Mortgage interest rates have climbed steadily since the first of the year. According to BankRate, the Fixed National Average for a 30-year loan has increased from 3.85 percent on January 1st, to 4.35 percent on February 21st, half a percentage point increase. Rates were last above 5 percent in 2011. To better understand these changes, we sat down with Joshua Jablonski of Wells Fargo Home Mortgage to gain his insight on what homebuyers and sellers can anticipate in the coming year. Josh has been lending to buyers in the DMV for the past 16 years.

Are you ready to make a move but don't want the hassles of moving? If so, then enjoy the convenience of purchasing a beautifully furnished model home. No moving furniture. No purchasing new window coverings or artwork. Simply arrive at your new home complete with designer-selected furnishings, and enjoy.

If you crave a simplified way of living, consider a minimalist design style for your home. Minimal interior design is based on creating a peaceful and orderly space, highlighting functionality and providing a feeling of serenity and simplicity.

The 2017 PANTONE color of the year is…Greenery! The color Greenery is full of pop and life and has a vibrant energy, unlike many other greens, which are soft and serene. This yellow-green shade symbolizes the great outdoors and evokes a feeling of springtime when nature’s foliage revives.

EYA has long been a proponent of life within walking distance, in which homeowners enjoy easy access to transportation, recreation, shopping, and dining. And increasingly, new homeowners are seeking walkable lifestyles even in the suburbs.

Now more than ever, homeowners are seeking walkable communities that promote sustainable and convenient lifestyles. Today’s buyers want to ditch the commute and live within walking distance to shops, restaurants, parks and other urban amenities.