Right now, local markets are moving in very different directions. And your strategy as a buyer or seller should reflect your market.

Want to know which way our local market is leaning and what that means for your move? Let's connect.

Remember a few years back when sellers held all the power and buyers were stuck offering way over asking or waiving inspections just to get a chance at the house? In many markets, those days are behind us.

While it’s going to vary by area, more metros are slowly shifting to favor buyers, and the market is starting to look a lot more like a two-way street again.

And that balance is something we haven’t had in a while.

Whether you're buying or selling, here's what you need to know about what's changing and what it means for your move.

The Most Buyer-Friendly Market in Years

The national data tells an interesting story right now. According to Realtor.com:

"The national housing market is balanced but gradually loosening as the cycle moves in a more buyer-friendly direction . . ."

That’s because, over the past few years, more and more metros have been flipping back to more buyer-friendly terms as inventory’s grown. And when you zoom in on the latest Realtor.com data for the top 50 metro markets over time, the trend becomes really clear (see graph below).

Back in 2021, almost all major metros were seller's markets. By the end of 2025, only 1 in 3 still favored sellers. That's an obvious shift.

And that changes how the market is going to feel for everyone. Sellers shouldn’t still expect 2021 conditions, but neither should buyers. At least, not generally speaking.

It’s Not the Same Story Everywhere

That said, who has the power ultimately depends on where you live. While more metros are leaning buyer-friendly lately, there are still plenty of strong seller's markets right now, too.

It really comes down to how much housing supply and demand there is in your area. And that varies enormously by region.

Sun Belt cities like Austin, Tampa, and San Antonio saw major building booms in recent years, giving buyers more options and more negotiating room. Meanwhile, cities in the Northeast and Midwest – think Rochester, Hartford, and Buffalo – didn't see that same wave, so inventory stayed tight and competition stayed fierce. As Jeff Ostrowski, Housing Analyst at Bankrate, explains:

“The formerly hot Sun Belt markets have cooled, while the Northeast and Midwest have stayed hot. The big driver here is construction activity. The softest markets now [have] experienced big booms that spurred new building, and that has led to a large supply of new and existing homes on the market in those places.”

Practical Advice for Your Move

To find out who has the power in your local market, talk to an agent. Because knowing what’s happening locally is going to be the key to setting the right strategy for your move.

If the market is working in your favor, great. Lean in and use it to your benefit. But if it’s not, all hope isn’t lost. Your agent can help you figure out how to approach any market.

Here's some practical advice if there’s a mismatch between your goal and local market conditions.

If you're buying in a seller's market:

• Get pre-approved before you start shopping. It shows sellers you're serious.

• Be ready to act fast when the right home hits the market.

• Consider offering a quick closing date or flexible terms.

• Work closely with your agent to craft a competitive offer.

If you're selling in a buyer's market:

• Price it right from day one. Overpricing will cost you time and money.

• Focus on curb appeal and staging to stand out in areas with more inventory.

• Be open to offering incentives, like covering closing costs or a home warranty.

• Expect buyers to negotiate and be ready to be flexible.

Remember a few years back when sellers held all the power and buyers were stuck offering way over asking or waiving inspections just to get a chance at the house? In many markets, those days are behind us.

Right now, local markets are moving in very different directions. And your strategy as a buyer or seller should reflect your market.

Want to know which way your local market is leaning and what that means for your move? Talk to a local real estate agent.

Could waiting until later this year work out? Sure. But it's important to understand what you may gain by moving now too – that way you have the full picture before you decide.

If a 2026 move is on your radar, let’s connect and talk about what matters most to you. Depending on your priorities, Summer could be your moment.

A lot of people who want to move are telling themselves the same thing: "Maybe I'll just wait until later this year once things calm down." 

While waiting sounds like a good plan, there's something worth knowing before you decide. Rates aren’t expected to change much, so if that’s the #1 reason you’re waiting, it may not pay off. And there may be other things you miss out on in the meantime. 

Historically, Summer is one of the strongest seasons of the year for both buyers and sellers. And if you delay your move until Fall or Winter, some of those opportunities may already be fading.

Buyers: Fresh Inventory Is Your Real Summer Advantage

One of the biggest frustrations buyers have faced over the past few years has been a lack of affordable options. Maybe you’ve run into that yourself:

• You find a house you like, but it's out of your budget.

• You find something in your budget, but you don’t like it.

• Or worse, nothing interesting hits the market for weeks.

Historically, Summer helps with that.

Looking at data from the last few years, Summer months consistently bring more sellers into the market than later in the year. And that gives buyers a real window of fresh choices.

According to Realtor.com, any given Summer month typically sees about 32% more fresh options than the average month from September-December.

With more newly listed homes, there’s a better chance of finding one you like where the numbers actually work.

Because all it really takes is one home to completely change your search. And if you’ve got more popping onto the market to choose from, maybe one of those is exactly what you need. 

But keep in mind, this seasonal window isn’t open forever. Fresh inventory tends to slow down once Summer ends.

Many homeowners who planned to sell this year have already listed by then. Families who wanted to move before school starts have often already gotten it done, or at least, set it into motion. So, new listing activity usually cools as we head into Fall and Winter.

Of course, every year is different. But if finding the right home at the right price has been your biggest challenge, waiting until later in the year may not necessarily give you more options. In fact, recent history suggests it may do just the opposite.

Sellers: Homes Usually Sell for More in the Summer

If you're thinking of selling, you may be considering holding off because you've seen headlines about lower asking prices, price cuts, and softer conditions in some markets. But those headlines don’t tell the whole story or convey just how much it varies by area.

Here’s what you really need to know. Even though the market’s becoming more balanced and some pockets are experiencing price declines, that doesn’t mean you’ve missed your chance to sell. 

Seasonality can still work in your favor no matter where you are. And this Summer could still give you the chance to sell for a good price.

According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), homes sold during a Summer month usually sell for about 4% more than homes sold during the typical month from September-December:

Why? Summer buyers are usually operating on a set timeframe. They’re trying to move before the next school year or when they have more PTO and warmer weather to tour houses. That urgency can translate into better offers.

Now, that doesn’t mean you should price your house 4% higher this Summer. That would actually be a mistake in today’s market.

It just means if you’re looking to get as much for your house as you reasonably can, a Summer move could be a smarter play than waiting until later this year. 

Because based on typical seasonality, you may get more for your house than you would if you waited until the Fall or Winter (when there are typically fewer buyers active).

And if you're considering a move anyway, that’s worth factoring in.

A lot of people who want to move are telling themselves the same thing: "Maybe I'll just wait until later this year once things calm down."

Could waiting until later this year work out? Sure. But it's important to understand what you may gain by moving now too – that way you have the full picture before you decide.

If a 2026 move is on your radar, talk to an agent about what matters most to you. Depending on your priorities, Summer could be your moment.

The housing market hasn’t rebounded as quickly as experts originally hoped. But that doesn’t mean it’s stalled.

Higher inflation and lingering economic uncertainty caused economists to revise their forecasts for this year. But importantly, when those two things settle down, many experts believe the market will regain its momentum.

So don’t see this revision in forecasts as a sign of trouble. See it as a temporary reaction to overall conditions and uncertainty.

If you want to know what’s happening in our local market, and what it could mean for your plans for the rest of this year, let’s connect.

If the housing market feels confusing right now, you’re not alone.

Mortgage rates have risen. Home sales haven't picked up like expected. And many buyers and sellers are wondering when things are going to feel easier or be more affordable.

The truth is: a lot changed over the first half of this year.

Back at the end of 2025, economists were forecasting a much stronger housing market for 2026. They expected mortgage rates to come down, affordability to improve more dramatically, and home sales to rebound.

But lingering inflation, economic uncertainty, and growing geopolitical tensions overseas pushed mortgage rates higher than expected. And because rates stayed elevated for longer, many buyers continued to hold off.

That’s why experts recently revised their housing forecasts for the rest of the year (see graph below):

So, what does this actually mean for you? Let’s break it down.

Mortgage Rates May Remain Elevated

While just about everyone wants mortgage rates to go back to the uppers 5s or low 6s we saw at the start of the year, as of right now, the experts don’t think that’s likely to happen this year.

Instead, forecasts have been updated from the low 6s they originally projected. Many industry organizations are saying rates will stay in roughly the mid 6s this year. The good news is, that’s still lower than rates were a year ago.

Of course, this is based on what we know today. If the conflict overseas comes to an end or inflation drops, this could change. But if you’re waiting for lower rates, it may not pay off in the way you expect.

Existing Home Sales Revised Lower

Back in late 2025, experts expected we’d sell an average of 4.5 million homes this year. Now? That’s dropped down a bit to 4.2 million.

That tells us something important: buyers are still hesitant because affordability remains challenging.

Higher mortgage rates have made monthly payments harder to manage, especially for first-time buyers. And that’s slowed the pace of the market compared to what was originally expected. But even though the forecast was revised down, we’re still expected to sell more homes than last year. 

Once geopolitical tensions resolve and rates begin to settle down, many experts believe that group of buyers will be ready to jump back in. As Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at NAR, explains:

“There is sizable pent-up demand that could be released into the market.”

There has already been a few glimmers of renewed hope lately. In recent months, pending homes sale have been improving month-over-month despite higher rates.

So, if you’re able to afford a home at today’s rates, it could still make sense to buy now. Because otherwise, if you wait, you’ll have more competition (and potentially fewer homes to choose from) when those others buyers jump back in.

New Home Sales Also Slowed

Builders also expected to have a stronger year. Earlier forecasts projected new home sales would top 700k in 2026. Now, economists expect we'll be just shy of that number.

Again, mortgage rates are a major reason why.

But the upside for buyers is that builders may be even more motivated to sell. That means builder incentives, negotiation opportunities, and pricing flexibility may continue in many markets. So, if you live somewhere where there’s more new construction, this may actually be a bright spot for you.

Builders could be more ready to negotiate, and that gives you more leverage to get a better deal.

Home Prices Are Still Expected To Rise

This is one of the most important takeaways from the entire forecast. Even though sales activity is slower, on average, experts did not revise their home price forecast downward.

They still expect prices to rise nationally this year.

Why? Because while buyer demand has softened, the number of homes for sale is still relatively limited overall. That imbalance is helping support prices, even in a slower market.

Of course, conditions vary depending on where you live. Some markets are cooling more than others. But nationally, experts are still projecting steady price growth — not a major decline. And that should be a comfort whether you’re buying or selling.

Because sellers don’t want a major drop in prices. And while buyers may think they do, generally you feel better about a big purchase when it doesn’t depreciate right away.

If the housing market feels confusing right now, you’re not alone.

The housing market hasn’t rebounded as quickly as experts originally hoped. But that doesn’t mean it’s stalled.

Higher inflation and lingering economic uncertainty caused economists to revise their forecasts for this year. But importantly, when those two things settle down, many experts believe the market will regain its momentum.

So don’t see this revision in forecasts as a sign of trouble. See it as a temporary reaction to overall conditions and uncertainty.

If you want to know what’s happening in your local market, and what it could mean for your plans for the rest of this year, talk to a local agent.

Yes, rates have been volatile, and global instability is keeping them from settling down anytime soon. There’s no sugar coating that. But the full picture of affordability is more nuanced than the headlines suggest.

Want to run the real numbers for your situation? Let's talk. Reach out and let's set up a quick, no-pressure conversation.

Let's be real with each other for a second about affordability. Because you deserve someone who will be honest and transparent about what’s going on, especially if you’ve got a move on your mind.

Here’s the full picture of what’s happening and why. The good – and the bad. So, you know what it truly means for your move. Because while rates are certainly a big part of affordability, they’re not the only factor at play.

Mortgage Rates Have Been Rising

After a year or more of rates trending down, they’ve started to climb again. And, if you’re looking to buy, that’s not what you want to see. But it has happened. And here’s why.

Uncertainty is the enemy of mortgage rates.

And with lingering global uncertainty, ongoing tensions in the Middle East, and inflation refusing to fully cool off, there’s a lot that’s having an effect on rates. Colin Robertson, Founder of The Truth About Mortgage, put it plainly:

"You can't have $100 a barrel oil and not expect inflation to rise, which translates to higher bond yields and mortgage rates."

Take a look at the graph below. It uses data from Mortgage News Daily to show just how much all of those factors have had an impact:

It’s a pretty sharp contrast from where we’ve been, in a relatively short window. And it's probably making you wonder: Should I just wait this out? Will rates fall when the uncertainty eases?

It's possible. But it all depends on how the ongoing geopolitical conflict plays out and whether inflation continues to run hot afterwards – and for how long.

Rates probably aren't heading down until both of those things improve. And even when that does happen, experts agree rates likely won’t be dramatically lower – maybe in the low to mid-6s. That's the reality, and it's worth knowing.

So, should you wait for lower rates? The general consensus is, if you can afford to buy and you find a home you like, it’s still worth it. Because no one knows for sure when rates will start to come back down – and how long do you really want to put your life on hold?

Wages Are Outpacing Home Prices

You've probably heard that inflation is making everything more expensive, and there's no shortage of headlines about the cost-of-living outpacing paychecks. It's a legitimate concern. And maybe you’re feeling the pinch yourself. But here's what doesn't make the headlines. It's not all bad news.

Data from the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta and Redfin shows wages have actually been growing faster than home prices.

• Recently, wages have been increasing at around 4% year-over-year. 

• And home price growth is closer to 2% year-over-year.

As a buyer, you want your income to rise faster than prices because that helps make your purchase more manageable financially, and it quietly chips away at the affordability challenge over time. That’s exactly what we’re seeing lately. And every little bit is going to help.

A big reason wages have been gaining ground on home prices? Home prices have actually stayed pretty steady.

Existing Home Prices Have Held Steady

Check out the graph below. It shows home price data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) over the past 4 years. Notice anything? There's been no dramatic runup, and no crash either. Just relative stability and slow growth:

Part of what's keeping prices this stable is that buyers finally have more choices. That means less competition, more negotiating power, and more time to find the home that actually fits your life, not just the one you had to grab before someone else did.

And that gives you a chance to hopefully find something that works for your budget, even with today’s rates. At the same time, you're not losing ground pricewise while you take time to make a careful decision.

Let's be real with each other for a second about affordability.

Yes, rates have been volatile, and global instability is keeping them from settling down anytime soon. There’s no sugarcoating that. But the full picture of affordability is more nuanced than the headlines suggest.

Want to run the real numbers for your situation? Talk with a local real estate agent. They'd love to show you what's actually possible in today's market. Reach out to set up a quick, no-pressure conversation.

Foreclosure filings may be rising, but they're still low. And the equity most homeowners are sitting on today is a key reason this looks nothing like 2008.

You've probably seen the headlines saying, "foreclosures are on the rise,” and maybe your mind jumped straight to 2008. That’s understandable. A lot of people remember that crash and all the foreclosures that happened during that window, and they’re hoping something like that never happens again. 

But this isn’t a repeat of what happened back then. Here’s the context to prove it.

Foreclosures Are Rising, But They’re Still Historically Low

Yes, foreclosure filings are up 26% from a year ago, according to ATTOM. And they’ve been rising for 5 straight quarters. That's a real trend worth paying attention to. But the full picture isn’t scary like the headlines suggest.

The reality is the increase we’re seeing is a sign of the market normalizing.

Here's an important thing to know about this chart. The extremely low numbers you see in 2020 and 2021 don't represent what's "normal." That's when the government put a moratorium on foreclosures to help homeowners get through the pandemic. Those years were an exception, not the baseline.

Instead, compare where we are today to 2017, 2018, and 2019 – the last years the market was running normally. Today's numbers are still lower. So, we're not even back to what's typical, yet. That means this can’t be a crash. (see graph below):

While today's numbers are getting closer to pre-pandemic levels, they're still below historical norms. And just look at what was happening around 2008. Even with the recent increase, we're nowhere near those levels. This is a market returning to normal, not heading toward a crisis.

Why Today’s Equity Picture Changes Everything

Most of those filings won't even end in a completed foreclosure. That's because today's homeowners have something most people in 2008 simply didn't have. And that’s equity.

The average homeowner today is sitting on roughly $295,000 in home equity right now, according to Cotality. Back in 2008, many people owed more than their homes were worth. Selling wasn't an option. And foreclosure was often the only door available.

Today, that's not the case. If you have enough equity to cover what you owe and the cost of selling, you could sell your home, pay off your debt, protect your credit, and potentially walk away with money in your pocket.

That's a completely different situation than what homeowners faced during the last crash, and it's a big reason we're unlikely to see foreclosures spiral the way they did back then.

Check out the graph below. It shows foreclosure data from ATTOM going back to 2005. Here's how to read it:

• The yellow line tracks all foreclosure filings.
• The orange line tracks foreclosure starts, meaning the process has officially begun.
• And the red line at the bottom tracks completed foreclosures (the ones where a homeowner actually lost their home).

See how the red line stays well below the other two? That gap tells the real story. A lot of homeowners who enter the foreclosure process never end up losing their home because they find another way forward first.

Today’s equity is a big reason for that. So, even the filings we are seeing now won’t all end in foreclosure.

If You’re Struggling, You Have More Options Than You Think

Maybe you're behind on payments. Maybe you're stressed about what comes next. That's an incredibly hard place to be, but it's important to know that missing a payment or two doesn't automatically mean you'll lose your home.

Banks would much rather work with you than foreclose. It's a complicated, costly process for them, too. They're often willing to set up a repayment plan, offer forbearance (a temporary pause or reduction in your payments), or modify your loan to make things more manageable long-term.

Just know the sooner you reach out to your lender, the more options you'll have. In some states (ones that don't require the foreclosure process to go through a court) things can move faster than people expect. Getting ahead of it early gives you and your lender the most room to find a solution. 

And if selling makes more sense for your situation, a real estate agent can help you understand what your home is worth and whether that's a path worth exploring.

You've probably seen the headlines saying, "foreclosures are on the rise,” and maybe your mind jumped straight to 2008.

Foreclosure filings may be rising, but they're still low. And the equity most homeowners are sitting on today is a key reason this looks nothing like 2008.

Affordability challenges are real, but they don't have to mean waiting indefinitely. Co-buying is helping some first-time buyers stop waiting and start putting down roots.

If you're curious whether it could work for your situation, let's talk. Reach out today and let's figure out your path to homeownership together.

For a lot of would-be first-time buyers, affordability is the thing that’s standing in the way. But some buyers are getting creative and finding a way to still make the numbers work – and that’s through co-buying.

The Dream Is Still Alive. The Math Just Isn’t Working for Everyone.

Young people haven’t given up on the dream of owning a home – not even close. According to FirstHome IQ, homeownership still ranks among the top life goals for the next generation.

The problem? 73% of Gen Z and millennial buyers cite affordability as the reason for not making homeownership a priority. And it shows. First-time buyers now make up just 21% of all home purchases, the lowest share since the National Association of Realtors (NAR) started tracking the data in 1981.

But still, some buyers are making it happen. And a portion of them are turning to co-buying to get their foot in the door.

So, What’s Co-Buying?

Co-buying means purchasing a home with someone else, like a friend, sibling, or unmarried partner. You combine incomes, split the down payment, and share monthly costs. For some people, it’s a creative way to turn “someday” into a concrete move-in date that’s just around the corner.

And it's catching on fast, just look at where things stand today. According to CoBuy.io, 64 million Americans now co-own a home with someone they’re not married to. In fact, 31.5% of home purchases involve co-buyers (see graph below):

Why It Works

Here are just a few of the top reasons buyers are going this route, according to NerdWallet:

• Quicker path to homeownership: If owning a home is a serious goal for you, buying with someone else can help make that reality on a shorter timeline. Two or more people can save up a down payment a lot faster than one. That’s less time waiting and more time building equity in a place that’s yours.

• More purchasing power: With multiple incomes going toward the home purchase, you might be able to afford a nicer home or live in a more popular neighborhood. Sometimes teaming up means getting the home you actually want, not just the one you can barely afford on your own.

• Easier loan qualification: Added income from more than one buyer can also help with your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio, which the lender will calculate based on all the borrowers.

• Lower housing costs: Splitting up a mortgage payment multiple ways could maybe even make owning less expensive than renting. Plus, sharing costs can make repairs or renovations more manageable, too.

Things To Keep in Mind

If you’re considering going this route, there are some things you’ll want to think over. For starters, co-buying works best with people you trust and share financial goals with. So, before moving forward, make sure everyone agrees on how costs are split, who handles what, and what happens if one person wants to sell down the road.

That’s why a written co-ownership agreement can be a smart move. It keeps everyone on the same page and helps avoid headaches down the line. Think of it less like a legal formality and more like a game plan for your new investment.

For a lot of would-be first-time buyers, affordability is the thing that’s standing in the way.

Affordability challenges are real, but they don't have to mean waiting indefinitely. Co-buying is helping some first-time buyers stop waiting and start putting down roots.

If you're curious whether it could work for your situation, talk with a local real estate agent. Reach out today and figure out your path to homeownership together.

Zillow says the best time to list your house is just around the corner. Are you ready to make the most of it?

If you want to take advantage of this Spring sweet spot and get top dollar for your house, let’s talk about what you need to do now to get ready to hit the market.

You may have heard April 12-18 was the “best week” to list your house. That’s based on a report from Realtor.com. But now that it’s passed, you may be wondering if you missed your moment.

Here's the good news – you didn’t. 

Because the reality is, there isn’t just one perfect week to sell your house this Spring. There’s a window. And right now, you’re still in it.

Your Window To Sell Is Still Wide Open

Here’s why. Different organizations run studies like this every year. And they don’t always land on the exact same week. That’s okay. It’s because they're using different research methods and even different definitions of what “best” means.

But the fact that the results vary points to a larger trend. While there may be sweet spots, the entire Spring season gives sellers an opportunity to get some of the best conditions (and best sales prices) of the year.

And it’s definitely not too late to jump in.

Why Listing in Late May Is the Perfect Play

According to Zillow, the best time to list your house this year is the last 2 weeks of May. And that’s approaching fast.

Based on their analysis, this is the ideal time to do it if you want to make top dollar. Because, in this 2-week window, homes sell for more. Sometimes, quite a bit more.

Depending on where you are and the price point in your area, some homeowners may even net tens of thousands of dollars extra in this sweet spot. As Zillow explains:

“Why late spring? Buyer demand typically peaks before Memorial Day. Families want to move during the summer and settle in before the new school year. More buyers shopping at once can spark competition and lift prices.”

And they’re not the only ones saying listing in May could be the key to selling for more. ATTOM Data analyzed almost 52 million home sales over the past 10 years and found sellers in May are achieving some of the highest returns.

That means the ideal window this year is very much still open.

What This Means for You 

If your goal is to sell for the strongest possible price, this is where timing and strategy come together. And you want to be sure you’re ready to make the most of it.

So, what should you be doing right now?

When prepping for a fast-moving window like this, you don’t want to waste time or money on the wrong prep work. And your agent is your go-to to make sure you’re focusing on the right things.

They’ll be able to tell you if the “best week” is slightly different in your market. And what quick repairs or updates can help you get a higher price, without taking a ton of time or effort.

Here's a quick example of things an agent may recommend based on information from Redfin:

At the end of the day, when your prep time’s short, doing the right things matters more than doing more things.

You may have heard April 12-18 was the “best week” to list your house.

Zillow says the best time to list your house is just around the corner. Are you ready to make the most of it?

If you want to take advantage of this Spring sweet spot and get top dollar for your house, talk to a local agent about what you need to do now to get ready to hit the market.

If buying a home is on your radar this year, don’t overlook your tax refund. It could be the extra push that helps you go from almost there to actually ready.

Want to see how far your savings could take you right now? Let’s talk and build a plan that fits your situation.

If you’re getting a tax refund this year, here’s something worth thinking about. That money could actually help you get closer to buying a home.

It may not be something you’ve factored into your plan yet, but it can give your savings a nice boost right when you need it most. And whether your refund is a few thousand dollars or more, there are some smart ways to put that money to work as you get ready to buy.

Your Refund May Be Even Bigger This Year

Let’s start with the good news. People are getting even more money back in their refunds than they did last year. The visual below uses data from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to show the average individual’s refund is 11.1% higher this year:

Of course, your exact refund will vary. But any extra money you get is a good thing, especially when affordability is still tight. 

How You Can Use Your Tax Refund

So, how can you put that money to work? Here are a few smart ways to use your refund when buying a home, according to Freddie Mac:

• Put it toward your down payment. Data shows saving for a down payment is one of the biggest hurdles for first-time homebuyers. Using your refund can help you build that up faster. And the good news? You may not need to put as much down as you think.

• Use it for your closing costs. Closing costs usually range from about 2% to 5% of the home’s purchase price. Using your refund here can make things feel a lot more manageable on closing day.

• Lower your mortgage rate. You may have the option to buy down your mortgage rate. That means paying a little more upfront to get a lower monthly payment. If you’re looking for ways to make the numbers work a little better, this is something that could be worth asking about.

You Don’t Have To Figure This Out Alone

If you have a tax refund coming, it’s a great time to take another look at your homebuying savings. Maybe you’re almost at your goal and you can buy sooner than you expected.

A trusted real estate agent and lender can help you map out what you need, what your options are, and how to make the most of what you already have, including your tax refund.

If you’re getting a tax refund this year, here’s something worth thinking about.

If buying a home is on your radar this year, don’t overlook your tax refund. It could be the extra push that helps you go from almost there to actually ready.

Want to see how far your savings could take you right now? Talk with a local real estate agent and build a plan that fits your situation.

Getting your house on the market in mid-April may give you an extra edge, but the bigger opportunity is the Spring season as a whole. The real question is:

Do you know what you need to do before you can list?

Because it’s officially go-time for any seller planning a Spring move.

If you want your house to hit the market this week (or even this season), let’s talk about what it’ll take to get it ready.

While the Spring season consistently offers up some of the best conditions for home sellers, Realtor.com says there’s one window where the stars really seem to align year after year. And it’s coming up fast.

Based on their analysis of historical trends, the ideal week to put your house on the market this year is: April 12–18.

And here’s why this window stands out as being particularly seller-friendly:

• Buyers Are More Active. According to the research coming out of Realtor.com, homes listed during this week typically get about 16.7% more views than in a normal week. And in a market where buyers have options, getting that extra attention can set the tone for your entire sale.
• Sales Happen Faster. Realtor.com also explains the added demand from buyers sets you up for a faster process. While homes have been taking longer to sell lately, homes up for sale this week were on the market for 17% less time than usual. And that’s a difference you’ll be able to feel.
• A Better Price for Your House. Since the number of homes for sale has grown, it’s normal for buyers to ask for credits, repairs, and price adjustments today. But, during this early Spring window, about 18.9% fewer homes do a price cut. That gives you a better chance of getting your full asking price.
• More Profit in Your Pocket. According to the study, well-prepped homes listed this week can command a price that’s about $5,300 more than the average week (and $26,000 more than homes at the start of the year).

And what seller doesn’t want more eyes on their house, getting an offer in hand sooner (rather than later), and their best shot at selling for top dollar?

What You Need To Do To Get Ready

If you’re already thinking about selling and you want to take advantage of this sweet spot, your next step is shockingly simple. Just talk to a local agent.

Their expertise on your area is going to be key over the next few weeks. Because these trends are going to vary by state, city, and even neighborhood. And your agent will use that insider knowledge to help you figure out what you need to do now to get your house ready. Including:

• What you’ll want to spruce up before listing
• How to prioritize any repairs (and contractors that can help)
• Quick wins that’ll have a big impact
• What buyers care most about today

For some sellers, that’s a few easy fixes they can knock out in the next couple of weeks. A fresh coat of paint. Some new mulch. Or some light Spring cleaning.

For others, it’s worth taking another month or so to make some minor updates before listing. And that’s okay. Because while this mid-April window may give sellers an advantage, it’s not your only opportunity to sell.

Zillow says the best time to list is in May. And that means the golden window for sellers isn’t closing after this one week. It’s open all season long.

While the Spring season consistently offers up some of the best conditions for home sellers, Realtor.com says there’s one window where the stars really seem to align year after year. And it’s coming up fast.

Getting your house on the market in mid-April may give you an extra edge, but the bigger opportunity is the Spring season as a whole. The real question is:

Do you know what you need to do before you can list?

Because it’s officially go-time for any seller planning a Spring move.

If you want your house to hit the market this week (or even this season), talk to a local agent about what it’ll take to get it ready.

Spring doesn’t guarantee a sale. Strategy still matters. But this season gives you something valuable: momentum.

More buyers. More activity. More opportunity.

The real question is: if you’re going to sell this year, why not do it when the odds are in your favor?

Let’s talk about what selling this season could mean for your house and your timeline.

Homeowners looking to sell usually want three things: plenty of interested buyers, strong offers, and a short timeline. Spring is the season that most often delivers all three.

So, if a move has been on your mind this year, this is the window where momentum tends to work in your favor. Here’s what makes this season so powerful for sellers.

1. More Buyers Will Be Looking

Typically speaking, in the housing market, there’s no more popular time to move than the Spring. Historically, data coming out of ShowingTime proves that’s when buyer activity peaks each year. Take a look for yourself (see graph below):

And this year, there’s more than just the seasonal trend working in your favor. Mortgage rates are also sitting near 3-year lows – and that combination matters.

More buyers + improving affordability = more eyes on your house.

That doesn’t mean the market will return to the frenzy of the pandemic – far from it. But it does mean more buyers will be ready to re-enter the market. And that’s good for you. As Redfin says:

“Homebuying demand is improving . . . and mortgage-purchase applications are sitting near their highest level in three years. . ."

You should make sure your house is listed so you can take advantage of the uptick in demand. Because more activity means one thing: more opportunity to get a deal done.

2. You May Get More Offers

With more buyer demand, it makes sense that you may get more offers on your house. And history shows that’s usually true.

If we look at the data for the last three years from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), and take the averages for each month, it’s clear sellers in the Spring get more offers (see graph below):

Now, don’t expect the excessive bidding wars that were so famous in 2020 and 2021. But it does mean, seasonality could help you out this Spring. As Realtor.com explains:

“Spring typically brings out more buyers who are ready to make a move before summer. Listings see more views, showings, and offers during this season.”

And that could be really good for your bottom line.

3. Homes Usually Sell Faster

There’s one more predictable pattern that happens pretty much every Spring based on research from Realtor.com. Homes sell faster (see graph below):

On average, homes sell 20 days faster in the Spring compared to the Winter. That’s almost 3 weeks shaved off your timeline. And that's a difference you can feel.

Since homes have been taking longer to sell lately, listing your house during what’s usually the most active time of the year means you’re setting yourself up to move as quickly as possible. And isn’t that what sellers really want?

The faster your home sells, the earlier you can move on to what’s next for you.

If you’re eager to go on to your next chapter, need to downsize, or you’ve run out of space, Spring may be your best time to sell. 

Homeowners looking to sell usually want three things: plenty of interested buyers, strong offers, and a short timeline. Spring is the season that most often delivers all three.

Spring doesn’t guarantee a sale. Strategy still matters. But this season gives you something valuable: momentum.

More buyers. More activity. More opportunity.

The real question is: if you’re going to sell this year, why not do it when the odds are in your favor?

Talk to an agent about what selling this season could mean for your house and your timeline.

The sellers who succeed in this market aren’t doing anything extreme. They’re pricing their house right, making strategic repairs, getting local guidance, and making decisions based on how buyers actually behave today. Those small but mighty mindset shifts could make or break your sale.

Want a real plan tailored to your home and your neighborhood? Let’s talk.

Let’s be clear: selling your house is absolutely possible right now. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), roughly 11k homes sell every day in this country.

And the sellers who are making their moves happen all have one thing in common: they’ve adjusted their strategy to match today’s market. They’re realizing inventory has grown. Homebuyers are more selective. And buyer expectations are higher.

The sellers who struggle are usually approaching today’s market with yesterday’s expectations. Here are the three biggest mistakes they're making – and how to avoid them.

1. Pricing Based on What Their Neighbor Got a Few Years Back

Setting your price is the most important decision you make when you sell – and the one that’s most often mishandled. Realtor.com data shows almost 1 out of 5 sellers in 2025 had to drop their price. Here’s what those sellers went wrong.

Buyers have more choice and more negotiating power now that inventory has grown. And house hunters will actively avoid your house is if feels like it’s priced too high. That's why overpricing usually leads to:

• Fewer showings
• Less competitive (or lowball) offers
• Longer time on market

And all three of those side effects are things you don’t want to deal with.

What To Do Instead: The good news is the cure is simple. Just price for today’s buyer, not yesterday’s headlines. Lean on your agent’s knowledge of recent comparable sales, current competition, and local buyer behavior to land in the value “sweet spot” that drives traffic and urgency from day one.

2. Trying To Skip Repairs That Buyers Now Expect

A few years ago, you could sell as-is and still get well above asking. Today? Not so much. Right now, NAR says two-thirds of sellers are making at least some repairs.

And the reason why is simple. In a market with more inventory, buyers compare homes side by side. Homes that don't show well (or feel dated) are going to lose attention quickly, even if the issues are minor. 

What To Do Instead: Ask your agent which high-impact, low-stress updates they’d recommend for your house. The goal isn’t perfection. It’s helping buyers see themselves moving in without a mental to-do list. Small investments in staging, repairs, and curb appeal can make a huge difference in how quickly offers come in – and how strong those offers are.

3. Playing Hardball When Buyers Try To Negotiate

Today’s buyers have housing affordability at the top of their minds. And since money is already tight, they’ll be pickier and will probably ask for some compromises from you. Whether that’s making repairs, giving them a credit at closing, or taking just a few thousand dollars off your asking price, negotiating is normal again.

So, if something pops up in the inspection, you’re going to need to be open to talking about it. If you’re not, you may very well see your buyer walk away. And some sellers are figuring this out the hard way. Redfin data shows one of the big reasons home sales fell thru in 2025 was inspection or repair issues. Odds are those homeowners weren’t willing to flex a bit to get the deal done.

What to Do Instead: Meet with your agent to make sure you understand what buyers in your area care the most about. Align your price with value, present the home clearly and confidently, and stay open to reasonable negotiations that keep deals moving forward.

Let’s be clear: selling your house is absolutely possible right now. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), roughly 11k homes sell every day in this country.

The sellers who succeed in this market aren’t doing anything extreme. They’re pricing their house right, making strategic repairs, getting local guidance, and making decisions based on how buyers actually behave today. Those small but mighty mindset shifts could make or break your sale.

Want a real plan tailored to your home and your neighborhood? Talk to a local agent.

While online tools can give you a rough starting point, only a local expert can give you a price that actually works.

If you want to know the right number for your house, not just the easiest one to find, let’s talk.

There’s one decision you're going to make when you sell that determines whether your house sells quickly, or it sits. Whether buyers make an offer, or scroll past it. Whether you walk away with the maximum return, or you end up cutting the price later.

And that’s your asking price.

The #1 Mistake Sellers Make Today: Trusting the Wrong Number

If you’re thinking of moving and trying to figure out what your house may sell for, it’s tempting to start with an online home value tool. They’re fast, free, and easy. And you don’t have to talk to anyone. But here’s the problem: they don’t know your house.

And that can be a bigger drawback than you realize.

Where Online Estimates Fall Short 

Online tools often lag behind the market. They look in the rearview mirror, relying on closed sales and delayed information. And in that sense, they’re using incomplete data.

That’s not a miss in how these systems are built. Some information just isn’t available online. Bankrate explains:

“While these tools can be a useful starting point, keep in mind that they typically do not provide the most accurate pricing. Algorithms can only rely on the information available; they can’t account for things like a home’s condition or renovations made since the last public information was updated.”

They can’t see:

• The unique features that make your house special
• All the work you’ve put in to keep it in good condition
• Or, how in-demand your specific neighborhood is right now

So, while they may do a good job in some cases, they can’t be as accurate as a local agent who has boots on the ground day in and day out.

In a market where buyers have more options, a seemingly small margin of error can cost you thousands if you price too low, or weeks of lost momentum and time if you price too high.

If you want to sell for the most money and in the least amount of time, you don’t want the fast answer on how to price your house. You want the right one.

That’s why the savviest homeowners today don’t rely on algorithms when it actually matters. They rely on people, specifically trusted local agents.

What an Expert Agent Brings to the Table

According to 1000WATT, sellers overwhelmingly believe real estate agents have the best sense of a home’s true value, far more than any automated tools.

That confidence isn’t accidental. As Bankrate puts it:

“A professional appraiser or real estate agent can visit the home in person, assess the neighborhood as a whole as well as the individual property, perform more thorough market research, and consider subjective details.”

And those details matter. A skilled local agent doesn’t just pull reports. They know what’s happening right now:

• What buyers are paying this month, not last month, or even last year
• How your home compares to the current competition in your neighborhood
• Which features add value based on what buyers are willing to pay for today
• How to price your house to create urgency in this market

And once an agent steps foot in your house, they may even find your online estimate undershot your value. So, if you stuck with the estimate you got online, you’d actually be leaving money on the table. And no one wants that.

There’s one decision you're going to make when you sell that determines whether your house sells quickly, or it sits.

While online tools can give you a rough starting point, only a local expert can give you a price that actually works.

If you want to know the right number for your house, not just the easiest one to find, connect with a local real estate agent.

Your home equity is one of the biggest financial assets you have. Whether you’re thinking about moving, remodeling, or working toward a big goal, it’s worth exploring your options. Reach out to a financial advisor to learn more.

What’s one goal you have that you'd go after right now, if you had the funds for it?

You may have heard homeowners today have a lot of equity built up. But what does that really mean? Let’s break it down.

Because your equity isn’t just a number, it’s a powerful asset that can help you take your next big step in life.

How Much Equity Does the Typical Homeowner Have?

Here’s how it works. As you pay down your loan and home prices rise through the years, the share of your home that you own free and clear grows. That’s your equity.

And according to data from the Census and ATTOM, two-thirds of homeowners have a substantial amount of it today.

39% own their home outright without owing anything on it. And another 27% have at least 50% equity in their homes (see chart below):

That’s a big deal. And just in case you’re wondering how that translates into real dollars, Cotality says the typical homeowner has almost $300k in equity today. That’s six figures.

And whether you have that much, even more, or a bit less, here are a few examples of how you can use it. 

Ways You Could Use Your Home Equity

1. Move Into a Home That Better Fits Your Life

Your needs change over time. Maybe your home is starting to feel cramped, or maybe you have more space than you need now that your adult children have moved out. Either way, you can use your equity as a down payment on a home that’s a better fit for what you need now, and going forward. You may even have enough equity to buy your next house in cash.

2. Upgrade Your Current Home

And if you’re not ready to move just yet, you could reinvest it in your current home instead. Renovations like a kitchen refresh or updated bathrooms could add value when it’s time to sell down the line. Just be sure to talk to a real estate agent before you tackle your project list, so you can prioritize updates that’ll give you the biggest return later on.

3. Fund a Major Life Goal

Equity can also help fund your life goals – whether it’s starting a business, saving for retirement, covering education costs, or helping out someone you love. Some homeowners are even passing down some of that wealth to help fund a loved one's down payment on a home.

4. Avoid Foreclosure in Tough Times

If you’re struggling with payments, your equity can also be a lifeline. Many homeowners who hit financial hardships can sell their homes and walk away with money in their pockets instead of facing foreclosure. If that’s something on your mind, talk to a real estate expert about your options and how your equity can help. 

Your Next Steps

If you’re interested in using your equity for one of the reasons above, here’s what to do:

• Step 1: Ask a local agent for a personalized equity assessment on your home.
• Step 2: Meet with a financial advisor if you’re interested in using that equity.

Because when it comes to tapping into this resource, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind – like making sure you still have a good loan-to-value ratio (LTV) even if you use some of your equity.

That means, as a general rule of thumb, you want to maintain at least 20% equity in your home as a financial cushion – something many homeowners didn’t know back in the crash of 2008.

The good news is, according to the Intercontinental Exchange, most of today’s equity meets that guideline:

“As of Q4, mortgage holders have $17.3T in home equity, including $11.2T in tappable equity ‒ accessible via cash-out refinances or home equity lines while maintaining 20% equity in the property . . . ”

You may have heard homeowners today have a lot of equity built up. But what does that really mean? Let’s break it down.

Your home equity is one of the biggest financial assets you have. Whether you’re thinking about moving, remodeling, or working toward a big goal, it’s worth exploring your options. Reach out to a financial advisor to learn more.

What’s one goal you have that you'd go after right now, if you had the funds for it?