Kathy Little - Realty ONE Group

Does the thought of buying or selling a home in today’s market make you feel a bit nervous? If so, you need to talk to an agent.

You shouldn’t have to feel worried or stressed about making a move – you should feel excited.

And with the right agent by your side, the process can be smooth, and even enjoyable. Let’s talk about how I can help your move be a confident one.

Why Did More People Decide To Sell Their Homes Recently?

This year, mortgage rates came down at the same time the number of homes on the market usually starts to decline. So, what happened? More homeowners decided to sell, so more homes came to the market.

The most recent data from Realtor.com reveals that in September, the number of homes put up for sale increased by 11.6% compared to this time last year.

Ralph McLaughlin, Senior Economist at Realtor.com, explains why there was an unseasonable rise: “This sharp increase is largely due to the decline in mortgage rates in mid-August, enticing homeowners to sell.”

So, as rates came down at the end of the summer, more people jumped into the market and decided to make their move.

What Does This Mean If You’re Looking To Buy a Home?

It means more fresh options to choose from than you’ve had in a while – not the ones that have been sitting around, unsold.

Why Buy Now...

Why Did More People Decide To Sell Their Homes Recently? Homeowners typically slow down their moving plans as the summer months wrap up, and as a result, fewer homes are listed for sale in the fall.

Why a Condo Could Be Your Perfect First Home

If you’re looking to break into homeownership but the price of single-family homes has you second-guessing, you might want to consider a condominium (condo) or townhome. These types of homes often come with a lower barrier to entry – and that can help you start to build equity and enjoy the benefits of owning a home sooner.

And here’s some exciting news: builders are focusing more on homes like these. The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) says: “The share of townhomes being built is at an all-time high.”

That means there’s a good number of options to add to your home search if you broaden it to include condos and townhomes.

So, if you're comfortable with a smaller space and want to buy your first home before the spring rush, adding these types of homes to your search might be your answer.

The Perks of a Condo Lifestyle

Living in a condo has a bunch of other perks...

Why a Condo Could Be Your Perfect First Home If you’re looking to break into homeownership but the price of single-family homes has you second-guessing, you might want to consider a condominium (condo) or townhome.

Home Values Rise Even as Median Prices Fall

Nationally, home values are actually rising, even if the median price is down a bit. Let’s break down what’s really happening so you can make sense of the market without getting caught up in the fear the headlines create.

Homes on the Market Right Now Are Smaller

The biggest reason for the dip in median price is the size of homes being sold. The median price reflects the middle point of all the homes for sale at any given time. And that’ll be affected by the mix of homes on the market.

Right now, there’s a greater number of smaller, less expensive homes on the market, and that’s bringing the overall median price down. But that doesn’t mean home values are declining.

Price Per Square Foot Is Still Rising

This means that while smaller homes are affecting the median price, the average home’s value is still rising.

So, while headlines may make it sound like prices are crashing...

Home Values Rise Even as Median Prices Fall Recent headlines have been buzzing about the median asking price of homes dropping compared to last year, and that’s sparked plenty of confusion.

Don’t Fall for These Real Estate Agent Myths

When it’s time to buy or sell a home, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is who you’ll work with as your agent. That choice will have an impact on your entire experience and how smoothly it goes.

Myth #1: All Real Estate Agents Are the Same

You might think all agents are the same – so it doesn’t matter who you work with. But, in reality, agents have varying levels of experience, specialties, and market knowledge, which can have a big impact on your results.

Myth #2: You Can Save Money by Not Using an Agent

As a seller, you may think you can save money by not working with a pro. However, the expertise, negotiation skills, and market knowledge an agent provides generally saves you money and helps you avoid making costly mistakes.

Myth #3: Agents Will Push You To Spend More

You may also be worried an agent will push you to buy a more expensive house in...

Don’t Fall for These Real Estate Agent Myths When it’s time to buy or sell a home, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is who you’ll work with as your agent.

Mortgage rates are dropping. As a result, more buyers are getting ready to re-enter the market. That’s clear based on the rise in mortgage applications since rates started to fall.

If you’ve been thinking about selling, let’s talk about how to get your house ready so you can take advantage of increased buyer activity.

What To Know About Closing Costs

Now that you’ve decided to buy a home and are ready to make it happen, it’s a good idea to plan ahead for the costs that are a typical part of the homebuying process. And while your down payment is probably the number one expense on your mind, don't forget about closing costs. Here’s what you need to know.

What Are Closing Costs?

Simply put, your closing costs are the additional fees and payments you have to make at closing. Some of these are one-time expenses that are baked into your closing costs. Others, like homeowners’ insurance, are initial installment payments for ongoing responsibilities you’ll have once you take possession of the home.

How Much Are Closing Costs?

Freddie Mac says: “Closing costs vary greatly depending on your location and the price of your home. Typically, you should be prepared to pay between 2% and 5% of the home purchase price in closing fees.”

Tips To...

What To Know About Closing Costs Now that you’ve decided to buy a home and are ready to make it happen, it’s a good idea to plan ahead for the costs that are a typical part of the homebuying process.

The Latest on the Luxury Home Market

Luxury living is about more than just stunning views and cutting-edge smart home technology—it's about elevating your lifestyle. And if you're in the market for a million-dollar home, now is an excellent time to explore the thriving luxury market. Here's why.

The Number of Luxury Homes Is Growing

The top of the market, or luxury homes, can mean different things depending on where you live. But in general, these are homes that are in the top 5% price range in any area. According to a recent report from Redfin, the average value of those homes has risen to over one million dollars: “The median sale price for U.S. luxury homes, defined as the top 5% of listings, rose 9% year-over-year to a record $1.18 million during the second quarter.”

That same report goes on to show the percentage of homes valued at a million dollars or more has risen to an all-time high.

Your Luxury Home Is an...

The Latest on the Luxury Home Market Luxury living is about more than just stunning views and cutting-edge smart home technology—it's about elevating your lifestyle.

As inventory grows, the market is starting to balance out a bit. But don’t worry – this isn’t close to an oversupply that would cause a crash.
It just means buyers are regaining negotiation power as their options grow. And sellers need to price their house right and may want to consider some repairs to help it stand out.
Let’s connect to talk more about how this impacts you.

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...

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.

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...

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

Thinking about selling, but not sure where you’ll go?

The good news is the supply of newly built and existing homes for sale has grown this year. That gives you more options – each with their own perks.

So, which will you choose? A charming existing home or a shiny new build?

Let me know which features you’re looking for in your next home. Drop your answer below.

The Biggest Mistakes Sellers Are Making Right Now

Here’s a look at some of the most common mistakes – and how an agent will help you avoid them when you sell.

1. Overpricing Your House

Many sellers set their asking price too high and that’s why there’s an uptick in homes with price reductions today. An unrealistic price will deter potential buyers, cause an appraisal issue, or lead to your house sitting on the market longer.

2. Skipping the Small Stuff

You may try to skip important repairs, thinking you can pass the task on to your buyer. But visible issues (even if they’re small) can turn off potential buyers and result in lower offers or demands for concessions.

3. Not Looking at Things Objectively

Buyers today are feeling the pinch of high home prices and mortgage rates. With affordability that tight, they may come in with an offer that’s lower than you’d want to see – especially if you didn’t stage...

The Biggest Mistakes Sellers Are Making Right Now The housing market is going through a transition.

Having a hard time finding a place to call home in your budget?

Thousands of Americans are on the move in search of better affordability.

That’s because broadening where you're looking could help you find somewhere your money takes you a little further.

Choosing the right agent is a big deal.
One key thing to look for? A local real estate expert.
You want to find someone who knows the area like the back of their hand, including where you're most likely to find the home you're looking for.
It can make a world of difference in your homebuying journey.

Seeing headlines about foreclosures rising? Don’t worry.
That’s only compared to years when foreclosures were at a record low.
We're still below what we’d see in a more normal year.
And, if you compare today to what happened during the crash, we’re nowhere near what we saw back then.
Got questions? Drop them below.

Homeownership continues to top the list as a big part of the American Dream.

A recent Bankrate survey found that 78% of people rank it above other milestones like retirement and career success.

Why? Security and wealth-building. A fixed-rate mortgage keeps expenses stable, and as you pay down your mortgage, you build equity and financial stability.

Let’s make your homeownership dream come true.

Should you buy now or wait? Consider this.
If you bought a $400,000 home at the start of this year, you’d be set up to gain roughly $83,000 in equity over the next 5 years based on expert forecasts.
So, if you’re ready and able to buy today, remember to factor in the equity that’s at stake as you make your decision.
This is why time in the market is better than timing the market.

Homebuilders Aren’t Overbuilding, They’re Catching Up

You may have heard that there are more brand-new homes available right now than the norm. Today, about one in three homes on the market are newly built. And if you’re wondering what that means for the housing market and for your own move, here’s what you need to know.

Why This Isn’t Like 2008

People remember what happened to the housing market back in 2008. And one of the factors that contributed to that crash was that there were too many homes for sale. While only part of the oversupply back then came from builders, the lasting impact is that some people still feel uneasy when they hear new home construction has ramped up.

Even though the supply of new homes has grown this year, the data shows there’s no need to worry. Builders aren’t overbuilding, they’re just catching up.

New Home Construction May Be at Its Peak for the Year

Builders remember what...

Homebuilders Aren’t Overbuilding, They’re Catching Up You may have heard that there are more brand-new homes available right now than the norm.

More Than a House: The Emotional Benefits of Homeownership

With all the headlines and talk about housing affordability, it can be tempting to get lost in the financial side of buying a home. That’s only natural as you think about the dollars and cents of it all.

And while you ultimately need to be able to afford a home you buy, don’t lose sight of why homeownership was so important to you in the first place. That’s because buying a home is so much more than just a financial transaction.

Here’s a look at just a few of those more emotional or lifestyle perks, to help anchor you to why homeownership is one of your goals.

A Sense of Satisfaction

Owning a home is often associated with better mental health and well-being. T

More Stability for Your Family

Another thing that may make homeowners feel more satisfied is that they’re finally able to put down roots.

A Stronger Feeling of Community

And if you’re also...

More Than a House: The Emotional Benefits of Homeownership With all the headlines and talk about housing affordability, it can be tempting to get lost in the financial side of buying a home.

Ready to sell your house? One of your top priorities may be getting help marketing your home.
Partnering with a great agent can make all the difference.
These are just a few strategies we can use to get your house more visibility.
Ready to maximize your home's exposure and potential? Let's connect.

Thinking about buying a home, but you’re worried about the upkeep?

A home warranty may be able to help. It gives you peace of mind that you’ve got coverage for some repairs.

And we may even be able to negotiate to get a seller to cover one for you. Not every seller is going to do it, but I can get the conversation started.

The Number of Homes for Sale Is Increasing

There’s no denying the last couple of years have been tough for anyone trying to buy a home because there haven’t been enough houses to go around. But things are starting to look up.

There are more homes up for grabs this year.

As Realtor.com explains: “There were 30.4% more homes actively for sale on a typical day in April compared with the same time in 2023, marking the sixth consecutive month of annual inventory growth.”

What Does This Mean for You?

If you’ve been looking to buy but put your plans on hold because you just couldn’t find what you were searching for, you might see more options now than you did over the past few years – but don't expect a huge selection.

To check out your growing options, it's a good idea to work with a local real estate agent you trust. Real estate is all about location. And an agent can help you get the scoop on the homes available in the...

The Number of Homes for Sale Is Increasing There’s no denying the last couple of years have been tough for anyone trying to buy a home because there haven’t been enough houses to go around.