Amir Shalash - Keller Williams Commonwealth

Smart Home Buying Tips With Current Mortgage Rates
With mortgage rates holding steady above 7%—the 30-year fixed sitting at 7.12% thanks to inflation and recent Fed decisions—many folks are stepping back to reassess their next move. But as someone who’s navigated Lexington’s real estate scene both as an investor and a local, I’ve learned that every shift in the market brings new opportunities if you know where to look. This fall, home prices are about 5% lower than in the summer, and with inventory growing, buyers have more room to negotiate than they have in months. If you’re weighing your options or just curious about how to make the numbers work in your favor, it’s a good time to explore what’s out there. Having spent years building relationships here in Lexington—whether behind the chair at Prince Cuts Barbershop or walking clients through their first home—I know that taking care of people starts with understanding their goals and making sure they have all the facts.

Mortgage Rates Aren’t Backing Down Yet
Lately, I’ve had a lot of conversations about where mortgage rates are headed—and right now, rates are still holding steady around 7%. For folks in Lexington looking to buy, invest, or refinance, that number is more than just a headline; it’s the reality shaping your plans. With inflation being stubborn and talk of another Fed hike, borrowing costs could climb even higher. Plus, those wider MBS spreads are adding some extra pressure on rates.

A real drop in rates would take more than wishful thinking—we’d need to see inflation cool off, long-term yields settle down, the Fed send clearer signals, and mortgage-backed securities spreads improve. Until then, I recommend treating today’s rates as your baseline when planning, and viewing any future drop as a bonus, not a guarantee.

As someone who’s both invested in this community and navigated these shifts myself, I know how important it is to make informed moves. Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, I’m here to help you understand your options and advocate for what works best for you.

Honoring the Significance of Indigenous Day

Buying Versus Renting in 2026
As someone who’s called Lexington home my whole life—and who’s both rented and owned—I see firsthand how the decision to buy or rent in 2026 isn’t always black and white. Elevated mortgage rates and ownership costs have definitely made buying a bigger challenge for many folks this year, causing some renters to wait a bit longer before making the leap. Still, homeownership brings long-term advantages that renting can’t fully match: stability, more control over your space, potential tax breaks, equity that builds with every payment, and even the ability to generate rental income of your own. Plus, with fixed principal-and-interest payments, you’re protected from the steady rent increases that seem to pop up year after year.

On the other hand, renting fits better for those who value flexibility, lower upfront costs, or a downtown lifestyle where buying may not make sense. It’s a great option for shorter timelines or if you want to avoid the hassle of maintenance and repairs.

For anyone looking to plant roots or invest in their future, making some concessions now could open doors down the line—especially if interest rates eventually drop and refinancing becomes an option. My own experience as a landlord and local business owner taught me that every situation is unique, and staying informed about your choices is the best way to move forward with confidence.

Homebuyers Gain More Choices and Bargaining Power for Fall 2026
As someone who’s spent a lifetime in Lexington—first as a local business owner, now as your real estate advisor—I’ve seen the market shift through many seasons. This fall, buyers are stepping into a different landscape: with 4.9 months of housing supply on the market and mortgage rates hovering around 7%, there’s more room at the negotiating table than we’ve seen in recent years. Sellers are starting to offer concessions, especially on older homes. If you’re looking to buy, this is the time to approach offers with respect and solid data; presenting evidence-based terms can go a long way. For those thinking of selling, competitive pricing and a pre-inspection can really set your home apart. My approach has always been rooted in honest communication and understanding your unique goals—whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, I’m here to make sure you’re positioned confidently in this evolving market.