Buying a Denver Home:  Video Library

What Credit Score Do You Really Need to Buy a Home?

Here’s a stat that might surprise you: According to Fannie Mae, 90% of homebuyers either don’t know what credit score lenders are looking for, or they assume it’s higher than it really is.

That means you might be closer to homeownership than you think.

When it comes to credit scores, there’s no one magic number that guarantees a mortgage. In fact, there’s a lot more flexibility than most people realize. Let’s break it down with some real numbers.

There’s No One-Size-Fits-All Score

Your credit score plays a role in the type of loan you qualify for, but it’s not a pass/fail situation. This graphic shows the median credit scores of recent buyers across different loan types:

What does that tell you? There’s no single score that unlocks the door to homeownership. And that’s good news. Because you don’t have to be perfect, you just need to know your options.

As FICO puts it:

“While many lenders use credit scores like FICO Scores to help them make lending decisions, each lender has its own strategy, including the level of risk it finds acceptable. There is no single ‘cutoff score’ used by all lenders, and there are many additional factors that lenders may use…”

Why Credit Still Matters

Your credit score helps lenders understand how you handle money, whether you pay bills on time, how much debt you carry, and how responsibly you use credit.

It also plays a big part in:

• What loan types you qualify for
• The terms of your loan
• The mortgage rate you’re offered

And since your mortgage rate can affect how much home you can afford, it’s a key factor to keep in mind.

As Bankrate explains:

“Your credit score is one of the most important factors lenders consider when you apply for a mortgage. Not just to qualify for the loan itself, but for the conditions: Typically, the higher your score, the lower the interest rates and better terms you’ll qualify for.”

But don’t let that stress you out. A less-than-perfect score doesn’t automatically disqualify you, it just means it’s time to explore what options are available.

Want To Boost Your Score? Start Here

Improving your credit score doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. It’s not about doing everything perfectly, it’s about making small, consistent moves that add up over time. Whether you’re planning to buy a home soon or just want more control over your financial future, here are a few smart strategies to get started, straight from the Federal Reserve Board (with a little Luminate spin):

Pay Your Bills on Time

It sounds simple, but it’s one of the most powerful things you can do. Your payment history makes up a big chunk of your credit score. That includes credit cards, car loans, utilities, and even your phone bill. Set up auto-pay or calendar reminders if you need to. On-time payments show lenders you’re reliable.

Keep Your Balances Low

This is all about credit utilization, a fancy term for how much of your available credit you’re actually using. Ideally, try to keep that number below 30%. So if you have a $10,000 credit limit, aim to use less than $3,000. The lower your balances, the better your score can be.

Review Your Credit Reports

Mistakes happen. And even small errors (like a misreported late payment or an account that doesn’t belong to you) can pull your score down. You’re entitled to a free credit report each year from all three major bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) at AnnualCreditReport.com. Spot something off? Dispute it right away.

Don’t Open New Accounts Unless You Have To

Every time you apply for credit, it can trigger a hard inquiry, which might temporarily dip your score. Plus, opening too many new accounts at once can signal a risk to lenders. Focus on maintaining your current accounts and building a strong payment history instead.

Consider a Credit-Building Tool

If your score needs a bigger lift, you’re not out of options. Tools like secured credit cards, credit-builder loans, or even becoming an authorized user on someone else’s well-managed card can help you add positive credit activity to your report.

Bottom Line

Your credit doesn’t have to be perfect to become a homeowner. And chances are, your score may already be in a better place than you think.

The best way to find out where you stand? Talk to a lender who sees the full picture, not just the numbers. At Luminate Bank, we’re here to help you understand your credit, explore your options, and guide you confidently toward homeownership.

What’s Ahead for the Housing Market in 2025?

Your Mid-Year Forecast

Assuming you’ve been paying attention, you have likely noticed that the housing market has already seen a few changes this year. But what’s next? Whether you’re buying, selling, or just staying informed, we have a few insights on what experts are saying about home prices, mortgage rates, and what it all means for your next move.

So, Are Home Prices Going to Drop?

It’s a common (and valid) question, especially for buyers hoping for more affordability in a pricey market. And while you probably have seen headlines about prices dipping in certain areas, let’s zoom out and look at the bigger picture. Here’s what we know:

Price growth is slowing down, but that doesn’t mean prices are falling off a cliff. According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB):

“House price growth slowed…partly due to a decline in demand and an increase in supply. Persistent high mortgage rates and increased inventory combined to ease upward pressure on house prices.”

Translation? The market’s cooling, not crashing.

In fact, a national average of eight major forecasts shows home prices are still expected to rise 1.5–2% in 2025:

And while some local markets are seeing modest declines (averaging -3.5%), that’s nothing like the 20% drop we saw during the 2008 housing crisis. Plus, when you consider that home prices have jumped 55% nationally over the past five years (FHFA data), a small dip doesn’t reverse much of that growth.

What This Means for You

If you’re waiting on the sidelines of homeownership, hoping for a major drop, you could be missing your window. Prices are expected to stay steady, or even inch upward, depending on your local market. Partnering with a knowledgeable mortgage and finance pro can help you understand what’s really happening in your area.

Are Mortgage Rates Coming Down?

Another popular strategy we hear: “I’m going to wait for rates to fall before I buy.” It’s understandable, but here’s why that could backfire.

According to Yahoo Finance:

“If you’re looking for a substantial interest rate drop in 2025, you’ll likely be left waiting.”

The latest projections from the Federal Reserve and leading economists show mortgage rates holding steady in the mid-6% range through to the end of 2025:

That’s close to where rates are today. So, if you’re postponing your plans in hopes of a major rate drop, you might be waiting a while.

What This Means for You

Don’t let perfect conditions become the enemy of progress. If moving now supports your financial or lifestyle goals, let’s talk strategy. We’ll help you understand how to navigate today’s rate environment and what steps can give you more buying power.

Inflation, job data, and Federal Reserve decisions can all impact rate movement. Having an expert in your corner who’s tracking those trends can make all the difference.

The Takeaway for Buyers and Sellers

This year’s housing market is more balanced than it may seem. Home prices are rising more moderately, and mortgage rates are projected to hold steady. Remember, this points to a market in transition, not turmoil.

So whether you’re buying your first home, moving up, or considering selling, making a smart move means focusing on your personal goals, not just the headlines.

Trying to time the market perfectly can leave you feeling stuck. Instead, let your own needs, timeline, and financial picture guide your decision-making.

At Luminate Bank, we’re here to help you make confident choices in any market. Connect with a local loan expert who can help you break down the numbers, understand your options, and plan your next step with clarity.

Could a Multi-Generational Home Help You Afford Homeownership?

Multi-generational living isn’t just a passing trend but is instead becoming a go-to strategy for today’s homebuyers. According to the National Association of Realtors® (NAR), 17% of buyers purchased a home to share with parents, adult children, or extended family. That’s the highest share ever recorded.

So what’s fueling this shift? In one word: affordability.

NAR reports that “in 2024, a notable 36% of homebuyers cited ‘cost savings’ as the primary reason for purchasing a multigenerational home — a significant increase from just 15% in 2015.” 

A decade ago, the top motivation for multi-generational living was usually caregiving, specifically for aging parents who needed support. That’s still important, but with today’s higher home prices and mortgage rates, saving money has officially taken the lead.

Pooling Resources Can Make Homeownership Possible

For many people, the dream of owning a home feels just out of reach, and unfortunately the numbers back that up. Rising home values and interest rates have pushed monthly payments higher, which makes qualifying on your own more difficult.

That’s why more families are coming together to pool their financial resources. By combining incomes, you can qualify for a larger loan, afford a better property, and still have breathing room in your budget. You’re not just sharing a roof, you’re sharing the costs of the mortgage, utilities, taxes, and even maintenance.

And this isn’t just about scraping by either, it can also help you afford more home than you could on your own. That means more bedrooms, more bathrooms, or even space for a home office or in-law suite.

Planning Ahead: Finances and Family

If you’re thinking about buying a multi-generational home, a little financial planning can go a long way. Here are a few tips to help make the transition smoother:

• Set clear expectations early. Decide upfront how the mortgage and other expenses will be split and put it in writing. This avoids misunderstandings down the road.
• Consider everyone’s credit and income. When you apply for a mortgage together, lenders will consider everyone’s finances, so it’s a good idea to check credit scores and debt-to-income ratios beforehand.
• Plan for the long term. Think beyond just buying the home. What happens if someone’s income changes? Or if one family member wants to move out in a few years? A financial advisor can help you plan for these scenarios.
• Work with a knowledgeable lender. Not all loan programs are the same and some may work better for multi-generational households than others. A lender who understands your goals can help you find the right fit.

It’s clear that multi-generational housing is becoming popular again, with nearly 3 in 10 homebuyers saying they’re considering a multi-generational home for their next move.

Could This Be the Right Move for You?

Even with this big step forward, some things remain unchanged: lenders will continue to use data from all three credit bureaus (the tri-merge) for now. Plans to move to a bi-merge system, which would rely on just two bureaus, are currently on hold.

So for now, you don’t need to worry about any big shifts in how your credit is reported. But you might notice lenders offering more flexible options in the months ahead.

Bottom Line

If your budget feels tight, buying a home with family could be a creative, practical way to reach your homeownership goals.

Would you consider teaming up with family to buy a home? Let’s connect and talk through your options. Together, we’ll find the path that works best for your future.

Big Credit Score Changes Could Help You Qualify for a Mortgage

We have good news for aspiring homeowners: buying a home just got a little more accessible, and that’s something worth celebrating.

In a move aimed at increasing access to homeownership and lowering costs, the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) announced that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will now accept the VantageScore 4.0 credit model, effective immediately.

If you’re wondering what this means for you, keep reading. We’ll break it down and show you why these changes could open the door to homeownership, even if you’ve struggled to qualify in the past.

What’s Changing?

Historically, most mortgage lenders have relied on the FICO credit score, calculated from data at all three major credit bureaus (known as a tri-merge). This isn’t going away just yet, but starting now, lenders can also use VantageScore 4.0 without building any new systems or infrastructure.

Why does this matter to you? It matters because VantageScore 4.0 considers more than just the traditional data points that major credit bureaus utilize. It can include things like on-time rent payments, which is a huge plus for renters who’ve proven they can reliably pay monthly bills but might not have much other credit history.

In fact, VantageScore estimates this change could help about 33 million more Americans see a credit score on their reports. This will give many families their first real shot at a mortgage, and Luminate Bank is ready to help you make the most of it.

Why Now?

According to the FHFA’s Director, Bill Pulte, the move is about increasing competition, lowering costs, and giving more creditworthy people a chance to buy homes.

Rising costs of credit reports and concerns about fairness have fueled a push for alternatives to the traditional FICO-only approach. By accepting VantageScore, the FHFA hopes to expand access for groups who’ve historically struggled to qualify, including rural residents and consistent renters.

As Pulte put it, this change can help “forgotten Americans” by lowering closing costs and expanding opportunities.

What’s Staying the Same?

Even with this big step forward, some things remain unchanged: lenders will continue to use data from all three credit bureaus (the tri-merge) for now. Plans to move to a bi-merge system, which would rely on just two bureaus, are currently on hold.

So for now, you don’t need to worry about any big shifts in how your credit is reported. But you might notice lenders offering more flexible options in the months ahead.

What This Means For You

If you’ve been hesitant to apply for a mortgage because you thought your credit history wasn’t strong enough, now could be your moment. 

Thanks to alternative data like your on-time rent and utility payments, more borrowers may qualify for a home loan. Even if you’ve applied before and didn’t quite qualify, now is a great time to take another look.

At Luminate Bank, our mortgage experts are here to help you navigate the process, review your unique situation, and find the loan option that fits your needs, no matter what credit model is used. Your dream of owning a home may be closer than you think, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

Buying a home should feel exciting, not intimidating. If you’re curious about how these credit scoring changes might help you, we’re here to guide you.

Start your homebuying journey today with confidence! Reach out to your Luminate Bank mortgage advisor to get started.

Moving On? Here’s How to Make This Market Work for Your Finances

If you’re thinking about selling your home, there’s good news: the housing market is settling into a healthier, more balanced place. And while it might not sound exciting at first, this shift is actually a smart opportunity for sellers who play it right.

Over the past few years, we’ve all gotten used to fast sales, bidding wars, and sky-high prices. But that was the exception, not the rule. What we’re seeing now is a return to normal, and with the right approach, it can still work in your financial favor.

Here’s how sellers are winning in today’s market.

1. Inventory Is Up. And So Is Buyer Power.

The number of homes for sale is climbing back toward pre-pandemic levels. For you, that means your local market might look a little different than it did even a year ago.

• In areas with more available homes, buyers have more options, and they’re taking their time.
• In markets where inventory is still tight, competition remains strong, and homes can still sell fast.

No matter where you live, your strategy matters. That’s where a trusted real estate expert comes in. They can help you adjust your pricing, timing, and marketing to match what buyers are looking for right now.

💡 Luminate Tip: Thinking about how the sale of your home might impact your next financial move? Talk to a Luminate Bank mortgage expert to map out how the equity in your home could support your next chapter.

2. Pricing Strategically Is Everything

Buyers today are paying attention, and they’re not afraid to pass on homes that seem overpriced. In fact, nearly 1 in 5 sellers have had to reduce their asking price to stay competitive.

As Realtor.com puts it:

“A seller listing a well-priced, move-in ready home should have little problem finding a buyer.”

The key is to price your home right from the start. That means letting go of outdated pricing expectations and leaning into the latest data and feedback from your agent.

💡 Luminate Insight: Your home is likely your largest financial asset. Getting the pricing right protects your equity and positions you for success on your next purchase. That’s smart money management.

3. Flexibility Can Seal the Deal

Today’s buyers aren’t waiving inspections or throwing in wild offers just to compete. They’ve got options, and they’re using them. Repairs, credits, and closing cost help are all back on the table.

Redfin reports that nearly 44.4% of sellers are offering some kind of concession. That’s not a sign of a weak market; it’s a sign of a healthy one.

Offering a small concession can make a big difference and still leave you ahead, especially when you consider that home values have increased by over 55% in the past five years.

💡 Luminate Reminder: If your goal is to walk away with the strongest financial outcome, flexibility is your friend. The right concessions can protect your timeline and keep your sale moving.

The Bottom Line

This market isn’t bad, it’s just balanced. And sellers who embrace that shift with the right mindset and expert guidance are still walking away with solid results.

If you’re ready to talk strategy, Luminate Bank is here to support your entire financial journey. From leveraging your home equity to preparing for your next purchase, our experts are ready to help you make smart, confident moves.

Let’s talk about what’s happening in your neighborhood and how to make your next step a financial win.

Buying Your First Home? Here’s How the Right Loan Can Make It Happen

If you’re looking to buy your first home, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially in today’s market. High home prices, rising rents, and economic uncertainty can make homeownership seem out of reach. But the truth is, there are smart financing tools out there that can open the door to your first home sooner than you might think.

One of the most powerful tools for first-time buyers? A Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loan. But it’s not the only one, and depending on your situation, there may be multiple loan options that help you move from renting to owning without breaking your budget.

Buying Your First Home Isn’t Always Easy (Financially Speaking)

Let’s be honest: affordability is the biggest hurdle for first-time homebuyers. According to a recent 1000WATT survey, the top two financial worries are saving enough for a down payment and managing the monthly mortgage at today’s rates and home prices (see chart below):

That’s why it’s more important than ever to choose a financing strategy that works for your goals and your wallet.

FHA Loans Can Ease the Financial Pressure

FHA loans were designed to help buyers who might not have perfect credit or a large down payment saved up. That’s why they continue to be one of the most popular options for first-time buyers.

According to data from Intercontinental Exchange, the average down payment for first-time buyers using FHA financing is just $16,000 compared to $77,000 for a conventional loan (see chart below):

That difference can make or break your ability to buy a home, especially when you’re just getting started financially.

More Than Just a Lower Down Payment

FHA loans often come with competitive (and sometimes even lower) interest rates than conventional options. According to Bankrate:

“FHA loan rates are competitive with, and often slightly lower than, rates for conventional loans.”

Lower upfront costs and potentially lower monthly payments? That’s a win-win for buyers looking to build wealth through homeownership.

And while FHA loans are a great option, they’re just one of several pathways to owning your first home. Depending on your income, location, or employment status, you may qualify for other options like:

• Down payment assistance programs
• First-time buyer grants
• VA or USDA loans (if eligible)
• Low down payment conventional loans

The key is working with a trusted financial expert who can walk you through all your options and help you create a plan that supports your financial future, not just your home purchase.

Let’s Talk Strategy, Not Just Mortgages

At Luminate Bank®, we believe homeownership should be empowering, not intimidating. That’s why we focus on helping you understand all the financial pieces of the puzzle, from credit to closing.

When you work with a loan expert who truly understands your goals, you gain more than a mortgage, you gain a long-term partner in your financial journey.

Bottom Line:

You don’t need a giant savings account or perfect credit to become a homeowner. With the right strategy and support, your path to homeownership can start today.

Ready to take the first step? Talk to a Luminate Bank mortgage expert about your options. Let’s find the right loan to unlock your future.

A Win for Borrowers and Lenders: Congress Moves to Curb Abusive Trigger Leads

The mortgage world just took a major step forward in protecting consumers and mortgage professionals alike. In a unanimous 46-0 vote, the House Financial Services Committee approved H.R. 2808, a bipartisan legislation aimed at ending the misuse of mortgage “trigger leads.” This marks a significant win for the industry and an even bigger win for your peace of mind.

First, What Are Trigger Leads?

Trigger leads are generated when a consumer applies for a mortgage loan and a credit inquiry is made. Credit bureaus then sell this information to other lenders, who use it to aggressively solicit those same consumers, often bombarding them with calls, emails, and even misleading offers.

While legal, this practice has long raised serious concerns about privacy, client poaching, and consumer confusion. That’s why this latest move by Congress is such a big deal.

What’s in the Bill?

H.R. 2808, now moving swiftly through Congress, mirrors a Senate-passed version from last year with only one addition: a Government Accountability Office (GAO) study to further investigate the issue. This legislation:

• Protects consumer data by limiting how mortgage credit inquiries can be used for unsolicited marketing.
• Safeguards lender-client relationships by preventing other lenders from exploiting credit inquiries to poach clients mid-process.
• Ensures fair treatment of all lenders, including smaller independent mortgage banks (IMBs), which were initially excluded from prior versions of the bill.

You can read the full text of the bill here: H.R. 2808

Who Fought For This and Won?

The push to curb abusive trigger leads wasn’t driven by one organization but instead the result of a broad, sustained coalition effort. Groups like the Community Home Lenders of America (CHLA) and the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) played major roles in getting this legislation across a crucial milestone.

CHLA helped reignite interest in 2022 with a letter to the CFPB and worked to ensure protections for smaller lenders. Meanwhile, MBA led the charge on legislative language, policy formation, and direct Congressional advocacy. Their teams engaged in countless meetings, negotiated amendments, and helped unify diverse interests which included brokers, banks, credit unions, and consumer advocates.

This collaboration is a great example of what happens when industry voices align on behalf of consumers and client relationships.

Why This Matters for You

Whether you’re applying for a mortgage or helping someone navigate their home loan journey, you deserve a process free from unnecessary pressure and predatory sales tactics. This legislation does just that:

• For homebuyers: You’ll no longer be overwhelmed by unwanted solicitations just because you applied for a loan.
• For lenders: Your client relationships are better protected, giving you the freedom to serve without interference.

What’s Next?

The bill is expected to pass quickly through the Senate since it closely mirrors what’s already been approved, and then move on to the President’s desk for signature.

Final Thoughts

This is more than just a policy update, it’s a moment of progress. It shows what’s possible when real concerns are heard, advocacy is strategic, and lawmakers work across the aisle to create better outcomes for borrowers and lenders alike.

We’ll keep you updated every step of the way. But for now, take a moment to celebrate: Your voice, your data, and your work just got the protection they deserve.

More Homes on the Market Isn’t a Red Flag, It’s Your Window of Opportunity

If you’ve been noticing more “for sale” signs in your neighborhood, you’re not going crazy, we promise. Housing inventory has reached a recent high, and if your first question was “Is the market about to crash,” well, you’re not alone. It’s natural to wonder what a surge in homes for sale means, especially when we’ve lived through some turbulent housing moments in the past.

But here’s the truth: More homes for sale doesn’t mean a downturn is coming. In fact, it could be exactly the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.

The rise in inventory isn’t a sign of weakness, but instead it’s a sign of stability returning to a market that’s been highly competitive for far too long. For buyers, that means more choices, less bidding war stress, and a chance to find a home that truly fits your needs and budget. Let’s take a closer look at why more inventory is actually good news.

What’s Really Happening with Housing Inventory?

The latest data from Realtor.com shows housing inventory has reached its highest level since 2020. You can see this clearly in the chart below, where the white line reflects current inventory trends:

At a glance, this may seem like a dramatic spike, but here’s the important context: we’re still not back to pre-2020 inventory levels, shown by the gray line in the same graphic. Yes, inventory has grown compared to the extremely low levels of the past few years, but we’re still playing catch-up.

What’s really happening is that the market is slowly returning to a healthier place. For years, buyers faced limited options, bidding wars, and rapid-fire decisions. Today, there are simply more homes available to choose from, and that’s a good thing.

This shift doesn’t signal a crash; it signals a course correction. It means buyers can take a breath, compare options, and make more informed decisions without racing the clock or competing with dozens of other offers. For sellers, it means pricing strategically and marketing wisely will matter more, but homes that are priced well and move-in ready are still in high demand.

Rising Inventory ≠ Market Crash: Here’s Why

When people hear “inventory is rising,” it’s easy to flash back to 2008 when a flood of listings preceded a major housing collapse. But today’s situation couldn’t be more different.

Back then, overbuilding and risky lending led to an oversupply of homes. Today, we’re in the opposite position: a housing shortage that’s been building for over a decade.

Check out this chart, which shows years of underbuilding since 2012. The red bars represent periods when new home construction lagged behind household growth:

This consistent shortfall created a sizable gap between the number of people who need homes and the number of homes available. We didn’t get here overnight, and we won’t fix it overnight either. According to Realtor.com:

“At a 2024 rate of construction relative to household formations and pent-up demand, it would take 7.5 years to close the housing gap.”

That’s nearly a decade just to catch up.

So, while inventory may be increasing today, it’s not anywhere near what’s needed to meet long-term demand. In most cities and suburbs, we still don’t have enough homes for everyone who wants to buy. That means prices are unlikely to drop significantly, and demand will stay strong, especially for move-in-ready or well-located properties.

The Bottom Line: Today’s Inventory Is a Sign of Market Health

It’s easy to let dramatic headlines make you feel uncertain, especially when they use words like “surge” or “spike.” But when it comes to inventory, a rising number of listings isn’t bad news, but instead it’s the market doing exactly what it needs to do.

More homes mean more opportunities. It means buyers get breathing room, sellers can still see solid demand, and the overall market becomes more balanced.

If you’ve been waiting for the right time to buy, this shift could be it. You’re stepping into a market that’s less frantic, more stable, and full of potential. And if you’re planning to sell? A knowledgeable loan officer or real estate pro can help you price competitively and showcase what makes your home stand out.

The housing market isn’t crashing, it’s finally normalizing. And that’s something to feel good about.

Why Do Some Homes Sell Faster Than Others? Here’s What You Should Know

If you’ve been keeping an eye on the housing market—or getting ready for your own move—you may have noticed something interesting: some homes seem to fly off the market, while others take their sweet time. It’s easy to wonder, what’s the secret?

The truth is, it’s not just luck. While market trends and buyer demand play a role, there are clear reasons why some homes get offers within days—and others sit for weeks.

Let’s break down what’s really going on in today’s real estate market and what you can do to help your home stand out and sell faster.

The Market Has Shifted—but Homes Are Still Selling Quickly

Post-pandemic, the housing market has seen its fair share of ups and downs. According to Redfin, today’s mix of low housing inventory and high prices has created an unusual environment:

“Some homes are flying off the market, while others sit for weeks.”

You may have heard that homes are sitting longer on the market now—and that’s partially true. Inventory has risen from its all-time lows, which means buyers have more options to choose from. As a result, not every home gets scooped up on day one.

But don’t let that discourage you.

According to Realtor.com, the typical home spent 50 days on the market this April:

Translation? Even if your home takes a few weeks to sell, that’s still faster than what used to be considered “normal.” Plus, a little extra time can be a blessing—it gives you room to line up your next home and plan your move with less pressure.

So, Why Do Some Homes Sell Faster Than Others?

There’s no magic formula, but homes that move quickly often share a few key advantages. They’re priced right, look great from the curb, are marketed professionally, and tell a compelling story about the neighborhood and lifestyle.

Let’s dig into the four most important factors.

1. Price It Right from the Start

One of the biggest reasons a home sits on the market is overpricing.

It’s tempting to shoot for a higher number—you want to get top dollar, after all. But today’s buyers are savvy. If your home is priced even slightly above market value, it may not even show up in their search filters.

Overpriced homes often end up reducing their price later anyway, which can make buyers wonder what’s wrong with the home or give them more negotiating power than you’d like.

🔧 What to do: Work with a local real estate agent who knows your market. They’ll help you compare recent sales and set a price that attracts attention without leaving money on the table.

“My advice to sellers is to price your home fairly for the shifting market; you may need to price lower than your initial instinct to sell quickly and avoid giving concessions.” — Chen Zhao, Economic Research Lead, Redfin

2. First Impressions Matter—A Lot

You only get one chance to make a first impression—and that moment usually happens before a potential buyer even walks through the front door.

Curb appeal, landscaping, clean windows, and an inviting entryway all send a message: this home is loved and well cared for.

🔧 What to do: Spruce up your front yard with fresh mulch, trim any overgrown shrubs, and consider a new coat of paint on the front door. Inside, declutter and depersonalize so buyers can imagine their life in the space. A little effort can make a big impact.

💡 Bonus Tip: If you’re unsure where to start, ask your agent for a walk-through. They’ll give you honest, helpful advice on what to fix, stage, or highlight.

3. Professional Marketing Makes All the Difference

We’ve all seen them—listing photos that are dark, blurry, or taken at weird angles. That’s not going to cut it.

In a world where buyers start their search online, high-quality visuals and compelling descriptions are non-negotiable.

🔧 What to do: Your agent should provide:

• High-resolution photography that highlights your home’s best features
• Thoughtful listing copy that goes beyond facts and tells a story
• Widespread promotion across the major real estate platforms, social media, and even email marketing to create buzz

💡 Remember: Your home’s listing is your digital first impression. Treat it like a highlight reel.

4. Location Still Reigns Supreme

You’ve probably heard the phrase “location, location, location”—and it’s true. A great neighborhood, proximity to schools or parks, and access to shops or public transit can all boost buyer interest.

But here’s the good news: Even if your home isn’t in the most popular zip code, there’s still a story to tell.

🔧 What to do: Highlight what’s great about your location. Maybe you have a quiet street with mature trees, an awesome coffee shop nearby, or access to hiking trails. Buyers want to picture what their life would look like in your home—and in your community.

💡 Tip: Your agent can help craft a listing that showcases your area’s hidden gems.

Even better? While inventory is growing, it’s still well below where it was before the pandemic. That means your current home—if you’re selling—is likely to stand out and attract attention from eager buyers, especially if it’s well-priced and market-ready.

Here’s why that’s great news for you:

• More choices = less compromise when buying
• Still-limited supply = stronger positioning when selling
• Continued buyer demand = homes are still moving

This combination creates a rare balance where both sides of the transaction—buying and selling—can work in your favor.

The Bottom Line

Homes that sell quickly in today’s market don’t always have the most upgrades or square footage. What they do have is a strategy—a smart price, strong curb appeal, professional marketing, and a great story.

If you’re thinking about selling, you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. At Luminate Bank, we’re here to help you connect with experienced agents, understand your options, and guide your home sale from start to finish.

Let’s make your next move your best one yet. Reach out today to get started.

Thinking About Moving Again? Here’s Why Now Might Be the Perfect Time

Let’s be real—2024 wasn’t exactly the year of easy homebuying. Between rollercoaster mortgage rates, low housing supply, and rising prices, it made perfect sense that nearly 70% of buyers hit pause on their plans.

If you were one of them, there’s no shame in waiting for better conditions. In fact, that kind of caution is smart. But here’s the thing—those better conditions may be arriving now. And if you’ve been waiting for a sign from the market? This could be it.

Why So Many Hit Pause—And Why It’s Time to Hit Play

The uncertainty of last year made it difficult to plan your next move with confidence. Inventory was tight, which meant slim pickings. Rates were unpredictable, which meant affordability was hard to pin down. And if you were selling, you were likely asking yourself: Even if I sell my home, where would I go next?

But the market is shifting. More homeowners are stepping off the sidelines. Builders are finishing projects and putting homes on the market. And while we’re still not back to pre-2020 conditions, we’re heading into more balanced territory.

In short: you may now have the window you were waiting for.

The Inventory Sweet Spot: More Homes, Still Strong Demand

Here’s what makes the current landscape so promising. According to data from Realtor.com, inventory has increased by 28.5% compared to this time last year. That means there are more homes available for you to explore—and less of the scramble that defined recent years.

Even better? While inventory is growing, it’s still well below where it was before the pandemic. That means your current home—if you’re selling—is likely to stand out and attract attention from eager buyers, especially if it’s well-priced and market-ready.

Here’s why that’s great news for you:

• More choices = less compromise when buying
• Still-limited supply = stronger positioning when selling
• Continued buyer demand = homes are still moving

This combination creates a rare balance where both sides of the transaction—buying and selling—can work in your favor.

Your Next Move Doesn’t Have to Be a Guessing Game

Whether you’re moving to grow your space, simplify your lifestyle, or just find a better fit, making a move is a big deal. That’s why it helps to have someone in your corner who knows the ins and outs of the current market—and can guide you toward the right decision for you.

At Luminate Bank®, we believe your financial future should be built on clarity and confidence—not confusion or chaos. If you’ve been on the fence, let’s talk through your options. We can help you figure out:

• If now is the right time to sell
• What kind of home fits your budget and needs today
• How current interest rates may actually work in your favor
• What steps to take to prep your home and your finances for a smooth transition

Bottom Line: The Sign You’ve Been Waiting For Might Be Right Here

You don’t need to time the market perfectly. But when conditions start lining up—more options, steady demand, and stronger positioning on both sides of the sale—that’s a window worth exploring.

If you’re ready to put your plans back in motion, let’s make sure you’re doing it with insight, strategy, and support. Because your next move should feel like a step forward—not a leap into the unknown.

Let’s talk about what’s possible.