Alex Plastun

Why Have Mortgage Rates Increased Recently? Mortgage rates have moved higher over the past several weeks. As of October 1, 2026, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate reached 7.28%, according to Freddie Mac. Why are mortgage rates increasing? The recent increase is primarily related to several factors in the financial markets: Higher 10-Year Treasury Yields

Tax-Saving Strategies You May Be Overlooking: What Homeowners, Employees & Business Owners Should Know When it comes to managing your finances, taxes can have a significant impact on how much of your income you actually keep. The good news is that there are legal and practical strategies that may help you reduce your taxable income,

Buy or Rent? This Simple Formula Can Help You Decide Should you buy a home or continue renting? It’s a major financial decision, and the right answer depends on your personal situation, financial goals, and the real estate market where you live. One simple calculation can give you a useful starting point when comparing buying

Understanding Mortgage Amortization: The Truth About Interest, Refinancing, and Paying Off Your Loan Faster If you’ve ever wondered: “Am I only paying interest at the beginning of my mortgage?” “Does refinancing reset all the interest I’ve already paid?” “How can I pay off my mortgage years earlier?” You’re not alone. These are some of the

Cash-Out Refinance vs. HELOC: Which Is the Better Way to Access Your Home Equity? Over the past several years, many homeowners have built substantial equity in their homes. Whether you’re planning a renovation, consolidating debt, investing in real estate, or covering major expenses, your home equity can be a valuable financial resource. One of the

Could Another 2008 Housing Crash Happen Again? With mortgage rates rising again, inflation remaining elevated, and global tensions affecting energy markets, many Americans are asking an important question: Could we see another financial and housing crash like 2008? The concern is understandable. Rising oil prices, ongoing instability involving Iran and the Middle East, and affordability

The Story Behind R&J Capital Group, LLC: Risk, Resilience & Reinvention Every business has a beginning—but some are built on a foundation of courage, resilience, and an unwavering belief in opportunity. The story of R&J Capital Group, LLC begins in 1992, when founder Robert Niyazov arrived in the United States with his family. Armed with

Co-ops vs. Condos: What Every Buyer & Investor MUST Know Thinking about buying in a high-rise building? Whether you’re exploring your first home or looking for your next investment opportunity, understanding the difference between co-ops and condos is critical. Choosing the right property type can significantly impact your financing options, lifestyle, and long-term investment potential.

How Much Income Do You Need to Afford a $400,000 Home? Buying a home is exciting, however, one of the most common questions we hear at R&J Capital Group LLC is: “How much do I actually need to make to afford a $400,000 home?” The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. It depends on several financial factors, including

Major Housing Market Changes: What Homebuyers Need to Know in 2026 By R&J Capital Group LLC The housing and mortgage landscape may be heading into an important shift. Recent announcements from the Trump administration have introduced two major initiatives that could significantly impact home prices, mortgage rates, and opportunities for buyers. Whether you’re a first-time