Premier Real Estate's Blog Posts

Who Has the Upper Hand in Today's Housing Market?Ask around and almost every homebuyer out there wants to know if there’s a way to get a better deal. And just about every seller wants to know

How to Find the Right Neighborhood When You MoveHouse hunters can focus so much on a house they want that they unintentionally slight other aspects of a new location. Your new neighborhood is at

Less House, More Home: Why Smaller Homes Are Paying Off for Today’s BuyersYou started shopping with a specific mental image of your future home in your mind. Then the houses in your budget

Do You Still Need a Home Office?Dedicated home offices are transitioning from must-haves to maybes, as many employees spend more days at the workplace. The home office isn’t disappearing, but

The Real Reason Some People Are Still Moving Right NowYou may be telling yourself you’re going to wait to move – maybe you’re hoping mortgage rates will come down, prices will,

The Truth About Affordability TodayLet's be real with each other for a second about affordability. Because you deserve someone who will be honest and transparent about what’s going on,

What Most Veterans Don't Know About Their VA Home Loan BenefitNearly half of Veterans (49%) feel homeownership is currently out of reach, according to a recent survey from NewDay USA.But many are

Newly Built Home Prices Hit a 5-Year LowIf you’ve always assumed a newly built home is just not in your budget, you should know the math just got a little friendlier.The median sale price of a

Record High Mortgage Debt Sounds Scary. Here’s What the Headlines Leave Out.You may have seen the headlines lately about mortgage debt in America hitting a record high. And maybe your brother

What Homeowners Should Know About How to Build Equity in a HomeAs home prices have surged in recent years, homeowners have emerged as the real winners in real estate. You may be shocked at just how

Quick Ways to Lower Your Electric BillThat shocking number on your latest electric bill isn’t a mistake. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics confirmed what millions of Americans are

Are Home Prices Going To Fall?It’s one of the biggest hold ups some buyers have right now: “What if I buy, and home prices go down?”With everything in the news, that concern makes

35 Money-Saving Household HabitsYour house gives you so much: security, pride, shelter. With all that on the line, it’s easy to assume the costs of keeping it up just are what they are. But

The Pricing Mistake That Could Cost You Your SaleMost sellers come into the market with one number in mind. And it’s often the one that costs them the most. That's their asking price. A

What the Foreclosure Headlines Aren’t Telling YouYou've probably seen the headlines saying, "foreclosures are on the rise,” and maybe your mind jumped straight to 2008. That’s

Drywall Installation: DIY or Pro?Whether adding a cutout between rooms, doing minor wall touch-ups, or bringing your wall’s outdated textures into this decade, you’ll need to get

Why Staging Your House Could Pay Off This SpringSelling your house this season? You’ve probably heard you should stage it before it hits the market. But what does that really mean – and

Could Co-Buying Be the Answer for Some First-Time Buyers?For a lot of would-be first-time buyers, affordability is the thing that’s standing in the way. But some buyers are getting creative

The Secret To Selling Fast, No Matter the MarketWhen you put your house on the market, you don’t just want it to sell. You want it to sell fast. But the thing is, nationally, it’s

14 Packing Hacks from the Pros That Make Moving Less AwfulBy Marie HuestonNew house: Yay! Moving out of the old one: Ugh. Packing up, moving, and then unpacking an entire house is the worst.Moving

4 Ways To Give Your Offer an Edge This SpringLooking to buy a home this season? Here's what you should know. Buyers have more leverage today than they’ve had in years. There are more

Is Late May the Best Time To List Your House?You may have heard April 12-18 was the “best week” to list your house. That’s based on a report from Realtor.com. But now that it&rsquo

Premier Real Estate ServicesHere's How to Bring Butterflies to Your GardenWhile the focus of your summer garden might center on bright blooms and healthy veggies, with a few simple strategies, you

Stay or Sell? How To Make the Right Call as You AgeAt some point, as you start thinking about the years ahead, this question tends to come up:“Could I stay here long-term… or would

4 Outdoor Fireplace Ideas to Warm Up Your SpaceThere’s nothing like gathering around a fire with your friends and family on a chilly evening. The right outdoor fireplace warms an outdoor area

Think You Have To Put 20% Down? Most First-Time Homebuyers Don’t.According to Google Trends, online searches for down payment information recently hit an all-time high. And that

Locating the Best Thrift Shopping Finds for Your HomeThrifting has gone from a quaint hobby to a mainstream activity, and from clothing to home décor and beyond. Home thrifting shoppers enjoy

3 Things That Are Not Going To Happen in Today's Housing MarketThere’s a lot of uncertainty right now and that’s leading to some dramatic headlines. And if you’re thinking about

More Options Are Popping Up This SpringDid you try to buy a home last year, but you ended up pressing pause?Maybe you couldn’t find a home that really fit your needs. Or maybe the ones you

Your Ultimate Summer Home Maintenance ChecklistSummer is calling. While thoughts of poolside lounging and backyard barbecues might be top of mind, doing prep work now can keep unexpected repairs

The 10 Best Markets for First-Time Buyers This SpringFor a while, buying your first home hasn’t just felt hard. It may have felt out of reach.Not because you weren’t ready.Not because

What You Need to Know Before Accepting — or Rejecting — an OfferThe day will come when you receive an offer, or multiple offers, for your home. And it will be a wonderful,

Rent or Buy? The Real Tradeoff Most People Don’t Talk AboutYou’ve probably asked yourself lately: Is it even worth trying to buy a home right now? It’s a question a lot of people

Getting a Tax Refund? Here’s How It Can Help You Buy a HomeIf you’re getting a tax refund this year, here’s something worth thinking about. That money could actually help you get

The Ins and Outs of Setting a Price for Your HomeEverything has value. Especially your home. And when it comes to selling your home, assigning a price to that value is complicated. You made memories

Wondering If You Should Still Buy a Home Right Now? Here’s What To Keep in Mind.With economic headlines, global events, and near constant talk about affordability, you may be wondering if this

Rethinking the Starter HomeFirst-time home buyers are swapping the idea of a starter home — modest, often short-term housing that comes with baggage — for a first home that works for

When Buying a Home Feels Out of Reach, Some Families Do This InsteadFor a lot of people, the math on buying a home just doesn’t really work right now. Maybe that’s how it feels for you

Thinking About an Adjustable-Rate Mortgage? Here’s What You Need To Know.If you’ve been looking for a home lately, you’ve probably felt how tough affordability still is. And that's

How to Hire a Contractor — and Avoid a Home Remodeling NightmareJody Costello was eager to begin a two-story addition to her 1940s home, including a new owner’s suite and an upper deck

Your House Hasn’t Sold Yet. Should You Rent It Out Instead?When your house sits on the market longer than expected, it can get frustrating fast.You start asking: what now? 

What Does a French Drain Cost?Struggling with a soggy lawn or flooded basement? A French drain may be the answer. French drains use a perforated pipe in a trench to collect, and efficiently drain

Before You Fall in Love with a House, Do This First.Be honest. Have you started looking at homes online yet? If you have, it’s already time to get pre-approved. Because here’s what

Don’t Let Home Prices Headlines Fool YouSpend about 5 minutes online searching for news about the housing market, and odds are you’ll see something pop up about home prices. You may even

Home Cleaning Tips for Every Hosting VibeYour hosting style shapes how you do your home cleaning for holiday entertaining — and the challenges you might have along the way. Whether your

This’ll Change What You Think About Investors in Today’s Housing MarketThere’s a lot of noise out there right now about investors in the housing market.Some headlines make it sound

Navigating Planting Zones: Tips for New GardenersPlanting season is in full swing, which means many homeowners have landscaping and gardening on the brain. The plant options at your big box store

How to Avoid Regrets Over DIY Home ProjectsDIY home projects aren’t as easy as they look on YouTube and HGTV. Homeowners are learning that firsthand after spending more time and money than

You Can’t Control What’s Happening with Mortgage Rates. But You Can Control This.Mortgage rates have been volatile lately. And if you’re thinking about buying a home, that can make

How to Deep Clean Your Home for Spring — or Any TimeWith the turn of the season comes a household chore Americans love to hate: spring cleaning. Whether you call it spring cleaning or deep

The Remodel You’ve Been Dreaming About May Be Closer Than You ThinkThat kitchen you’ve been mentally redesigning...The bathroom that really needs a refresh...Or the outdoor space you

Affordability Has Improved in All 50 StatesFor the past few years, affordability has been what’s stopped a lot of buyers in their tracks. Maybe it stopped you, too.At some point you

3 Must-Do’s for First-Time Home BuyersBuying your first home is exciting, but it can also be a little nerve-wrecking because it’s something you’ve never done before. And trying to

The #1 Reason Buyers Walk Away (And How To Get Ahead of It)You may have seen headlines on social saying the number of buyers backing out of their contracts is on the rise – and has recently

One Key Sign We’re Not Headed for a Wave of ForeclosuresForeclosures are ticking up. And that may make your mind jump straight to thoughts of 2008 – specifically to what happened to the

If Your House Isn’t Getting Offers, Read This.Online searches for “can’t sell house” just hit an all-time high according to Google Trends. So, if your house has been

Should You Wait for Lower Rates?Mortgage rates have already dropped into the upper 5s twice this year. But after just a few days, they ticked back up into the low 6% range. If you saw that and

6 Tips for Maximizing ADU or Rental Property Tax DeductionsSome homeowners have generated income by creating rental space in their homes or adding an accessory dwelling unit — a smaller

Extend the Lifespan of Home Appliances with the Right Maintenance“They don’t make ’em like they used to.” It’s a catchphrase, and when your dishwasher breaks for

4 Funky Odors in Your House Only Your Guests Can SmellStand in your kitchen and take a deep breath. Smell that? From last night’s fish to your son’s nasty lacrosse pads (why did he leave

Spring Sellers Have an Edge. Here’s Why.Homeowners looking to sell usually want three things: plenty of interested buyers, strong offers, and a short timeline. Spring is the season that most

Are Home Prices Dropping? Here’s the Real Story.You’ve probably seen posts on social media talking about how “home prices are falling.” And when you see something like that,

How to Get Rid of Hard-to-Discard Items When Decluttering Your Home or Prepping for a MoveDiscarding household items used to be simple. Your options were mainly holding a yard sale, donating to

The Hidden Advantage Repeat Buyers Have Right NowWhat if you didn’t have a mortgage payment on your next house? It may sound a little unrealistic. But for a number of homeowners, it’s

The Real Reason Home Sales Slowed in January. And It’s Not What You Think.If you saw headlines that talked about how “home sales fell sharply in January,” it probably raised an

Top Mistakes Homeowners Are Making in 2026 (And How To Avoid Them)Let’s be clear: selling your house is absolutely possible right now. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR),

Renting vs. Buying: The Numbers Might Surprise YouRenting can feel like the easier choice right now. There’s no big down payment. No dealing with surprise repairs. And no long-term commitment

How Your Equity Could Help Younger Generations Buy a HomeFor a lot of parents or grandparents, watching a family member struggle to buy their first home right now is hard. That's because you saw

Smart Home Features That Actually Increase Property Value in 2026Smart technology has moved from novelty to necessity in home buying. In 2026, buyers expect more than fresh paint and modern.

The Price You Set Can Make (or Break) Your SaleThere’s one decision you're going to make when you sell that determines whether your house sells quickly, or it sits. Whether buyers make an,

Move-Up Buyers Are Choosing New ConstructionAt some point, a house that once felt perfect just… doesn’t anymore.Maybe you need more space.Maybe working from home turned your dining room

How VantageScore 4.0 May Help You Qualify for a MortgageA new credit score model gives first-time home buyers, even those with little or no credit history, a better chance to qualify for a mortgage.

Four Ways Your Home Equity Can Work for YouYou may have heard homeowners today have a lot of equity built up. But what does that really mean? Let’s break it down.Because your equity isn&rsquo

Inventory Is Making a Comeback in 2026After a long stretch where buyers were competing for too few homes, inventory has made a comeback over the past year. And depending on where you live, that;

The Right Way to Pick a (Gorgeous!) Color Scheme for Your HomeAdding color to your home is a great way to display your personal style and add some vibrancy to a space. Choosing a color palette,

Why Townhomes Are Popular with Today’s First-Time BuyersBuying your first home can feel frustrating when the numbers don’t line up the way you expected. You may know you’re ready

Carpet Installation Cost: The Complete GuideCertain areas in a home beg to be carpeted. Bedrooms, living rooms, and playrooms are all high traffic areas where people want to feel cozy and.

Top 3 Reasons To Buy a Home Before SpringIf you’re planning to buy a home this year, you may be focused on the spring market. And hoping that when spring does hit, you’ll see:Mortgage

It’s Getting More Affordable To Buy a HomeThere’s finally a little good news for anyone who’s been priced out or sitting on the sidelines.Buying a home is getting more affordable

How to Choose the Best New Windows for Your HomeBy Teresa MearsMaybe it’s finally time for new windows for your home, but can you afford them? What if you make a mistake and your

Home Insurance Costs Are Rising: What Buyers Should Plan ForBuying a home is one of the biggest purchases you’ll ever make. And homeowner’s insurance is what protects that investment.

Wellness Home Design: 5 Ways to Create a Healthy, Happy SpaceQuartz countertops and fancy finishes are taking a back seat to the hottest real estate trend: wellness home design. The idea is to

Why So Many Homeowners Are Downsizing Right NowFor a growing number of homeowners, retirement isn’t some distant idea anymore. It’s starting to feel very real.According to Realtor

Top 2026 Housing Markets for Buyers and SellersWho doesn’t love a top 10 list? Well, here are two top 10 lists for the housing market this year. But before you take a look, there’s

You May Not Want To Skip Over That House That’s Been Sitting on the MarketWhen you see a house that’s been sitting on the market for a while, the reaction is almost automatic. You start

Mortgage Rates Recently Hit a 3-Year Low. Here’s Why That’s Still a Big Deal.If you’re one of the thousands of homebuyers waiting for rates to fall, you should know it’s

Designing Spaces That Perform Under Real-World ConditionsImagine a workspace that remains comfortable under shifting daylight, adapts to nearby machinery noise, and supports every task from focused

Why Rising Foreclosure Headlines Aren’t a Red Flag for Today’s Housing MarketIf you’ve seen headlines saying foreclosure activity has been climbing for 10 straight months, it&rsquo

Is Mold Covered by Insurance? A Guide for HomeownersMold is the dirty little secret many households don’t want to talk about. You can find it lurking in damp corners, under floors, or even

Home Updates That Actually Pay You Back When You SellPlanning to sell this spring? While you may be tempted to hold off until the first blooms or the spring showers hit, that's actually waiting too

How to Avoid Delisting Your Home and Canceled Home Purchase AgreementsHome sellers are feeling the heat as buyers pull back or expect near perfection because of soaring prices. Those actions have

Are Big Investors Really Buying Up All the Homes? Here’s the Truth.It’s hard to scroll online lately without seeing some version of this claim:“Big investors are buying up all the

The #1 Regret Sellers Have When They Don’t Use an AgentWant to know the #1 thing homeowners regret when they sell without an agent? It’s that they didn’t price their

How to Shop Around for a Mortgage LoanWhether you’re shopping for new bed sheets or a new car, the drill is usually the same. Hit the reviews, check with friends, and scope out the best deal.

The Credit Score Myth That’s Holding Would-Be Buyers BackWould-be homebuyers aren’t sitting on the sidelines because they don’t want to buy. They’re sitting out

Expert Forecasts Point to Affordability Improving in 2026Wondering what to expect from the housing market in 2026? You’re not the only one. For the past few years, affordability has been the

Thinking about Selling Your House As-Is? Read This First.If you’re thinking about selling your house this year, you may be torn between two options:Do you sell it as-is and make it

Why Pre-Approval Should Be Your First Step – Not an AfterthoughtFinding the right home feels exciting – but being pre-approved for your loan is what makes it possible. Whether you&rsquo

Not Sure If You’re Ready To Buy a Home? Ask Yourself These 5 Questions.If you’re trying to decide if you’re ready to become a homeowner in the next twelve months,

Turning a House Into a Home: The Benefits You Can Actually FeelThere’s a lot of conversation about home prices, mortgage rates, and affordability right now – and those things are

Reasons To Be Optimistic About the 2026 Housing MarketIf a move is on your radar for 2026, there’s a lot more working in your favor than there has been in a while.After a stretch where many

Your House Didn’t Sell. What Now?When your house doesn’t sell, it does more than disrupt your plans, it hits close to home. You prepared for the next chapter. You told people you were

Common Mistakes When Closing on a HomeEver notice that when you’re unprepared, it heats up stressful situations? Take the preclosing stage of the home buying process. You may keep thinking

Headlines Have You Worried about Your Home’s Value? Read This.Hearing talk about home prices falling? That may leave you worried about whether your house is losing value. But here’s what

Your Stress-Free Guide to Shopping for Home LoansWhen it comes to buying a house, most people know what they want: a bungalow or a condo, a hot neighborhood, or a sleepy street.Mortgages, too, come

Is January the Best Time To Buy a Home?You may not want to put your homebuying plans into hibernation mode this winter. While a lot of people assume spring is the ideal time to buy a house, new data

Is Buyer Demand Picking Back Up? What Sellers Should Know.The housing market hasn’t felt this energized in a long time – and the numbers backing that up are hard to ignore. Mortgage

The Best Time of Year to Buy Things for Your HomeBy Amy Howell HirtBuying stuff can be stressful. Cheap out and you could regret it. Overspend and you’ll cut into your budget. Knowing the

How To Stretch Your Options, Not Your BudgetOne of the biggest homebuying advantages you can give yourself today is surprisingly simple: a flexible wish list.Think of it like this. Your wish

How to Prioritize Repairs Before Selling a HouseYou’re about to sell your home, but you have a critical decision to make — what home repairs do you do to get it list-worthy? This

Your Equity Could Change Everything About Your Next MoveA lot of people are asking the same thing right now: “Is it even a good time to sell?” And the truth may come

Why Selling Your House This Winter Gives You an EdgeSpring gets all the attention, but it’s not always the best time to sell a house. Yes, more buyers show up, but so do a lot of other sellers

How to Choose a Real Estate AgentBuying a home is a milestone, but it can feel like an emotional obstacle course. Ninety-two percent of hopeful home buyers said the process was stressful, according

This May Be the Best Time To Buy a Brand-New HomeNew home construction today is giving buyers something it feels like they haven't gotten much lately: a real shot at both the home they want and the

Why More Homeowners Are Giving Up Their Low Mortgage RateIf you’re like a lot of homeowners, you’ve probably thought: “I’d like to move… but I don’t want to give

The 3 Housing Market Questions Coming Up at Every Gathering This SeasonWhether it’s at a family gathering, your company party, or catching up with friends over the holidays, the housing market

How To Find the Best Deal Possible on a Home Right NowWant to know how to find the best deal possible in today’s housing market? Here’s the secret. Focus on homes that have been sitting

Why So Many People Are Thankful They Bought a Home This YearHomebuyers are weighing their options right now, and they certainly have a lot on their minds. With everything going on in the job market,

Why Buying a Home Still Pays Off in the Long RunRenting can feel much less expensive and much simpler than buying a home, especially right now. No repairs, no property taxes, no worrying about

A Whole House Surge Protector Can Keep the Power Flowing at HomeA TV, laptop, or lamp just flickered, and you hold your breath hoping the power will stay on. That’s a nuisance, but a power

4 Reasons Your House Is High on Every Buyer’s Wish List This SeasonWhen the holidays roll around, travel plans, family gatherings, and all the chaos of the season may make you think it’s

Most Experts Are Not Worried About a RecessionHomebuyers are watching the economy closely, and for good reason. Buying a home is one of the biggest purchases most people ever make. And some

Changes in Homeowners Association Guidelines May Benefit BuyersFeuds between homeowners and homeowners associations have escalated to painful levels. Homeowners have faced severe fines, liens, and

The Top 2 Things Homeowners Need To Know Before SellingHere’s something you should know before you sell your house. The homeowners who win in today’s market aren’t the ones waiting

The Housing Market Is Turning a Corner Going into 2026After several years of high mortgage rates and hesitation from buyers, momentum is quietly building beneath the surface of the housing market.

How to Get Your Home Show ReadyEveryone knows that selling your house is a big decision, and there are so many emotions involved, not to mention all of the work it takes to get your house ready

Would You Let $80 a Month Hold You Back from Buying a Home?A lot of buyers are stuck in “wait and see” mode right now. They’re watching rates hover a little above 6% and thinking,&

How Homeowners Are Maximizing Equity in an Evolving MarketHome equity can feel like a moving target as interest rates rise and values shift. Yet for many homeowners, this asset is key to funding

The VA Home Loan Advantage: What Every Veteran Should Know Right NowIf you’ve served in the military (or if your spouse has), you have access to one of the most powerful homebuying tools out

Are You Missing These Spots When Cleaning?Even the most meticulous among us are bound to miss a spot or two when cleaning—especially when we’re short on time or prepping for last-minute

What a Government Shutdown Really Means for the Housing MarketThere’s been a lot of talk lately about how a government shutdown impacts the housing market. You might be wondering: Is it

Why Your Home Equity Still Puts You Way AheadIf you’ve seen headlines about home prices dropping, it’s easy to wonder what that means for the value of your home too. Here’s what

Seller Prelisting Home Inspections: Are They Worth It?Published on Oct. 31, 2025Some homeowners are getting their own home inspections before listing — hoping to catch issues early and keep

How To Make Sure Your Sale Crosses the Finish LineIf there was one simple step that could help make your home sale a seamless process, wouldn't you want to know about it?There’s a lot that

Why 'Micro-cations' May Be the Best New Way to TravelIn a year marked by ongoing economic uncertainty and evolving consumer habits, a popular travel trend is having a resurgence among U.S.:

Thought the Market Passed You By? Think Again.If you stepped back from your home search over the past few years, you’re not alone – and you’re definitely not out of options. In,

Why You Don’t Need To Be Afraid of Today’s Mortgage RatesMortgage rates have been the monster under the bed for a while. Every time they tick up, people flinch and say, “Maybe

How to Safeguard Your Home From Hail DamageWhile summer storms can bring severe wind, rainfall and lightning, in many areas, dangerous hail often accompanies bad storms. If wild weather and a threat

Why Some Homes Sell Quickly – and Others Don’t Sell at AllA few years ago, inventory hit a record low. Just about anything sold – and fast. But now, there are far more homes on the

5 Creative Ways to Use Paint to Totally Transform a RoomEveryone knows that painting a room a new color can completely change its looks and feel. But did you know that there are countless smaller

The Reason Homes Feel Like They Cost So Much (It’s Not What You Think)Scroll through your feed and you’ll see plenty of finger-pointing about why homes cost so much. And according to a

Planning To Sell in 2026? Start the Prep NowYou’ve got big plans for 2026. But what you do this year could be the difference between a smooth sale and a stressful one. If you’re thinking

Hardwood Floors? Don't Make These Cleaning MistakesWhen it comes to interior design, beautiful hardwood floors are hard to beat. In fact, according to experts, hardwood floors can add 2% – 5%

Is the Housing Market Going To Crash? Here’s What Experts SayIf you’ve seen headlines or social posts calling for a housing crash, it’s easy to wonder if home values are about to

How to Clean Some Surprising Things in Your Washing MachineCar floor mats in the washer? Usually, yep.Sometimes we learn from trial and error. But when it comes to a pricey appliance you use a lot,

The $280 Shift in Affordability Every Homebuyer Should KnowIf you paused your plans to move because of high rates or prices, it may finally be time to take a second look at your numbers.

2026 Housing Market OutlookAfter a couple of years where the housing market felt stuck in neutral, 2026 may be the year things shift back into gear. Expert forecasts show more people are

Home Buyers Step Up as Mortgage Rates FallPublished on Oct. 13, 2025Falling mortgage rates could save home buyers more than $1,000 in interest annually if they compare options from various lenders

Why More Buyers Are Turning to New Construction This YearThere’s a trend taking hold in real estate right now: more buyers are choosing newly built homes. And it’s not just about getting

Home Maintenance Checklist for the First Year of Home Ownership – and BeyondUpdated on Oct. 2, 2025Use a home maintenance checklist to prioritize tasks that can cause the most damage if

Don’t Let Unrealistic Pricing Cost You Your MoveThese days, you’re going to want to get your price right when you get ready to sell your house. Honestly, it’s more

Why Home Prices Aren’t Actually FlatIf you’ve been following real estate news lately, you’ve probably seen headlines saying home prices are flat. And at first glance, that sounds

Why Experts Say Mortgage Rates Should Ease Over the Next YearYou want mortgage rates to fall – and they've started to. But is it going to last? And how low will they go?Experts say there&rsquo

Why Fall Might Be the Best Time to Buy a HomeThe cooler market conditions may translate to more-motivated sellers and a prime home-buying opportunity.Spring and summer often take the title as the

Natural Kitchens: Always in StyleLighten up with a kitchen remodel that adds wood, stone, and plenty of daylight and greenery.As the kitchen has become more of hub, that fact may have sparked

Why October Is the Best Time To Buy a Home in 2025If you’ve been watching from the sidelines, now’s the time to lean in. It’s officially the best time to buy this year. 

Spaces That Work Harder: Redefining Every Corner of the HomeYour living space should adapt as your needs change. Rather than settling for single-purpose rooms, rethinking living spaces lets you

How to Avoid Panic Over the Home Inspection ReportPublished on Sept. 23, 2025Home buyers can stay calm about a home inspection report with pro advice and the right perspective.Waiting for a home

Closing Costs Unpacked: State-by-State Breakdowns for Today’s BuyersIf you’re planning to buy a home this year, there’s one expense you can’t afford to overlook: closing

Genius Ways to Repurpose Old Picture FramesSomewhere lurking in everyone’s closet or basement is a stack of old picture frames, either from artwork that no longer suits your style or photos&

Downsizing Without Debt: How More Homeowners Are Buying Their Next House in CashIf you’ve been thinking about downsizing to lower your expenses, be closer to family, or just make

Why Buyers and Sellers Face Very Different Conditions TodayThere’s a new divide in housing right now. In some states, buyers are gaining ground. In others, sellers still have the upper hand.

3 Reasons Affordability Is Showing Signs of Improvement This FallFor the past couple of years, it’s been tough for a lot of homebuyers to make the numbers work. Home prices shot up. Mortgage

Why Didn’t Mortgage Rates Fall More After the Fed Rate Cut?The Federal Reserve’s rate cut didn’t translate directly to lower mortgage rates, but some buyers may see ripple effects.

Do You Know How Much Your House Is Really Worth?Want to know something important you probably don’t have a professional check for you nearly as often as you should? Spoiler alert: it’s

How Your Crawlspace Can Affect the Air Quality in Your HouseHow Your Crawlspace Can Affect the Air Quality in Your HouseIf you’ve noticed a musty odor or poor air quality in your home, the

Why Now May Be a Key 2025 Moment To Sell Your HouseMortgage rates are finally heading in the right direction – and buyers are starting to jump back in.According to the data, buyer demand

Take Your Real Estate Agent's Advice When Setting a Price for Your HomeIf you want to sell your house quickly, you have to set a price that reflects its fair market value. Your real estate

Make Your Home Your Feel-Good Place With Dopamine DecorLearn how the colors, accessories, and lighting in your home can improve your mood.Home design is embracing a new look — one that’s

Patience Won’t Sell Your House. Pricing Will.Waiting for the perfect buyer to fall in love with your house? In today’s market, that’s usually not what’s holding things up.

Mortgage Rates Just Saw Their Biggest Drop in a YearYou’ve been waiting for what feels like forever for mortgage rates to finally budge. And last week, they did – in a big way.On Friday,

Hack Your Home for Better SleepHere’s how to DIY your way to the best zzzs — and mood — ever.We spend a third of our lives passed out, tucked between the covers, drooling all over

Why 50% of Homes Are Selling for Under Asking and How To Avoid ItIf your selling strategy still assumes you’ll get multiple offers over asking, it’s officially time for a reset. That

How Freeze-Thaw Cycles Can Damage Your HomeWater can seep into small cracks in your home’s foundation, then freeze in the winter. Water expands when it freezes, which makes foundation cracks

Builder Incentives Reach 5-Year HighEven with more homes on the market right now, some buyers are still having a tough time finding the right one at the right price. Maybe the layout feels off.

What Mortgage Delinquencies Tell Us About the Future of ForeclosuresYou may be seeing headlines about how foreclosures are rising. And if that makes you nervous that we’re headed for another

Thinking About Renting Your House Instead of Selling? Read This First.If your house is on the market but you haven’t gotten any offers you’re comfortable with, you may be wondering: 

Have You Reviewed Your Homeowners Insurance in the Past Year? If Not, You ShouldHomeowners insurance can pay to rebuild your house if it’s destroyed and replace belongings that are damaged,

Food with a Story: Restaurants and Eateries That Define St. CloudDiscover food with a story in St. Cloud. From family-run classics to international kitchens, scratch-made bistros, and iconic fast

What Everyone’s Getting Wrong About the Rise in New Home InventoryYou may have seen talk online that new home inventory is at its highest level since the crash. And if you lived through the

History Shows the Housing Market Always RecoversNow that the market is slowing down, homeowners who haven’t sold at the price they were hoping for are increasingly pulling their homes off the

The Everything Guide to Buying Your First HomeUpdated on Aug. 30, 2024How to find exactly what you want, and how to work with the experts who’ll help you get it.So you’re thinking about

Should You Still Expect a Bidding War?If you’re still worried about having to deal with a bidding war when you buy a home, you may be able to let some of that fear go.While multiple-offer

From Frenzy to Breathing Room: Buyers Finally Have Time AgainIf you tried to buy a home a few years ago, you probably still remember the frenzy. Homes were listed one day and gone the next.

Preventing Electrical Fires: Risks You Shouldn’t IgnoreUpdated on May 8, 2025Take these steps to minimize your risk of electrical fires.The average household needs a lot of electricity to

Condos Could Be a Win for Today’s BuyersNot every homebuyer wants the biggest house on the block. Some want something simpler, more affordable, and easier to maintain, especially in a market

More Contracts Are Falling Through. Here’s How To Get Ahead.When you sell a house, the last thing you want is for the deal to fall apart right before closing. But according to the latest data

Are These Myths About Buying a Newly Built Home Holding You Back?If you’ve been skipping over newly built homes in your search, you might be doing so based on outdated assumptions. Let’s

Is It Better To Buy Now or Wait for Lower Mortgage Rates? Here’s the TradeoffMortgage rates are still a hot topic – and for good reason. After the most recent jobs report came out weaker

The Business Behind the Property: What You’re Probably MissingReal estate looks straightforward: find the right location, negotiate the price, and manage tenants. But beneath those familiar

Why Is My Grass Turning Brown?Published on Aug. 12, 2025Repair those brown spots in your grass for a healthy lawn and more curb appeal.Many homeowners love the sight of a lush, green lawn. If they

What Should Be in an Emergency Survival Kit?Updated on May 27, 2025Preparing and keeping a fully stocked home emergency preparedness kit could be the key to your family’s safety if disaster

Online Home-Buying Search Terms Recently Hit 2-Year HighBelieve it or not, there are clear signs buyer interest is heating up again.Let’s talk about what’s really going on behind the

A Fresh Take on Two-Tone Kitchen CabinetsPublished on Aug. 1, 2025New versions of two-tone kitchen cabinets are spicing up kitchen design without the high cost and inconvenience of a remodel.Some

Why Selling Without an Agent Can Cost You More Than You ThinkCutting out the agent might seem like a smart way to save when you sell your house. But here’s the hard truth.Last year, homes that

How to Protect Yourself from Unhealthy Air Quality and Wildfire SmokePublished on July 30, 2025Explore precautions like sensors and monitors, and steps to take when unhealthy air or wildfire smoke

How to Keep Bugs Out of Your HousePublished on July 29, 2025Got bugs in the house? Here’s what’s attracting them and how you could be inviting them into your home.No one wants bugs

The Truth About Down Payments (It’s Not What You Think)Buying a home is exciting… until you start thinking about the down payment. That’s when the worry can set in.“I&rsquo

Buying a home is one of the biggest and most considered financial decisions you’ll ever make. Some buyers may think they're making a good decision but end up with regret. In fact, 82% of

Today’s Tale of Two Housing MarketsDepending on where you live, the housing market could feel red-hot or strangely quiet right now. The truth is, local markets are starting to move in

Open House Etiquette: Questions to Ask (and What to Keep to Yourself)Attending open houses can give you a first-hand look at a potential home and neighborhood and help you gauge market value. When

Home Features That Sound Nice But Aren't Always Worth the InvestmentWhen designing or renovating a home, it’s easy to get lost in dreamy Pinterest boards and glossy real estate trends.,

Ask a homeowner what they wish they’d known before buying a house, and they’ll likely answer, “I didn't expect this much work.” Eighty-two percent of buyers surveyed;

Housing Market Forecasts for the Rest of 2025If you’ve been watching the market, you’ve likely noticed a few changes already this year. But what’s next? From home prices to

4 Spring Cleaning Must-Dos for Home ChefsWhen’s the last time you washed the knobs on your stove?Tasty magic happens in your kitchen. And sometimes, a little of that magic is left behind. Only

Home Features That Sound Nice But Aren't Always Worth the InvestmentWhen designing or renovating a home, it’s easy to get lost in dreamy Pinterest boards and glossy real estate trends.,

Decorating to Sell vs. Decorating to StayExcellent design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about purpose. Whether preparing your home for the market or refining it for long-term living,

Don’t Make These Mistakes When Selling Your HouseAre you thinking about selling your house? Some common mistakes today can make the process more stressful or even cost you money.Fortunately,

How to Maximize Storage Space and Organize Your GarageIf your garage is messy and disorganized, set aside a weekend to do something about it.Start by decluttering. Go through the entire garage and

Open House Etiquette: Questions to Ask (and What to Keep to Yourself)Open house season is here. Attending open houses can give you a first-hand look at a potential home and neighborhood and help you

Mortgage Rates Are Stabilizing – How That Helps Today’s BuyersOver the past few years, affordability has been the biggest challenge for homebuyers. Between rapidly rising home prices and

Consumer Guide: Buying a Historic PropertyNOTE: Consumer guides do not constitute any change in NAR policy. Real estate professionals must ensure they market properties consistent with relevant MLS

The Advice First-Time Homebuyers Need To HearBuying your first home is a big milestone – and the right support is going to make it a whole lot easier.Because while this process might be brand

How to Negotiate Home Price and MorePublished on June 27, 2025Learn about negotiation opportunities and strategies that can help you buy a home that’s a good deal for you.A seller’s

The Truth About Where Home Prices Are HeadingThere are plenty of headlines these days calling for a housing market crash. But the truth is, they’re not telling the full story. Here’s&

Selling and Buying at the Same Time? Here’s What You Need To KnowIf you're a homeowner planning to move, you're probably wondering what the process is going to look like and what you should

What You Should Know About Getting a Mortgage TodayIf you’ve been putting off buying a home because you thought getting approved would be too hard, know this: qualifying for a mortgage is

Expert Tips to Get a Low-Maintenance HousePublished on June 27, 2025Whether you’re buying or renovating a home, here’s how to end up with low maintenance.Ask a homeowner what they wish

Think No One’s Buying Homes Right Now? Think Again.If you’ve seen headlines saying home sales are down compared to last year, you might be thinking – is it even a good time to?&

Why Big Investors Aren’t a Challenge for Today’s HomebuyerRemember the chatter in the headlines about all the homes big institutional investors were buying? If you were thinking about

How to Keep Your Real Estate Purchase Agreement on TrackPublished on June 17, 2025After you have an accepted purchase offer, you still have a long list of to-do’s and potential deal breakers

Multi-Generational Homebuying Hit a Record High – Here’s WhyMulti-generational living is on the rise. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 17%;

What Every Homeowner Needs To Know In Today’s Shifting MarketHere’s something you need to know. The housing market is getting back to a healthier, more normal place. And even though it

How to Use Less Electricity When Your Electric Bills and the Heat SoarUpdated on June 25, 2025Follow pro advice about how to cut your electric bills and use less electricity even with rising costs

HVAC Maintenance ChecklistUpdated on April 30, 2025Heating and cooling problems can cause discomfort and sky-high utility bills on top of inconvenience. Keep your home’s HVAC in tip-top shape

How to Set Your Thermostat in a Heat WaveUpdated on Aug. 2, 2024Not sold on setting your thermostat to 78 degrees? These tips will help you set it at the right temperature for you.One of the most

Why More Sellers Are Choosing To Move, Even with Today’s RatesIt’s hard to let go of a 3% mortgage rate. There’s no question about it. It’s the main reason why so many

3 Reasons To Buy a Home This SummerAre you thinking about buying a home, but not sure if now’s the right time? A lot of people are waiting and wondering what the market’s going to

Powering Smarter Spaces: The Modern Blueprint for Home EfficiencyRising energy costs and limited square footage are driving homeowners to rethink how they live. Today’s blueprint for home

Consumer Guide: Preparing to Sell Your HomeOnce you decide to sell your home, you might have questions about how to prepare it for listing and viewing by potential buyers. An agent who is a REALTOR

Why Most Sellers Hire Real Estate Agents TodaySelling your house without an agent as a “For Sale by Owner” (FSBO) may be something you’ve considered. But you should know that, in

Your House Didn’t Sell. Here’s What To Do Now.When your house doesn’t sell, it doesn’t just feel frustrating – it feels personal. You put time, money, and emotional

Is Inventory Getting Back To Normal?After years of it feeling almost impossible to find a home you want to buy, things are changing for the better. Nationally, inventory is growing, and that gives

The Five-Year Rule for Home Price PerspectiveHeadlines are saying home prices are starting to dip in some markets. And if you’re beginning to second guess your plans based on what you’re

Buying Your First Home? FHA Loans Can HelpIf you’re a first-time homebuyer, you might feel like the odds are stacked against you in today’s market. But there are resources and programs

How to Buy a Home With Bad Credit — and Improve Your CreditPublished on May 30, 2025Credit issues play a big role in preparing to buy a home. Here’s how to avoid buying a home with bad

Understanding Today’s Mortgage Rates: Is 3% Coming Back?A lot of buyers are pressing pause on their plans these days, holding out hope that mortgage rates will come down – maybe even

The Rooms That Matter Most When You SellNow that buyers have more options for their move, you need to be a bit more intentional about making sure your house looks its best when you sell. And proper

Why Buying Real Estate Is Still the Best Long-Term InvestmentLately, it feels like every headline about the housing market comes with a side of doubt. Are prices going up or down? Are we headed for

Newly Built Homes May Be Less Expensive Than You ThinkDo you think a brand-new home means a bigger price tag? Think again.Right now, something unique is happening in the housing market. According to

Water Damage Repair: Tips to Restore Your HomeUpdated on March 17, 2025Recognize the first signs because fixing water damage early can prevent extreme trouble, like mold, and smooth the repair

Common Real Estate Terms ExplainedIf you're a first-time homebuyer, chances are you'll come across some terms you’re not familiar with. And that can be overwhelming, especially while going

Is It Better To Rent or Buy a Home?You’ve probably asked yourself lately: Is it even worth trying to buy a home right now?With high home prices and stubborn mortgage rates, renting can seem

Consumer Guide: Home InspectionsNOTE: Consumer guides do not constitute any change in NAR policy. Real estate professionals must ensure they market properties consistent with relevant MLS rules and

Many Veterans Don’t Know about This VA Home Loan BenefitFor 80 years, Veterans Affairs (VA) home loans have helped countless Veterans buy a home. But even though a lot of Veterans have access

A Beginner’s Guide to Veggie GardeningUpdated on April 1, 2025No experience needed to plant a veggie garden that offers savings, outdoor fun, health benefits — and food!Have you been hit

What Homeowners Should Know About Flood InsurancePublished on May 8, 2025You may have flood risk no matter where you live, but you have insurance options for peace of mind.Just one inch of water in

 What Buyers Need To Know About Homeowners Association FeesWhen buying a home, you’re probably thinking about mortgage rates, home prices, your down payment, and maybe even your

You Could Use Some of Your Equity To Give Your Children the Gift of HomeIf you’re a homeowner, chances are you’ve built up a lot of wealth – just by living in your house and

Is Bathtub Replacement Right for You?Published on May 16, 2025Homeowners are increasingly swapping out their bathtubs for showers. Learn the pros and cons.Image: Tatsiana Volkava/gettyA steamy

Home Projects That Boost ValueWhether you’re planning to move soon or not, it’s smart to be strategic about which home projects you take on. Your time, energy, and money matter –

Budget-Friendly Home Remodeling Projects That Can Boost a Home’s Resale ValueBy: Melissa Dittmann TraceyPublished: April 28, 2025Find home remodel ideas that won’t break the bank

Co-Ownership Housing: An Affordable Option for First-Time BuyersBy: Stacey FreedPublished: April 23, 2025Buying a home with a friend or family member can move you past home ownership barriers

7 Important Repairs to Make Before Selling A HouseBy: Jamie WiebeThe most critical things to do to increase your home’s value before putting it on the market.As a smart seller, you want

The Most Common Spring Cleaning Mistake (Plus 8 Others)By: Jamie WiebeDon’t open the windows. That spring breeze is no help at all.Once there’s even a glimmer of spring, you&rsquo

How Clutter Creates Stress and Anxiety: Strategies for DeclutteringBy: Melissa Dittmann TraceyPublished: May 17, 2024Find out what the experts and research say about the clutter-health

Housing Market Forecasts for the Second Half of the YearFrom rising home prices to mortgage rate swings, the housing market has left a lot of people wondering what’s next – and whether

What an Economic Slowdown Could Mean for the Housing MarketTalk about the economy is all over the news, and the odds of a recession are rising this year. That’s leaving a lot of people

Making Your Money Last Long Into RetirementThe average length of retirement in the United States is 18 years, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.How do retirees pay for those 18 years?

The 20% Down Payment Myth, DebunkedSaving up to buy a home can feel a little intimidating, especially right now. And for many first-time buyers, the idea that you have to put 20% down can feel like

Why Today’s Foreclosure Numbers Aren’t a Warning SignWhen it feels like the cost of just about everything is rising, it’s only natural to wonder what that means for the housing

A Tale of Two Housing MarketsFor a long time, the housing market was all sunshine for sellers. Homes were flying off the shelves, and buyers had to compete like crazy. But lately, things are

Should I Buy a Home Now or Wait?At some point, you’ve probably heard the saying: “Yesterday was the best time to buy a home, but the next best time is today.”That’s

Paused Your Moving Plans? Here’s Why It’s Time To Hit Play AgainIt’s not really a surprise that 70% of buyers paused their home search last year. Maybe you were one of

Is Granite on its Way Out?According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association, granite countertops are in less demand today, while the use of quartz is on the rise.Why? For one thing, man-made

Retro Colors Make a Comeback: What's Hot in Decor Right NowEverything old is new again, and that goes for decorating with color. While the last decade in home décor has largely been defined

Don’t Miss This Prime Spring Window To Sell Your HouseAccording to Realtor.com, the best week to list your house this year was April 13–19. And since that week has come and gone, you

Pre-Approval Isn’t Commitment – It’s ClarityIf buying a home is on your radar – even if it’s more of a someday plan than a right now plan –

How to Add Value and Beauty to Your Front Yard LandscapeBy: Melissa Dittmann TraceyThese 12 front yard landscaping ideas can elevate your home’s curb appeal and value, plus your enjoyment

How to Get Preapproved for a MortgageBy: Melissa Dittmann TraceyPublished: April 14, 2025Learn why a mortgage preapproval is an important step to set you up for success in a home purchase.Let

Smart Home Improvements: Making Your Space More Efficient and Resilient  Making your home more energy efficient and resilient can not only increase its overall value but also increase your

When you put your house on the market, you want to sell it quickly and for the best price possible; that's generally the goal. But too many sellers are shooting too high right now. They don’t

Spring is in full swing, and the housing market is picking up along with it. And if you’ve been wondering whether now is the right time to buy or sell, here’s the inside scoop on why

Homeowner’s insurance is a must-have to protect what’s probably your biggest investment – your home. And while you never want to think about worst-case scenarios, the

How Buying or Selling a Home Helps Your Local EconomyWhether you’re buying or selling a house, here’s something to think about that most people don’t. Your

If you took your house off the market in late 2024, you’re not the only one. Newsweek reports that data from CoreLogic and the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) says

At one point or another, you’ve probably heard someone say, “Yesterday was the best time to buy a home, but the next best time is today.”That’s because nationally, home

Is an Accessory Dwelling Unit Right for You? Here’s What To KnowAre you having a hard time finding the right home in your budget? Or maybe you already own a home but could use some extra

How To Buy a Home Without Waiting for Lower RatesMany people are hoping mortgage rates will come down before they buy a home. But will that actually happen? According to the latest forecasts,

Living in a High-Rental Area: How to Manage Your Budget and Still Afford Your Dream PlaceLiving in a high-rental and high-mortgage area is challenging, especially with a tight budget. However, with

Living Well at Home: How to Create a Space That Supports Your Lifestyle Our homes have become our offices, blurring the line between our professional and personal lives. Having a dedicated workspace

Smart Home Setup: How to Maximize Efficiency in Your New Space   Tired of managing your home’s basic tasks? A smart home handles them automatically. From running the vacuum

Selling Your Home? 8 Ways to Upgrade for a Quicker SaleSelling your home can be stressful, time-consuming, and expensive. If your home hasn’t been recently renovated, you’ll need to

Where to Check for Unclaimed MoneyFound money is a gift. And with the internet, it’s easier than ever to find it.Unclaimed assets may be sitting somewhere in your name, waiting for you to find

Why Homeowners Are Switching to QuartzGreater VarietyMan-made quartz countertops come in an extensive range of colors and patterns, thanks to engineered pigments. You can achieve looks from sleek

Top Mortgage Tips for Homebuyers in Saint Cloud, MinnesotaWhen it comes to securing a mortgage in Saint Cloud, Minnesota, it’s important to remember there is no one-size-fits-all solution.

How to Set Up Your Surround Sound System in Your New HomeMoving into a new home is an exciting milestone, and personalizing your space is part of making it truly feel like your own. One key upgrade

Setting Up Your Surround Sound SpeakersWhen you move into a new house, there are numerous things you’ll want to do early on to get your house in live-in shape, and one thing you should think