We have good news to share with Madison area home and condo buyers: Mortgage rates have decreased a full percentage point over the last year, and are at their lowest levels in over 3 years -- this according to the latest primary mortgage market survey by Freddie Mac.

Locally, rates for 30-year fixed rate mortgages are around 6 percent, with 15-year mortgage rates about a half of a percentage point lower. 

Do you need a referral to a reputable lender? 

You have many lenders to choose from, but we highly recommend working with a local mortgage professional with a track record for stellar communication and excellent customer service.

When you choose the right lender, you'll have peace of mind, knowing that you're choosing the right mortgage

Wire fraud is still prevalent in our industry, and there can never be too many reminders to stay vigilant to this type of cybercrime. Wire fraud occurs when a scammer impersonates a reputable company or a person that a client is working with via email, and requests that money be sent to keep the transaction moving forward.

Scammers are getting more creative and convincing; Isabella recently had clients who received a fraudulent email impersonating the builder they were working with, requesting payment mid-build for recent upgrades. Thankfully, Isabella had educated them about wire fraud, and they did not pay.

The solution? Before sending any money, reach out to the person requesting it with contact information you have independently verified. Or

We're happy to report we have many first-time buyers whose dreams of homeownership are coming true this fall, and with some very favorable financing. For example, we have one young couple who just bought their first home with a low down payment USDA loan, and three other clients who just became homeowners with some very generous down payment assistance. 

The key for each buyer?

Working with a dedicated realtor/lender team who loves helping first time buyers.  

Have you been thinking of buying your first home in Madison, Dane County, or South Central Wisconsin? With lower mortgage rates, improving supply, and a variety of financing options to choose from, right now is an excellent time to explore the possibilities.

Contact a Mad City Dream

Mortgage rates have dropped to their lowest levels of the year, according to the most recent weekly survey published by Freddie Mac. Here in the Madison area, rates for a 30 year fixed rate mortgage are now approaching 6 percent. 

With improving inventory and lower rates, market conditions are the best they've been for buyers all year. Call us when you're ready to talk about your real estate goals. We'd love to be a resource for you and help you answer all of your questions. 

You may have heard that mortgage rates have been falling and are approaching 6 percent for a 30-year fixed rate loan. Suddenly, lower rates have opened up two big areas of opportunity: 

#1) For current homeowners: If your current rate is 7 percent or higher, it may make sense for you to refinance. With today's rates you may be able to save a few hundred dollars on your monthly payment. 

#2) And for aspiring homeowners: Right now is an excellent time to be focused on your search. Inventory and affordability are improving as we approach the fall season, creating a window of opportunity for you.  

Please let us know if you'd like us to introduce you to one of our recommended lenders. We'd love to help you make the right connection. 

Rates for a 30 year mortgage were approaching 8 percent just a few months ago, but now they're much closer to 6.5%. What new possibilities do lower rates create for you? Now is a great time to explore your opportunities with a trusted local lender. Contact your Mad City Dream Homes realtor for a referral to a lender who will help you understand your options and make good financial decisions. We'd love to help. 

 Chart and data are provided courtesy of the Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey. 

The holiday season is one of the better times to be buying a home, and now lower mortgage rates are adding to the holiday the cheer. Rates for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage were recently in the range of 8 percent. Now, a 30-year mortgage is available for around 7 percent. 

Check out the chart and data below from the Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey, which is updated each Wednesday.  

What questions do you have about buying or selling Dane County real estate? Call us whenever you need a little guidance and advice. We're here to help! 

Even if you don't plan to sell until next year, this fall offers an excellent window of opportunity to capture exterior and aerial photos. Plan ahead by gathering some beautiful shots this fall, and next year you'll be glad you did.

You may have heard that mortgage rates recently jumped above 7 percent, which is more than double the rate from less than 2 years ago. 

And if you're like many other people, today's higher rates may have you thinking about putting your home-buying plans on-hold. And understandably so. 

But it's very possible you could be missing out on a real opportunity by deferring your goals. Because now that rates are higher, you have fewer competing buyers to contend with. And the competition and bidding wars will surely increase once rates fall again. 

So, if you're an aspiring buyer, here are two key questions we have for you: 

If you could find a nice home this year and if you could afford it by living within your means...And if you could picture

Last year was a roller coaster ride, for sure. But in 2023, rates have fallen more than a full percentage point below the 2022 peak. In fact, as of this writing, a 30 year fixed rate mortgage from UW Credit Union is now available for as low as 5.75%

How much home can you buy in 2023?

Reach out to our realtor team if you're curious about your purchasing power in today's market. We'll connect you with a local lender who will help you make sense of your current financial position -- and pre-approve you for your mortgage, too. A lender who will give you all the time you need on the phone, and if you wish, even meet with you in person. Now there's a novel concept :)