MaryLynn - Real Estate

I believe in being straightforward, even when the conversation is challenging.

So, here's the honest truth: For many, now might not be the best time to buy a home.

The current market sees high prices, elevated interest rates, and although housing inventory is increasing, it's still catching up.

If this resonates with you, keep reading...
You might feel pressured to jump into homeownership, but consider taking a moment to pause.

It's okay to stay where you are a bit longer, appreciate the unique aspects of your current space, and focus on this instead...

Develop a thoughtful plan (with professional guidance).
If you're wondering about your financial readiness or exploring your options, I work closely with a network of empathetic lenders. They're ready to assist you in understanding your opportunities and crafting a strategy.

Have questions? Feel free to message me.

Are you looking for a home in the Tacoma area? If so, check out this listing before it's gone! Give me a call at (360) 747-7297 for more information.

Listing Agent: Miranda Morgan - Epique Realty



# earth

For Sale in Tacoma This charming property is nestled in a serene neighborhood, offering the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Step inside to discover a spacious living area filled with natural light, perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet evening with family. The bedrooms are generously sized, pro

Growing up in Vegas summers consisted of swiming in our pool ALOT. If you weren't in the pool, chances are you were inside with friends or family. Summers in Vegas were so brutal!

A few years older and a whole new state, this is what summers have been looking like!

Finding yourself in what was once your starter home for longer than expected?

Time flies, and sometimes, temporary arrangements become more permanent. But staying doesn't have to mean settling.

Rediscover your home's charm with these tips:
Invest in a new piece of furniture, area rug, or artwork. Consult with a landscaper to rejuvenate your front yard or back patio. Yardzen offers highly-rated virtual consultations. Consider adding a stylish prefabricated she-shed or man cave. Optimize storage with built-in bookshelves, under-bed storage solutions, or reorganizing closets. Upgrade light fixtures and hardware on doors and cabinets throughout your home. Explore affordable interior design consultations on platforms like Havenly. One more thing to consider: Sometimes, test-driving a move to a new home can reaffirm your decision to stay put.

If you're ready to explore upsizing instead, feel free to reach out. I'm here as your trusted resource.

Imagine you're a home buyer who's been pre-approved for the magic number by your mortgage lender.

But hear me out... Just because the lender gives you the go-ahead for a certain amount doesn't mean you should stretch your housing budget to its limit.

Before you commit, consider your life beyond the loan. Think about your lifestyle preferences, discretionary spending, vacation plans, childcare costs, and more.
Let's ensure your next home aligns comfortably with your current lifestyle.

Send me a DM to get my easy Home Budget Tracker, which helps you balance your current expenses with a sensible housing budget recommendation.

If I were currently house hunting, here's what I'd prioritize:

Top Priorities:
Structural Integrity: A home with a solid foundation, well-maintained roof, and sturdy exterior.
System Ages: Knowing the age and upkeep requirements of HVAC, roofing, and plumbing systems.
Neighborhood Suitability: Finding a community that matches both ambiance and practicality for everyday life.
Commute Convenience: Minimizing the strain of long commutes, prioritizing proximity to work.
Functional Layout: A floor plan that complements my lifestyle, with potential for future adaptations.
Growth Potential: Extra rooms or versatile spaces to accommodate family and guests.
Lower Priorities:
Current Decor: Easily changeable features like wallpaper and paint colors.
Furnished vs. Unfurnished: Personalizing furniture arrangements and style preferences over immediate furnishings.
Landscaping: While curb appeal is attractive, the lot’s potential matters more than its current appearance.
Light Fixtures & Hardware: Simple, affordable updates that don’t impact the overall value of the home.
Appliances: Replaceable items that don't determine the home’s fundamental worth to me.
What tops your list of non-negotiables? Share your must-haves below!

The Median Listing Price gives you a good idea of the current market conditions by letting you know the price at the exact middle.

If your summer plans involve putting up a "For Sale" sign in your yard, here’s why it’s the perfect time:

School-Year Countdown: With the new school year approaching, families are eager to settle into new homes quickly. Your pool, backyard oasis, or quiet study nook could be just what convinces them.
Desirable Amenities: Homes offering ways to beat the heat, like pools, shaded patios, or modern AC systems, are in high demand. Showcase these features and highlight proximity to local water parks, beaches, or lakes.
Convenient Showings: Planning summer travels? No problem. Let me know your dates, and I’ll coordinate hassle-free showings around your schedule.
Ready to make your move this summer? Send me a DM for a personalized selling strategy!

Attractive landscaping doesn't just improve home values, it will also improve how you feel about your home in general.

Here's what sellers are looking for in an offer:

Time: Closing quickly, such as within 2 weeks, can give your offer an edge over others. This requires a lender who can pre-approve you, demonstrating your commitment to the sellers.

Terms: Including features like escalation clauses, appraisal gap coverage, or proposing an "as-is" purchase can be appealing to sellers.
(That's why your agent should always reach out to the seller’s representative to understand their clients' motivations!)

Price: Of course, your offer should be competitive. Your agent will analyze comparable sales and current market conditions to ensure your offer is strong.
Curious about crafting a compelling offer? Feel free to send me a DM!

The gap between Zestimate and actual market value can be significant.

When it comes to pricing your home, nothing compares to personalized expertise and local insight from a dedicated agent.

A detailed market analysis, a grasp of local trends, and a strategic marketing strategy can potentially add thousands to your home's final sale price.

That's why it's essential to collaborate with someone who goes beyond superficial evaluations – because your home is unique and deserves a custom approach.

Interested in knowing your home's true value in Washington? Contact me, and I'll provide a complimentary price estimate tailored to your property.

Is a spacious dining room part of your dream home?

“What are the steps to be in a home by year’s end?”

This is a common question I start to hear this time of year.

Here’s a simple roadmap:
If your 2024 to-do list says “buy house” - you’ve got the perfect amount of time to be settled into a new home by the holidays.

July: ✓ Reach out to an agent for a buyer consultation to make a game plan.
August: ✓ Chat with a lender to nail down your home price range and pre-approval letter - typically good for 90 days. (Send me a DM for my lender recs!)
September: ✓ Fun part: Make a Wants vs. Needs list, browse listings, scope out open houses, and begin your home explorations.
October: ✓ Narrow down favorites and submit your offer(s) with the help of your agent.
November: ✓ Seal the deal on your new place and wrap up paperwork by month's end.
December: ✓ Move in, deck the halls, and enjoy the holidays in your new spot!

The TL;DR: Reach out to your Realtor ASAP! You’ve got the perfect amount of time on your hands to be home for the holidays!

Settling into your new house? Here are some easy ways to make it start feeling like home.

There are few things better than an outdoor area in which to sit peacefully and enjoy time with friends. This is one of the best imaginable.

What do you make of this modern hammock?
Looks a little easier to get in and out of, but definitely might be less comfortable!

What kind of home sound system do you have? And, what's your dream set-up? 🔊

If you're looking for something fun to do this weekend, consider Pierce College Science Dome!

Pierce College Science Dome Planetarium in Lakewood, WA

Considering buying a home in the near future? Keep these unwritten rules in mind before you start your search!

5 Unwritten Etiquette Rules Home Buyers Might Not Even Realize Are a Big Deal Here are some home-buying etiquette rules home buyers should keep in mind to avoid rubbing home sellers, real estate agents, and others the wrong way.

Everything you need to know if purchasing a home in an 'Escrow' state.

Escrow: All You Need to Know It’s one of the nitty-gritty details you’ll stumble upon when buying a home: the escrow account...