There’s no denying we’re in a sellers’ market. With low inventory and high buyer demand, homes today are selling above the asking price at a record rate.

The level of equity homeowners have is at an all-time high. According to the U.S. Census, over 38% of owner-occupied homes are owned free and clear, meaning they don’t have a mortgage.

There’s a lot of discussion about affordability as home prices continue to appreciate rapidly.

The last year has put emphasis on the importance of one’s home.