Are you hesitant to sell your house because you’re worried no one’s buying with rates and prices where they are right now? Here’s some perspective that can help.
The market actually isn’t at a standstill. While there weren’t as many sales last year as there’d be in a normal market, roughly 4.15 million homes still sold (not including new construction), according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR). And the expectation is that number will rise in 2025. That means more people will likely move this year, and they need homes to buy. Homes like yours.
But even if we only match last year’s sales pace, here’s what that looks like.
Every Minute Homes Are Selling – Literally
4.15 million homes ÷ 365 days in a year = 11,370 homes sell each day
11,370 homes ÷ 24 hours in a day = 474 homes sell per hour
474 homes ÷ 60 minutes = roughly 8 homes sell every minute
Think about that. Just in the time it took you to read this, 8 homes sold.
If you’ve been holding off on selling your house because you think buyers aren’t out there, let this reassure you – there are still buyers looking to buy.
Every day, thousands of people need to buy homes. So, while higher home prices and mortgage rates have slowed the market down and forced some buyers onto the sidelines, that doesn’t mean the market isn’t active. Many buyers are still eager to make a move because life doesn’t wait for perfect market conditions.
With the right agent by your side, you can get your house in front of those buyers while other hesitant homeowners are still putting their plans on pause because they’re worried buyer demand has disappeared. Let’s get your house sold.
Bottom Line
On average, over 11,000 homes sell every day, and yours could be one of them. In the time it took you to read this, another 8 homes sold.
When you’re ready to take the next step, let’s connect so you have an agent to create that perfect strategy. Call us at (918) 665-8559 or contact us on our website.
As the calendar turns to a fresh year, many of us start thinking about our real estate goals and dreams for the months ahead. Whether you’re planning to buy your first home, sell your current house, or simply explore your options, setting clear real estate goals for 2025 is a fantastic way to start the year on the right foot. And guess what? You don’t have to do it alone!
We’re not just here for you when you’re ready to make a move—we’re here to help you prepare, strategize, and feel confident about your real estate decisions every step of the way. Let’s dive into how you can set achievable real estate goals for the year and how we can support you.
1. Reflect on Your Real Estate Dreams
Take a moment to think about what’s important to you when it comes to your home. Are you dreaming of upgrading to a larger space? Downsizing now that the kids have moved out? Moving closer to work or family? Or perhaps you’re curious about what your home could sell for in today’s market. Whatever your goals, it’s helpful to write them down. Even if they feel a little far off, having a clear vision can help guide the steps you take this year.
2. Start the Conversation Early
You don’t need to wait until you’re ready to buy or sell to talk to a real estate agent. In fact, the earlier you reach out, the better! By starting the conversation now, we can help you:
Understand current market conditions.
Answer any questions about the buying or selling process.
Discuss potential timelines that align with your personal goals.
Identify key steps to prepare your home or finances.
Whether you’re thinking of making a move in six months or a year, having a game plan in place will make the process much smoother when the time comes.
3. Get to Know the Market
The real estate market is always evolving, and it’s important to stay informed. We’re here to provide insights into what’s happening locally, from current home prices to trends in demand. For buyers, this can mean understanding how to position yourself in a competitive market. For sellers, it’s about knowing when the time is right to list your home.
4. Plan Ahead for Financial Success
Your financial readiness plays a big role in achieving your real estate goals. If you’re buying, now is a great time to evaluate your credit score, save for a down payment, and explore loan options. If you’re selling, we can discuss how to maximize your home’s value through strategic improvements. By taking proactive steps, you’ll set yourself up for success when you’re ready to move forward.
5. Ask Questions—Lots of Them!
Curious about what’s happening in your neighborhood? Not sure if it’s the right time to refinance? Wondering what a home inspection entails? No question is too big or small! We’re here to provide answers, guidance, and peace of mind so you can feel empowered in your real estate journey.
Let’s Make 2025 Your Year!
Whether your real estate goals are crystal clear or just starting to take shape, we’re here to help you turn them into reality. Reach out to us today to schedule a no-pressure chat. We’ll listen to your ideas, share insights, and help you create a plan that works for your unique situation.
Remember, achieving your real estate goals isn’t just about where you’re going—it’s about having the right team to guide you there. Let’s make 2025 a year of exciting opportunities and big wins in real estate!
The holiday real estate market offers unique advantages for both buyers and sellers.
Strategic planning can help you navigate the season’s challenges and opportunities.
Flexible schedules, festive staging, and smart negotiation tactics are key to success.
The holiday season may not seem like the ideal time to dive into the real estate market, but it actually offers unique opportunities for both buyers and sellers. With a bit of strategic planning and the right mindset, you can make the most of this festive time to achieve your real estate goals. Let’s take a closer look at what makes real estate during the holidays special and how you can navigate it successfully.
Why the Holiday Market Works for Buyers and Sellers
For buyers, the holidays can mean less competition and motivated sellers. Fewer people are actively house-hunting this time of year, which often translates to a quieter market and the chance to avoid bidding wars. Plus, sellers who list their homes during the holidays are often eager to close quickly, making it an excellent time to negotiate favorable terms.
Sellers, on the other hand, can benefit from a more serious pool of buyers. Those looking for homes in December tend to be motivated and ready to act, which is great news if you’re aiming for a smooth, quick sale. Additionally, with fewer homes on the market, your property has a better chance of standing out. And let’s not forget the added charm of a well-decorated, festive home—it’s hard to resist a cozy space with twinkling lights and a warm ambiance.
Tips for Sellers: Stand Out This Holiday Season
If you’re selling during the holidays, a little extra effort can go a long way. Start by staging your home to highlight its best features while keeping holiday décor subtle and tasteful. A wreath on the door or a few sparkling lights can add warmth without overwhelming potential buyers.
Since daylight hours are shorter, ensure your home is well-lit for showings. Bright spaces feel more inviting, so turn on lamps and add some soft, warm lighting where needed. Flexibility is also key—buyers’ schedules can be hectic this time of year, so accommodating their availability can help seal the deal.
Advice for Buyers: Be Prepared to Move Quickly
On the buying side, timing is everything. With fewer listings available, when you find the right home, you’ll need to act fast. Being pre-approved for a mortgage and having a solid offer ready can make all the difference.
Negotiation can also work in your favor during the holidays. Sellers may be more willing to negotiate on price or closing terms to finalize a deal before year-end. Stay flexible and proactive, and you could find yourself with a fantastic deal before the new year.
Embrace the Holiday Market
Navigating the real estate market during the holidays doesn’t have to be stressful. With thoughtful planning and a clear strategy, you can make the most of this unique time of year. Whether you’re buying your dream home or preparing to list your current property, the holiday season might just be the perfect time to make your move.
Thinking about buying or selling this holiday season? Reach out to us today—we’d love to help you take the next step toward your real estate goals.
A recent study from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows most sellers (61%) completed at least minor repairs when selling their house. But sometimes life gets in the way and that’s just not possible. Maybe that’s why, 39% of sellers chose to sell as-is instead (see chart below):
If you’re feeling stressed because you don’t have the time, budget, or resources to tackle any repairs or updates, you may be tempted to sell your house as-is, too. But before you decide to go this route, here’s what you need to know.
What Does Selling As-Is Really Mean?
Selling as-is means you won’t make any repairs before the sale, and you won’t negotiate fixes after a buyer’s inspection. And this sends a signal to potential buyers that what they see is what they get.
If you’re eager to sell but money or time is tight, this can be a relief because it’s that much less you’ll have to worry about. But there are a few trade-offs you’ll have to be willing to make. This visual breaks down some of the pros and cons:
Typically, a home that’s updated sells for more because buyers are often willing to pay a premium for something that’s move-in ready. That’s why you may find not as many buyers will look at your house if you sell it in its current condition. And less interest from buyers could mean fewer offers, taking longer to sell, and ultimately, a lower price. Basically, while it’s easier for you, the final sale price might be less than you’d get if you invested in repairs and upgrades.
That doesn’t mean your house won’t sell – it just means it may not sell for as much as it would in top condition.
Here’s the good news though. In today’s market, as many as 56% of buyers surveyed would be willing to buy a home that needs some work. That’s because affordability is still a challenge, and while there are more homes for sale right now, inventory is lower than the norm. So, you might find there are a few more buyers who may be willing to take on the work themselves.
How an Agent Can Help
So, how do you make sure you’re making the right decision for your move? The key is working with a pro.
A good agent will help you weigh your options by showing you what comparable homes in your area have sold for, what updates your neighbors are making, and guide you in setting a fair price no matter what you decide. That helps you anticipate what your house may sell for either way – and that can be a key factor in your final decision.
Once you’ve picked whether you will sell your house as-is or not and the asking price is set, your agent will market your house to maximize its appeal. And if you decide to sell as-is, they’ll call attention to the best features, like the location, size, and more, so it’s easy for buyers to see the potential, not just projects.
Bottom Line
Selling a home without making any repairs is possible in today’s market, but it does have some trade-offs. To make sure you’re considering all your options and making the best choice possible, let’s have a conversation.
You may be hearing a lot of talk about the Federal Reserve (the Fed) and how their actions will impact the housing market right now. Here’s why.
The Fed meets again this week to decide the next step with the Federal Funds Rate. That’s how much it costs banks to borrow from each other. Now, that’s not the same thing as setting mortgage rates, but mortgage rates can be influenced through this process. And if you’re thinking about buying or selling a home, you may be wondering about the downstream impact and when mortgage rates will come down.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you need to know to help you anticipate what’ll happen next. The Fed’s decisions are guided by these three key economic indicators:
The Direction of Inflation
How Many Jobs the Economy Is Adding
The Unemployment Rate
Let’s take a look at each one.
1. The Direction of Inflation
You’ve likely noticed prices for everyday goods and services seem to be higher each time you make a purchase at the store. That’s because of inflation – and the Fed wants to see that number come back down so it’s closer to their 2% target.
Right now, it’s still higher than that. But despite a little volatility, inflation has generally been moving in the right direction. It gradually came down over the past two years, and is holding fairly steady right now (see graph below):
The path of inflation – though still not at their target rate – is a big part of the reason why the Fed will likely lower the Fed Funds Rate again this week to make borrowing less expensive, while still ensuring the economy continues to grow.
2. How Many Jobs the Economy Is Adding
The Fed is also keeping an eye on how many new jobs are added to the economy each month. They want job growth to slow down a bit before they cut the Federal Funds Rate further. When fewer jobs are created, it shows the economy is still doing well, but gradually cooling off—exactly what they’re aiming for. And that’s what’s happening right now. Reuterssays:
“Any doubts the Federal Reserve will go ahead with an interest-rate cut . . . fell away on Friday after a government report showed U.S. employers added fewer workers in October than in any month since December 2020.”
Employers are still hiring, but just not as many positions right now. This shows the job market is starting to slow down after running hot for a while, which is what the Fed wants to see.
3. The Unemployment Rate
The unemployment rate shows the percentage of people who want jobs but can’t find them. A low unemployment rate means most people are working, which is great. However, it can push inflation higher because more people working means more spending—and that makes prices go up.
Many economists consider any unemployment rate below 5% to be as close to full employment as is realistically possible. In the most recent report, unemployment is sitting at 4.1% (see graph below):
Unemployment this low shows the labor market is still strong even as fewer jobs were added to the economy. That’s the balance the Fed is looking for.
What Does This Mean Going Forward?
Overall, the economy is headed in the direction the Fed wants to see – and that’s why experts say they will likely cut the Federal Funds Rate by a quarter of a percentage point this week, according to the CME FedWatch Tool.
If that expectation ends up being correct, that could pave the way for mortgage rates to come down too. But that doesn’t mean they’ll fall immediately. It will take some time. Remember, the Fed doesn’t determine mortgage rates. Forecasts show mortgage rates will ease more gradually over the course of the next year as long as these economic indicators continue to move in the right direction and the Fed can continue their Federal Funds rate cuts through 2025.
But a change in any one of the factors mentioned here could cause a shift in the market and in the Fed’s actions in the days and months ahead. So, brace for some volatility, and for mortgage rates to respond along the way. As Ralph McLaughlin, Senior Economist at Realtor.com,notes:
“The trajectory of rates over the coming months will be largely dependent on three key factors: (1) the performance of the labor market, (2) the outcome of the presidential election, and (3) any possible reemergence of inflationary pressure. While volatility has been the theme of mortgage rates over the past several months, we expect stability to reemerge towards the end of November and into early December.”
Bottom Line
While the Fed’s actions play a part, economic data and market conditions are what really drive mortgage rates. As we move through the rest of 2024 and 2025, expect rates to stabilize or decline gradually, offering more certainty in what has been a volatile market.
In today’s ever-changing real estate market, understanding what features homebuyers are looking for can significantly impact the sale of your property.
Key Facts:
Home offices are a top priority for buyers needing productive, quiet workspaces.
Energy-efficient appliances attract eco-conscious buyers with cost and environmental benefits.
Outdoor spaces, from gardens to balconies, are valued for their versatility.
Whether you’re a seller aiming to make your home more attractive or a buyer searching for your dream home, knowing these key features can guide your decisions. Let’s explore the top home features that are currently in demand.
Home Offices
Having a dedicated home office space is highly desirable. Buyers are looking for homes that offer a quiet, organized area that enhances productivity. If you’re selling, consider staging a room or a nook as a home office to appeal to this growing need. Think about incorporating built-in shelves, adequate lighting, and technology-friendly setups to make the space truly functional and appealing.
Eco-Friendly Appliances
Homebuyers are increasingly looking for homes equipped with eco-friendly appliances that help reduce utility bills. Sellers should highlight features like solar panels or high-efficiency washers and dryers in their listings. Discussing the long-term cost benefits and the environmental impact of these upgrades can make your listing stand out.
Outdoor Living Spaces
Outdoor living spaces are highly prized. These can range from expansive backyards with room for gardening to cozy balconies with space for a small table and chairs. These features offer a private escape or an additional entertaining space, making them appealing to many buyers. Enhance these spaces with outdoor kitchens, fire pits, or comfortable seating areas to increase attractiveness.
Modern Kitchens and Bathrooms
Today’s homebuyers are also focusing on modern, well-equipped kitchens and bathrooms. A kitchen with updated appliances, ample storage, and stylish countertops can be a major selling point. Similarly, bathrooms with modern fixtures, good lighting, and efficient layouts are highly sought after. Consider including photos of these spaces with descriptions of recent updates in your listings.
Smart Home Technology
Integration of smart home technology is another feature that’s becoming increasingly popular. Systems for controlling lighting, temperature, security, and even blinds remotely are convenient and cost-effective. Highlighting these features in your listing can attract tech-savvy buyers looking for modern conveniences.
Multipurpose Spaces
With the changing dynamics of home use, areas that can serve multiple purposes—like a basement that doubles as a media room, a garage that can be a workshop or a dining room that can also host business meetings—are extremely valuable. Highlighting a property’s versatility can appeal to a broader range of buyers.
Moving Forward with Confidence
Understanding what buyers are looking for helps sellers showcase their homes effectively and assists buyers in identifying their must-have features. If you’re ready to buy or sell or need advice on how to highlight these desirable features in your home, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our expertise ensures you can confidently navigate the market, whether upgrading to a newer home or finding one that meets all your modern living needs.
Getting your home ready for a sale involves more than just cleaning—it’s about creating a space that appeals to potential buyers. Decluttering before a home sale makes your home feel more spacious and appealing to buyers.
Key Facts
Organized closets and storage areas highlight the space your home offers.
Donating or recycling unused items can refresh your home while benefiting your community
One of the most effective ways to make your home stand out is by decluttering. Whether you’re preparing to sell or simply want to refresh your living environment, removing items that take away from the overall impression of the design offers a wide range of benefits that can transform your space. Let’s explore some simple, practical steps, making it more attractive and easier to maintain.
Organize Closets and Storage Areas
One of the first places to start is your closets and storage areas. Buyers often want to see how much space a home offers, so stuffed or disorganized closets can make it appear as if the home lacks storage. Begin by removing items you no longer use or need, and then neatly organize what’s left. Consider investing in storage bins or organizers to keep everything tidy. A well-organized closet helps buyers envision the available space and can make your home seem more functional and spacious.
Declutter Common Areas
The next area to focus on is the common spaces in your home. Living rooms, kitchens, and entryways should be free of unnecessary items that can distract buyers. Keep countertops clear, and store away any personal belongings, such as family photos or knick-knacks. This helps buyers picture themselves living in the home, making it feel more inviting and open. When you reduce visual clutter, your home will feel more spacious and comfortable for potential buyers.
Donate or Recycle Unused Items
Decluttering doesn’t mean you have to throw everything away—donating or recycling unused items is a great way to reduce clutter while giving back to your community. If you have clothing, furniture, or household items that you no longer need, consider donating them to a local charity or recycling center. This not only clears space in your home but also provides a fresh start for your living environment. Plus, many buyers appreciate a home that feels clean and purposeful, making it easier for them to imagine moving in.
Conclusion: Ready to Sell or Simply Refresh?
Decluttering before a home sale can help your property appeal to more buyers, but it’s also a great way to refresh your living space, even if you’re not planning to move anytime soon. By organizing closets, clearing common areas, and donating or recycling unused items, you can create a home that feels open, inviting, and ready for its next chapter. If you’re thinking about selling or just want to make your home more appealing, contact us today for expert guidance on how to get started.
If you’ve been hesitant to list your house because you’re worried no one’s buying, here’s your sign it may be time to talk with an agent.
Buyers have stayed on the sidelines for a number of months, but yesterday the Federal Reserve cut the Federal Funds Rate for the first time since March 2022. While they don’t control mortgage rates, this sets the stage for mortgage rates to fall even further than they already have – especially since the market expects more cuts from the Fed into next year. Lower mortgage rates bring more buyers back into the market.
Lisa Sturtevant, Chief Economist at Bright MLS, says:
“A drop in the cost of borrowing will help fuel more homebuyer demand . . . Falling rates will also bring more sellers into the market.”
The best part? You can take advantage of that renewed buyer interest.
As Rates Fall, Buyer Activity Goes Up
The graph below illustrates the relationship between falling mortgage rates and rising buyer activity. The orange line represents the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate. The blue line shows the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) Mortgage Application Index, which tracks the number of mortgage applications.
As you can see, as mortgage rates (orange) come down, the Mortgage Application Index (blue) rises. This shows more people starting to re-engage in the process (see graph below):
What This Means for You
According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), home sales increased in July. This is a welcome shift after four straight months of declines. If you’re a homeowner thinking about selling, this uptick in buyer activity works in your favor.
More buyers means more competition, which leads to higher offers and shorter time on the market for your house. And, according to Edward Seiler, AVP of Housing Economics at the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), he expects this trend to continue:
“MBA is expecting that slower home-price appreciation, coupled with lower rates, will ease affordability constraints and lead to increased activity in the housing market.”
All in all, as the market becomes more accessible to a wider range of buyers, it could result in even more people looking for a house like yours.
Bottom Line
The recent decline in mortgage rates drives more buyers into the market, and experts project this trend will continue. Let’s work together to take advantage of this increased buyer demand and get your house ready to sell.
Discover fewer competitors and more opportunities to secure the right home in the fall.
Explore properties comfortably thanks to mild weather and seasonal curb appeal.
Accelerate transactions with year-end motivations, gaining tax benefits and easier moves.
As the busy summer season winds down, the fall real estate market presents unique opportunities that are often overlooked. While spring and summer are traditionally seen as the best times to buy or sell, fall comes with its own set of advantages that can be ideal for navigating the real estate landscape. Let’s discuss these essential tips to find and secure your dream home this fall season.
Less Competition, More Opportunities
The fall real estate market typically sees fewer buyers, which means you have more chances to find the right home without the frenzy of spring bids. For sellers, this season brings serious buyers who are ready to move quickly, potentially making negotiations smoother and faster.
Ideal Weather for House Hunting
Fall often brings milder weather, which makes visiting homes more comfortable and allows you to spend more time evaluating each property without the summer heat or winter chill.
Seasonal Curb Appeal
Even without vibrant leaves, fall has a charm that can enhance a home’s appeal. Simple decorations and a tidy exterior can make a big difference in how inviting your home feels to potential buyers.
Motivated Transactions
With the year-end approaching, both buyers and sellers are motivated to close transactions quickly. This urgency can lead to more straightforward negotiations and faster closings, benefiting everyone involved.
Year-End Tax Benefits
Buying a home in the fall can also offer financial advantages. Closing your home purchase before the year’s end may allow you to claim valuable tax deductions, such as mortgage interest and property taxes.
Convenient Moving Schedules
Purchasing a home in the fall allows you to move in before the hectic holiday season, giving you time to settle in and enjoy your new home when the holidays arrive.
Optimal Time for Home Inspections
Inspecting a home in the fall is practical for ensuring that everything is in order, especially the heating system before the colder months set in.
Navigating Fall’s Unique Real Estate Benefits
The fall real estate market is an excellent time for buyers and sellers to make their move. Undeniably, with less competition, pleasant weather, and significant financial benefits, it’s a season filled with opportunity. Contact us today to navigate this market and successfully find or sell your home this fall.
If you’re thinking about downsizing, you may be hearing about 55+ communities and wondering if they’d be a good fit for you. Here’s some information that could help you make your decision.
What Is a 55+ Community?
It’s important to note that these communities aren’t just for people who need extra support – they can be pretty vibrant, too. Many people who are downsizing opt for this type of home because they’re looking to be surrounded by people in a similar season of life. U.S. Newsexplains:
“The terms ‘55-plus community,’ ‘active adult community,’ ‘lifestyle communities’ and ‘planned communities’ refer to a setting that caters to the needs and preferences of adults over the age of 55. These communities are designed for seniors who are able to care for themselves but may be looking to downsize to a community with others their same age and with similar interests.”
Why It’s Worth Considering This Type of Home
If that sounds like something that may interest you, here’s one thing to consider. You may find you’ve got a growing list of options if you look at this type of community. According to 55places.com, the number of listings tailored for homebuyers in this age group has increased by over 50% compared to last year.
And a bigger pool of options could make your move much less stressful because it’s easier to find something that’s specifically designed to meet your needs.
Other Benefits of a 55+ Community
On top of that, there are other benefits to seeking out this type of home. An article from 55places.com, highlights just a few:
Lower-Maintenance Living: Tired of mowing the lawn or pulling weeds? Many of these communities take care of this for you. So, you can spend more time doing fun things, and less time on maintenance.
On-Site Amenities: Some feature lifestyle amenities like a clubhouse, fitness center, and more, so it’s easy to stay active. Plus, others offer media rooms, libraries, spas, arts and craft studios, and more.
Like-Minded Neighbors: Additionally, these types of homes usually offer clubs, outings, meet-ups, and more to foster a close-knit community.
Accessible Floor Plans: Not to mention, many have first-floor living options, ample storage spaces, and modern floor plans so you can have a home tailored to this phase in your life.
Bottom Line
If this sounds appealing to you, let’s talk about what’s available in Tulsa, and the unique amenities for each community. You may find a 55+ community is exactly what you’ve been searching for.
