Teitsma Team Realtors

08/29/2026

Mortgage Applications Flat, Purchase Activity Edges Higher
This week’s mortgage snapshot: application volume saw only a minor change, up 0.04%. Purchase activity ticked up 1%, while refinancing slipped by 1%. When compared to last year, purchase applications are up 3% and refinancing applications have climbed 9%. Adjustable-rate mortgages now make up just 7.6% of the market—a recent low—with rates themselves shifting only slightly. At The Teitsma Homes Team, we’ve seen how even these small changes can create new opportunities, especially for clients looking to make the most of the Spring Lake, Grand Haven, and Muskegon markets. Our experience with waterfront properties and new construction helps buyers and sellers stay informed and confident, no matter how subtle the market moves.
https://www.housing-trends.com/agent-news/michelle-teitsma/1785010-Mortgage-Applications-Flat%2C-Purchase-Activity-Edges-Higher

08/29/2026

When it comes to cooking, are you team Gas Stove or Electric Stove?

Some people swear by the responsiveness and control of a gas stove, while others love the convenience, clean look, and easy maintenance of an electric stove.

The best choice often comes down to how you cook, what features matter most to you, and personal preference.

08/28/2026

Realtor.com Projects Continued Home Price Growth for 2026
Wondering what 2026 holds for homebuyers and renters? 🏡 Slower price growth, steady mortgage rates, and a small drop in monthly payments could mean better affordability. Rents are expected to dip too! Ready to make your move? 📉💬
https://www.housing-trends.com/agent-news/michelle-teitsma/1808329-Realtor.com-Projects-Continued-Home-Price-Growth-for-2026

08/28/2026

Besides the rooftop terrace and the wow-factor, a penthouse can be a savvy investment.

When navigating the real estate market in a city, the first step is usually deciding what type of re...

08/28/2026

Before you submit an offer, your agent is already working behind the scenes. 🏡

Making a strong offer takes more than choosing a price. A great real estate agent is preparing, researching, and strategizing long before the paperwork is signed.

Here are just a few things they do before you submit an offer:

🔍 Research the property to identify important details and potential red flags.
📊 Analyze the local market to determine a competitive and well-supported offer price.
🤝 Communicate with the listing agent to gather valuable insights about the seller's priorities and the offer process.
📝 Develop a negotiation strategy that helps position your offer as strongly as possible.

And that's just the beginning! From answering questions to navigating negotiations and protecting your interests, your agent is working every step of the way to help you make a confident decision.

Reach out today to build a smart buying strategy!

08/27/2026

US Buyers See More Builder Incentives
As we guide our clients through the Spring Lake, Grand Haven, and Muskegon markets, our team keeps a close eye on builder trends and incentives that can make a real difference for buyers—especially in new construction. Recent data shows US builder confidence lingered at 35 in late Q2, marking the 14th consecutive month below 40. With affordability pressures and rising mortgage rates, it's no surprise that over 60% of builders offered sales incentives this past quarter, and about 35% reduced prices—typically by 6%—for new-home buyers nationwide.

Industry leaders are pointing to an estimated 1.2 million home shortage across the US. Until those building barriers are addressed, we expect builder sentiment to remain cautious. An interesting finding: regulation, taxes, fees, and related costs now add more than 25% to the average single-family home price, underscoring just how much potential there is for relief if reform happens. Sales conditions and buyer traffic continue to reflect this measured outlook, with current sales conditions at 38, future sales at 45, and buyer traffic at 25 in late Q2.

For those considering new construction—whether a single-family home or a condo—understanding these market dynamics is key to making informed decisions that align with your goals. We specialize in helping clients navigate these choices, leveraging decades of experience and local expertise to maximize every opportunity.

08/27/2026

Success is rarely about reaching a destination overnight. It's built through dedication, resilience, and the small steps taken along the way. 🏡✨

The same is true when it comes to homeownership. Whether you're saving for a down payment, searching for your first home, upgrading to fit a growing family, or investing for the future, every milestone is part of a bigger journey.

The path may not always be easy, but persistence, preparation, and staying focused on your long-term goals can turn today's efforts into tomorrow's achievements.

Whatever your homeownership goals look like, keep moving forward. Every step brings you closer to the life you're working to build!

08/26/2026

US Housing Affordability Is Resetting Higher
Housing affordability is undergoing a shift, with mortgage rates holding steady in the low-6% range. Even minor rate changes can quickly impact monthly payments and overall buying power—something our team sees firsthand as we work with clients across Spring Lake, Grand Haven, and Muskegon. Right now, the median-priced home translates to roughly a $2,000 monthly payment, which highlights how vital it is for buyers to have a well-defined budget in place before the right property comes along.

We’re also seeing many current owners holding onto their homes, thanks to the attractive low rates they secured in previous years. This keeps resale inventory tight and means new construction is playing a bigger role in meeting local demand—especially for those looking in sought-after neighborhoods or along the waterfront.

For first-time buyers, the entry bar is a bit higher. Strong savings, solid borrowing power, flexibility on location, and sometimes family support are more important than ever. While models suggest we could see a bit of relief as rates stabilize, a full return to previous affordability levels isn’t likely before 2027, if at all.

At The Teitsma Homes Team, we know how crucial it is to navigate these changes with experienced guidance—whether you’re buying, selling, or considering new construction in West Michigan.

08/26/2026

✨ Your home buying journey should be as unique as you are.

No two buyers have the same goals, finances, timeline, or vision for the future. That's why a one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn't work.

The right strategy takes into account what matters most to you, whether that's finding the right community, staying within a comfortable budget, planning for future growth, or navigating today's market with confidence.

A personalized approach can help you focus your search, make informed decisions, and avoid common pitfalls along the way, making the entire process feel more manageable and rewarding.

📩 Reach out today to create a home buying strategy that's tailored to your goals and designed to help you succeed.

08/25/2026

How much is your Home Worth?
Find out if it's time to sell your home

Find out what your home is really worth. Get a free, personalized home evaluation based on local market data from Michelle Teitsma - Kim Munch.