Your Trusted

Real Estate Expert Karen Rivard

First-Time Buyer Specialist | Strategic Negotiation

With 14 years on The Damon Home Team and 20 years in real estate, I specialize in helping first-time home buyers and sellers navigate the real estate process with confidence. Licensed in both New Hampshire and Massachusetts, my goal is to make your experience stress-free by providing expert guidance, market insights, and strong negotiation strategies.

My Mission: To exceed your expectations by making real estate transactions smooth, stress-free, and successful.

What Sets Karen Apart?

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First Time Buyer Guidance

Simplifying your first home purchase with patient support and clear, confident guidance.

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Educator at Heart

Ensuring clients understand every step so they can make confident decisions

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Local Market Knowledge

Using deep local expertise to find your ideal home and ensure smart buying or selling decisions.

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Care and Compassion

Providing empathetic guidance and genuine care through the emotional aspects of real estate.

Why Work With Me?

"Karen made the home buying and selling process so easy! She truly cared about our goals and guided us every step of the way." - Alexis | Homeowner

  • Client-Centered Approach: I listen, strategize, and act with your best interests in mind.

  • Expert Market Knowledge: I research the market and position your home or offer for success.

  • Comprehensive Support: From staging to closing, I manage every detail to make the process seamless.

  • Strong Negotiation Skills: I work tirelessly to get you the best deal possible.

Client Success Stories

"Karen was incredible in helping us buy our first home. She explained everything, negotiated on our behalf, and made the process stress-free!"

"Her knowledge and experience were invaluable! Karen helped us stage and sell our home quickly for a fantastic price."

Market Insights & Resources

Stay ahead with expert tips and market updates tailored for first-time buyers and sellers.

Manchester NH skyline at dusk with overlay text reading '4 Smart Rate Strategies Buyers Are Using in Today’s Market'

4 Ways Homebuyers Can Lower Their Mortgage Rate in 2025

June 27, 20253 min read

4 Smart Rate Strategies Buyers Are Using in Today's Market.

Even with mortgage rates still elevated, buyers are finding creative ways to make their purchase more affordable.

The Federal Reserve held rates steady last week, and while we’re not seeing drastic shifts yet, the Fed did signal the possibility of two rate cuts later this year. That’s encouraging—but in the meantime, many buyers are asking:

“How can I lower my mortgage rate now?”

Here are four proven strategies buyers are using right now to secure better mortgage terms—even in a high-rate environment.


Why Buy in Southern NH?

Shop Around for the Best Rate

It may sound simple, but it works. According to Realtor.com, buyers who compare multiple lenders can shave up to 0.86% off their interest rate. That can mean thousands in savings over the life of the loan—just for making a few extra calls or using an online rate comparison tool.

Pro Tip: Don’t just go with the lender your agent or builder recommends. Get quotes from at least three reputable mortgage providers.

Improve Your Credit Score

Raising your credit score can significantly improve the terms you’re offered. Lenders tend to give their best rates to borrowers in the “very good” to “excellent” range.

Based on data from Fannie Mae and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, increasing your credit score could lower your mortgage rate by about 0.22%—a meaningful difference.

Focus on reducing credit card balances, making all payments on time, and avoiding new debt during the mortgage application process.

Step 2: Understand First-Time Buyer Programs

Step 2: Understand First-Time Buyer Programs

New Hampshire offers several options to help first-time buyers:

  • NH Housing Finance Authority Loans

  • Down Payment Assistance Programs

  • VA and FHA Loans for eligible buyers

We'll connect you with trusted lenders who specialize in helping new buyers make the most of their options.

Increase Your Downpayment

Even a modest increase in your down payment—from 10% to 15%, for example—can reduce your interest rate. It may also help you eliminate private mortgage insurance (PMI), saving even more month to month.

A larger down payment makes you a lower-risk borrower in the eyes of lenders—and that can translate into better terms.

Step 4: Explore Southern NH Communities

Use a Temporary Buydown

A temporary buydown is a financing tool where the seller (or builder, in new construction) helps cover the cost of lowering your interest rate for the first year or two.

A common example is the 2-1 buydown, which gives you:

  • 2% lower rate the first year

  • 1% lower rate the second year

This structure can ease the initial cost of homeownership and give buyers time for potential rate drops or income growth.

This strategy is especially popular in today’s buyer-friendly negotiations, where sellers are more willing to offer concessions.

No Magic, Just Smart Moves

None of these strategies are “set it and forget it.” Each one takes effort, planning, or a tradeoff—but they work.

And with rates expected to shift later this year, now is a great time to position yourself wisely.


Make 2026 the Year You Buy Your First Home

Have questions or want to run the numbers for your situation?

The Damon Home Team is here to guide you through the process—and help you make your next move with confidence.

Email [email protected] to get started with a free buyer consultation.

Explore first-time buyer resources and listings at www.damonteam.com

New Hampshire mortgage tipsNH homebuyer strategiesbuy a home in NHlower mortgage rate NHNH real estate adviceDamon Home Team NHNH 55+ home financing
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The Damon Home Team

The Damon Home Team is a top-performing real estate group specializing in buying, selling, and relocation services throughout New Hampshire. With a commitment to expert guidance, market-driven strategies, and a client-first approach, we help homeowners maximize their home’s value and buyers find their perfect property. Whether you’re looking for a fast cash sale, a seamless move, or expert investment advice, our team delivers results with integrity and professionalism.

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