Fall has arrived, and once again there’s no shortage of housing and economic news competing for our attention. In economic news, the Fed made headlines last month when it raised its benchmark interest rate. It’s worth remembering that the Fed doesn’t set mortgage rates. Its decisions can affect them, but the two don’t move hand in hand.
Housing headlines can be just as easy to overgeneralize. Nationally, there are signs that buyers have more homes to choose from than they did earlier in the year, while affordability continues to shape many people’s decisions. But real estate is local. What we’re seeing in our area can look very different from the national headlines, and even from one neighborhood or price point to another. That’s why one headline, or even one national trend, shouldn’t determine what makes sense for you.
A LOT CAN CHANGE IN A YEAR
Think back to the beginning of the year. What did you imagine the months ahead might look like? A lot can change between January and October. Finances shift. Families grow and change. Jobs change. Priorities change. Sometimes the things we thought would matter become less important, while something we hadn’t considered suddenly moves to the top of the list.
A new season is a natural time to take another look at where you are, what you want, and what may be possible now.
WHAT CAN BUYING LOOK LIKE NOW?
Whether you’ve been searching for a while or buying a home is just beginning to cross your mind, your options are worth a fresh look.
What homes are available in our area right now? What could your budget buy? Is there a community or type of home you haven’t considered before? And if your needs or priorities have changed this year, would your search look different today?
Sometimes a fresh look opens up possibilities you weren’t expecting. A different location may put more options within reach. Something that wasn’t important six months ago may be at the top of your wish list today. Or the home you pictured at the beginning of the year may have changed completely. Knowing what’s happening here locally can turn the idea of buying into a much clearer picture of what buying can actually look like for you.
WHAT CAN SELLING LOOK LIKE NOW?
Selling can look different with a little time and perspective, too. You may be wondering what your home could sell for, what buyers in our area are looking for right now, or whether the bigger question isn’t about the house at all.
What could selling make possible next?
More space. Less maintenance. A different location. More financial flexibility. Or simply an opportunity you weren’t considering at the beginning of the year.
Finding out where you stand is a valuable first step. Knowing what your home may be worth, what’s happening here locally, and what a sale could make possible can help you decide what makes sense for you.
TAKE ANOTHER LOOK
A change in season gives us a natural opportunity to look at things with fresh eyes. If buying or selling is on your radar, whether you’re ready to make a move or still weighing your options, let’s take a look at what’s happening in our area, what your options are today, and what they could mean for you.
You may find that something that didn’t make sense earlier in the year is worth considering now. Or you may simply come away with a better understanding of where you stand. Sometimes a plan doesn’t need to start over. It just needs a fresh look. Let’s talk about what this looks like for you: (919) 291-5704
October tips
October To-Dos: Prepping Your Home for Fall
đ October is here. Is your home ready?
Before the holidays start filling up the calendar, October is the perfect time to knock out a few seasonal tasks around the house. Think HVAC maintenance, smoke detector checks, gutters, lawn care and even a little early holiday prep.
See what should be on your October to-do list!
Decorating With Pumpkins: Theyâre Not Just For Halloween
đ Why wait for Halloween to bring out the pumpkins?
October is the perfect excuse to have a little fun with your home. Whether your style is colorful, classic, quirky or somewhere in between, pumpkins make it easy to add a touch of fall that feels like you.
Dress up your front porch, brighten a favorite room or create a centerpiece youâll enjoy every time you walk by. Check out these creative ways to make pumpkins part of your home all season long.
No Home Should Be Without Carbon Monoxide Detectors
đ You canât see it. You canât smell it. But your home can detect it.
Whether cooler temperatures mean your heating system is starting to work overtime or youâre still enjoying warm, sunny days, carbon monoxide safety matters year-round.
Do you know the potential sources in your home, the warning signs of exposure and where detectors should be placed? Take a few minutes to brush up on the basics and make sure your home is protected.
Five Easy Steps to a Front Yard Makeover
đĄ Could your front yard use a little refresh?
You donât need a major landscaping project to make a noticeable difference. A healthier lawn, colorful flowers, updated lighting and a few welcoming touches can completely change the way your home looks from the street.
Whether youâre getting ready to sell or simply want to love pulling into your driveway, these five easy ideas can give your front yard a fresh new look.