Current 30-year rate in NY: 6.03% APR  ·  15-year: 5.50% APR(Updated April 15, 2026)

Rochester NY Housing Blog

In-depth guides for Rochester homebuyers - written with local data, not national averages.

First-Time BuyersApril 10, 2026 · 12 min read

Rochester NY First-Time Homebuyer Guide 2026: SONYMA, Grants, and Everything You Need to Know

A complete step-by-step guide to buying your first home in Rochester NY. Covers SONYMA programs, Homebuyer Dream Program, income limits, and recommended local lenders.

Property TaxesApril 5, 2026 · 8 min read

Monroe County Property Tax Rates by School District (2026 Complete Guide)

A detailed breakdown of property tax rates across all Monroe County school districts, with comparisons and tips for appealing your assessment.

GrantsApril 3, 2026 · 9 min read

SONYMA Homebuyer Dream Program Rochester NY: How to Get Up to $30,000

Step-by-step guide to applying for the Homebuyer Dream Program in Rochester. Which lenders offer it, income requirements, and how to stack it with other programs.

NeighborhoodsMarch 28, 2026 · 10 min read

Brighton vs Pittsford vs Penfield vs Webster: Which Rochester Suburb is Best?

A data-driven comparison of Rochester's most popular suburbs. School ratings, home prices, property taxes, commute times, and 30-year cost of ownership.

Market UpdateMarch 20, 2026 · 7 min read

Rochester NY Housing Market 2026: Prices, Trends, and What Buyers Need to Know

Rochester's housing market remains one of the hottest in the Northeast. 87% of homes sell above list price. Here's what buyers need to know going into 2026.

AffordabilityMarch 15, 2026 · 6 min read

How Much House Can You Afford in Rochester NY? (2026 Income Guide)

The minimum income to afford Rochester's $250K median home is $81,000. See how grants change the math and which neighborhoods fit your budget.

Rent vs BuyMarch 10, 2026 · 8 min read

Rent vs Buy in Rochester NY 2026: The Math for Western New York Buyers

Average rent is $1,200/mo. Average ownership cost is $1,893/mo. But 75% home value growth changes the equation. Here's the real break-even math.