🏡 Deal of the Week: A Cozy Log Cabin in Afton

I’ve got a soft spot for log homes—probably because I grew up in one back in Utah. So whenever a new one hits the market, I have to share it.

📍 2319 Afton Mountain Rd, Afton, VA

• 1 Bedroom | 1 Bathroom

• 821 Square Feet

• 3.58 Acres of Wooded Bliss

• Just Listed | $450,000

• Listed by Howard Hanna Roy Wheeler

If you're dreaming of a peaceful retreat surrounded by trees and the sound of nature, this little cabin could be your perfect escape.
👉 View the MLS Listing

📉 What I’m Following: Interest Rates After the Stock Market Dip

Earlier this week, someone in my group chat said, “The stock market’s tanking—shouldn’t interest rates be lower now?” So I dropped a little knowledge:

“Mortgage rates follow the 10-year Treasury yield. That relationship has been doing a slow dance for 40+ years. When the 10-year yield drops (like after a market sell-off), mortgage rates can go lower. But there’s a catch—spreads. That’s the risk premium lenders add to protect themselves. So even if the yield drops to, say, 4.13%, with mortgage rates at 6.7%, that’s a 2.57 spread. And lately, those spreads have been getting worse.”

Long story short:

• If the Fed drops rates and the 10-year yield dips into the 3% range, we could see mortgage rates around 6%.

• That 6% sweet spot might finally encourage more sellers to list, which would really help the market.

• But don’t hold your breath for anything in the 5s or 4s anytime soon.

🏘️ What the Local Market Is Doing

Let’s break it down with some fast facts. Things are still moving quickly—blink and you might miss your dream home!

Charlottesville Area

• Homes Listed This Week: 82

• Last Week: 55

• Median Sold Price: $575,000 (up from $525K last week)

• Inventory: 2.9 Months (down from 3.2)

• Days on Market (Median): Just 5 Days—homes are moving in a weekend!

Augusta County, Waynesboro & Staunton

• Homes Listed This Week: 49 (up slightly)

• Median Sold Price: $316,214 (down a bit from $325K)

• Inventory: 2.25 Months (up from 1.79)

Current Mortgage Rate

• 30-Year Fixed Conventional: 6.75% (last week was 6.60%)

🍽️ Local Spot I’m Randomly Excited About: Texas Roadhouse

I know, I know—random. But I’ve never been, and suddenly I need to go. Maybe it’s the bread rolls? Or the fact that there's one in both Charlottesville and Harrisonburg? Whatever the reason, when I do go, I’ll make a social reel out of it.
(Sorry, build-to-rent subdivision news—you got bumped this week by steak.)

💭 My Final Thoughts: Should You Buy a House Right Now?

When someone asks, “Should I buy a house?”
Here’s my honest take:

“No, you personally shouldn’t... unless you’re ready.”

And here’s what “ready” looks like:

• You’re pre-approved

• You’ve got your down payment saved

• You’ve been actively house hunting

If that’s you, go for it! You’re not trying to time the market—you’re setting yourself up for a long-term home (think 5–10 years). The market will always shift, but a well-timed move based on your personal goals? That’s smart.

🤝 Let’s Explore This Place Together

I’m here to help you navigate the Charlottesville, Waynesboro & Staunton real estate scene—no pressure, just real talk and solid data.

Follow me here:

• Facebook

• Instagram

• YouTube

• LinkedIn

Thanks for reading! Let’s catch up next week.

—
Craig Massie
www.MassieRealty.com
Your neighbor in real estate, local flavor, and occasionally steak-related adventures.