Stephanie Brock • Associate Broker • Samson Properties • Steph Sells Nova

How Growing Inventory Benefits Today's Buyers

While the number of homes for sale varies by local area, nationally we’re up over 36% year-over-year, but still down almost 29% compared to what’s normal. Here’s what that means when you buy: more options for your search, more negotiation power for you, it’s more likely sellers will make select repairs, and more moderate price growth. If you want to talk more about what rising inventory means for you, let’s connect.

How Growing Inventory Benefits Today's Buyers While the number of homes for sale varies by local area, nationally we’re up over 36% year-over-year, but still down almost 29% compared to what’s normal.

Today’s Biggest Housing Market Myths

Have you ever heard the phrase: don’t believe everything you hear? There’s a lot of misinformation out there. And right now, making sure you have someone you can go to for trustworthy information is extra important.

1. I’ll Get a Better Deal Once Prices Crash

If you’ve heard home prices are going to come crashing down, it’s time to look at what’s actually happening. While prices vary by local market, there’s a lot of data out there from numerous sources that shows a crash is not going to happen. So, if you think waiting will score you a deal, know that data shows there’s not a crash on the horizon, and waiting isn’t going to pay off the way you’d hoped.

2. I Won’t Be Able To Find Anything To Buy

If this nagging fear about finding the right home if you move is still holding you back, you probably haven’t talked with an expert real estate agent lately. Throughout the year, the supply of homes for sale has...

Today’s Biggest Housing Market Myths Have you ever heard the phrase: don’t believe everything you hear?

After applying for an FHA is not a good time to apply for other credit. Find out why.

Why You Shouldn't Apply For An FHA Home Loan & Other Credit At The Same Time Plenty of websites, books, and financial podcasts warn about managing your credit properly during the home loan application process.

The Number One Mistake Sellers Are Making: Overpricing Their House

In today's housing market, many sellers are making a critical mistake: overpricing their houses. This common error can lead to a home sitting on the market for a long time without any offers. And when that happens, the homeowner may have to drop their asking price to try to re-ignite buyer interest.

If you’re thinking about making a move yourself, here’s what you need to know. The best way to avoid making a costly mistake is to work with a trusted real estate agent to find the right price. Here’s a look at what’s at stake if you don’t.

Not Paying Attention To Current Market Conditions

Understanding current market conditions is key to accurate pricing.

Real estate agents stay updated on market trends and how they impact the pricing strategy for your house.

Pricing It Based on What You Want To Make (Not What It’s Worth)

Another misstep is pricing it based on what you want to...

The Number One Mistake Sellers Are Making: Overpricing Their House In today's housing market, many sellers are making a critical mistake: overpricing their houses.

How To Choose a Great Local Real Estate Agent

Selecting the right real estate agent can make a world of difference when buying or selling a home. But how do you find the best one? Here are some tips to help you make that big decision as you determine your partner in the process.

Check Their Reputation

Start by gathering information about agents in your area. From there, try to narrow down the list. Ask the people you trust if they have someone they’d recommend. You’ll want to find an agent with a strong online presence, plenty of positive reviews, and someone whose great reputation truly precedes them.

Look for Local Market Expertise

A great agent should have in-depth knowledge of what’s happening at the national and local level. That way they can clear up any misconceptions sparked by what you’re reading or hearing in the news.

Get a Feel for Their Communication Style and Availability

Effective communication is key in real estate transactions...

How To Choose a Great Local Real Estate Agent Selecting the right real estate agent can make a world of difference when buying or selling a home.

Don't let the task of your home with kids in mind intimidate you. These tips are here to help.

How to organize a home with kids in mind – 10 ways to contain the chaos Organizing a home with kids in mind will save you time, effort and a lot of frustration, take it from us. Here’s how the pros do it.

How Mortgage Rate Changes Impact Your Homebuying Power

If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home, you’ve probably got mortgage rates on your mind. That’s because you’ve likely heard that mortgage rates impact how much you can afford in your monthly mortgage payment, and you want to factor that into your planning. Here’s what you need to know.

What’s Happening with Mortgage Rates?

Mortgage rates have been trending down recently. While that’s good news for your homebuying plans, it’s important to know that rates can be unpredictable because they’re affected by many factors.

Things like the economy, job market, inflation, and decisions made by the Federal Reserve all play a part. So, even as rates go down, they can still bounce around a bit based on new economic data. As Odeta Kushi, Deputy Chief Economist at First American, says: “The ongoing deceleration in inflation, coupled with the Federal Reserve’s recent indication of potential rate...

How Mortgage Rate Changes Impact Your Homebuying Power If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home, you’ve probably got mortgage rates on your mind.

There's something special about mountain houses. This one proves it.

Mountain House: Elevating Alpine Aesthetics in the Pyrenees Mountain House in Vielha e Mijaran, Spain, by Veronica Mimoun Studio - A modern, ski-in/ski-out home with stunning Aran Valley views and luxurious amenities.

3 Reasons To Move in Today’s Shifting Market

The housing market is in a transition. And that gives you 3 key opportunities going into the fall. There are more homes actively for sale. Builders are motivated to sell, so a newly built home may be more achievable than you think. And mortgage rates have come down from their recent peak. If you’re ready and able to buy, you may find the housing market this fall a bit easier to navigate. Let’s connect to get started.

3 Reasons To Move in Today’s Shifting Market The housing market is in a transition. And that gives you 3 key opportunities going into the fall.

What Credit Score Do You Really Need To Buy a House?

When you're thinking about buying a home, your credit score is one of the biggest pieces of the puzzle. Think of it like your financial report card that lenders look at when trying to figure out if you qualify, and which home loan will work best for you. As the Mortgage Report says:

"Good credit scores communicate to lenders that you have a track record for properly managing your debts. For this reason, the higher your score, the better your chances of qualifying for a mortgage."

The trouble is most buyers overestimate the minimum credit score they need to buy a home. According to a report from Fannie Mae, only 32% of consumers have a good idea of what lenders require. That means nearly 2 out of every 3 people don’t.

So, here’s a general ballpark to give you a rough idea. Experian says:

“The minimum credit score needed to buy a house can range from 500 to 700, but will ultimately depend on the...

What Credit Score Do You Really Need To Buy a House? When you're thinking about buying a home, your credit score is one of the biggest pieces of the puzzle.

Follow these tips to practice mindfulness.

A Brief Introduction to Mindfulness Mindfulness is a practice that allows someone to be fully present in the moment and in-tune with their emotions.

The Great Wealth Transfer: A New Era of Opportunity

In recent years, there’s been a significant shift in how wealth is distributed among generations. It’s called the Great Wealth Transfer.

Basically, as more Baby Boomers retire, sell businesses, or downsize their homes, more substantial assets are being passed down to younger generations. And this creates a powerful ripple effect that’ll continue over the next few decades.

Impact on the Housing Market

One of the most immediate effects of this wealth transfer is on the housing market. Home affordability has been a concern for many aspiring buyers, especially in high-demand areas. The increase in generational wealth is expected to ease some of these challenges by providing future homeowners with greater financial resources. As assets are passed down through generations, buyers may find themselves in a better position to afford homes.

Impact on the Economy

But the Great Wealth Transfer doesn’t just...

The Great Wealth Transfer: A New Era of Opportunity In recent years, there’s been a significant shift in how wealth is distributed among generations.

Is Affordability Starting To Improve?

Over the past couple of years, a lot of people have had a hard time buying a home. And while affordability is still tight, there are signs it's getting a little better and might keep improving throughout the rest of the year. Here’s a look at the latest data on the three biggest factors affecting home affordability.

1. Mortgage Rates

Mortgage rates have been volatile this year, bouncing around from the mid 6% to low 7% range. But there's some good news. Data from Freddie Mac shows rates have been trending down overall since May. When rates decline, it's easier to afford the home you want because your monthly payment will be lower. Just don’t expect them to go back down to 3%.

2. Home Prices

The second big thing to think about is home prices. Nationally, they’re still going up this year, but not as fast as they did a couple of years ago. As Odeta Kushi, Deputy Chief Economist at First American, says, “While...

Is Affordability Starting To Improve? Over the past couple of years, a lot of people have had a hard time buying a home.

Looking for help with improving your ? This article is a good resource for that.

6 personal budgeting strategies that can help you manage your finances A budget can help you track income, control discretionary spending and strategically allocate your financial resources – but a budget only works if you stick to it!

Are There More Homes for Sale Where You Live?

One of the biggest bright spots in today’s housing market is how much the supply of homes for sale has grown since the beginning of this year.

Recent data from Realtor.com shows that nationally, there are 36.6% more homes actively for sale now compared to the same time last year. That’s a significant improvement. It gives you far more options for your move than you would’ve had just a year ago. And with supply improving, you’re also regaining a bit of negotiation power. So, if you’re someone who thought about buying a home over the last few years but were discouraged by how limited inventory was, this should be welcome news.

As Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at NAR, says, “Increased housing supply spells good news for consumers who want to see more properties before making purchasing decisions.”

While we’re up by almost 37% year-over-year, we’re still not back to how much inventory there’d be in a...

Are There More Homes for Sale Where You Live? One of the biggest bright spots in today’s housing market is how much the supply of homes for sale has grown since the beginning of this year.

Make your home sparkle with these cleaning trends.

7 Cleaning Trends to Try This Year, From the 1-Hour Method to Waterless Products Upend your usual cleaning routine by incorporating these new ways to make your home sparkle with things like sustainable, eco-friendly products, new organizing methods, and light technology that can easily sanitize heavily touched items.

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🛏 3
🛁 2.5
🚘 1
📐 1,927 sqft
🌟2023 New Quality Appliances
🌟Fully Updated 3 Level, 3 Bedroom/2.5 Bath
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🌟2023 Fresh Paint throughout
🌟2023 Quartz Countertops with Tile Backsplash
🌟2023 Upgraded LVP throughout Main and Lower Levels, Fresh Carpet on Upper Level
🌟2010 New Windows, HVAC (Trane), and Hot Water Heater
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Make sure to see all the best sights while visiting .

Plan an Ideal Trip to New Zealand → Your ULTIMATE Guide Do you want to plan a trip to New Zealand and make sure you haven't missed anything? Read my post right now!

Home Inspections For Sellers: How To Prepare

If you’re thinking about selling your house, it’s important to know what the home inspection is and what inspectors look for. As supply grows and buyers regain negotiation power, you may find you want to do some select repairs with a good return on investment before listing to get ahead of things a buyer may ask you to fix. To decide what's worth tackling, you need expert advice. Let's chat so you know what to prioritize.

Home Inspections For Sellers: How To Prepare If you’re thinking about selling your house, it’s important to know what the home inspection is and what inspectors look for.

Where Will You Go After You Sell?

If you’re planning to sell your house and move, you probably know there’s been a shortage of options available. But here’s the good news: the supply of homes for sale has grown in a lot of markets this year – and that’s not just existing, or previously-owned, homes. It’s true for newly built homes too.

So how do you decide which route to go? The choice is yours – you just need to figure out what’s most important to you.

Here are some benefits of buying a newly built home right now:

>>Have brand new everything with never-been-used appliances and materials
>>Use energy efficient options to save money and leave a smaller footprint
>>Minimize the need for repairs and benefit from builder warranties
>>Take advantage of builder concessions that can help with affordability

Ralph McLaughlin, Senior Economist at Realtor.com, shares, “Homebuyers who are looking for that ‘new-home smell’ may be in a relatively friendlier...

Where Will You Go After You Sell? If you’re planning to sell your house and move, you probably know there’s been a shortage of options available.

I’ve been seeing this a lot lately… interior design choices that side step the trends and embrace a more timeless, lasting look.

Here’s what’s been catching my eye...

👀 Navy blue - The universal comfort color. Design pros recommend pairing it with earthy jute rugs, rustic wooden end tables, and if you’re feeling adventurous - small pops of red!
👀 Black and white design elements - I’ve been seeing lots of this color combo in bathrooms. One of my favorite looks is B&W hexagon tiles. The pros say high-contrast color palettes, especially black and white, will always stay in style. Beyond bathroom tiles, think about this color combo for walls and doors, wallpaper patterns, or pillows and fabrics.
👀 Crown moulding - always feels elevated, traditional and timeless. It adds a boost of character and history to a home. Plus, it’s a fairly simple DIY project you may be able to tackle yourself.
👀 Nods to family history - Homes that include familial decor pieces like a well loved chest of drawers, grandfather clock, writing table, or a model sailboat. It’s so unique and special to see a family’s history on display in a home.

What timeless looks are you seeing lately? Share with me below👇

Source: [Classic Interior Design Trends That Never Go Out of Style - Bless’er House](https://www.blesserhouse.com/12-timeless-design-tips-that-never-go-out-of-style/)

Thinking about past successes can spark the motivation you need to push forward.

How to Get Motivated Getting started on a project, dream, or task can seem scary and daunting at first if you don't feel like you have a reason for doing it.

Mortgage Rates Down a Full Percent from Recent High

Mortgage rates have been one of the hottest topics in the housing market lately because of their impact on affordability. And if you’re someone who’s looking to make a move, you’ve probably been waiting eagerly for rates to come down for that very reason. Well, if the past few weeks are any indication, you may be getting your wish.

After the latest reports on the economy, inflation, the unemployment rate, and the Federal Reserve’s recent comments, mortgage rates started dropping a bit. And according to Freddie Mac, they’re now at a level we haven’t seen since February.

Maybe you’re seeing this and wondering if you should ride the wave and see how low they’ll go. If that’s the case, here’s some important perspective. Remember, the record-low rates from the pandemic are a thing of the past. And if you wait for mortgage rates to drop further, you might find yourself dealing with more competition as...

Mortgage Rates Down a Full Percent from Recent High Mortgage rates have been one of the hottest topics in the housing market lately because of their impact on affordability.

Helpful Negotiation Tactics for Today’s Housing Market

If you haven’t already heard, homebuyers are regaining some negotiating power in today’s market. And while that doesn’t make this a buyer’s market, it does mean buyers may be able to ask for a little more. So, sellers need to be ready for that possibility and know what they’re willing to negotiate.

Whether you’re looking to buy or sell a house, here’s a quick rundown of potential negotiations that may pop up during your transaction. That way, you’re prepared no matter which side of the deal you’re on.

What Can You Negotiate?

Most things in a home purchase are on the negotiation table. Here’s a list of just a few of those options, according to Kiplinger and LendingTree:

• Sale Price
• Home Repairs
• Fixtures
• Closing Costs
• Home Warranties
• Closing Date

One thing is true whether you’re a buyer or a seller, and that’s how much your agent can help you throughout the process. Your agent is...

Helpful Negotiation Tactics for Today’s Housing Market If you haven’t already heard, homebuyers are regaining some negotiating power in today’s market.

You can never get too much advice on how to at the pump!

How to Save Money on Gas: 27 Ways To Spend Less Today We're all hurting at the pump, so let's talk about easing that pain! Finding out how to save money on gas can truly change your budget right now.

What Every Homeowner Should Know About Their Equity

Curious about selling your home? Understanding how much equity you have is the first step to unlocking what you can afford when you move. And since home prices rose so much over the past few years, most people have much more equity than they may realize.

Here’s a deeper look at what you need to know if you’re ready to cash in on your investment and put your equity toward your next home.

Home Equity: What Is It and How Much Do You Have?

Home equity is the difference between how much your house is worth and how much you still owe on your mortgage. For example, if your house is worth $400,000 and you only owe $200,000 on your mortgage, your equity would be $200,000.

Recent data from the Census and ATTOM shows Americans have significant equity right now. In fact, more than two out of three homeowners have either completely paid off their mortgages.

Today, more homeowners are getting a larger...

What Every Homeowner Should Know About Their Equity Curious about selling your home?

🌟Thrilled for my friend and client who just found her perfect home in this highly competitive market! 🏡🔑 It’s been a pleasure helping her secure this perfect property in her target location with all the amenities she wanted…and we kept it UNDER her price point! 🎉Congratulations on your new home—I’m so happy for you and love seeing how you’re making it your own! Thank you for your trust💓

Here are some ideas for putting pallets to good use outside your home.

Sustainable pallet ideas for backyards – and get creative on a budget Create everything from bespoke planters and bird houses to outdoor furniture with these inspiring pallet ideas.

Here's what to expect if without professional help.

Moving Yourself vs. Hiring Professional Movers Moving is stressful. Moving companies, while costly, can take the pressure off. This guide will review the pros and cons of DIY moves vs. pro movers.

3 Reasons Why We’re Not Headed for a Housing Crash

Back in 2008, there was an oversupply of homes for sale. Today, there’s an undersupply. The three main sources of inventory show this isn’t like the last time. Existing homes, new homes, and foreclosures are all way below the levels we saw during the housing crash. Inventory data shows there just aren’t enough homes available to have a repeat of what happened back in 2008.

3 Reasons Why We’re Not Headed for a Housing Crash Back in 2008, there was an oversupply of homes for sale.