The market is shifting too. Buyers have more control then ever. Especialyl in some of the higher price points. Took 5 years but were getting to a somewhat balanced market. Even without extra homes being built

1. Escrow is basically the period between getting the home under contract and actually closing and buying the home. Typically title handles it, depends on your state and it's a bit different in each state 2. They do have advantages, but most people prefer knowing the consistency of the rate. The big benefit tends to be you don't have to pay closing costs to refinance if rates lower. Downside, what if rates go up? I did listen to a freakenomics that said data actually suggests a ARM is the better way to go, but even economists don't like them personally because a fixed rate is so ismple. 3. VERY. You don;t know you can actually buy a house until you are pre approved. No seller will take you seriously

So I am an agent and I am not in your area so I have nothing to gain. Right now the general thought is the trump policies are going to be inflationary, which is why the rates are staying high despire the fed cutting rates. (Back end bonds not being desirable basically) Out here in MN I know house prices are still going to increase. I hate the advice date the rate and marry the house, because people can overextend themselves. Can you make the payment work? The plus right now, at least in my market, is compeition is way down. Prices are still rising, slower, but still. Theres deals to be had in negotiations we didn't have the last few years