Taxes and insurance are quietly taking a bigger bite out of homeowners’ monthly payments—and in some markets, they make up more than a third of housing costs. Tim Lucas and Craig Berry break down new research from Neighbors Bank showing how rising property taxes and insurance premiums are reshaping housing affordability across the country.
In this episode you’ll learn:

• How big the PITI problem has become: In some U.S. markets, property taxes and homeowners insurance account for more than one-third of the average mortgage payment.
• Where the burden is highest: In the Pensacola metro area, taxes and insurance make up about 43.6% of the typical monthly housing payment.
• Why these costs are rising: Surging home values increase property taxes, while climate risk and disasters are pushing insurance premiums higher.
• How location changes everything: Some areas struggle with high insurance costs, while others—like parts of Illinois—face steep property taxes.
• Why mortgage rates aren’t the whole story: Even with a fixed-rate mortgage, homeowners remain exposed to rising taxes and insurance premiums.
• What buyers should check before making an offer: Getting insurance quotes and researching property tax trends can prevent costly surprises.
• Where costs may be more manageable: States with lower disaster risk and less reliance on property taxes may offer more predictable housing expenses.
• Key takeaway: Looking only at the home price or interest rate can be misleading—understanding the full PITI payment is essential to evaluating true affordability.

Read the full article: https://www.mortgageresearch.com/articles/hidden-housing-costs-taxes-insurance-now-take-21-percent-of-average-mortgage-payment/

In this episode of the Mortgage Research Network Podcast, host Paul Centopani sits down with Hannah Jones, Senior Economic Research Analyst at Realtor.com, to break down what to expect in the Spring 2026 housing market — and whether conditions are improving for buyers.

From the persistent housing supply gap to regional disparities and affordability barriers, this conversation explains what's happening in the world of real estate and what to expect going forward. Hannah also unpacks how different price points affect inventory, why young buyers continue to struggle, and how vacant homes factor into the broader housing shortage.

They also explore key policy efforts like the Housing in the 21st Century Act, how potential reforms could impact supply and affordability, and whether fears of another housing crash are justified. Plus, practical insights into what consumers can do right now to better position themselves in today’s market.

Whether you’re actively looking to buy or just trying to understand where the housing market is headed, this episode delivers a clear, data-driven outlook for Spring 2026.

Connect with Mortgage Research Network:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MortgageResearchNetwork

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mortgageresearchnetwork/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mtgresearchnews

Website: MortgageResearch.com

Connect with Hannah Jones:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannahejones1/

First Time Homebuyer Cheat Sheet: https://bit.ly/4w8CiVM

Homebuyer Calculators: https://bit.ly/4n0hDPv

Connect With a Lender: https://bit.ly/426Gyaw

🔑 What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why the housing supply gap still exists — and where it’s most severe
• Which regions are being hit hardest by inventory shortages
• What factors could help close the housing gap
• How different price tiers impact housing availability
• The biggest barriers facing young and first-time homebuyers
• How vacant properties influence housing supply
• What the Housing in the 21st Century Act aims to do
• How policy reforms could affect affordability and inventory
• Whether the market is at risk of another housing crash
• What buyers and consumers can do to navigate today’s market
• Key trends to watch for the Spring 2026 housing season

⏱️ Episode Timeline

00:00 – Introduction
Paul introduces the podcast and guest Hannah Jones.

00:25 – About Hannah Jones
Background and role at Realtor.com.

01:44 – Housing Market Gap
Why supply continues to fall short of demand.

02:44 – Regions That Are Affected
Where shortages are most pronounced.

03:43 – What Could Help Close the Gap
Potential solutions to increase supply.

04:30 – How Price Points Impact the Gap
Why affordability varies across market segments.

06:26 – Barriers for Young Homebuyers
Challenges facing first-time buyers.

08:23 – Vacant Properties
How unused homes factor into supply issues.

09:43 – Housing in the 21st Century Act
Overview of proposed housing policy.

10:44 – How Reform Affects Housing
Potential impacts on supply and affordability.

11:48 – Defining Housing & Mortgage Terms
Breaking down key concepts for consumers.

13:00 – Should We Worry About Another Crash?
Evaluating risks in today’s market.

14:10 – What Consumers Can Do
Steps buyers can take right now.

15:28 – Most Interesting Market Trends
What stands out in today’s housing landscape.

16:40 – What’s Ahead for Spring 2026
Expert outlook for the upcoming season.

🎯 Who This Episode Is For

• First-time and prospective homebuyers
• Anyone planning to buy a home in 2026
• Homeowners tracking market trends
• Real estate and mortgage professionals
• Anyone interested in the economy and housing market

For more insights into the spring housing market, visit MortgageResearch.com.

House flipping isn’t as profitable as it used to be—with falling home prices and rising renovation costs, many investors are feeling the squeeze. Tim Lucas and Craig Berry break down what’s driving the slowdown, where opportunities still exist, and whether flipping is still worth it in today’s market.

In this episode you’ll learn:

• Why home flipping is declining: The number of flipped homes dropped to its lowest level since 2020 as profits shrink. 
• How falling home prices impact profits: Flippers no longer have rising values to offset mistakes or overruns. 
• The rising cost problem: Construction material prices have surged, increasing renovation expenses. 
• Why labor shortages matter: Fewer available workers are driving up wages and project costs. 
• How experienced flippers are adapting: Investors are targeting older homes and tightening renovation budgets. 
• Why beginners face higher risks: New flippers may struggle without industry knowledge, connections, and cost control. 
• Where opportunities still exist: Some markets are still seeing strong flipping activity and profit margins. 
• Why flipping is becoming more professionalized: Success now requires strategy, experience, and local market expertise. 
• The shift from speculation to skill: Easy, quick-profit flips are being replaced by more calculated investments. 
• Key takeaway: House flipping isn’t dead—but succeeding today requires discipline, research, and a smarter approach. 

Read the full article: https://www.mortgageresearch.com/articles/home-flipping-slows-profits-hit-lowest-levels-since-great-recession/

Think buying a home is expensive? The real shock comes after you move in—homeowners can spend more than $400,000 on maintenance and repairs over time. Tim Lucas and Craig Berry break down where that money goes, why most people underestimate these costs, and how to prepare financially.

In this episode you’ll learn:

• The true lifetime cost of maintenance: Homeowners spend an average of $339,000 on upkeep—and up to $418,000 including emergencies.
• Why expectations fall short: Many homeowners budget $1,000–$5,000 per year, but actual costs average more than $7,000 annually.
• The biggest expenses to plan for: Major replacements like roofs, HVAC systems, and water heaters can cost thousands at once.
• How emergency repairs add up: 75% of homeowners face unexpected repairs, with many costing over $3,000.
• Why delays make things worse: Putting off repairs can lead to bigger, more expensive problems down the line.
• The savings gap problem: Most Americans don’t have enough emergency savings to cover major home repairs.
• How homeowners are covering costs: Options include personal loans, credit cards, and tapping into home equity.
• The planning dilemma: Balancing long-term maintenance needs with short-term upgrades like remodeling.
• Key takeaway: Understanding the full cost of homeownership is essential to avoid financial surprises and stay ahead of long-term expenses.

Read the full article: https://www.mortgageresearch.com/articles/homeowners-hugely-underestimating-repair-and-maintenance-costs/

Real estate listings can make homes look picture-perfect—but the reality doesn’t always match. Tim Lucas and Craig Berry break down how photos, descriptions, and marketing tactics can create misleading impressions, and what buyers should watch for before scheduling a showing.

In this episode you’ll learn:

• Why listings feel like social media: Photos and descriptions are designed to highlight the best features while downplaying flaws.
• Common photo tricks to watch for: Wide-angle lenses, strategic lighting, and selective framing can make spaces look bigger and brighter than they are.
• What’s missing matters: The absence of photos—like basements, bathrooms, or exteriors—can signal potential issues.
• How listing language can mislead: Terms like “cozy” or “charming” may be code for smaller spaces or homes that need work.
• A lesson from the past: A 1960s agent became famous for brutally honest listings—highlighting how far modern marketing has evolved.
• Tools smart buyers use: Resources like street views and local market data can reveal details listings leave out.
• Key takeaway: Listings are marketing tools—not full disclosures—so buyers need to read between the lines to avoid costly surprises.

Read the full article: https://www.mortgageresearch.com/articles/how-to-spot-red-flags-in-property-listings/

Taking lessons on style from your grandmother? A growing backlash against sterile minimalism is driving homeowners toward cozy, nostalgic interiors inspired by “Grandma Chic.” Tim Lucas and Craig Berry explore why vintage décor, layered patterns, and more personalized living spaces are suddenly dominating design trends—and what it says about how people want to live in their homes.

In this episode you’ll learn:

• What “Grandma Chic” really means: A design style that embraces vintage furniture, floral wallpaper, layered patterns, and decorative details once associated with traditional homes.
• Why minimalism is losing ground: Many homeowners are moving away from sterile, showroom-like interiors in favor of spaces that feel lived-in and personal.
• The return of patterns and texture: Florals, checks, stripes, ruffles, fringe, and pleats are making a comeback as designers embrace “pattern on pattern” decorating.
• Why antiques and vintage pieces matter: Homeowners are increasingly choosing décor with history and personal meaning instead of mass-produced furniture.
• How layouts are evolving: The rise of the “broken floor plan” offers a middle ground between open-concept spaces and traditional closed rooms.
• Why display pieces are returning: China cabinets and open displays are back as homeowners showcase collectibles and heirlooms.
• The quirky side of the trend: Playful design movements like “CabbageCore,” featuring cabbage and lettuce motifs, highlight the whimsical nature of the style.
• Key takeaway: Today’s design trend is less about perfection and more about creating homes that feel comfortable, personal, and connected to real life.

Read the full article: https://www.mortgageresearch.com/articles/why-grandma-chic-decor-is-replacing-minimalist-interiors-in-2026/

An estimated 5.4 million homeowners could refinance right now and potentially save hundreds of dollars a month. Tim Lucas and Craig Berry discuss the renewed refinancing opportunity as mortgage rates hover near 6%, why many eligible borrowers still haven’t acted, and how homeowners are tapping into their equity while market conditions remain favorable.

In this episode you’ll learn:

• How big the refinance opportunity is: Roughly 5.4 million homeowners could benefit from refinancing at today’s rates.
• What borrowers are saving: The average homeowner who refinanced in late 2025 reduced their monthly payment by about $248.
• Why refinancing activity is picking up: Mortgage rates have dropped significantly from their 2023 peak of 7.79%.
• Cash-out refi vs. second mortgages: Homeowners extracted $205 billion in equity in 2025 using a mix of refinancing and second-lien loans.
• Why many borrowers still haven’t refinanced: Some homeowners are waiting for even lower rates or evaluating whether the timing makes sense.
• The massive equity cushion: U.S. homeowners collectively hold about $17 trillion in home equity, with roughly $11 trillion considered tappable.
• A potential closing window: Inflation pressures and geopolitical events could push rates higher again.
• Key takeaway: Millions of homeowners may have a short window to refinance, lower payments, or tap equity before market conditions shift again.

Read the full article: https://www.mortgageresearch.com/articles/mortgage-refinances-surged-in-q4-as-affordability-hit-best-level-since-2022/

Taxes and insurance are quietly taking a bigger bite out of homeowners’ monthly payments—and in some markets, they make up more than a third of housing costs. Tim Lucas and Craig Berry break down new research from Neighbors Bank showing how rising property taxes and insurance premiums are reshaping housing affordability across the country.

In this episode you’ll learn:

• How big the PITI problem has become: In some U.S. markets, property taxes and homeowners insurance account for more than one-third of the average mortgage payment.
• Where the burden is highest: In the Pensacola metro area, taxes and insurance make up about 43.6% of the typical monthly housing payment.
• Why these costs are rising: Surging home values increase property taxes, while climate risk and disasters are pushing insurance premiums higher.
• How location changes everything: Some areas struggle with high insurance costs, while others—like parts of Illinois—face steep property taxes.
• Why mortgage rates aren’t the whole story: Even with a fixed-rate mortgage, homeowners remain exposed to rising taxes and insurance premiums.
• What buyers should check before making an offer: Getting insurance quotes and researching property tax trends can prevent costly surprises.
• Where costs may be more manageable: States with lower disaster risk and less reliance on property taxes may offer more predictable housing expenses.
• Key takeaway: Looking only at the home price or interest rate can be misleading—understanding the full PITI payment is essential to evaluating true affordability.

Read the full article: https://www.mortgageresearch.com/articles/hidden-housing-costs-taxes-insurance-now-take-21-percent-of-average-mortgage-payment/

Many economists forecast a sharp drop in home values when interest rates started rising, but that never fully materialized. Homeowners with historically low mortgage rates are staying put, keeping home prices from falling as much as experts predicted. Tim Lucas and Craig Berry break down the Harvard study on rate lock, explore why fewer sellers are moving, and discuss what it means for buyers and the broader housing market.

In this episode you’ll learn:

• What rate lock is: How homeowners with low-interest mortgages are staying in place, limiting inventory and affecting market dynamics.
• Impact on home prices: Rate lock explains roughly 40% of the gap between predicted and actual home price declines.
• Challenges for first-time buyers: Higher mortgage rates and limited inventory are pricing many potential buyers out of the market.
• Why lower rates aren’t enough: Even if mortgage rates drop, many homeowners have little incentive to sell.
• The housing supply gap: The U.S. shortage of over 4 million homes continues to constrain the market.
• Ripple effects on the market: Low inventory affects not just home prices, but financing, remodeling, and rental markets.
• Key takeaway: The housing market is a complex mix of incentives, supply, and buyer behavior that keeps prices surprisingly stable.

Read the full article: https://www.mortgageresearch.com/articles/harvard-analyzes-how-homeowners-locked-in-by-low-mortgage-rates-impact-home-prices/

Ohio generates roughly $24 billion a year from property taxes—but that entire system could soon face a dramatic overhaul. If voters choose to abolish property taxes, one of the state’s largest funding sources for schools and local services could disappear overnight. Tim Lucas and Craig Berry break down two competing proposals: one to eliminate property taxes entirely, and another to replace them with a land value tax. What sounds like tax relief could mean major changes for homeowners and communities across the state.

In this episode you’ll learn:

• How much is at stake: Property taxes generate about $24 billion annually for Ohio local governments.
• Why frustration is growing: Rising assessments and delinquency rates are putting pressure on homeowners.
• The abolition proposal: A citizen-led effort would eliminate property taxes entirely.
• The replacement plan: State Sen. Bill Blessing is championing a land value tax instead of taxing both land and buildings.
• How a land value tax works: Only the land is taxed, potentially encouraging development and new housing supply.
• Whether taxes would actually fall: Supporters acknowledge total revenue might stay the same—or even increase—while shifting who pays.
• The funding dilemma: Eliminating property taxes would require replacing billions in revenue, possibly through higher income or sales taxes.
• The big trade-off: Lower property taxes may sound appealing—but essential services still need funding.

Read the full article: https://www.mortgageresearch.com/articles/land-value-tax-vs-property-tax-ohios-high-stakes-ballot-battle/