real estate Tag

Planning Your 2026 Real Estate Moves: A Guide to the Best Buying and Selling Seasons

Timing isn’t everything in real estate, but it can mean the difference between saving $20,000 or paying a premium, selling in 30 days or waiting three months, and negotiating from a position of strength or uncertainty. As we look toward 2026, understanding seasonal patterns has become more critical than ever. With inventory levels normalizing and market conditions continuing to evolve, knowing when to make your move can dramatically impact your outcome. Whether you're a first-time buyer watching every dollar or a seller trying to maximize your profit, the season you choose...

View More

Can You Really Trust Online Home Estimates?

For millions of homeowners, checking their Zillow Zestimate has become as routine as checking a stock portfolio—a quick hit of seeing your home's estimated value, right at your fingertips. With 178 million monthly users and over 100 million homes covered, the platform's instant, free, and convenient appeal is undeniable. But here's a famous cautionary tale: Spencer Rascoff, Zillow's former CEO, sold his own home for a staggering 40% less than its Zestimate. This story highlights a critical fact that many homeowners don't realize: Zillow itself calls its Zestimate a "starting point...

View More

What Makes a Great Long-Term Rental Property? A Checklist for Smart Investors

Investing in a long-term rental can be a powerful way to build steady income and long-term wealth—but not every property is a smart buy. From location and tenant demand to cash flow and maintenance considerations, this checklist breaks down the key factors investors should evaluate to identify a rental property that stands the test of time....

View More

5 Roadblocks To Affordable Homeownership (And Ways To Move Past Them)

Affordable homeownership can feel out of reach, but many common obstacles are more manageable than they appear. From rising interest rates and limited inventory to credit concerns and upfront costs, this article outlines five key roadblocks — along with practical strategies to help buyers move forward with clarity and confidence....

View More

Home-Related Tax Deductions

Homeownership comes with potential tax benefits that many buyers and sellers overlook. From mortgage interest and property taxes to energy-efficient improvements and home office deductions, understanding which expenses may be deductible can help you plan smarter and make informed financial decisions related to your home....

View More

4 Home Remodeling Projects with the Highest ROI

Not all home improvements deliver the same return. If you’re thinking about remodeling, it’s smart to focus on projects that add real value. This article highlights four home upgrades with the highest return on investment, helping homeowners prioritize improvements that can enhance both enjoyment and resale potential....

View More

Tech the Halls: Smart Home Gadgets for a Stress-Free Holiday Season

The holidays should be joyful — not stressful. Smart home technology can help homeowners simplify entertaining, enhance security, and improve energy efficiency during the busiest time of year. From smart lighting and thermostats to security features and voice-activated helpers, these gadgets make the season more comfortable and worry-free....

View More

Multigenerational Home Buying: How to Find a Home That Fits Your Whole Family

For many homebuyers, multigenerational living used to be considered an option of last resort: it was a route families took only when they needed to ride out a financial storm or care for ailing family members. But that mindset is on the decline: A growing number of families now say that they are embracing multigenerational living and moving in together by choice.  In fact, research by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) found that the share of multigenerational home buyers rose to 14% in 2022––close to an all-time high.1  Buyers cite a...

View More

Stage to Sell: 7 Proven Steps to Attract Buyers and Boost Offers

Selling your home quickly and at the right price takes more than just listing it online. To draw in potential buyers and secure top offers, your home needs to stand out. That’s where home staging comes in. By strategically preparing your home—through redecorating, repairing, and making it look its best—you can make a lasting impression and significantly increase its appeal....

View More