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Top 3 Ways Remote Work Is Changing Homebuying

Throughout history, our home spaces have evolved alongside our workplaces. And as telecommunication and global connection continue to thrive, more people than ever are dropping the commute and firing up their laptops to put in a good day’s work. But what does this change in the workplace mean for up-in-coming homebuyers entering the housing market? Let’s find out! 

How remote work is changing home-buying behavior

When searching for the perfect home, the commute to work has been an integral part of most homebuyers’ decision-making process, and that remains true in today’s home-buying landscape. A 2021 study done by Realtor.com provides insight into homebuyers’ willingness to trade in longer commute times for more affordable homes in more desirable areas.

But with the emergence of remote work across the nation, the “this-for-that” mentality has less influence on homebuyers. Homebuyers that originally struggled to find homes that fit both their price point and desired commute time now have the opportunity to be more flexible because:

  • Majority of recent homebuyers (Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X) prefer remote work.
  • About four-in-ten recent homebuyers work remotely due to pre- and post-pandemic conditions.
  • Younger workers are driving real estate markets.
  • Close to half of recent homebuyers report companies embracing remote work.

This is great news for homebuyers who want to forgo city living altogether while maintaining their current job. If you’ve had your eyes set on a suburban or rural area, the freedom that remote work provides (and the benefits of a USDA loan) can help you snag the home of your dreams.

More first-time buyers are entering the market

The influx of remote work is also helping individuals who could not otherwise purchase a home enter the housing market. According to Zillow, remote work could open the door to homeownership for nearly two million renters to buy starter homes in less expensive areas outside of the cities they work in. 

The Mortgage Bankers Association explains how this reshaping of the housing market could take place. More than 10% of renters who may have struggled to afford a home within the city limits of San Francisco could afford a home within the metro area (but beyond an acceptable 5-day-per-week commuting distance). With current interest rates at an all-time low and the ability to move out of high cost-of-living areas, current renters who work remotely have more opportunities than ever to become homeowners.

In-home requirements are more specific

The areas people choose to live in aren’t the only thing changing with the rise of remote work. There is also a noticeable shift in what homebuyers are looking for in their homes. 

Having a dedicated office space is a top priority for homebuyers working remotely. Homes with an extra bedroom, a finished attic or basement, or designated office space are beginning to overshadow previously sought-after amenities. Home theatres and gyms are losing their luster in this new era of home buying because the more time buyers spend working at home, the more willing they are to reap the benefits of an in-home experience from a public place. 

Need a New Home to Work From?

No matter where you get your work done, any time is the RIGHT time to start your home-buying journey. If remote work has become a permanent part of your life, you don’t want to miss out on buying the perfect home for your needs. Re-invent what home looks like for you by getting a quote or pre-approval letter today

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Homebuying Tips Interest Rates Loans Market Analysis Mortgages

What Does This Market Analysis Say About Mortgage Rates?

Mortgage rates are down, which can be an incentive for those looking to purchase or refinance a home. In fact, they’re some of the lowest rates we’ve seen in years! We talked to our resident expert employee, Jeff Angew, who provided some insight into how the current climate has impacted these opportunities for homeowners and homebuyers. 

Why Have Mortgage Rates Fallen?

With the onset of COVID-19 in March, part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) was to allow consumers to skip or lower mortgage payments for up to six months, a concept called mortgage forbearance. While beneficial for consumers, this component of the CARES Act incited something close to panic in the mortgage market. 

Because many in the market believed that a reduction in mortgage payments meant a significantly lower return for investors, mortgage rates began to skyrocket and investors in mortgage-backed securities began to exit the space. 

Enter the Federal Reserve, which, to help financial markets, lowered the federal funds rate to 0%-.25%, causing interest to fall significantly. However, this still did not help liquidity in the markets. 

In April, the Federal Reserve again stepped in, this time to purchase mortgage-backed securities; thus, causing them to be the largest holder of these securities and return a level of security to the market. This resulted in the lowest rates seen in the mortgage market to-date, causing something of a refinance boom. 

What are the Current Rates?

The current 30-year rate, as reported by Bankrate, is at 3.08%. The last time it was this low was in September 2016, at 3.32%. 

Learn more about the rates and APR in your state here

What Will Future Mortgage Rates Look Like?

The Federal Reserve plans to keep the federal funds rate at or near 0% through 2021 and will continue to purchase mortgage-backed securities. However, the presidential election in November could cause a change in the market, depending on who is elected. 

Currently, there are an estimated 19 million highly qualified refinance candidates who could lower their rate by at least .75%, adding to the strain on mortgage originators and causing rates to stay in this range. 

How Can You Take Advantage of These Low Rates!

While these rates are near historic lows, they won’t last forever. Whether you’re looking to purchase a house or refinance your current home, we’re here to help! Call us at 205.776.8401 to lock in your low rate today!

If you’re ready for a quote or a pre-approval, click the buttons in the top right corner of our home page