First-Time Buyer Guide How Much House Can I Afford? What North Shore Buyers Need to Know Before They Start Looking Understanding your real budget before you fall in love with a home — a practical guide for buyers in Beverly, Salem, Danvers, and the rest of the North Shore. Jim Armstrong, REALTOR®Arm

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Are Home Appraisals Coming in Below Sale Price in Massachusetts? (2026 Update) If you’ve been following the Massachusetts real estate market, you’ve probably heard the question: “Are homes still appraising at the contract price?” The short answer:Sometimes—but it’s not widespread. The longer answer

Mortgage Rates Are Rising Again—But Here’s What Buyers Need to Know Right Now After dipping below 6% not long ago, mortgage rates have started creeping back up—and naturally, that’s getting buyers a little uneasy. But here’s the bigger picture:Even with the recent uptick, today’s rates are still low

$25,000 in Free Down Payment Help. No Interest. No Monthly Payment.MassHousing's newest program could be the key that finally opens the door to homeownership on the North Shore.By Armstrong Field Real Estate  ·  March 27, 2026 $25K Down payment assistance   0% Interest rate on DPA loan   135% AMI in

If you’ve been telling yourself, “I’ll buy once my credit is perfect,” you’re not alone. But here’s the truth: A perfect credit score isn’t required to buy a home.And waiting for one might be costing you more than you think. The Credit Score Myth That’s Keeping Buyers on the Sidelines Would-be homeb

  The 3% Mortgage Problem: Why So Many Massachusetts Homeowners Are Still Stuck—And What Their Real Options Are in 2026 By Jim Armstrong • ALUXETY Real Estate & Armstrong Field Group If you’re a homeowner on the North Shore or anywhere in Massachusetts, chances are you’re still holding onto a 2–3% m

What Are Portable Mortgages—and Could They Boost Housing Inventory in the U.S.? In today’s real estate market, millions of American homeowners feel “locked in” by historically low interest rates. With mortgage rates now far higher than the 2–3% loans many secured between 2020 and 2022, even families

Purchasing a home is one of the most significant financial decisions many people will make. Understanding the various Massachusetts home financing options can help buyers select the loan program that best fits their budget, credit profile, and long-term goals. Below is an overview of the most common

  Home-Buying Myths That Could Be Holding You Back Thinking you’re not ready to buy a home yet? Many renters assume the financial barriers are too high, but much of what people believe about mortgages simply isn’t true. Let’s clear up some of the most common myths so you can feel more confident abou