A new down‑payment assistance program lets homebuyers receive funds in exchange for sharing future equity. Buyers who qualify for an FHA loan with 3.5% down keep all appreciation, while others must surrender a portion of future gains. Critics ask what happens if property values fall, fearing a loss of equity. Proponents claim taxpayer‑backed support shields borrowers from default risk, highlighting a trade‑off between immediate affordability and long‑term ownership costs.
The North Shore Development Council (NSDCC) reported a 33% jump in pending home sales over the past two weeks, signaling a rapid acceleration as the market enters its spring season. Across price tiers, pending contracts rose from 112 to 154,...