The Durkin Group LV

09/10/2026

A recent article from Freddie Mac highlighted how a mortgage rate lock can help buyers reduce uncertainty during the home buying process. Since interest rates can change daily, locking your rate may help protect your monthly payment if rates increase before closing.Rate locks can provide peace of mind, especially in changing market conditions, but the timing and terms vary depending on the lender and loan program. Some lenders even offer "float-down" options if rates improve.If you're planning to buy, understanding how rate locks work is an important part of financing strategy. I'm happy to connect you with trusted mortgage professionals who can explain your options clearly.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/GeorgeDurkin/2026/09/10/Uncertain-about-a-mortgage-rate-lock

The Durkin GroupLV - Our family helping your family
(702) 595-5688 [email protected]

09/09/2026

This time of year, many homeowners want a clearer picture of where they stand—value, market conditions, improvements, or long-term plans. That's exactly what Homeowner Advisory is for: a complimentary, no-pressure conversation focused on your questions, not a sales pitch. If you'd like to schedule your Homeowner Advisory, let me know and I'll prepare the information in advance.

The Durkin GroupLV - Our family helping your family
(702) 595-5688 [email protected]

Homeowner Advisory is a complimentary, no-obligation conversation designed to help homeowners get clarity on their home's value, the local market, and future options without pressure to buy or sell.

09/08/2026

When buyers ask what their monthly mortgage payment includes, the answer is often more than principal and interest. Many payments also include property taxes, homeowner insurance, and possibly mortgage insurance, depending on the loan and down payment. HOA dues may be separate, but they still matter when calculating affordability. One important thing to remember is that even if your interest rate is fixed, your total payment can still change if taxes, insurance, or escrow amounts change. If you are planning to buy and want a clearer picture of the full monthly cost, contact me. I can help you look beyond the payment estimate and understand the bigger housing budget.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/GeorgeDurkin/2026/09/08/What-Does-the-Mortgage-Payment-Include

09/03/2026

Thinking about buying a home? Getting pre-approved is one of the smartest first steps you can take. To get started, most lenders will want four basic things: a current driver's license or state-issued ID, your Social Security number, proof of income and funds available for your down payment, and a list of your current debts.Having these items ready can help streamline the process and give you a clearer picture of what you can comfortably afford. It can also strengthen your position when it's time to make an offer.If you're preparing to buy, I'm happy to connect you with trusted lenders who can help you take the next step with confidence.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/GeorgeDurkin/2026/09/03/4-things-to-start-your-pre-approval

The Durkin GroupLV - Our family helping your family
(702) 595-5688 [email protected]

09/02/2026

There's a lot of discussion about mortgage debt today, but the bigger story may be how much equity homeowners have actually built. Stronger lending standards and years of appreciation have created substantial homeowner wealth across the country. If you'd like to better understand today's housing market and what it could mean for you, I'd be happy to help

The Durkin GroupLV - Our family helping your family
(702) 595-5688 [email protected]

Despite concerns about mortgage debt, today's homeowners collectively hold trillions of dollars in equity, reflecting stronger lending standards and long-term wealth accumulation through homeownership.

09/01/2026

Days on market can tell you more than how long a home has been listed. It may provide clues about demand, pricing, condition, and seller motivation.A newly listed home could require quick action, while one that has been available for several weeks may create an opportunity to ask questions or negotiate.However, the displayed number does not always tell the complete story. A listing can be removed and relisted, causing the DOM counter to restart.Before making an offer, ask your agent to review the property's full listing history and cumulative days on market. Better information can help you evaluate the seller's position, structure a stronger offer, and make a more confident buying decision.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/GeorgeDurkin/2026/09/01/What-Buyers-Should-Know-About-Days-on-Market

08/27/2026

Your trusted agent can recommend a trusted mortgage lender which is crucial for most first-time buyers.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/GeorgeDurkin/2026/08/27/Smart-Actions-for-First-time-Homebuyers

The Durkin GroupLV - Our family helping your family
(702) 595-5688 [email protected]

08/26/2026

Many homeowners are surprised to learn how much equity they've built over the years. That equity may be able to help with renovations, debt consolidation, investing, or even making a move to a better-fit home. If you'd like to better understand your home's value and the opportunities your equity may create, let's talk.

The Durkin GroupLV - Our family helping your family
(702) 595-5688 [email protected]

Many homeowners have accumulated substantial equity in their homes, creating opportunities to improve finances, invest in the future, and achieve important life goals.

08/25/2026

If you have the ability to make a large principal payment and want to lower your monthly mortgage payment, recasting may be worth asking your lender about. A recast allows some homeowners to keep their existing loan and interest rate while the lender recalculates the payment based on the lower loan balance. This can be appealing if your current rate is lower than today's rates. However, recasting is typically only available on conventional, conforming loans, and FHA, VA, and USDA loans are generally not eligible. Refinancing is different because it replaces your current loan with a new one.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/GeorgeDurkin/2026/08/25/Mortgage-Recasting-to-Lower-Your-Payment

08/20/2026

If your property tax assessment seems higher than your home's market value, it may be worth a closer look. Assessments aren't always perfectly aligned with current conditions, and even small discrepancies can impact what you pay each year.The key is comparing your assessment to recent sales and understanding how your property is being evaluated. If there's a gap, you may have grounds to appeal.I can help you review your home's value and provide supporting information to guide your decision.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/GeorgeDurkin/2026/08/20/Is-your-property-tax-assessment-too-high

The Durkin GroupLV - Our family helping your family
(702) 595-5688 [email protected]