Hello!Â
Spring is here! đˇÂ Between spring cleaning, family activities, and the rhythms of daily life, I hope youâre taking a moment to enjoy the longer days and fresh bursts of sunshine. Thereâs something about this season that inspires new beginningsâand that spirit of renewal is one of my favorite parts of real estate.Â
Whether youâre a new empty nester or youâve recently retired, youâre likely contemplating the idea of a smaller home. Less square footage typically means less space to take care of, with fewer rooms and a smaller yard (or no yard at all). But is downsizing worth it if it means giving up favorite things about your current house, or having to leave a neighborhood you love?Â
With budgets already stretched thin along with higher interest rates, todayâs buyers are more selective than ever regarding homes theyâre willing to purchase. They donât want to get stuck with a home theyâll need to sink even more money into after closing. In fact, according to a recent report from Zillow, buyers are willing to pay up to 4% more (an average of $13,000 for the average American home) for a move-in-ready listing that doesnât need renovations or repairs.Â
In line with many other living expenses, home insurance has been rising over the last several years. According to the Consumer Federation of America, the average annual home insurance premium for a typical homeowner increased by an average of $648 across the country from 2021 to 2024. Home insurance in Missouri increased by an average of 12% during that time span, while Illinois home insurance increased by a whopping 50%.
If you plan on selling your house in 2026, you shouldnât have much trouble. Affordability is expected to improve as interest rates drop. Inventory, however, is limited, so sellers need to use every available tool to attract buyers and get top dollar. Home staging is one of those tools.Â
As we step into the new year, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on all that 2025 broughtâand to say THANK YOUÂ from the bottom of my heart.
This past year, I had the privilege of helping 25 families take big steps toward their dreams. Whether it was buying their first home, selling a special place, or making a fresh start, each story reminded me why I love what I do.
Homeowners who locked into near-3% interest rates during 2020â2021 are now hesitant to sell, because it means buying another property that could require a 6% rate or higher. This âmortgage lock-in effectâ is causing many would-be sellers to stay put, which means a smaller housing supply in St. Louis â and fewer options for eager buyers.Â
One of the first questions people ask when getting ready to sell is âWhat is my home worth?â Setting the right asking price is crucial. Price it too high and it could be left on the market with no buyer in sight; ask too little, and youâre leaving money on the table.Â
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