Just a 1% drop in mortgage rates could equal significant savings for you!

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What finally happened for the first time this year?

Powell in plain English: What’s next?

• No preset path. Powell said, “Policy is not on a preset course.” Expect meeting-by-meeting decisions
• The dots imply there is room to ease. The Fed’s new projections put the median funds rate around 3.6% by year-end, which, if the outlook holds, is consistent with roughly two more quarter-point cuts in 2025.

Charlotte moves: next 30–60 days

Buyers

• Re-pre-approve now. Get a fresh letter, ask for float-down language in writing, and compare 2-1 vs. permanent buydown based on your hold period.
• Target leverage. Shop 30+ DOM resales and price-reduced new builds; negotiate closing costs + rate credits + appliance/blinds/fence bundles.
• Write strong, protect smart. Use a tight due-diligence window and aim for seller credits over price cuts to preserve appraisal support.
• Condo/townhome checklist: Healthy HOA reserves & insurance, clear rental caps, no active litigation/special assessments.

Sellers

• Price to today, not last spring. Let showings create your premium; avoid chasing.
• Finance the buyer. Offer a seller-paid rate buydown or closing-cost credit; place a lender scenario sheet on the kitchen island.
• Pre-inspection = confidence. Knock out small repairs and provide service records up front.

Homeowners (Refi & Equity)

• Build a refi ladder. Set a target payment/rate and be ready to act; keep an eye on no-cost refi options.
• Tap smart, not deep. Consider a HELOC for value-add projects (kitchen, baths, outdoor living).
• Drop PMI early. If equity >20% by recent comps or improvements, request a PMI review.
• Annual tune-up: Insurance re-shop, homestead/primary residence filed, escrow/impounds audited.

Investors

• Underwrite like a pro. Use realistic inputs: 7–8% vacancy, updated tax/insurance, and rate caps.
• Favor durability. 12-month lease product with garage + WFH space beats short-term churn.
• HOA first. Get leasing rules and reserve studies before you write; budget for capex (roof/HVAC/water heater).
• Exit optionality. Buy where resale comps are deep and rent demand is tied to jobs/healthcare/education nodes.