Planning 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 long to get started by today’s standards.
Buyers have more options than they did a few years ago. So, it’s worth it to tackle repairs now and make sure your house is set up to stand out. Because you don’t want to be caught scrambling right before the spring rush. Or, running out of time to do the work your house really needs.
The key is focusing on updates that actually matter. And that’s exactly where return-on-investment (ROI) data comes in handy.
Which Projects Tend to Pay Off?
Every year, Zonda looks at which home improvements deliver the most bang for the buck when you go to sell the home. And the results can be a little surprising.
The green in the chart below shows the updates where sellers have the biggest potential to add value based on that research:
While there’s a wide range of projects represented in this data, the cool part is, some of the top winners aren’t big to-do’s. They’re just swapping out doors.
Small Updates, Big Visual Impact
This goes to show little projects can have a big impact. So, you don’t have to spend a fortune. And you don’t need to tackle everything on this list. But in today’s market, doing nothing can work against you.
Now that buyers have more homes to choose from, a lot of them are going to opt for what’s move-in ready.
The best advice? Focus on what your house needs, whether it’s listed here or not – like the repairs you’ve been putting off. A front door or shutters in need of a little TLC. Piles of leaves in the yard. Scuffed up paint where your kids play inside. Those details matter too.
Mallory Slesser, Interior designer and Home Stager, explains it to the National Association of Realtors (NAR) this way:
“If you’re looking for affordable updates that pack a punch, dollar for dollar, I would say painting; changing out light fixtures; changing out hardware; maybe new draperies or window treatments. Those are all cost-effective ways to make a big statement. It really changes the space.”
These seemingly small things help buyers focus on the home itself – not the work they think they’ll have to do after moving in. And that’s paying off for other sellers. Buyers are often willing to spend more on homes that feel well cared for, updated, and move-in ready.
This Chart Is a Starting Point, Not a Strategy
Here’s the important thing to remember. National data like this is a guideline. Buyer preferences are going to vary by location, price point, and even neighborhood. That means a project that boosts value in one area might be unnecessary (or even overkill) in yours.
That’s why the first step should always be to talk with a local real estate professional before you start.
An experienced agent can help you answer questions like:
- Which updates do buyers in your market expect?
- What can you skip without hurting your sale?
- Where will a small investment make the biggest difference?
- Is it better to update, or sell as-is?
That guidance helps you avoid over-improving and under-preparing.
Bottom Line
If you’re looking to sell this spring, you still have time to make updates that help your home stand out – without taking on a full renovation.
If you’re not sure where to start, talk to a local about what makes sense for your house. A quick conversation can help you prioritize the updates that’ll pack the biggest punch.
What’s one upgrade you’ve been thinking about – and wondering if it’s worth it?
Over the past few weeks, mortgage rates hit their lowest point of the year – and it was big news.
So, what you need to know if you’re buying a home is, whenever these shifts happen (whether they’re now or later), even a small change in rates can make a big difference in your monthly payment.
While major drops in mortgage rates aren’t projected for the rest of 2025, smaller declines are still expected – depending on where the economy goes from here.
If you want to see what the math looks like at another home loan amount or mortgage rate, DM me and I’ll run the numbers for you, so you can plan ahead.
#WeBringUHome #MortgageRates #Homebuyuing
Buying your first home is exciting—but let’s be real, it can also feel overwhelming. It’s a big step, and with that comes plenty of questions:
❓ Am I making the right decision?
❓ Can I really afford this right now?
❓ What if unexpected repairs come up?
❓ Will I still be okay financially if something changes?
The truth is, every first-time homebuyer has these thoughts—and that’s completely normal. The homebuying process has always been a mix of excitement and nerves. But with the right guidance, you can move forward with confidence.
As your local real estate expert, we are here to provide the knowledge and support you need. Let’s break down some key things to keep in mind.
🔹 Focus on What You Can Control
Since homeownership is new to you, figuring out your budget might feel overwhelming. You’ll need to consider your mortgage, home insurance, maintenance, and possibly HOA fees. That’s a lot to think about!
The key? Focus on what you can control. By working with a trusted local agent (that’s us! 😊) and a reputable lender, you’ll get a clear picture of:
✔️ What you can afford to borrow
✔️ Your monthly mortgage payment
✔️ How interest rates impact your costs
Your mortgage will likely be your biggest expense, so it’s crucial to ensure the numbers work for you.
🔹 Don’t Stress About Repairs
Worried about unexpected repairs? That’s understandable! But remember, you’ll get a home inspection before you buy, giving you insight into the home’s condition.
If repairs are a concern, consider negotiating with the seller to include a home warranty. This can help cover major systems like HVAC or plumbing for a set period after you move in. It’s a small expense for the seller but could provide you with valuable peace of mind.
🔹 It’s Okay to Stretch—Just Not Too Far
Money might feel tight at first, and that’s normal. Many first-time buyers cut back on dining out or shopping until they adjust to their new expenses.
But if your budget doesn’t leave room for essentials like food, gas, and savings, you might be stretching too far. A slight stretch is normal—a financial strain is not. Let’s find a home that fits both your dreams and your budget!
🔹 Your Finances Will Grow Over Time
One of the biggest fears buyers have is, What if my financial situation changes? The good news is, careers progress, and incomes often increase over time. That slightly tight budget now may feel much more comfortable in a few years.
And if an unexpected job loss happens? There are options, like mortgage forbearance, that can provide temporary relief during financial hardship.
🔹 Bottom Line
Buying your first home is a big decision, and feeling nervous is completely normal. But if you’re financially ready, don’t let fear hold you back. With the right plan and expert guidance, you can confidently take this step toward homeownership.
💬 What’s your biggest concern about buying your first home? Let’s chat! we’d love to help you navigate the process and answer all your questions.
📞 Debbie Krogman & Angie Pitts– Your Local Real Estate Experts
530-330-3042 / 530-308-2537
Breaking Into the Market: Smart Moves for First-Time Buyers
If you’re like a lot of aspiring homebuyers, there’s a major hurdle standing in your way — the cost of living. From groceries to gas, eggs, and just about everything else, prices have gone up. And that rings true for home prices, too.
But even when everything feels expensive, there are still ways to make homeownership more than an item on your wish list. You may just need to think about where you plan to buy a bit differently.
Think of Your First Home as a Stepping Stone
One of the biggest misconceptions among buyers is that their first home has to be their forever home – or that it has to check all the boxes of what they want right out of the gate. In reality, it’s just a starting point.
Once you own a home, you start to build equity, which grows over time as home prices rise. Down the road, if you want to move — whether to a larger space, a better location, or both — the equity you’ve gained can help you do just that.
So rather than waiting until you can afford your dream home in your ideal neighborhood, consider starting with something that works for now.
Expand Your Search To Find More Affordable Options
If high home prices in your favorite area are holding you back, it’s time to cast a wider net. By keeping an open mind and being flexible with location, you may be surprised at what’s possible within your budget. Many buyers find success by looking in surrounding areas – and some even choose to move out of state.
If you want to stay local, looking just outside your preferred neighborhood could help you find something you can afford that’s still close to your favorite restaurants, shops, and activities. Sometimes, moving as little as 10 minutes away makes a big difference.
The best way to see what’s available is to work with a real estate agent who understands the local market and can help you identify hidden gems nearby. Debbie and Angie, your local REALTORS®, know the ins and outs of the area and can guide you to communities you may not have considered yet. These neighborhoods may have lower price tags right now but are steadily gaining value and appeal. With their expertise, you can buy your first home and set yourself up to gain equity over the years.
Bottom Line
Today’s cost of living is a challenge for many homebuyers. But by exploring different areas and working with Debbie & Angie, you can take that first step toward owning a home — and building equity for your future.
If you’ve asked yourself any of these questions, then you’ll want to keep reading.
“How do we know if we’re ready to buy a home?”
“Should we buy a home? It’s a pandemic.”
“Is now really the best time to buy a home?
The thing is: there is no right or wrong answer here. Of course, I am so passionate about homeownership and would love to get you into that dream home. But, the truth is everyone’s situation is unique.
The answer depends on a few things:
➡️ Do you know your credit score?
➡️ Do you have a sense of how much home you can afford (including closing costs)?
➡️ Do you have money saved for a down payment?
➡️ Do you have savings to cover emergency maintenance?
➡️ Do you feel ready to put down roots in a community?
These are the practical considerations. You’ll, of course, want to factor in your employment status, family circumstances, and lifestyle factors too.
If you’re holding off on buying, what is holding you back? Message me anytime if you’d like to talk through different options.
Spring is usually the busiest season in the housing market. Many buyers wait until then to make their move, believing it’s the best time to find a home. However, that isn’t always the case when you factor in the competition you could face with other buyers at that time of year. If you’re ready to buy a home, here’s why it makes sense to move before the spring market picks up.
Spring Should Bring a Wave of Buyers to the Market
In most years, the housing market goes through predictable seasonal trends in activity. Winter is typically a quiet point in the year, while spring sees a surge of buyers begin their search. And experts project that this year will be no exception.
Right now, buyer demand is low due to a combination of normal seasonal trends and a reaction to last year’s rise in mortgage rates. But rates have started to come down since last November, which has more and more potential buyers planning to jump into the market. That means right now is a sweet spot if you’re in a good position to buy, before more buyers reappear. Affordability is beginning to improve, but demand is still low — for now. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), shares:
“. . . expect sales to pick up again soon since mortgage rates have markedly declined after peaking late last year.”
If you’re ready to buy a home, right now is the best time to do so before your competition grows and more buyers enter the market.
Today’s Sellers Are Motivated
Low demand from buyers often means sellers are more motivated to work with you, and that can set you up to buy a home on your terms. In fact, sellers have been more willing to negotiate this winter because there are fewer buyers in the market. According to a recent article from Forbes:
“. . . sellers gave concessions to buyers in 41.9% of home sales in the fourth quarter of last year.”
But keep in mind, the advantages buyers have this winter won’t last forever. The competition you face could be greater if you wait until spring to make a move, and increased buyer demand means sellers will have less motivation to negotiate with you. Be sure to work with a trusted real estate professional to learn what you can expect in your local market right now.
Bottom Line
If you’re in a good position to make a move, it may make sense to move before spring. Working with Debbie & Angie is the best way to learn about the current market and what it means for you. Let’s connect today to determine the best plan to achieve your homebuying goals.
Today’s housing market is nothing like the real estate market 15 years ago. If you’re a buyer right now, this may be the chance you’ve been waiting for.
There’s no doubt today’s housing market is very different than the frenzied one from the past couple of years. In the second half of 2022, there was a dramatic shift in real estate, and it caused many people to make comparisons to the 2008 housing crisis. While there may be a few similarities, when looking at key variables now compared to the last housing cycle, there are significant differences.
In the latest Real Estate Forecast Summit, Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), drew the comparisons below between today’s housing market and the previous cycle:
Looking at the facts, it’s clear: today is very different than the housing market of 15 years ago.
There’s Opportunity in Real Estate Today
And in today’s market, with inventory rising and less competition from other buyers, there’s opportunity right now. According to David Stevens, former Assistant Secretary of Housing:
“So be advised…this may be the one and only window for the next few years to get into a buyer’s market. And remember…as the Federal Reserve data shows…home prices only go up and always recover from recessions no matter how mild or severe. Long term homeowners should view this market…right now…as a unique buying opportunity.”
Homeownership is the American Dream. Our veterans sacrifice so much in service of our nation, and one way we can honor and thank them is to ensure they have the best information about the benefits of VA home loans. We are here to assist and have worked with some amazing VA lenders; give us a call and we can get you started in achieving your “Home Ownership Dream”.
Thank you for your service.
Debbie & Angie #VA #webringuhome #thankyouforyourservice
Buying a home is a powerful decision and a key part of the long-term dream for many Americans. And if homeownership is part of your dreams this year, let’s connect to start the process today.
Let’s explore just a few of the reasons why so many Americans continue to value homeownership.
The Financial Benefits of Owning a Home
One possible reason homeownership is viewed so highly is because owning a home is a significant wealth-building tool, and it provides meaningful financial stability over renting by locking in your monthly housing payments for the length of your home loan.
Over time, owning a home not only helps boost your own net worth, but it also sets future generations up for success as you pass that wealth down.
The Non-Financial Benefits of Homeownership
While the financial benefits of owning a home are important, becoming a homeowner impacts you on a social and emotional level, too.
Your home provides feelings of achievement, responsibility, and more. A few non-financial advantages include:
- Providing you with more freedom and control over your living space
- Giving you a greater sense of pride
- Helps with community engagement
What Does That Mean for You?
If your definition of the American Dream involves greater freedom and prosperity, then homeownership could play a major role in helping you achieve that dream. While it may feel challenging to buy a home today as mortgage rates and home prices rise, if the time is right for you, know that there are incredible benefits waiting for you at the end of your journey. You’ll have a place you can grow your wealth, call your own, and feel most comfortable.
Call us today and we can get you started on achieving your dream of Home Owner-ship.
Debbie & Angie
If you put off your home search at any point over the past two years, you may want to consider picking it back up based on today’s housing market conditions. Recent data shows the supply of homes for sale is increasing, giving buyers like you additional options.
But it’s important to keep in mind that while inventory is improving, it’s still a sellers’ market. And that means you need to be prepared as you set out on your home search. Here are three tips for buying the home of your dreams today.
1. Understand How Mortgage Rates Impact Your Homebuying Power
Mortgage rates have increased significantly this year, and over the past few weeks, they’ve been fluctuating quite a bit. It’s important to stay up to date on what’s happening with rates and understand how they can impact your purchasing power when you’re thinking of buying a home. The chart below can help.
Let’s say your budget allows for a monthly mortgage payment in the $2,100-$2,200 range. The green in the chart indicates a payment within or below that range, while the red is a payment that exceeds it.
As the chart shows, even a small change in mortgage rates can have a big impact on your monthly payments. If rates rise, you could exceed your budget unless you pursue a lower home loan amount. If rates fall, your purchasing power may increase, which could give you additional options for your search.
2. Be Open to Exploring Different Options During Your Search
The supply of homes for sale is improving, which gives you more homes to choose from. But historically, supply is still low. That means as you search for homes, if you still don’t find something that meets your needs, it may be worth expanding your search.
A recent article from the Washington Post highlights a few things buyers can consider today. It encourages opening yourself up to more areas. For example, if there’s a location you’ve previously ruled out (like a particular town, for example) it may be worth taking another look.
And if you’re able to, opening your search up to include other housing types, like newly built homes, condominiums, or townhomes can further increase your pool of options. Even as the inventory of homes for sale improves today, finding ways to cast a wider net during your search could help you find a hidden gem.
3. Work with a Local Real Estate Professional for Expert Guidance
Ultimately, you need to be prepared when you set out to buy a home. Jeff Ostrowski, Senior Mortgage Reporter for Bankrate, explains:
“Taking the leap to homeownership can provide a feeling of pride while boosting your long-term financial outlook, if you go in well-prepared and with your eyes open.”
No matter where you’re at in your homeownership journey, the best way to make sure you’re set up for success is to work with a real estate professional. If you’re just starting your search, a real estate professional can help you understand your local market and search for available homes. And when it’s time to make an offer, they’ll be an expert advisor and negotiator to help yours stand out above the rest.
Bottom Line
Strategically planning your home search by understanding today’s mortgage rates, casting a wide net, and building a team of experts can be the keys to finding the home of your dreams. To make sure you have expert advice each step of the way, let’s connect.
