions matter, and your street name is often the first thing someone hears when you share your address. Names like “Ocean View Drive” or “Whispering Pines Lane” can evoke a sense of charm or luxury, while names like “Industrial Avenue” or “Dirt Road” may raise an eyebrow. This seemingly minor detail can color someone’s perception of your home, even before they see it.

It Can Influence Property Value
Believe it or not, some studies have shown that homes on streets with more pleasant or prestigious-sounding names can sell for more than similar homes nearby. A name that suggests exclusivity or nature often appeals more to buyers than one that sounds generic or uninviting. If you’re thinking about resale value, this is something to consider.

Navigational Issues and Delivery Confusion
Street names that are difficult to spell, pronounce, or that sound too similar to nearby roads can cause headaches when it comes to mail, deliveries, and GPS navigation. If your address is often confused with another, you might find packages going missing or guests getting lost. Avoiding streets with names like “Oak Street” and “Oak Lane” right next to each other can save you a lot of stress.

Avoiding Negative Associations
Some street names have unfortunate associations—whether tied to history, a past event, or an unsavory reference. While these may not seem like a big deal, they can influence a potential buyer’s emotional reaction. Buyers might shy away from a home on “Gunpowder Road” or “Dead Man’s Curve” for obvious reasons.

Emergency Services and Safety
Emergency responders rely on accurate and unique addresses. If a street name is too similar to another nearby, it can delay critical response times. In urgent situations, every second counts. Choosing a home on a clearly labeled, distinct street helps ensure that police, fire, or medical personnel can locate your home quickly.

Ultimately, your home is more than an investment, it is a place where you will live, grow, and create memories. A street name might not be the first thing you consider, but it contributes to your overall comfort, convenience, and even pride of ownership.

So, when you are looking at homes, do not overlook the details. Take a moment to say the full address out loud. How does it sound? Can you picture telling it to someone on the phone or writing it on an invitation? If it gives you pause, it might be worth looking at the next option down the road.

Why Some Sellers Leave Fake Family Photos in Their Homes

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Walk into an open house and you might expect fresh flowers, cozy furnishings, and soft lighting. But occasionally, you will also spot something more unexpected family portraits in frames that do not match the owner. That’s because some sellers purposely leave behind staged or even fake family photos. While it may sound odd at first, this tactic is rooted in buyer psychology and strategic marketing.

Family photos, even staged ones, can stir feelings of warmth, happiness, and emotional connection. Buyers don’t just shop for square footage or granite countertops, they shop for a feeling. A framed photo of a smiling couple or happy kids can subtly send the message that “this is a joyful home,” and help buyers imagine building their own life there.

Real Photos vs. Staged Storytelling 
However, real family photos, especially ones that are deeply personal, religious, or specific to the seller’s life can create distance instead of connection. Instead of picturing themselves living there, buyers might feel like intruders in someone else’s life. That’s where fake or stock-style family photos come in. By showing a generic but heartwarming image of “a family,” the stager creates an emotional scene without over personalizing the space. 

These subtle touches, when placed thoughtfully around the home, can strengthen the emotional appeal without distracting the buyer.

Marketing Psychology at Work 
There’s another reason behind the use of fake photos: storytelling. In real estate, a successful showing is one where the buyer connects with a lifestyle, not just a structure. Strategically placing a happy family photo in the living room, one in a child’s bedroom, or one on the fridge helps paint a picture of the kind of life that could unfold in the home. A four-bedroom house becomes a “family-friendly” space, and the buyer begins imagining their own holiday dinners, birthday parties, or lazy Sunday mornings. It’s emotional marketing in its most subtle form.

A Controversial Yet Effective Tactic 
Some agents and buyers may find fake photos misleading or overly staged. But others argue that it’s no different than using rented furniture or faux fruit to elevate the visual appeal of a home. As long as there is no attempt to deceive the buyer about the condition or value of the property, using generic imagery is just one more staging technique to enhance ambiance and engagement.

Creating a Vision That Sells
In the end, fake family photos aren’t about deception, they are about connection. They help transform a house into something more than walls and windows; they turn it into a canvas for possibility. In a competitive market, the smallest emotional cues can give a listing the edge it needs. So, if you spot unfamiliar smiles in picture frames during your next home tour, remember: they might not be real people, but the story they are telling is designed to help you imagine your own.

The Hidden Reasons Homes Linger on the Market

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When a home sits on the market longer than expected, the price is often the first thing blamed. While overpricing can be a major factor, it’s far from the only one. One of the most common culprits is poor presentation. Buyers today form opinions within seconds, often based on online photos before they even step foot inside. 

Homes that are cluttered, outdated, poorly lit, or in need of deep cleaning may leave a negative impression. Listing photos that are dark, grainy, or unprofessional can stop interest before it starts. 

Accessibility and Showings 
Another big reason homes don’t move quickly is limited accessibility. If a home is difficult to show, whether it’s strict showing hours, last-minute cancellations, or requiring too much advance notice, buyers may simply pass and move on to more available options. The easier it is to schedule and tour, the more likely a home is to be seen, and sold.

Seasonal Timing and Market Conditions 
Timing matters. Homes listed during slower real estate seasons, like late fall or the winter holidays, may naturally take longer to sell. That doesn’t necessarily reflect on the home itself, just that fewer buyers are actively shopping. Even great listings can linger if the market is quieter when they hit the MLS.

Condition Compared to Competition 
Buyers compare. If your home lacks updates or features that similar homes in the area offer, like renovated kitchens, modern bathrooms, or energy-efficient appliances, it may feel overpriced even if it’s not. Small upgrades like fresh paint, new fixtures, or landscaping improvements can help a home stand out and show value without requiring a full renovation.

Seller Psychology and Flexibility 
Emotion plays a role, too. Sellers who are very emotionally attached to their home may struggle to accept feedback from their real estate agent. This might mean resisting price adjustments or refusing to make suggested updates. Unfortunately, a stagnant listing often ends up needing deeper cuts or bigger changes later, ones that could have been avoided by staying flexible early on.

Marketing Reach and Strategy 
Lastly, marketing matters. Simply putting a home on the MLS isn’t enough. Homes that aren’t promoted through multiple channels, such as social media, email campaigns, video tours, agent networks, and paid advertising, can easily be missed by qualified buyers. Effective marketing increases visibility and attracts a larger pool of interested, motivated buyers.

In short, price is important, but it’s not the only reason some homes sit. If a property isn’t moving, it’s time to look at the full picture: presentation, accessibility, market timing, local competition, emotional readiness, and marketing strategy. With the right adjustments and an experienced real estate professional guiding the process, homes that linger can often be repositioned for a quicker, more successful sale.

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – June 9th, 2025

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With next week bringing the latest wave of inflation data reports—namely the CPI and PPI—this week featured a slew of releases with minimal impact. The Trade Deficit and the Federal Reserve’s Beige Book stood out as the main indicators reflecting the current state of the economy. Although tariffs have largely been put on pause, their effects continue to reverberate across numerous industries.

Significant concern remains due to the instability in decision-making from the current administration. The Trade Deficit came in as expected, with the deficit cut in half following the announcement of tariffs, which caused imports to plunge. Meanwhile, the Beige Book indicated a significant slowing of the economy.

Federal Reserve Beige Book
The U.S. economy slowed to a crawl in May, with consumers pulling back on spending and businesses delaying hiring, according to the Federal Reserve‘s Beige Book survey released Wednesday. According to the report, nine of the 12 Fed districts reported contraction in economic activity or no change in growth. The remaining districts saw slight growth.

Trade Deficit
The numbers: The U.S. international trade deficit narrowed 55.5% in April to $61.6 billion, the Commerce Department said Thursday. Economists surveyed by the Wall Street Journal had predicted the deficit would narrow to a seasonally adjusted $63.3 billion from a record $140.9 billion in March.

Primary Mortgage Market Survey Index
• 15-Yr FRM rates saw a decrease of -0.04% for this week, with the current rate at 5.99%
• 30-Yr FRM rates saw a decrease of -0.04% for this week, with the current rate at 6.85%

MND Rate Index
• 30-Yr FHA rates saw an increase of 0.02% for this week. Current rates at 6.47%
• 30-Yr VA rates saw an increase of 0.03% for this week. Current rates at 6.50%

Jobless Claims
Initial Claims were reported to be 247,000 compared to the expected claims of 236,000. The prior week landed at 239,000.

What’s Ahead
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Producer Price Index (PPI) inflation reports are the major releases scheduled for next week, with most expectations pointing toward a rise in inflation in the near future. These will be followed by the Consumer Sentiment report.