Independent real estate intelligence
The housing market moves.
So should the way you read it.
Unbiased guides, live market data, and plain-English analysis — built for anyone buying, selling, or just watching the numbers.
No brokerage. No agenda. Just the data. · Sourced from Freddie Mac · NAR · Realtor.com via FRED
Fresh analysis
Latest from the desk
Rent It Out or Sell It? The 2026 Decision Framework for Homeowners Who Have to Move
77.9% of outstanding mortgages are under 6% (FHFA, Q1 2026) — so should you keep the house and rent it? The cash-flow math, the tax clock, and the honest answer.
How to Get Rid of PMI in 2026 — The Three Exit Routes and What Waiting Actually Costs
Federal law lets you cancel PMI at 80% LTV, but on a median-priced home that date is roughly eight years out. Here are the three exit routes and the rules behind each.
Mortgage Rates Just Crossed 7% — What the Fed's First Hike Since 2023 Means for Buyers, Sellers, and Refinancers
The 30-year fixed averaged 7.03% the week of September 24, 2026 (Freddie Mac), a week after the Fed raised rates for the first time since 2023. Here's what actually moved rates, what it costs, and how buyers, sellers, and owners should respond.
Free tools
Run your own numbers
Try it now
Monthly payment, live
Drag the sliders. The math updates as you go — no email wall.
Buy vs. rent comparison
Local rent, purchase price, and timeline in — a clear break-even out.
Compare now →Home affordability estimator
Built on income, debt, and down payment — not a generic 28% rule of thumb.
Check affordability →Refinance break-even
Closing costs vs. monthly savings — see how many months until it pays off.
Run the numbers →Independent research project
The National “Preferred Properties” Directory
The “Preferred Properties” name is used independently by dozens of separate, unrelated brokerages across the country. We map every one — broker names, service areas, specializations, and local market context.
Listings are compiled and verified from public records. We are not affiliated with any firm named below.
Explore the directory →