National housing market: Tampa, FL metro area spotlight
Week of 2026-10-26: national housing figures and a rotating metro spotlight. Monthly data through 2026-09-30.
Updated 10/26/2026
Articles
Home Buying & Selling Articles
Practical, plain-English articles for buyers and sellers.
Browse our categorized real estate articles covering mortgage rates, first-time home buying tips, and strategies for sellers. Whether you're buying or selling in Phoenix or nationwide, these guides help you make smarter decisions and potentially save thousands in commissions.
Start Here
Featured Real Estate Guides
Start with one of these core guides, then explore related articles below for more specific buying and selling topics.
Probate Real Estate Guide
Learn how probate home sales work, including timing, costs, agent choice, and estate value.
Divorce Real Estate Guide
Understand options for selling, buying out, or dividing home equity during divorce.
First-Time Home Buyer Guide
Follow the buying journey from budgeting and pre-approval to offers, inspections, and closing.
Buyer Programs by State
Explore down payment assistance, loan options, and local resources for first-time buyers.
Helpful Tools for Buyers & Sellers
Looking for quick answers? Use these tools to estimate affordability, compare agents, and understand commission costs.
Market Updates and Current Articles
Stay current with the latest Phoenix market update and our newest home buying and selling articles.
Latest Market Update
Phoenix Metro
Phoenix Metro Real Estate Snapshot
Weekly snapshot of Phoenix Metro real estate: median prices, listings, mortgage rates, cancellations, and buyer/seller tips - October 18, 2026
Updated 10/19/2026
Current Articles
Browse all articlesNational housing market: Tampa, FL metro area spotlight
10/26/2026Week of 2026-10-26: national housing figures and a rotating metro spotlight. Monthly data through 2026-09-30.
New Appraisal Reports Arrive November 2: What Buyers and Sellers Should Check
10/21/2026New appraisal reports become standard for most new Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac submissions November 2. Learn what buyers and sellers should review.
Arizona HOA Resale Disclosure Rules Changed: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Review
10/21/2026Arizona HOA resale disclosure rules changed in 2026. Learn what buyers and sellers should review in association records, financials, fees, and notices.
The True Cost of Buying a Home
10/3/2026When buying a home, hidden costs can surprise first-time buyers. Discover the expenses to consider for a smooth homeownership journey.
Dual Agency Risks and How to Avoid Them
10/3/2026Buying a home is a big investment—dedicated representation is key. Learn why avoiding dual agency ensures your interests come first.
Market Updates
Weekly snapshots and broader market trend articles to help buyers and sellers understand current conditions.
View all Market Updates →Today's Real Estate Market: What It Means
Get a clear view of today’s housing market trends so you can make smarter decisions when buying or selling your home.
Updated 5/23/2026
Mortgage & Financing
Articles about affordability, rates, loan options, credit, and the financing decisions that shape your budget.
View all Mortgage & Financing →New Appraisal Reports Arrive November 2: What Buyers and Sellers Should Check
New appraisal reports become standard for most new Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac submissions November 2. Learn what buyers and sellers should review.
Updated 10/21/2026
First-Time Buyer Credit and Pre-Approval Tips
Learn how to strengthen your credit and get pre-approved—two of the most powerful steps a first-time buyer can take.
Updated 10/3/2026
How the Fed Rate Cut Affects Homebuyers
The Fed just cut rates. Here’s how it impacts mortgages, refinancing opportunities, and the long-term housing market outlook.
Updated 5/27/2026
Understanding the Mortgage Process
This guide simplifies the mortgage process for home buyers—covering steps, loan types, and tips for securing the best rate.
Updated 5/23/2026
What Really Drives Mortgage Rates
Mortgage rates aren’t random. Learn how inflation, the Fed, and economic signals shape what you’ll pay on a home loan.
Updated 5/23/2026
The 20% Down Payment Myth | How Much You Really Need
You don’t need 20% down to buy a home. Learn the real options—from 0% to 20%—and how to choose the best down payment for your situation.
Updated 5/23/2026
Mortgage Rates Recap for Buyers
You can’t control rates, but you can control when and how you buy. Here’s a simple breakdown of everything you’ve learned.
Updated 5/23/2026
PMI, Loan Types and Budgeting Tips
Learn how different loan types affect your budget, what PMI really is, and how to choose a financing plan that fits your first home.
Updated 5/23/2026
How Bonds and Global Events Shape Rates
Mortgage rates don’t just follow inflation and the Fed—they react to global events and market uncertainty. Here’s how it all ties together.
Updated 5/23/2026
How the Fed Influences Mortgage Rates
The Fed doesn’t set mortgage rates directly—but it influences them. Here’s how their actions ripple through the housing market.
Updated 5/23/2026
Fannie & Freddie Change Credit Scoring
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac now accept VantageScore 4.0, expanding mortgage access by using rent, utility, and telecom data to help more buyers qualify.
Updated 5/23/2026
Credit's Role in Buying Your First Home
Your credit score affects your mortgage rate and affordability. Learn how boosting it can simplify homebuying and save you money.
Updated 5/23/2026
First-Time Buyers
Guides for budgeting, touring homes, making offers, and avoiding common first-time buyer mistakes.
View all First-Time Buyers →The True Cost of Buying a Home
When buying a home, hidden costs can surprise first-time buyers. Discover the expenses to consider for a smooth homeownership journey.
Updated 10/3/2026
Dual Agency Risks and How to Avoid Them
Buying a home is a big investment—dedicated representation is key. Learn why avoiding dual agency ensures your interests come first.
Updated 10/3/2026
What Buyers Wish They Knew Earlier
Avoid rookie regrets. Learn what experienced buyers wish they had known before buying their first home.
Updated 10/3/2026
Builder Incentives Are Everywhere: How to Compare the Real Cost of a New-Construction Deal
Builder incentives can include price reductions, closing credits, upgrades and mortgage-rate buydowns. Learn how to compare the complete cost of each offer.
Updated 7/19/2026
Closing Day and What Comes Next
What to expect at closing and how to prepare for life after the sale—whether you’re moving in or moving on.
Updated 6/18/2026
Inspections, Appraisals and Escrow
The deal isn’t done yet. Here’s what to expect (and how to avoid delays) during inspections, appraisals, and the escrow period.
Updated 6/18/2026
Why Location Matters When Buying
Location is crucial when buying a home. Learn how to evaluate neighborhoods and choose the perfect spot for your first home with this guide.
Updated 5/23/2026
What Sellers See in First-Time Buyers
First-time home buyers often face challenges in a competitive market. Discover what sellers prioritize when choosing an offer.
Updated 5/23/2026
The Ultimate Checklist for Homebuyers
Buying a home is a major milestone. Simplify the process with our ultimate checklist, guiding you from budgeting to closing.
Updated 5/23/2026
The Benefits of Using a Buyer’s Agent
Buying your first home can be overwhelming. Discover how a buyer’s agent simplifies the process and ensures the best deal for first-time buyers.
Updated 5/23/2026
Open House Tips for Buyers and Sellers
From prepping your home to evaluating others, here’s how buyers and sellers can make the most of open houses and private tours.
Updated 5/23/2026
Saving for Your First Home Down Payment
Saving for a home down payment can feel overwhelming, but with smart strategies and support from government programs, your goal is within reach.
Updated 5/23/2026
Preparing for Your Home Inspection
Learn how to prepare for your home inspection, what to expect on inspection day, and key questions to ask so you can buy with clarity and confidence.
Updated 5/23/2026
Rent vs. Buy: Is It Time to Buy a Home? | Seeking Agents®
Deciding between renting and buying is a major financial choice. Learn the key factors to consider for your financial situation, lifestyle and goals.
Updated 5/23/2026
Offers and Negotiations: Best Deal Tips
Learn how to make a winning offer—or evaluate one—by understanding what really matters beyond price.
Updated 5/23/2026
How to Spot a Smart Home Buy | Avoid Money Pits
Learn how to look past the staging and spot red flags before making an offer—so your dream home doesn’t become a regret.
Updated 5/23/2026
How to Compete in a Hot Real Estate Market
In a hot market, first-time buyers face bidding wars and fast decisions. Learn strategies to make competitive offers while staying on budget.
Updated 5/23/2026
Homebuying Terms You Need to Know
The homebuying process can be confusing. This glossary covers essential real estate terms to boost your confidence and help you make informed decisions.
Updated 5/23/2026
First-Time Buyer Programs: Qualifying
Buying your first home? Explore local and national programs offering financial help, lower down payments, reduced rates, and more.
Updated 5/23/2026
Avoid These First-Time Homebuyer Mistakes
Avoid the most common first-time homebuyer mistakes with practical tips that help you stay confident, prepared, and stress-free throughout the process.
Updated 5/23/2026
Budgeting for Renovations After You Buy
Buying a home is just the start. Plan and budget for renovations and repairs with this guide to keep your finances steady.
Updated 5/23/2026
Selling Strategy
Practical articles for sellers on commissions, timing, prep, agent choice, and protecting equity.
View all Selling Strategy →Choose the Right Real Estate Agent | Avoid Mistakes
Not all agents are equal. Learn how to choose the right one and why it can mean thousands saved—or lost—in your next real estate move.
Updated 10/3/2026
New Survey: Agents Have a Powerful Influence on Private Listing Decisions
A new survey found that many home sellers rely heavily on their real estate agent when deciding whether to sell privately or on the MLS. Here is what sellers sh
Updated 7/21/2026
Private Listings vs. MLS Listings
Learn how private listings compare with MLS listings, including the pros, cons, and when selling off-market may make sense.
Updated 6/17/2026
Understanding Seller Commissions
Commissions are negotiable—learn how competition between agents helps you keep more of your equity.
Updated 5/28/2026
Should You Sell Your Home Now or Wait? | Market Timing Tips
Weigh current housing trends, mortgage rates, and personal goals to decide the best time to sell.
Updated 5/23/2026
How Transparency Builds Seller Trust
Selling your home doesn’t have to feel uncertain—learn how transparency and choice create confidence.
Updated 5/23/2026
How Agent Competition Helps Sellers Save
See how comparing multiple agent offers can save you thousands when selling your home.
Updated 5/23/2026
Get Your Home Ready Before You List
First impressions matter. Here’s how to prep your home to sell faster and stand out in today’s competitive market.
Updated 5/23/2026
How to Maximize Equity Before You Sell
Simple, cost-effective ways to prepare your home for sale and keep more of your equity.
Updated 5/23/2026
Home Buying Budgeting Basics | Financing Tips for Buyers
Learn how to budget, estimate costs, and understand financing basics for buying or selling a home—plus tips to lower commissions and upfront expenses.
Updated 5/23/2026
How to Save on Buying or Selling a Home | Smart Start Guide
Guide for home buyers/sellers or referrers: set goals, prep finances, pick an agent. Save 1-2% or MORE! with Seeking Agents®.
Updated 5/23/2026
Complete Guide to Selling Your Home
Selling your home can feel overwhelming, but the right plan makes it rewarding. Follow this step-by-step guide to navigate the process with confidence.
Updated 5/23/2026
Divorce & Probate
Resources for more complex home sale situations where timing, communication, and equity protection matter.
View all Divorce & Probate →Selling During Divorce or Probate
Protect your equity and stay in control when selling a home due to divorce or probate.
Updated 5/23/2026
General Buying & Selling
Additional buying and selling articles that do not fit neatly into one category but still offer practical guidance.
View all General Buying & Selling →Arizona HOA Resale Disclosure Rules Changed: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Review
Arizona HOA resale disclosure rules changed in 2026. Learn what buyers and sellers should review in association records, financials, fees, and notices.
Updated 10/21/2026
AI Won't Replace Real Estate Agents
Artificial intelligence is changing real estate, but the future belongs to skilled agents who can demonstrate value and compete for clients.
Updated 6/17/2026
How Inflation Impacts Mortgage Rates
Rising inflation can push mortgage rates higher. Learn how this affects homebuyers and what you can do about it.
Updated 5/23/2026