Navy Fellas Realty Group

Real Estate, Residential sales and purchase

Tips to Discover Off Market Properties Before Everyone Else

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As a real estate agent, I can tell you that off-market properties can be a hidden gem for savvy buyers. But how do you find them? Here’s what you need to know.

What Are Off-Market Properties?
Off-market homes, sometimes called “pocket listings” or “quiet listings,” are properties for sale that aren’t publicly advertised on popular real estate sites. Sellers may choose to keep their sale private for personal reasons or to test the waters without fully committing to the process.

  1. Work with a Connected Real Estate Agent
    Your best resource for finding off-market homes is a well-connected agent. We often hear about properties through our networks, other agents, past clients, investors, and even word of mouth. If you are looking for something specific, let your agent know. We can tap into our contacts and keep an ear out for upcoming listings that have not hit the market yet.
  2. Explore “Coming Soon” Listings
    Some sellers are preparing to go live on the market but have not listed yet. These “coming soon” homes might be visible through agent networks or office-exclusive listings. A proactive agent can help you find and pursue these opportunities before the general public sees them.
  3. Talk to Local Investors or Builders
    Real estate investors and builders sometimes have properties in progress that they are willing to sell before officially listing. If you are open to fixer-uppers or new construction, this route might open doors to properties others have not seen yet.
  4. Drive the Neighborhood
    This old-school tactic still works. If you have a neighborhood in mind, drive or walk through it and look for signs of a potential sale, like moving activity, FSBO signs (For Sale By Owner), or even vacant homes. If you spot one, your agent can contact the owner directly to explore if a sale is possible.
  5. Use Direct Mail or Social Media
    If you’re targeting a very specific area, some buyers have success with “Dear Homeowner” letters expressing interest in buying. Your agent can help you craft a message and handle responses professionally. Similarly, social media can be a powerful tool for spreading the word about what you’re looking for.
  6. Check Public Records
    Some off-market opportunities come from probate sales, pre-foreclosures, or inherited homes. These properties might be found through public records or courthouse filings. While this route is more involved, your agent may be able to guide you or connect you with someone who specializes in this niche.

Off-market properties take a little more digging, but the reward can be worth it. With the right agent, a little strategy, and persistence, you can uncover homes that are not available to the average buyer, and potentially avoid bidding wars altogether.

If you are interested in exploring off-market opportunities, let’s connect. I’ll put my network to work for you.

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – June 30th, 2025

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With the passing of the previous busy weeks of rate decisions, this week features the Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation report in the PCE Index, which has shown that inflation has come in hotter than expected for the month of May. This likely cements the Federal Reserve’s decision to take no action until later and further confirming most economists’ predictions. The consumer confidence has also taken a hit as it has further declined again for the month of May, indicating there is still significant apprehension within the markets and consumers alike. This is accompanied by Consumer Spending data, which met expectations, as many consumers had already begun pulling back on spending in response to tariff policies before many of those measures were paused.

PCE Index
In an updated forecast, Federal Reserve officials now expect inflation, as measured by the core personal-consumption expenditures (PCE) index, to jump to 3.1% by the end of the year, up from a rate of 2.5% in April.

Consumer Spending
Americans cut spending in May after buying lots of new cars and other goods earlier in the year to beat U.S. tariffs, underscoring how ongoing trade wars are disrupting the economy. Personal spending fell 0.1% last month, the government said Friday. It was the first decline since January.

Consumer Sentiment
The ongoing trade wars haven’t faded from public view. Consumer confidence fell in June, as Americans grew more pessimistic about the future of the economy and their ability to find a job. The index of consumer confidence declined to 93 last month from 98.4 in May, when the Trump administration dialed back the highest U.S. tariffs.

Primary Mortgage Market Survey Index
• 15-Yr FRM rates saw a decrease of -0.07% for this week, with the current rates at 5.89%
• 30-Yr FRM rates saw a decrease of of -0.04% for this week, with the current rates at 6.77%

MND Rate Index
• 30-Yr FHA rates saw a decrease of -0.19% for this week, with the current rates at 6.22%
• 30-Yr VA rates saw a decrease of -0.19% for this week, with the current rates at 6.23%

Jobless Claims
Initial Claims were reported to be 236,000 compared to the expected claims of 246,000. The prior week landed at 246,000.

What’s Ahead
Non-farm Payrolls, Job Data, Manufacturing PMI Data will be the largest reports out for next week. The most important data reflecting the impact of tariffs has already been released.

NeighborWorks America and Building Stronger Communities Continues During National Homeownership Month

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June marks National Homeownership Month, a time to celebrate the dream of owning a home and to highlight the programs and organizations that help make homeownership accessible and sustainable for all. One key player in this mission is NeighborWorks America, a national nonprofit network dedicated to promoting affordable housing through education, community development, and lending.

What Is NeighborWorks America?
NeighborWorks America supports a nationwide network of local organizations that provide a wide range of services designed to empower individuals and strengthen communities. Their work includes:

  • Homebuyer education and counseling: Helping potential buyers understand the home buying process, budgeting, and financial management.
  • Community development: Supporting efforts to revitalize neighborhoods through affordable housing projects, neighborhood improvement initiatives, and economic development.
  • Affordable lending: Facilitating access to responsible financing options for low-to-moderate income families.

By partnering with over 240 local NeighborWorks organizations, NeighborWorks America ensures resources and support reach communities in need across the country.

Why NeighborWorks America Matters for Homebuyers
For many aspiring homeowners, the journey to buying a home can be complex and challenging. NeighborWorks America addresses these challenges by providing education and counseling that empower buyers to make informed decisions and build long-term financial stability. Their programs help prevent foreclosure and improve credit scores, which increases the chances of successful homeownership.

Additionally, their focus on community development means that they do not just help individuals buy homes, they help create thriving neighborhoods where families want to live, work, and grow.

Connection to National Homeownership Month
National Homeownership Month is about more than just buying a house, it is about building stable, vibrant communities and ensuring that homeownership is attainable for everyone. NeighborWorks America’s mission aligns perfectly with these goals. Their comprehensive approach combines education, financial assistance, and community revitalization to address the many barriers that can stand in the way of homeownership.

During this month, it’s important to recognize organizations like NeighborWorks America that work tirelessly to promote housing affordability and sustainability. Their efforts contribute to stronger neighborhoods and better futures for families across the country.

How You Can Get Involved or Benefit
If you’re considering buying a home, NeighborWorks America’s network of local organizations can be an invaluable resource. They offer free or low-cost homebuyer education classes, credit counseling, and financial coaching. These services prepare buyers to confidently navigate the mortgage process and maintain their homes long-term.

Real estate professionals and community advocates can also support NeighborWorks America by referring clients to their programs or partnering on community initiatives that promote affordable housing.

As we celebrate National Homeownership Month, let’s acknowledge the critical role NeighborWorks America plays in making homeownership a reality for so many families, and the ongoing work needed to create equitable, sustainable housing solutions nationwide.

How Habitat for Humanity Supports Homeownership By Building Hope and Homes

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June is National Homeownership Month, a time to celebrate the value of owning a home and recognize the individuals and organizations working to make homeownership more accessible to everyone. One of the most well-known and impactful organizations in this space is Habitat for Humanity, a nonprofit that’s been helping families build and own safe, affordable homes for nearly 50 years.

Habitat for Humanity goes beyond construction. It provides stability, empowerment, and dignity to families who may never have thought homeownership was within reach. During National Homeownership Month, it is especially important to highlight how this organization makes a lasting difference.

A Hand Up, Not a Handout
Habitat for Humanity believes that everyone deserves a decent place to live. But unlike traditional charity models, Habitat does not give away homes. Instead, it offers a partnership model, homebuyers contribute “sweat equity” by helping build their own homes or the homes of others. They then purchase the home through an affordable mortgage, often with monthly payments tailored to their income.

This approach fosters pride, investment, and a stronger connection to the community. It also ensures the program is sustainable, allowing Habitat to serve more families year after year.

Empowering Families Through Education
In addition to home construction, Habitat prepares future homeowners through financial literacy and homeownership education. Participants learn about budgeting, mortgage responsibilities, home maintenance, and more—tools that help them succeed as long-term homeowners.

These educational components are vital. Many Habitat families are first-time buyers navigating complex financial systems. The knowledge they gain through Habitat’s programs helps set them up for lasting success and stability.

Community Impact
Habitat’s impact stretches far beyond individual homes. In many neighborhoods, Habitat-led projects have helped revitalize communities, reduce blight, and boost local economies. Volunteer opportunities bring people together from all walks of life, building not just homes, but also connections and compassion.

During National Homeownership Month, Habitat often partners with local governments, businesses, and community groups to raise awareness and increase involvement in its mission. These partnerships demonstrate the power of collective action and the difference it can make in someone’s life.

Responding to the Housing Crisis
With rising home prices and limited affordable housing in many areas, Habitat’s work is more essential than ever. The organization advocates for policies that promote affordable housing, supports zoning reform, and helps remove barriers to homeownership, especially for underserved populations.

Habitat for Humanity’s mission aligns perfectly with the goals of National Homeownership Month: to promote the dream of homeownership and to make it a reality for more people, regardless of their background or income level.

How You Can Get Involved
You do not have to be a contractor to make a difference. Habitat offers numerous ways to support its work, from volunteering on sites and donating materials to supporting advocacy campaigns and shopping at Habitat ReStores.

By supporting Habitat for Humanity, you are not just helping build homes, you are building futures.

Creating Fairer Housing for All and How REALTORS Are Leading the Way with Fairhaven and ACT!

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June is National Homeownership Month, a time to celebrate the dream of owning a home and to recognize the organizations and individuals working to make that dream accessible to all. While much of the focus is rightly on financial assistance and buyer education, it’s equally important to talk about fairness, and what’s being done behind the scenes to ensure every person has an equal opportunity to purchase a home.

That’s where two powerful initiatives from the National Association of REALTORS (NAR) come in: Fairhaven and ACT!. Both programs are transforming the way real estate professionals approach housing equality, reinforcing the idea that homeownership is not just a goal, it is a right that should be protected and promoted.

What Is Fairhaven?
Fairhaven is a groundbreaking interactive fair housing simulation training program designed by NAR. In this virtual learning platform, REALTORS step into the role of both client and agent, navigating real-world scenarios involving bias, discrimination, and ethical dilemmas.

The goal? To challenge agents to confront personal assumptions and biases while reinforcing fair housing laws and the core belief that everyone deserves a fair shot at buying a home.

Fairhaven is not just another training; it is an immersive experience. It helps REALTORS see firsthand how subtle discrimination can affect buyers, and it encourages them to build more inclusive business practices. The name itself, Fairhaven, symbolizes a safe, welcoming community, exactly what the homebuying process should be for every individual, regardless of race, gender, background, or financial status.

The ACT! Initiative
Standing for Accountability, Culture Change, and Training, ACT! is NAR’s broader strategy to eliminate discrimination in the real estate industry and foster a more equitable housing market. This initiative includes policy recommendations, educational reform, leadership accountability, and outreach programs aimed at reshaping the industry from the inside out.

ACT! recognizes that fair housing is not just a legal obligation, it is a social responsibility. Through this program, NAR is empowering REALTORS to go beyond compliance and become active leaders in the movement for housing justice.

Why It Matters During National Homeownership Month
National Homeownership Month is about more than increasing the number of homeowners, it is about increasing opportunity. Fairhaven and ACT! speak directly to that mission by helping ensure every buyer is treated with dignity and fairness, and that no one is left behind due to systemic bias or outdated practices.

When REALTORS are trained to recognize and address inequities, the path to homeownership becomes more open, more honest, and more achievable for everyone. These programs not only elevate the professionalism of the industry, but they also build trust within the communities REALTORS serve.

Moving Toward a More Inclusive Market
As we celebrate National Homeownership Month, let’s also celebrate progress. Programs like Fairhaven and ACT! show that real estate professionals are not just part of the market, they are shaping it. And with that responsibility comes the power to make meaningful changes.

How the National Association of REALTORS Supports the Path to Homeownership

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June marks National Homeownership Month, a time to celebrate one of the most important milestones in life, owning a home. While many organizations work to make homeownership accessible, one of the most influential is the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). As the largest trade association in the U.S., NAR plays a critical role in promoting, protecting, and expanding homeownership opportunities for all Americans.

With over 1.5 million members, NAR is not just an association for real estate professionals, it’s an advocate for buyers, sellers, and communities nationwide. During National Homeownership Month, it’s the perfect time to highlight how this organization supports current and future homeowners.

Championing the American Dream
At its core, NAR believes that homeownership is the foundation of strong communities and personal financial stability. Through its advocacy efforts, NAR works with lawmakers, regulators, and industry leaders to protect property ownership rights and ensure housing policies support both buyers and sellers.

Whether it is pushing for tax incentives for homeowners, supporting fair housing laws, or promoting financial literacy, NAR plays a hands-on role in shaping the policies that directly impact your ability to buy and keep a home.

Educating and Empowering Buyers
Education is essential for a successful homeownership journey, and NAR provides a wide range of resources to help buyers navigate the process with confidence. Their affiliated site, Homeownership Matters, offers articles, tips, and updates on housing-related issues, while Realtor.com connects consumers with market data, listings, and professional guidance.

NAR also promotes the importance of working with a REALTOR, a professional who not only abides by a strict code of ethics but is also trained to advocate for your best interests throughout the transaction.

As we celebrate National Homeownership Month, NAR reminds buyers that they do not have to go it alone, having a trusted expert by your side makes the path smoother and more secure.

Promoting Housing Equality
NAR is a strong proponent of fair housing and equal opportunity. The association has launched several initiatives, including Fairhaven, a fair housing simulation training program for REALTORS®, and ACT!, a program focused on accountability, culture change, and training to combat discrimination in real estate.

In alignment with National Homeownership Month’s focus on expanding access, NAR’s commitment to inclusivity helps ensure that the dream of homeownership is achievable for individuals and families from all backgrounds.

Advocating for Affordability and Access
Through ongoing research and outreach, NAR also addresses the challenges many potential buyers face, such as affordability and limited inventory. By sharing market trends and working with policymakers, NAR supports solutions that aim to expand housing availability and promote sustainable ownership.

Celebrating National Homeownership Month wouldn’t be complete without recognizing the work of the National Association of REALTORS®. Their dedication to advocacy, education, and equality continues to make a lasting impact on communities across the country.

If you’re considering homeownership or simply want to learn more, NAR’s resources and network of professionals are a great place to start.

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – June 23rd, 2025

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With the passing of the FOMC rate decision, it has become clear that the Federal Reserve is taking a wait-and-see approach to the current situation regarding tariff policies. Although the vast majority of economists around the world have made predictions about what lies ahead, the effects have not yet been pronounced. Many of the recent tariff changes have also been revoked or put on pause for the largest industries, leaving many markets uncertain about the future. The key takeaway is that conditions will likely remain steady for now. The only other data release offering insight into what’s to come is the notable decline in U.S. retail sales, reflecting a reduction in consumer activity.

U.S. Retail Sales
Simmering trade wars have created a sort of start-and-stop economy, and the latest snapshot of retail sales in May underscores the threat to U.S. growth. Sales at retailers nationwide fell for the second month in a row, the government reported Tuesday. Receipts tumbled 0.9% in May after a small decline in April, based on seasonally adjusted numbers.

FOMC Rate Decision
The Federal Reserve on Wednesday stuck to its forecast of two interest-rate cuts in 2025 despite seeing a burst of inflation coming in the next few months as a result of higher tariffs. In an updated forecast, Fed officials now expect inflation, as measured by the core personal-consumption expenditures (PCE) index, to jump to 3.1% by the end of the year, up from a rate of 2.5% in April.

Primary Mortgage Market Survey Index
• 15-Yr FRM rates saw a decrease of -0.01% for this week, with the current rates at 5.96%
• 30-Yr FRM rates saw a decrease of of -0.03% for this week, with the current rates at 6.81%

MND Rate Index
• 30-Yr FHA rates saw a decrease of -0.04% for this week, with the current rates at 6.41%
• 30-Yr VA rates saw a decrease of -0.05% for this week, with the current rates at 6.42%

Jobless Claims
Initial Claims were reported to be 245,000 compared to the expected claims of 246,000. The prior week landed at 250,000.

What’s Ahead
Job data is due ahead next week as well as the more recent data from the U.S. trade deficits, which many have had their eyes on.

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.