Melissa Rautenberg, Realtor

Happy fall! 🍂

Something magical happens when your home decor and the seasons align... but if the thought of re-decorating for the new season feels overwhelming, I've got you covered!

Swipe → for a few simple and inexpensive decor swaps that will effortlessly transform your space into a cozy haven this fall.

These simple touches will not only create a welcoming atmosphere but will allow you to fully embrace the magic of the season. Happy decorating!

Myth: It's better to wait until the spring to sell your home.

Although springtime is considered the "peak" time to sell, fall is also an excellent time to sell your home. Serious buyers are motivated to purchase quickly before the busy holiday season and winter weather, and with less inventory this time of year, demand is inherently higher.

So, if you're selling your house this fall, here are a few tips to help make your home feel welcoming and bright to potential buyers. →

If you're considering making a move, I'd love to help you get the most bang for your buck. Send me a message, and let's chat about how you can get the most money for your home this season!

MONDAY MOTIVATION ✨

In pursuing our goals, it's easy to become fixated on the idea that success hinges solely on being presented with the perfect opportunities. However, the true essence of achievement lies not in the opportunities themselves but in how we seize and navigate them.

Often, the ability to recognize the potential in seemingly ordinary situations sets us apart. The commitment to putting in the hard work, the dedication to continuous learning, and the resilience to face challenges head-on determine our success. Instead of waiting for the stars to align, we can create our own constellations through our choices and actions.

So, let's shift our perspective from passively waiting for the "perfect" opportunities, to actively molding and shaping the opportunities that come our way. Let's embrace each challenge and setback as an opportunity to learn and grow. When we approach opportunities with the right mindset and effort, we unlock our potential to transform them into stepping stones toward our dreams.

Ultimately, success isn't about luck or chance—it's about cultivating the ability to handle any opportunity that comes our way with grace, determination, and unwavering dedication.

Sure, scrolling through Zillow can be fun, but when you're ready to get serious about buying or selling, it's important to consult an expert who can guide you through the process and educate you on what is really happening in the local market.

Friendly reminder!

As the seasons transition and temperatures shift, now is the perfect time to schedule your HVAC system to be serviced. Just as you take your car in regularly for an oil change, you should maintain your HVAC system to keep it running efficiently and properly, save money, and prevent any future issues. After all, your HVAC system is one of the most important parts of your home!

Looking for a reputable and trusted HVAC contractor? Send me a message — I'll happily share my favorite local companies!

Are you hoping to cozy up in a new home in time for the holidays? It's a choice that comes with both excitement and careful consideration.

Here's a quick housing market forecast for the rest of 2023 — from the experts — to help you with your decision:

☑ Home Prices: prices will vary by local markets, but the good news is that prices are already appreciating again in many areas, and most experts expect positive price growth into the new year. This means the longer you wait, the more you will likely pay for your next home.

☑ Mortgage Rates: where rates go for the rest of the year will depend on inflation. Based on historical trends, experts predict that rates will likely ease as inflation continues to cool. Speak with a trusted lender about ways to keep your mortgage payment manageable despite the higher rates we are seeing.

☑ Home Sales & Inventory: Inventory is a huge challenge right now. However, if interest rates drop, home sales will likely pick up (which means more buyer competition again).

Ultimately, the decision to move before the end of the year is a personal one. No matter the time of year, current interest rates, or opinions of others, only you can decide if a move is right for you and your family, so take time to weigh the pros and cons, seek advice from a trusted agent (that's me!), and listen to your intuition.

If you're ready to take the leap, send me a message. I would love to answer any questions about the market and help you decide if now is the right time to move.

Selling your home can be time-consuming, overwhelming, and emotional, but with the right agent to help guide you through the process, you can avoid critical mistakes that could cost you time and money (and even, dare I say, enjoy the process!)

Whether you’re a first-time seller or have been through the process before, it's important to understand these common home-selling mistakes to avoid sabotaging your sale. →

At the end of the day, you want the home selling process to be as smooth and painless as possible. As a real estate agent, my goal is to guide you through the process, help you avoid these pitfalls, and sell your home quickly and for the most money the market will bear. Considering selling your home? Send a message, and let's discuss your goals and next steps!

MOTIVATIONAL MONDAY ✨

When others question your capabilities, don't waste energy on proving them wrong through words alone... instead, channel that energy into pushing yourself to exceed even your own expectations.

The path to success is paved with challenges, setbacks, and moments of uncertainty, but it is during these very moments that we have the chance to transform doubt into motivation. Let the doubters serve as inspiration, propelling you forward with a burning determination to achieve what they thought was beyond your reach. Prove, not for the sake of others, but for yourself, that you possess the strength and resilience to transcend limitations and carve your own unique path.

When it comes to real estate, location isn't just a buzzword; it's a powerful factor that can significantly impact property value. While many factors influence the market value of a home, proximity to various amenities can significantly impact its value and how well it will retain it if the market ever declines.

Swipe → to learn about local amenities to look out for when house hunting!

Remember, it's not just about the four walls of a house — it's about the lifestyle the surrounding area offers.

CONGRATULATIONS TO MY 1ST TIME HOMEBUYERS, ALEX AND ALYSSA! 🙌

I am so, so proud of these two I could cry! They were such troopers through the whole process. From the mortgage and 1st time homebuyers grant process to the final signatures they listened, navigated, and made tough decisions with grace.

I am so happy for you both. You did it. Let's gooo!! ❤️

If you're looking to navigate the real estate process with attention to detail and a fighter on your side, reach out to me. I'm here for you every single step of the way, and with a bottle of Prosecco to celebrate! 💪🏠🔑🍾🥂

REMINDER: your monthly homeowner to-do list! ✔️

As summer comes to a close, your home deserves some special attention to prepare for the cooler temperatures to come. So take advantage of these last warm, sunny days ahead to tackle some important tasks in and around your home.

PRO TIP: this is the best time of year to fertilize and seed your yard!

Save this post for later and pick 1 or 2 off the list every weekend! What are you tackling first?

After submitting a few (or a few dozen) offers, you’ve finally had a seller accept your offer on your dream home... now it's time for the home inspection!

A home inspection gives you a pretty good snapshot of the home's condition. A professional inspector will walk through the home and examine everything from the physical structure to the major systems of the house, and everything in between.

It's important to remember that EVERY home will have issues that come up during the inspection — there is no such thing as a "perfect" house, even if it's new. Additionally, a home inspection is not guaranteed to catch every issue with the home — you can't open walls or see under floors.

But what if the inspection comes back with big-ticket items that need repair? Swipe → to learn about a few options you have if this happens.

Navigating repairs after a home inspection might seem daunting, but with the right approach and the right guidance, you'll be better prepared to tackle anything that may arise. It's important to remember that with any inspection, you will have to weigh how much risk, investment, and seller negotiation you’re comfortable with for a house you love.

Hey, dog lovers! 🐾

Transforming your home into a dog-friendly haven is easier than you think. Whether you have a dog (or a few) or are thinking about adopting one, here are a few tips to ensure your furry friend feels right at home:

• Opt for furniture and rugs with fabrics that are stain and hair resistant such as indoor-outdoor rugs, leather, and synthetic materials. Invest in quality textiles that will withstand the test of those claws!

• Watch out for any exposed wood on your furniture - your new puppy may consider it their new favorite teething toy.

• Create a "mud room" for your furry friend. Add a microfiber mat that will easily clean off their paws after being outside, and store pet wipes, leashes, dog treats, and other essentials in a basket or on a table nearby.

• Invest in a cozy bed and / or crate so that your dog has a safe place to call their own.

What other pet tips do you have to share?

It's OK if you're not ready to buy or sell yet — I'm here to be a lifetime resource for all things home, for you and anyone you know.

I want to thank all of my clients, friends, and family who have supported me and helped me grow — it truly means the world to me!

Swipe → to see a few ways that you can show your support to your friends or family members who are real estate agents (without buying or selling a home).

If you’re thinking about waiting for the market (and prices) to crash before buying a home... this post is for you!

The housing market crash in 2008 was devastating for so many homeowners, so it's not surprising so many people are worried that we're headed in that same direction... especially with the affordability challenges we have been facing in the housing market and media discussions about a potential recession.

However, the good news is that today's real estate landscape is quite different, and there are a few key reasons why history is more than likely not going to repeat itself:

⓵ Lending standards have improved.
Unlike leading up to the crash in 2008, there are much tighter regulations on the mortgage industry.

⓶ Underbuilding and inventory shortages.
New-home construction prior to the 2008 crash was amounting to 7.65 million units annually. Today, it’s 4.6 million. Basically, there were WAY more homes than buyers. In 2023, it's exactly the opposite. Inventory is low—and that's driving the high prices.

⓷ Unemployment remains low.
Although the pandemic lead to higher unemployment, the jobless rate has already recovered. In 2008, there were 8 million job losses in a single year.

⓸ Equity levels are high.
The low inventory of homes for sale has maintained upward pressure on home prices over the past few years. As a result, homeowners today have near-record amounts of equity — making them less likely to default on their mortgages.

While the housing market always experiences fluctuations, the current conditions show that a repeat of the 2008 crash is highly unlikely. The current market is anchored by tighter lending practices, high demand, and a healthier economic foundation.

So, if you're considering buying or selling, take confidence in the fact that today's housing market is quite different than what we saw in 2008. Curious to know more about what's going on in our local market? Send me a message!

Want to save money on your next mortgage?

With interest rates on the rise, getting the best possible rate is more important than ever.

If you're looking to save thousands by finding the best rate, here are 3 tips you can't afford to ignore. →

✓ Credit score isn't the only factor that determines your interest rate, but it's a BIG one. Make sure you know your actual score (not just the one from Credit Karma), and work towards improving it by paying off debt and making payments on time.

✓ Understand (and know) your debt-to-income ratio. This is the percentage of your monthly gross income that goes toward paying your reoccurring monthly debts like student loans and car payments. The lower this ratio is, the less risky you look for the lender – and your interest rate will be lower.

✓ Compare multiple lenders. Shopping around for a loan can save you money by helping you find the best interest rate and terms for your specific financial situation.

Remember:

1. Rates are always changing.
2. You are NOT stuck with the same rate forever.
3. You can refinance & cash out your equity later at a different rate and term.

If you are interested in comparing estimates, send me a message — I'd love to help you get to the payment you are comfortable with.

Updating your home doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated, and it doesn't always require hiring contractors (yes, I said it). Don't feel intimidated by the thought of getting hands-on and learning some new skills.

Even the simplest home improvements have the ability to make us happier in the places we call home. If you're looking for easy ways to freshen up your space and add value to your home, I've got you covered.

I've put together a list of DIY home projects that are simple enough for anyone to accomplish, and that will add the most value when it's time to sell. →

Remember — you don't have to spend a lot to get big results. Do you have larger home reno projects you want to tackle? I'd be happy to recommend a trusted contractor or handyman, just send me a message!

AUGUST SELF-CARE SERIES ✨

This month, I'm focusing on self care, and I'd love for you to join me!

Here are 6 practices to empower your mindset as it relates to how you think, feel and act...

① Talk to yourself kindly & positively. The way you talk to yourself has a big impact on your mindset.
② Surround yourself with thing and people that bring you joy. Make time for activities that you enjoy and that make you feel good.
③ Use positive affirmations every day.
④ Unplug! Find ways to clear your head and find peace of mind. Take a walk outside, read a book, meditate or find a hobby.
⑤ Visualize yourself achieving your goals. When you visualize yourself achieving your goals, you're training your mind to believe that it's possible. This can help you to stay motivated and to take action towards your goals.
⑥ Remember your why, and remind yourself of it every day. It's important to remember your why, so you don’t allow distractions to derail your ultimate goals and plans.

What do you do to keep your mindset on track? Tell me in the comments!

Looking to refresh your space? Paint is one of the easiest ways to give your home an entirely new look on a budget.

Here are a few of the best-selling paint colors of 2023 to consider! →

Pro tip: Tricorn black is a great option for accent doors!

When it's time to sell your home, just the thought of getting organized and decluttering can feel a bit overwhelming. However, creating a clean and organized space not only makes your home more appealing to potential buyers but also helps you feel more in control during the selling process. Not to mention that any decluttering and purging you do before you list your home means less that you will have to do when the time comes to pack up and move... think of it as your "first move".

If you are thinking about getting started on your decluttering journey, I've compiled a list of tips from professional organizers for getting your home show ready:
⁣
☑ Start with the basics.
Begin by sorting through your belongings and deciding what to keep, toss, or donate.

☑ Follow the one-year rule.
If you haven't used something in over a year, toss it. If you have a junk drawer filled with a dozen pens, but you only use two, get rid of the rest.
Old glasses with old prescriptions? Donate them. Blankets or towels you don't use anymore? Give them to a local animal shelter.

☑ Clear countertops & surfaces.
In the kitchen and bathrooms, clear countertops of non-essential items. This simple step creates a feeling of openness and spaciousness, which buyers appreciate.

☑ Depersonalize.
Pack away personal items like family photos and quirky decor to allow buyers to imagine their own belongings in the space. Creating a blank canvas fosters a connection between the buyer and the home.

☑ Rent a storage unit.
If needed, renting a storage unit can be a game-changer. It provides a temporary home for items you don't need during the selling process, making your home look more spacious and organized.

☑ Declutter one room at a time.
⁣The best way to tackle decluttering is to go one room at a time. This will also build confidence as you experience visible success at each step.

Remember, decluttering is not about getting rid of everything you love — it's about presenting your home in its best light to potential buyers. By taking these steps, you're creating a welcoming environment that allows buyers to see the true potential of your home.

There's nothing better than a creamy, cold ice cream cone on a hot summer day. 🍦

Whether you prefer fancy flavor combos, rich gelato, an over-the-top sundae, or a simple scoop of vanilla, I'd love to know your favorite local ice cream shops!

Let me know your recommendations below! ↓

When it comes to selling your most valuable asset, partnering with a local agent is essential if you're looking to maximize your profit and sell quickly.

REAL TALK — online estimates are automatically generated through a computer software system (AI)... however, the system can't see inside your home or what improvements you have made, and it doesn't know the current local market conditions. KEYWORD = estimate.

A local agent (that's me!) has an in-depth understanding of the local real estate market and can provide you with accurate pricing guidance to ensure your home is priced competitively from the start — so that you sell your home quickly and for top dollar.

When it comes to your most significant investment, don't settle for a ballpark figure. Curious to know what your home is worth in our current market? Send me a message! I can put together a FREE home evaluation report for you.

AUGUST SELF-CARE SERIES ✨

This month, I'm focusing on self-care, and I'd love for you to join me!

Today, let's talk about 3 things you should NOT worry about...

✓ Other people's expectations of you.
Worrying about other people's expectations will only make you feel anxious and stressed. It will take away your focus from the things that you can control, and it will prevent you from living your life to the fullest. Chasing the approval of others can lead you off course and further away from your goals and the things that truly fulfill your life and bring you joy.

✓ What other people are doing
Comparison is a thief of joy and it’s simply not productive. When you're focused on comparing yourself to others, you're not focused on your own journey. Instead, lean into the goals you’ve set for yourself and create a practical action plan to make it happen!

✓ Things you can't control
Focusing on things you can't control is a waste of time and energy and can lead to anxiety and stress - definitely something we all need less of! Instead, identify the areas of your life that are causing you the greatest stress and create a simple action plan of steps you can take to bring peace to that area of life. Take action! Even small improvements can make a big difference over time!

What are some ways that you keep the focus on your goals (and off of other people's expectations)? Tell me in the comments!

Buying a home is an exciting journey, but it's natural to be weighed down by some fears that creep up along the way.

So, today, I'm going to help you tackle some of the most common concerns I hear and give you some insight on how to overcome them. →

Remember, you're not alone in this journey. When it comes to buying a home, knowledge is power. Surround yourself with a reliable support system of professionals who can provide guidance and encouragement, as well as set clear expectations for the process.

If you're considering taking the leap into homeownership, I would love to connect and share some of my personal experiences when buying my first home, as well as come up with a plan to help you achieve your homeownership goals! Send me a message and let's chat!

If you ask anyone who has sold a home, they will more than likely say that one of the most stressful parts of selling is preparing for showings and open houses. But it doesn't have to be! To help ease that stress, I've outlined a list of easy things you can do to get your home show ready in 30 minutes or less ... and make a great first impression.

Swipe → for a few tips I give every one of my sellers to prep their home before showings (that won't consume your entire day!).

Buyers can tell if a home has been well-cared-for and maintained, so it's important to deep clean your entire house before you go on the market. The goal is to make a lasting first impression and sell them a lifestyle, and one of the easiest ways to do this is to make sure your home is CLEAN!

If you'd like more tips on how to get your home ready to sell, I'm here to help!

What you really need is CLARITY about the local real estate market...

The truth is, there's no one-size-fits-all answer to the best time to buy or sell. It's when YOU are ready. Everyone's unique circumstances, financial readiness, and personal goals dictate the ideal timing to move. Rather than succumbing to market hype, try and focus on understanding your own readiness and making decisions based on a clear vision of what YOU want to achieve.

What's holding you back from buying or selling? What is making you more confused than clear about your next steps? I would love to help provide clarity about our local market or answer ANY questions that you may have — just send me a message!

AUGUST SELF-CARE SERIES ✨

This month, I'm focusing on self-care, and I'd love for you to join me!

Here are some of the things I'm working into my daily life:

✓ Get at least 8 hours of sleep.
This is one of the most important things you can do for your physical and mental health. Make sure to create a bedtime routine and stick to it as much as possible. Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed, and make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.

✓ Read something you're interested in.
Choose a book that you're excited about, and make time to read for at least 30 minutes each day.

✓ Set time aside for a hobby this week.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time? Make time for your hobbies, even if it's just for a few minutes each day. This could be anything from painting to playing music to going for a walk.

✓ Declutter your desk.
A cluttered desk can be a major source of stress. Take some time to declutter your desk and get rid of anything that you don't need or use.

✓ Check something off your to-do list.
Crossing something off your to-do list can be a great way to feel accomplished and motivated. Make a list of tasks that you need to complete, and then check them off one by one.

What is one thing you do each week for yourself? Let me know in the comments!

True!

THIS. IS. SO. TRUE.
We had a HUGE response to our social media audit post so I created a FREE guide for small businesses to get started and audit their social profiles!!
You can get it here: https://www.smallbusinessmoms.com/socialmedia

With a little creativity, resourcefulness, and careful planning, you can transform your outdoor space into a charming oasis without breaking the bank.

Swipe → to discover 5 easy backyard transformation tips to savor the remaining summer weather.

Pro tip: Facebook marketplace has great finds this time of year if you're looking for outdoor furniture on a tight budget!

What makes your outdoor living space feel like an oasis? I'd love to know—share in the comments below!

The thought of owning your home can be both exciting as well as a little overwhelming... especially if you're a first-time homebuyer.

Unfortunately, many buyers are caught off guard by the unexpected expenses that come with owning a home. While paying a mortgage every month is expected, the hidden costs of owning a home can dampen the excitement of moving into your new place.

As your real estate agent, I'm here to help you navigate these hidden costs and ensure that you're prepared for ALL of the expenses that come with owning a home. →

⓵ Emergency repairs.
Your a/c unit decides not to turn on in 95-degree weather, your toilet backs up, or a tree damages your roof... homeownership always comes with unexpected repairs, so it's important you have a "security" fund in place in case you need to use it.

⓶ Homeowner's Association / Condo Association Fees.
If you are part of an HOA or Condo Association, you may have maintenance items that need to be completed from time to time. This could include painting the exterior every 10 years or replacing your walkway. Make sure you read through the HOA documents thoroughly so that nothing unexpected arises.

⓷ Utilities.
Homeowners typically must cover all the costs involved with running their homes, which will likely be an increase from what you currently spend on utilities, especially If you are renting. This includes trash collection, water/sewer, gas, electric, and cable/internet.

⓸ Exterior Maintenance.
On top of the typical yard maintenance, you may want to invest in pest control, and also take into consideration deck and patio maintenance, pool maintenance, and siding and roof repair.

Before you start house hunting, put together a budget, and remember to set aside an emergency fund for anything unexpected that may arise.

If you're ready to learn more about the various expenses you'll face as a homeowner and how to plan for them, let's connect! Send me a message today.