Jessica Kibbe Realtor

🏡✨ Coming Soon! ✨🏡

Get ready to be amazed by our latest listings! We’ve got not one, not two, but THREE incredible properties about to hit the market. 🏠🏠🏠

Stay tuned for all the juicy details, exclusive sneak peeks, and everything you need to know about these dream homes. 🌟🔑

Your home is more than four walls. It’s a treasure trove of opportunity and a tool for getting you where you want to be.
FACT: U.S. homeowners have an average of $274,000 in equity — equity that could be working for you in one of these three ways.

Source: Homeowner Equity Insights – Q1 2023 | CoreLogic®.
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How can you find the right home without compromising on your budget? Want to know my take on it? Well, here it is.

First, let go of the idea that the perfect home exists. Instead, focus on finding a home that ticks most of your boxes and has the potential to grow with you in the coming years.

Secondly, here's a tip for you: prioritize your must-haves and make a list. This way, you can focus on what's important and avoid getting sidetracked by non-essentials.

But the BIGGEST thing I want you to take away is this: don't be afraid to think outside the box.

Remember, it's okay to look at homes that might need some work to hit your list of must-haves. But with a little creativity, you may just be able to transform it into your dream home over time.

What are your thoughts? Is this something you've asked yourself, and did any of these tips resonate with you? Let me know in the comments!
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Is it truly acceptable for a listing agent to represent the buyer too?

As someone deeply entrenched in this industry, I'm here to provide my perspective on the matter:

While it's indeed possible for a listing agent to also represent the buyer, sellers need to weigh the pros and cons carefully before giving their approval to this widely debated practice.

When you hire an agent solely focused on your interests as a seller, you establish a 'fiduciary relationship.' In this scenario, your agent is bound to act in your best interests, advocating for you and you alone.

However, in a dual-agency scenario, where the listing agent represents both the seller and the buyer, neutrality becomes the name of the game. Despite their efforts to remain fair and impartial, the absence of exclusive representation can leave both parties navigating negotiations without the full guidance and insights an agent can provide.

Interestingly, dual agency is prohibited in Alaska, Colorado, Florida, Kansas, Maryland, Texas, Vermont, and Wyoming.

While there may be situations where dual agency works, it's far more common for each party to have a dedicated agent. After all, ensuring you benefit from the expertise and dedication of a knowledgeable professional is crucial, regardless of whether you're selling or buying.

Now, it's time for your voice to be heard! What's your take on this topic? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Source: https://www.citysignal.com/the-dangers-of-dual-agency/
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Are you planning to sell your home? Avoid these four common, non-price-related mistakes that many sellers make. Remember, these slip-ups could cost you!
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Investment Property Insights: Should you rent your home out? Five points to get you started on the journey to transforming your home into an income-generating asset.
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Have you ever dreamt of a home that adjusts to your needs, makes your life more convenient, and even helps you save money? Check out the smart home upgrades that make life easier and far more convenient.
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How We Won Top Brokerage in the U.S. 🏆🥇

Entrepreneurial leadership
Impressive sales performance
Robust marketing
Innovative technology
Specialty programs and offerings
World-class career development.
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Did you know that some experts are predicting mortgage rates could reach a whopping 8.75% in 2023!? But don’t panic just yet. Let's dive deeper into the forecast for the housing market in the second half of this rollercoaster of a year.
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Ready to freshen up your home on a budget? You don't need to spend a fortune to make a big impact. Here are five home improvement ideas under $1,000 that can add serious style and function to your space.
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Are you hoping to cozy up in a new home by the time the leaves start changing color? The process of buying a house takes a little bit of time, so if your goal is to move this fall, the time to begin your journey is now! Here's a snapshot of what to expect from the home-buying process.
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As real estate agents, we see so many beautiful houses. And we make it a point to always keep an eye out for the trends of tomorrow. Here is a list our top trend predictions that will be seen in interior design this fall.
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When it comes to buying new construction, asking the right questions can be the key to a smooth experience from start to finish. Ask a builder these three questions before getting started!
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I have been quiet on social media for the last few months but my business has not been quiet at all! Excited to have found my clients the perfect commercial space for their business!

Are you looking for ways to make the most of the summer season right at home? Look no further!

I've got 6 tips to transform your home into a summer oasis, so you can soak up the sun and relax in your very own backyard.

1) Create a cozy seating area with outdoor furniture and cushions to make your space comfortable and inviting.
2) Hang string lights or outdoor lanterns to add ambiance and create a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
3) Plant some flowers or greenery to add color and life to your outdoor space.
4) Incorporate water features like a fountain or small pond to add a calming element to your backyard.
5) Set up a BBQ station or outdoor kitchen for al fresco dining and entertaining.
6) Add a hammock or swing chair to create a relaxing place to read or nap.

Let me know in the comments if you'll be trying any of these tips to create a DIY oasis at home.

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If you're thinking about selling your home (or just curious about the latest real estate trends), this one's for you!

I've put together a list of the top trends you need to know. From virtual staging to home presentation to understanding the current market, these insights will help you stay ahead of the game and get your home sold.
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Just a reminder that it’s still a sellers market out there!

This is your reminder that you *DON'T* have to jump on board with every home design trend you see — especially if you don’t love it.

Way more important than what’s trending is that your home reflects your style AND lifestyle. (And let’s be honest, who has the time or the budget to change things up every time a trend comes along?)

That said, there are a few styles I’m loving this spring in homes and on store shelves. Here are a few that caught my eye that would be easy-peasy to fold into your home if the mood strikes:

1) Curves everywhere - Think rounded furniture, wall decor, lighting, and other curved home accents. Rounded walls and archways are also making a comeback in new construction.

2) Imagine your grandmother living at the beach, and you get the “Coastal Grandmother” vibe. Vintage textiles, natural materials, and a touch of whimsy add a cozy and inviting feel, just like Grandma’s.

3) Anything and everything from nature, only inside. Known as “biophilic design,” this trend maximizes sunlight and brings in plants, natural fibers, and images of animals and nature.

4) Bold paint colors: Boring neutrals are out, and color is in, showing up all over the place, from entire rooms to statement walls and accents.

5) Handmade elements: Ceramics, pottery, and macrame are hot right now in home design, bringing a personal touch to any space and celebrating the beauty of craftsmanship.

Have you struggled to keep up with the flood of home design trends? My advice? Pick one you love and give it a try. You don’t have to go all out or break the bank to keep your home fresh, updated, and perfectly you.

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As much as I love the touchdowns and the halftime show, I'm going to be honest - the true MVP in my mind is the endless supply of wings, nachos, and ice-cold drinks. I mean, who needs all that other stuff when you've got good eats to enjoy?

Whether you're with me on this or not, I hope you have the best time this Super Bowl Sunday!

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Curb appeal makes all the difference when selling your home.

You know the curb appeal trifecta: mulch, seasonal color, and a pressure-sprayed driveway. You will need to add these three additional tips if you want to level up your outdoor game:

1) Illuminate walkways. Would-be buyers are sure to do a nighttime drive-by (trust me, they will). Ambient outdoor lighting will have them oohing and ahhing. (Quick tip: Solar lights make this a cinch.)

2) Update porch lights. Replace crooked, outdated, or rusty porch lights with something fresh and modern. Your local home improvement store and a couple of hours are all you need.

3) Add seating with outdoor throw pillows. Everyone dreams of a breezy afternoon in the yard, sipping a cold glass of lemonade. Add seating to give buyers an exact place to do just that.

Time to get to it!
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I remind every one of my sellers how hard they’ve worked and how much they deserve every dime out of their homes. To make that happen, we go over these three tips:

1) Prep it well. If you want top dollar, you've got to be willing to do some work upfront to get your home looking its best. Minor repairs, major decluttering, and fresh paint go a long way.
2) Price it well. The market has been all over the place recently, so it’s critical to pull as much data as possible when settling on a price. Too high? Buyers won’t bite. Too low? Sellers leave money on the table. I want my sellers to feel good about their listing price, but it's got to be backed by the data.
3) Promote it well. Starting with those listing photos. Your home’s first showing is online - and there’s no better way to set your home apart from the rest than with professional listing photos. It's a small investment for a huge return.
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Here’s what I’m not gonna let happen this spring — you overpay for a new home. 

I know, I know. You’ve come to terms with the higher interest rates and home prices. But those? Those are completely out of your control. What’s in your control? The price tag you’re willing to pay.

So here’s what we’re gonna do. When you find your next home, and you’re ready to put in an offer, we’ll talk about an appraisal contingency. Here’s how it works: 

An appraisal contingency allows buyers to back out of a deal or renegotiate the purchase price if the home's appraisal value comes in lower than the purchase price. It’s a simple way to safeguard your hard-earned cash during the buying process — and ensure you're not overpaying.

So if you’re thinking of buying but don’t want to get in over your head, don’t worry. I’ll do everything in my power not to let that happen.

Have other hangups about buying? Message me - I'd love to talk more.

Who doesn’t love a good timeline? It’s just for all you homebuyers.

- Find a trusted real estate agent: 1-2 weeks
- Get a pre-approval letter: 1-2 weeks
- Come up with your non-negotiables list: 3-5 days
- Tour homes: 1 week - 4 months
- Make an offer and negotiate the deal: 3-5 days
- Get your loan approved & due diligence period. Then Closing Day! : 1-2 months

DM me and let’s get started!

The only thing better than Christmas is a movie about Christmas. Am I right, or am I right?

Swipe for my top holiday movie picks (not listed: the MANY Netflix/Hallmark type movies I sprinkle in throughout the season 😉)

Curious - what’s streaming non-stop in your home this December? Share your favs in the comments!

Woah! Have you looked outside recently? It’s all snowy out there!

Snow in December is my favorite snow! I’m not yet exhausted by shoveling or tired of the cold and there is just something about the blanket of white mingled with all of the holiday decor that gives me the warm and fuzzies!

Below are some of my favorite ways to enjoy the snow in December. Share your favs in the comments!

❄️ Bundle up and head out for a walk to see the snowy addition to all of the holiday decor in your neighborhood

❄️ Snuggle up inside with a blanket, some cocoa, and your favorite holiday movies (this is a good excuse to light your fireplace if you have one for the ultimate ambiance)

❄️ Use that naturally beautiful and festive snowy background to take some seasonal photos with your family, friends, and pets

Don't let your wallet stand in the way of your decorating dreams! I've got some DIY tips to help you make your home extra festive without breaking the bank!

- Place extra ornaments on the mantle, in a hurricane vase, or around a DIY wreath. 
- Paper, scissors, and some string are all you need to make snowflake garland. Find patterns you love with a quick online search. Simple, bold, and easy for the kids! 
- Wrap empty Amazon boxes to create a faux-wrapped present tower. Place on an entry bench, stairway, or fireplace. You can also wrap artwork or picture frames already hanging on your wall. Just add a fun bow and place back on the wall. 
- Put those holiday photo cards to work as ornaments on your tree (use clothespins to clip to branches), or simply hang them around a doorway. 
- When in doubt, go with lights and greenery. On the mantle, around a banister, above kitchen cabinets...the possibilities are endless and the price is oh-so-right.

Do you have high-impact, low-cost holiday decorations you adore? Drop them in the comments!

Today my heart is as full as my plate, and it's all because of YOU! 

Happy Thanksgiving to the best clients, friends, and neighbors I could ever ask for. It has been the highlight of my year helping you reach your real estate goals.

Enjoy the day with your family and friends, and from my home to yours, Happy Thanksgiving!

Here’s the thing: Buying a home is super exciting. It’s arguably the largest financial investment you’ll make, and it tells the world you’re officially adulting!  

Once you’ve signed on the dotted line, follow these 10 tips for homeowning like a pro:

1. Change the locks as soon as possible.
2. Ask around to find a reliable handyman.
3. Find a secure home for all those warranties and manuals so you’ll be able to find them whenever necessary.
4. If possible, paint before you move in. It’s much easier in an empty house.
5. Meet the neighbors. You never know when you’ll need a friendly favor. 
6. Plant shade trees. In a few years, you’ll be so glad you did.
7. Replace the air filters, especially if the home was on the market for a while.
8. Start an emergency fund for repairs and maintenance.
9. Be slow to take on major renovations.
10. If you do renovate, make improvements that will add value. (I can help!)

What’d I forget? Drop your advice for new homeowners in the comments!

Ready for some real talk about getting a mortgage this fall?

As rates inch higher, more homeowners are buying down their interest rates. Curious about what that means and if it’s right for you? Here’s the rundown on mortgage rate buydowns:

- A mortgage buydown is a way to lower your interest rate by paying discount points at closing. Discount points are a one-time, upfront fee. 
- Each point costs 1 percent of the mortgage. For example, one point on a $200,000 mortgage would cost $2,000.
- Each point lowers the rate by 0.25 percent. So, one point would lower a mortgage rate from 6 percent to 5.75 percent for the life of the loan.

If you've got some extra savings and can afford it, buying mortgage points may be a smart investment.

Have more questions about buying a home or taking out a mortgage this fall? DM me - I’m here to help!

Happy Halloween! 🎃 👻
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