real estate tips Archives - Accent Realtors Blog

September 15, 2025

How Today’s Lower Mortgage Rates Create Opportunities for Buyers

If you have been waiting for the right moment to buy a home, now may be that time. Mortgage rates have been dropping recently, and that creates exciting opportunities for buyers. We want to share what is happening in the market right now, what it means for you, and how we can guide you through the process.

What’s Going On in the Market

As of early September 2025, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate has fallen to about 6.2%.
The 15-year fixed rate has also eased to around 5.60%.
Mortgage applications for home purchases have been increasing, showing that more buyers are stepping back into the market.

Sellers are adjusting as well, with more inventory and price flexibility showing up in many areas.

What It Means for Home Buyers

These lower rates can make a big difference in your home search:

Greater Purchasing Power
Even a small drop in rates can lower your monthly payment. That means you may be able to afford more home for the same budget, or simply enjoy lower costs each month.
Improved Affordability
When rates ease, the total cost of borrowing goes down. This shift helps make homes that once felt out of reach more attainable.
More Choices
As more sellers list their homes, buyers have more options. With greater inventory and less pressure from higher rates, you have more opportunity to find a home that fits your needs.
Better Negotiating Position
In many markets, sellers are offering concessions or showing flexibility. Combined with lower borrowing costs, this can help buyers secure a deal that works in their favor.

Why Having the Right Team Matters

We know how quickly the housing market can shift. That is why working with us matters. We keep a close eye on rates, buyer activity, and inventory trends. More importantly, we listen to your needs and help you explore every option available. Whether it is identifying neighborhoods, reviewing homes that meet your criteria, or walking you through the buying process step by step, our job is to make sure you feel confident in your decisions.

What You Should Do Next

If you’ve been thinking about buying, now is a strong time to take action. Here’s what we recommend:

Get pre‑approved so you know exactly what you can afford.
Let us show you homes in neighborhoods you like. With more inventory you might find your dream home quicker.
Compare mortgage offers. Even a small difference in rate can save thousands of dollars over life of loan.
Ask us questions. We are happy to walk you through all parts of the process and help you avoid costly missteps.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

The recent drop in mortgage rates is more than good news in the headlines — it is an opportunity for buyers to take action. If you are ready to see what this means for you, reach out to us today. Our team is here to guide you, answer your questions, and help you find the home that is right for you.

The post How Today’s Lower Mortgage Rates Create Opportunities for Buyers appeared first on Dakno Blog.

September 1, 2025

Why Home Inventory Is Rising and What It Means For Buyers and Sellers

We’re thrilled to share some exciting news about today’s real estate market! Home inventory, the number of homes available for sale, is on the rise, creating a vibrant and dynamic landscape for both buyers and sellers across the country. As of mid-2025, the supply of existing homes has climbed to approximately 4.7 months, the highest since 2016, with active listings soaring by over 30% in the first half of the year. This increase signals a healthy, balanced market that’s full of opportunities for everyone. Let’s explore why this is happening and how it benefits you, whether you’re buying or selling.

Why Inventory Is Growing

This surge in available homes reflects a market that’s adapting to new opportunities. More homeowners are confidently listing their properties, inspired by life changes like new jobs, growing families, or the desire for a fresh start. The “lock-in effect,” where owners hesitated to sell due to low mortgage rates, is fading as economic conditions stabilize, giving sellers the confidence to move forward. Meanwhile, new home construction is booming, with builders adding fresh, modern homes to the market, pushing new-home supply to nearly 10 months in some areas. This combination of existing and new homes is creating a robust selection, with inventory growing steadily for over 20 months and surpassing pre-pandemic levels in many regions.

This isn’t a sign of a slowing market, it’s a sign of vitality! The market is moving toward balance, easing the “stuck” feeling that once made finding or selling a home feel like a challenge.

Great News for Buyers

For buyers, this growing inventory is a game-changer. With more homes to choose from, you have the freedom to find a property that truly matches your vision, whether it’s a cozy starter home or a spacious family retreat. Gone are the days of intense bidding wars and limited options. Today, you have the power to explore, compare, and negotiate with confidence. We’re seeing more sellers open to price adjustments, closing cost assistance, or even home upgrades, with price cuts on listings up significantly from pandemic peaks. This means better affordability and less pressure to compromise on your dream home.

As your trusted real estate team, we’re here to help you seize this moment. From pinpointing properties that fit your needs to crafting smart offers that maximize value, we’ll guide you every step of the way to make your homebuying journey smooth and successful.

A Golden Opportunity for Sellers

Sellers, you’re in a fantastic position to shine! The rise in inventory doesn’t mean a flooded market, it means a healthy, active one where well-positioned homes attract eager buyers. Demand remains strong, especially for move-in-ready properties that stand out. With our expertise, we can showcase your home’s unique value through strategic pricing, professional staging, and targeted marketing to capture the attention of motivated buyers. This balanced market allows you to sell confidently, knowing you can achieve top value while moving on to your next chapter.

Whether your home is a charming fixer-upper or a turnkey gem, we’ll work with you to highlight its strengths and connect with the right buyers quickly. The increased inventory simply means more opportunities to match your property with someone ready to call it home.

Partnering for Your Success

This thriving market is opening doors for both buyers and sellers, creating a win-win environment where dreams are within reach. The rise in inventory is breaking the gridlock of the past, making real estate more exciting and accessible than ever. Whether you’re ready to find your perfect home or sell your property for maximum value, we’re here to make it happen. Our team is dedicated to guiding you with personalized strategies, local expertise, and a passion for your success. Reach out today, and let’s turn this dynamic market into your opportunity to shine!

The post Why Home Inventory Is Rising and What It Means For Buyers and Sellers appeared first on Dakno Blog.

August 15, 2025

What to Look for During an Open House (And What to Ignore)

Open houses are one of the best parts of the home search. They give you a chance to explore different spaces, see what’s out there, and get a real feel for what could be your next home. But with so many details competing for your attention, it’s easy to get sidetracked by the little things.

That’s where we come in. Our team knows how to help you focus on what matters most, spot the details that truly impact your lifestyle, and decide which things are worth a second look. Here’s what to keep in mind during your next open house.

Find a Floor Plan That Works for You

The way a home is laid out will affect how you live in it every day. As you walk through, think about how the rooms connect. Is the kitchen in a convenient location? Do the bedrooms offer enough privacy? Does the flow make sense for how you want to use the space?

Paint colors and light fixtures can be updated. Changing the floor plan is a much bigger project, so it’s worth paying close attention to how the home feels as you move through it.

Check That There’s Enough Storage

Storage might not be flashy, but it’s essential. Check closets, cabinets, the pantry, and any additional storage areas to see if they fit your needs. Having enough space for your belongings can make a big difference in how functional and comfortable a home feels over time.

We can also help you compare what’s typical for the area so you’ll know if a home is giving you more (or less) than the average.

Look for Signs the Home’s Been Cared For

A well-maintained home tells you a lot about how the previous owners cared for it. Check for things like clean baseboards, well-kept landscaping, and updated caulking in kitchens and bathrooms. On the other hand, make note of red flags such as stains on ceilings, musty odors, or cracks in the walls.

If you spot something that concerns you, we can help you decide whether it’s a quick fix, something to negotiate with the seller, or an issue worth investigating further.

Think About Easy Updates You Could Make

Sometimes you’ll walk into a home and notice carpet you’d replace, a wall color you’d change, or fixtures you’d upgrade. The good news? These are often easy updates.

Our team can help you determine whether those changes are minor projects or if they’re something you can negotiate into your offer. This way, you’ll know exactly what’s realistic before making a decision.

Explore the Neighborhood

An open house is the perfect time to see more than just the property. Drive or walk around the surrounding streets. Notice how well the other homes are cared for, the traffic flow, and the noise level.

We can also share insights about local schools, nearby parks, shopping, dining, and commute times; so you get the full picture before you make an offer. Picture yourself running errands, heading to your favorite coffee shop, or enjoying a weekend stroll. Does it feel like the right fit?

We’re Here to Help You Find the Right Fit

Knowing what to look for during an open house can save you time, help you focus, and make the buying process more enjoyable. We’ll be by your side through every tour, helping you weigh what’s important. If you’re ready to start your search, let’s connect. Together, we’ll find a home that checks all your boxes and feels like the right match for your lifestyle.

The post What to Look for During an Open House (And What to Ignore) appeared first on Dakno Blog.

December 4, 2024February 5, 2025

Real Estate During the Holidays

Key Facts:

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.

Couple on laptop exploring the holiday real estate market

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.

Home foyer with holiday wreath and table with Christmas decor

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.

The post Navigating the Real Estate Market During the Holidays appeared first on Dakno Blog.

Interested in learning more about listing during the holiday season? See our post on Holiday Home Selling!

October 15, 2024November 6, 2024

The Benefits of Decluttering Before a Home Sale

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.

Living room with vaulted ceilings and fireplace

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.

Modern white kitchen with large island and wood floors

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.

Woman decluttering before a home sale by packing up kitchen items

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.

See our post on Preparing Your Home for Changing Seasons for more information on why to declutter!