Sue Singleton, Realtor Carolina Coast Homes Real Estate LLC

10/12/2026

The Housing Market Is Getting More Expensive to Wait Out
Lately, I’ve been having more conversations with clients around the true cost of waiting to buy a home. With borrowing costs on the rise, postponing a purchase can actually lead to higher monthly payments down the road—especially if financing conditions don’t improve. While some hope that home prices will drop enough to balance things out, the reality is that prices aren’t falling quickly enough to offset those increased costs. It’s a complex equation, and each situation is unique. The good news? In certain areas where inventory has improved, buyers may have more room to negotiate as sellers compete for fewer offers. My years as a real estate paralegal taught me the importance of weighing every angle—price, financing, and leverage—before making a move. Deciding whether to wait or act now isn’t just about interest rates; it’s about looking at the full picture and finding the right strategy for your goals.

10/12/2026

There's been some talk about whether mortgage rates could climb to 9%. Here's some perspective.

Getting there would take a rare mix of things, all lasting a full year: a booming economy with no slowdown in jobs, the Fed raising rates more than expected, and the conflict in Iran continuing to keep oil prices high.

That's an unlikely combination. So, don’t let it make you worry.

Have questions about mortgage rates? Drop them in the comments. That's what a trusted agent is for – keeping you informed so a headline never makes your decisions for you.

10/11/2026

Honoring the Significance of Indigenous Day

10/11/2026

Homebuyers: Lending Standards Are Still Tight, but New Credit Scores May Help
Navigating today’s real estate market can feel challenging, with home sales hovering near a 31-year low due to strict lending standards, higher mortgage rates, and rising costs. As someone who’s spent 25 years as a real estate paralegal and now works closely with local buyers and sellers, I’ve seen how these hurdles can impact families—especially those who deserve a fair shot at homeownership. While new credit models that consider rent and utility payments are a step in the right direction, it’s important to recognize that many low-income and minority buyers still face barriers, even with low delinquency and default rates. My focus remains on helping clients understand these evolving standards and advocating for the best possible path forward in their home buying journey.


https://www.housing-trends.com/agent-news/sue-singleton-1/2079092-Homebuyers%3A-Lending-Standards-Are-Still-Tight%2C-but-New-Credi

10/10/2026

Gen Z buyers lead every generation on affordability trade-offs
Having spent years guiding buyers through the ins and outs of real estate, I’ve seen firsthand how each generation approaches the home buying journey. Recent trends show Gen Z buyers are especially adaptable—they’re leading the way when it comes to making affordability trade-offs, whether that means cutting back on spending or choosing a smaller home to gain a foothold in the market. Canadians, in particular, seem most open to downsizing, while British buyers are more hesitant to compromise. Understanding these shifts—and the financial flexibility Gen Z is bringing—underscores how important it is to have an experienced partner to navigate today’s market realities. My background as a real estate paralegal helps ensure every detail is handled with care as you make the choices that matter most for your next move.


https://www.housing-trends.com/agent-news/sue-singleton-1/2092125-Gen-Z-buyers-lead-every-generation-on-affordability-trade-of

10/09/2026

U.S. Cities With Newer Luxury Homes Priced Below $1 Million in 2026
As someone deeply invested in understanding the nuances of the U.S. housing market, I find it fascinating how regional differences shape luxury real estate options across the country. While coastal metro areas tend to feature smaller, older, and more expensive luxury homes, buyers exploring Sun Belt and Midwest markets are discovering a different story. In these regions, luxury homes are not only newer—often built between 2008 and 2013—but also more spacious and frequently priced between $749,000 and $994,000, making high-end living more accessible. My many years in real estate have shown me how important it is for buyers to be aware of these regional trends, so they can make informed decisions that truly fit their needs and goals.


https://www.housing-trends.com/agent-news/sue-singleton-1/2084806-U.S.-Cities-With-Newer-Luxury-Homes-Priced-Below-%241-Million-

10/09/2026

The Fed is raising the Fed Funds Rate to cool inflation, and that can keep upward pressure on mortgage rates for a while. But you can still make a move that works for you.

It just takes the right strategy.

Buyers need to know their real budget at today's rates. Sellers need a price and plan that fits what buyers can afford right now.

Relief on rates could take some time. If you're thinking about a move, let's put together a game plan built for today's rates, so you'll know your next step.

10/08/2026

Renovate or Relocate? What To Know Before You Decide To Age in Place

Staying and moving can both be good choices. What matters most is finding the place where you'll feel comfortable and at home for years to come.

If you'd like help weighing the two, let's connect. We can look at what your house could sell for and what 55+ communities in our area have to offer, so you can decide what feels right for you.

You've spent years making your house feel like home, celebrating milestones, making each room your own, and turning neighbors into friends. As you look ahead to the next chapter of your life, it's natural to wonder if this is still the place you want to spend it.

10/08/2026

Bargain Hunting With Rates Above 7%
Navigating today’s market with mortgage rates holding steady above 7% can feel challenging, but there are strategic ways to approach your home search—especially when you have a clear understanding of the process. I’ve seen firsthand how shifts in rates and Treasury yields influence affordability and buyer confidence. Recent studies recommend that buyers plan for potential rate increases: think about setting aside a cushion—a half-point within three months, three-quarters within six months, and a full point within a year. Timing can also work in your favor. In many years, buyers entering the market in early Q4 found typical homes to be around 5% less expensive than in late Q2, plus they faced less competition and had more time to negotiate. With inventory levels recently hovering at about five months’ supply, buyers are often in a stronger position to negotiate not just on price, but also closing costs, discount points, or even temporary rate buydowns. While the market continues to anticipate further Fed tightening, the broader aim remains to bring inflation under control—something that could help ease mortgage costs over time. With my background in real estate law and local market dynamics, I’m committed to helping you make informed, confident decisions every step of the way.

10/07/2026

Seller Concessions Reach a New US Peak
Recently, I’ve noticed an important trend: in the rolling three-month period ending Mid-Q3, sellers provided concessions in approximately 45% of US home sales—the highest Mid-Q3 share we’ve seen since at least 2020. This is up from about 43% a year earlier, reflecting how buyers have gained more negotiating power as inventory rises and competition eases across the country. These concessions—ranging from help with repairs and closing costs to mortgage-rate buydowns—are giving buyers more options to lower their total purchase costs beyond just looking for a price drop. More sellers are now competing by offering closing-cost credits and rate buydowns, not just price reductions, which is reshaping how negotiations unfold and offering more flexible deal structures. Nationally, about 16% of homes sold in Mid-Q3 included both a price reduction and a concession, making it even more possible for buyers to manage their entry costs. With my background as a real estate paralegal and years of hands-on experience, I’m always focused on guiding clients through these evolving opportunities and helping you navigate each step with confidence.