The Role of Home Appraisals in Real Estate Transactions
Home appraisals play a critical role in most real estate transactions, yet many buyers and sellers don’t fully understand their purpose—until they become a deciding factor. In today’s shifting real estate market, appraisals are once again a key piece of the puzzle. As a home buyer or seller, it is very important to know how […]
Home Buyers: What to Look for During a Home Tour (Beyond Curb Appeal)
It’s easy to fall in love with a house at first sight. Fresh paint, manicured landscaping and a welcoming front porch can make a great first impression. But as experienced real estate professionals, we encourage our buyers to look beyond the curb appeal and dig deeper during a home tour. What you see on the […]
2025 U.S. Housing Market Trends by Region
As we begin May 2025, the U.S. housing market presents a varied landscape across regions. Real estate trends are influenced by factors such as mortgage rates, inventory levels and local economic conditions. Here’s a regional breakdown: Southwest The Southwest is shifting slightly in favor of buyers. Inventory levels are rising as builders work to meet […]
How Rising Property Insurance Costs Are Affecting Home Buyers in 2025
Prospective home buyers are facing an increasingly complex market as we approach the spring and summer markets. Rising property insurance costs are another major factor impacting affordability and mortgage approvals. Understanding homeowners insurance trends is crucial for buyers to make informed decisions. Rising Insurance Premiums and Home Affordability Homeowners insurance premiums have surged in recent […]
Move-In Ready Homes: Why Many Buyers Steer Clear of Fixer-Uppers
In today’s competitive real estate market, more home buyers are prioritizing move-in ready homes over fixer-uppers. Many buyers used to seek out properties needing renovations to save upfront purchase costs and add value through upgrades. However, the current trend leans toward homes that require little to no additional work. This shift is driven by several […]
Key Factors Affecting Home Construction Trends in 2025
The housing market is undergoing a significant shift as home builders feel the effects of rising mortgage rates, weakening demand and looming concerns over tariffs on building materials. After years of strong demand and soaring home prices, the industry is now grappling with potential challenges that could reshape home construction trends in 2025 and beyond. […]
Advantages and Disadvantages of Living in an HOA
Homeowners associations (HOAs) are a common feature in many residential communities. They can offer various benefits and challenges to homeowners. While some appreciate the structure and amenities an HOA provides, others find the rules and fees burdensome. If you’re considering buying a home in an HOA-governed neighborhood, here are some key pros and cons to […]
Defending the Clear Cooperation Policy: Safeguarding Transparency, Fairness, and Market Integrity
The real estate market depends on transparency, fairness, and efficiency—principles upheld by the Clear Cooperation Policy (CCP). As debates grow about its relevance, it’s essential to understand how this policy protects consumers, supports agents, and strengthens the marketplace. 1. Broad Exposure Maximizes Seller Success Sellers rely on agents for expert guidance but often don’t fully […]
The Risks of Dual Agency in Today’s Real Estate Market
Transparency and trust have become more critical than ever in the real estate industry. One practice that has come under increased scrutiny is dual agency, where a single agent or brokerage represents both the buyer and seller in the same transaction. With the 2024 National Association of Realtors (NAR) settlement introducing new disclosure rules, it’s […]
Is the U.S. Housing Market Headed for a Crash in 2025? Think Again.
The U.S. housing market has been a topic of heated debate recently. There has been much speculation about whether a crash is imminent. The reality is that the data suggests otherwise. The market is far more robust than many assume, thanks to several key factors that reinforce its strength. Let’s dive into why a housing […]