The Journal
The Blog.
Thoughts on growth, leadership and building something that lasts.
October 8, 2026 · 3 min read
Why Rhode Island Home Prices Keep Rising While U.S. Housing Supply Loosens
Rhode Island's single-family median hit $544,000 in August, up 6.7%, while national supply reached 4.9 months. The gap explains the price divide.
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October 7, 2026 · 5 min read
Your Final Walk-Through in October: Test the Heat Before You Sign
An October closing is the first real test of a New England heating system. What to check at the final walk-through, and what to do if something is wrong.
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October 6, 2026 · 6 min read
Mortgage Rates Hit 7.28%, the Highest Since 2023: What It Means for New England Buyers
The 30-year fixed jumped to 7.28%, its highest since November 2023, yet Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut inventory is up double digits.
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October 5, 2026 · 5 min read
Rates Jumped a Quarter Point in One Week: Why One Mortgage Quote Is Not Enough
The 30-year fixed hit 7.28% on October 1, up 25 basis points in a week. When rates move this fast, lender quotes spread apart and shopping pays more.
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October 1, 2026 · 5 min read
One in Five Buyers Is Still Waiving the Home Inspection: Why That Makes No Sense in This Market
NAR says 20% of buyers waived the inspection in August, even with 4.9 months of supply. Here is what you give up, and what to negotiate instead.
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September 30, 2026 · 4 min read
Mortgage Rates Rose After the Fed Hike: Why the Fed Does Not Set Your Rate
The Fed raised rates in September and mortgage rates went up too, but not for the reason most buyers assume. Here is what actually moves your rate.
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September 29, 2026 · 7 min read
When the Appraisal Comes in Low: What Buyers and Sellers Do Next
Rates near 7% and inventory at a ten-year high are producing more appraisal gaps. Here is what a low appraisal really means and the five ways a deal survives.
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September 28, 2026 · 7 min read
The 30-Year Fixed Is Not the Only Option: Choosing a Loan Product at 7%
With the 30-year fixed at 7.03% and the 5/1 ARM near 6.10%, the loan you pick now moves your payment more than the house you pick. Here is how to choose.
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September 28, 2026 · 2 min read
Welcome to Bolano
A place for the work, the lessons and the people behind the name. Here is why this story begins now.
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September 27, 2026 · 6 min read
Your Pre-Approval Is Not a Budget: What a 7% Rate Really Costs a New England Buyer
The 30-year fixed hit 7.03%. Here is why your max pre-approval is the wrong number to shop with in Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut.
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September 25, 2026 · 6 min read
Builders Are Cutting Prices Nationwide. New England Buyers Are Not Getting the Discount
New-home sales hit an eight-month high in August 2026 as 38% of builders cut prices. Northeast sales fell 36%. What that means for RI, MA and CT buyers.
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