🏡 Why New Homes Are Winning + Mortgage Rate Update + A Spooky Castle Feature

Real estate in West Michigan is always moving, and this fall is no exception. In this week’s update, we’re looking at why new homes are winning buyers, the latest mortgage rate movement, and — in the spirit of spooky season — a castle-like home in Rochester that looks straight out of a Halloween movie.

🏗 Why Buyers Are Choosing New Homes

New homes are attracting more buyers right now, and the reason is simple: affordability.

Builders have the ability to offer incentives that most resale sellers can’t. That includes:

• Mortgage-rate buydowns → lowering monthly payments significantly.

• Closing cost credits → putting cash back in buyers’ pockets.

• Upgrades & perks → appliances, finishes, and extras that add real value.

For many buyers, those incentives mean that a brand-new home can actually be more affordable each month than an older resale at the same price. It’s a major reason why new construction sales are holding strong in today’s market.

📉 Mortgage Rates: Dips and Movement

Mortgage rates have been shifting recently. They briefly dipped to 6% before rising back to around 6.25%.

The key takeaway? Rates are no longer spiking the way they did in 2022–2023. Instead, they’re moving within a tighter range, giving buyers more predictability. And even a small quarter-point dip can make a meaningful difference in affordability — adding up to thousands of dollars saved each year.

For anyone considering a purchase, keeping an eye on these small shifts can make the difference between waiting and finding the right moment to buy.

🏰 Spooky Season Feature: The Rochester Castle Home

And now for something a little different — since it’s October, let’s talk spooky season.

This week’s featured property is a castle-style home in Rochester with towering turrets, stone walls, and dramatic architecture that feels pulled straight from a Halloween movie set. Whether you see it as a dream home or a haunted mansion, it’s a perfect fit for October’s real estate spotlight.

💬 What This Means for You

• If you’re a buyer, builder incentives could open the door to lower monthly payments and make new construction worth considering.

• If you’re a seller, know that you’re competing not just with other resales, but with builders who can offer attractive financing options.

• And if you’re just here for the fun? There are always unique homes to discover in Michigan — some even with a spooky flair.

👉 Curious how today’s market affects your buying or selling plans in West Michigan?Send me a DM or reach out directly — I’d be happy to walk you through the numbers and opportunities.