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The Fed’s Decision Is In: What It Means for Your Real Estate Plans This Fall As of July 2025, the Federal Reserve has chosen to hold its benchmark interest rate steady at 4.25%–4.50%—marking the fifth straight meeting with no rate hike or cut. For those of us navigating the real estate market in Orange County, this decision carries weight, especially as we step into the back-to-school season. With mortgage rates hovering around 6.7%, buyers are still adjusting, but many serious house hunters remain active. Sellers, meanwhile, are asking the big question: Should I wait until spring—or make my move this fall? School’s Back—And So Is Real Estate Activity It’s the time of year when routines reset, and families return to their calendars. For real estate, this seasonal shift can mean opportunity. Here’s what we’re seeing: Some sellers wait for spring, but fewer listings this fall could mean less competition. Buyers relocating for jobs or schools are actively looking—right now. Price drops are happening in some higher-end markets, creating more negotiation room. If you’re a homeowner wondering whether to sell, timing matters more than ever. Why Waiting for Spring May Cost You “Spring is the hottest market.”Yes—and that’s also when everyone else lists their home. Here’s why fall may be smarter: Lower inventory means higher visibility for your home. Motivated buyers are transacting now—not just browsing. If interest rates drop in early 2026, buyer competition will spike—but so will listings. 🤔 Ask Yourself: What are your goals before year-end? Are you hoping to move before the holidays? Would you rather test the market now or compete later? 🔍 Looking for Data? Fed holding steady: Read the full Fed update on Reuters Mortgage rates at 6.7%: Based on recent market averages Orange County listings remain steady but competitive, especially in cities like Buena Park, Anaheim, Culver City, Cypress, and surrounding LA markets. Let’s Talk Strategy Whether you're buying, selling, or just considering your options, this season offers unique advantages. The Sujan Group is here to guide you through it with personalized insight. Let’s talk about timing.  

Buying your first home is a thrilling yet daunting adventure. It’s natural to feel a mix of emotions—anxiety, excitement, and maybe even a little fear. But remember: you’re in control of your homebuying experience; and with the right approach and a great real estate agent by your side, finding your dream home can be a smooth process. Here’s a list of tips tailored just for you, the first-time homebuyer. Following these steps will help you get off on the right foot and make the home-buying process smoother for yourself and everyone involved. Be Transparent with Your Agent Your agent is there to help you find the perfect home, but they can only do their job effectively if you’re open and honest about your needs, wants, and budget. The more detailed you are about your goals, the better they can assist you. Create Detailed Lists Before you start house hunting, take some time to get organized. Write down a list of what you want in a home and another list of what you need. Prioritizing your needs over your wants will help both you and your agent focus on finding a property that ticks the most important boxes. As you refine your thoughts, update these lists and share the changes with your agent to keep the search on track. Keep Personal Notes on Properties While your agent will keep thorough records of the homes you visit, it’s a good idea for you to take your own notes, too. After each open house or showing, jot down what you liked and didn’t like about the property. Share your thoughts with your agent; this feedback will help them narrow down the search and find homes that are a better fit for you. Stay Organized with Your Documents Keeping your paperwork in order is essential. If you have a mortgage pre-approval letter, bring it with you when you go house hunting—especially if you’re ready to make an offer. Make sure that all necessary documents, such as inspection reports or appraisals, are easily accessible as you search for your new home. Maintain a Positive Attitude The home-buying process can sometimes be longer and more challenging than expected. It’s important to stay positive throughout the journey. If you’ve viewed several homes and haven’t found the right one yet, don’t lose hope. Trust that your agent is working hard to find the perfect match for you. Even after making an offer, the closing process can take time, so patience is key. Ready to Work with an Agent? Having an experienced real estate agent by your side is invaluable, especially when you’re a first-time buyer. They can help you navigate the complexities of the process and answer any questions you might have. If you’re serious about starting your home search, now is the time to connect with an agent. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any specific questions or to begin your journey toward finding your dream home. We’re here to help!