5 Essential Tips for Huntington Bancshares Employees to Navigate the Home Buying Journey in Today's Market

As the spring home-buying season approaches, signs of increased activity have begun to emerge in the real estate market. For Huntington Bancshares employees looking to navigate this market, characterized by a rising demand and a limited supply of available properties, a strategic and thoughtful approach can significantly enhance your chances of landing your dream home.

Recent data from the National Association of REALTORS® highlights a slight uptick in home inventory, though not enough to alleviate the ongoing low-inventory situation. This scarcity has sidelined many potential first-time buyers. Additionally, a U.S. News & World Report from June 2023 indicates that over 90% of homeowners enjoy loan rates under 6%, with 62% benefiting from rates even lower than 4%. This advantageous rate environment has encouraged many to remain in their current homes, despite rising interest rates.

Despite these challenges, Huntington Bancshares employees can still successfully secure a home by employing the right strategies. Here are essential tips to help you in today's competitive real estate market:

First Tip: Choose the Right Real Estate Broker

In a market where homes sell quickly and multiple offers are common, the expertise of a seasoned real estate agent is invaluable. An agent experienced in various market conditions, particularly active in your desired price range, can significantly aid your home-buying journey. Remarkably, 80% of real estate transactions are completed by the top 20% of agents. It's crucial to choose an agent with a solid negotiation record and deep knowledge of the locality you're interested in.

Tip No. 2: Personalize Your Offer

While some areas may restrict this practice, consider adding a personal touch, such as a heartfelt note to the homeowner, to differentiate your offer. Communicating your appreciation for the property and your intent to cherish it can elevate your proposal in a competitive setting. Always consult with your agent to ensure this approach is appropriate and legal in your area.

Tip #3: Offer Cash or Flexible Terms

If feasible, a cash offer can significantly boost your appeal by eliminating uncertainties related to mortgage processing times, which is crucial in a bidding situation. If a cash offer isn't possible, demonstrating flexibility in the transaction, like accommodating the seller’s timeline, can also be advantageous. Flexibility and readiness to adapt to the seller’s needs can make your offer more attractive.

Tip #4: Be Prepared to Move Quickly

With limited inventory, real estate transactions occur rapidly, necessitating prompt action. Distinguish between being preapproved—a thorough assessment of your financial history—and being prequalified, which merely estimates your borrowing capacity. A preapproval not only positions you as a serious buyer but also clarifies your financial status and expedites the closing process once your offer is accepted.

Articles you may find interesting:

Tip #5: Remain Persistent

Finding the perfect home may take longer than anticipated. Maintain your determination and continue searching with perseverance. Patience and persistence are key to discovering a home that meets your expectations.

In summary, Huntington Bancshares employees aiming to purchase property in the current low-inventory market will benefit from a carefully considered strategy, persistence, and patience. Utilizing these tips can greatly improve your chances of securing your dream home in today’s challenging real estate landscape.

Especially for those considering a home purchase later in life, the concept of a 'forever home' resonates deeply. A 2022 AARP survey found that more than 75% of individuals aged 50 and older prefer to stay in their homes as long as possible , underscoring the importance of selecting a residence that accommodates future mobility and health changes with age-friendly features like single-level living, no-step entries, and wider doorways.

Equip yourself with essential tips to succeed in a competitive market by selecting the right agent, personalizing your offer, and employing financial strategies like cash purchases or flexible terms. Understand the importance of swift actions in securing preapproval over prequalification, and recognize that perseverance is crucial in finding the ideal home. This guide is ideal for Huntington Bancshares employees seeking to make wise investment choices for retirement.

What type of retirement savings plan does Huntington Bancshares offer to its employees?

Huntington Bancshares offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

Does Huntington Bancshares match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Huntington Bancshares provides a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees save for retirement.

What is the maximum employee contribution limit for the Huntington Bancshares 401(k) plan?

The maximum employee contribution limit for the Huntington Bancshares 401(k) plan is subject to IRS limits, which can change annually.

Can employees at Huntington Bancshares take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, Huntington Bancshares allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings under certain conditions.

Is there a vesting schedule for the employer match in the Huntington Bancshares 401(k) plan?

Yes, Huntington Bancshares has a vesting schedule for the employer match, which determines when employees fully own the matched funds.

How can employees at Huntington Bancshares enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees at Huntington Bancshares can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting their HR representative.

What investment options are available in the Huntington Bancshares 401(k) plan?

The Huntington Bancshares 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds.

Can employees at Huntington Bancshares change their contribution percentage to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees at Huntington Bancshares can change their contribution percentage at any time, subject to plan rules.

Does Huntington Bancshares provide educational resources for employees regarding their 401(k) plan?

Yes, Huntington Bancshares offers educational resources and tools to help employees understand and manage their 401(k) plan effectively.

What happens to my 401(k) savings if I leave Huntington Bancshares?

If you leave Huntington Bancshares, you have several options for your 401(k) savings, including rolling it over to another retirement account or cashing it out, subject to taxes and penalties.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.

Company Pension Plan Details: Pension Plan Name: Identify the official name of Huntington Bancshares' pension plan. Years of Service and Age Qualification: Determine the requirements for eligibility in the pension plan. Pension Formula: Find the formula used to calculate pension benefits. 401(k) Plan Details: 401(k) Plan Name: Identify the name of Huntington Bancshares' 401(k) plan. Eligibility: Determine who qualifies for the 401(k) plan.

Restructuring and Layoffs: Huntington Bancshares has been undergoing a restructuring process aimed at streamlining operations and reducing costs. In 2023, the company announced plans to cut several positions across various departments. These layoffs are part of a broader strategy to enhance operational efficiency and adjust to changing market conditions. The restructuring efforts are crucial to address current economic uncertainties and ensure long-term stability.

Huntington Bancshares Stock Options and RSUs: 2022: In 2022, Huntington Bancshares offered stock options and RSUs to its employees as part of their compensation packages. These stock options typically include grant dates, vesting schedules, and exercise prices, while RSUs are granted with vesting conditions that are tied to performance or time-based criteria. 2023: In 2023, Huntington Bancshares continued to provide stock options and RSUs, focusing on aligning employee incentives with company performance. Specific terms and the total number of shares available for grants are outlined in their annual proxy statements. 2024: For 2024, Huntington Bancshares updated their stock options and RSU offerings to reflect changes in market conditions and company performance. The company provides details about the types of stock options and RSUs available, including the grant amounts and vesting schedules.

Health Insurance Plans: Huntington Bancshares offers a variety of health insurance plans, including PPO and HMO options. They provide coverage for medical, dental, and vision care. Health Savings Account (HSA): Employees can contribute to an HSA with company contributions available depending on the plan selected. Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): FSAs are available for medical and dependent care expenses. Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Provides confidential counseling and support services for employees and their families.