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Don’t Fall for These Real Estate Agent Myths
When it’s time to buy or sell a home, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is who you’ll work with as your agent. That choice will have an impact on your entire experience and how smoothly it goes.
As you figure out who you’ll partner with, it’s important to know what to expect and what to look for. Unfortunately, there may be some myths holding you back from making the best decision possible. So, let’s take some time to address those, and make sure you have the information you need to find the right agent for you.
Myth #1: All Real Estate Agents Are the Same
You might think all agents are the same – so it doesn’t matter who you work with. But, in reality, agents have varying levels of experience, specialties, and market knowledge, which can have a big impact on your results. For example: you’ll get much better service and advice from someone who is a true expert in their field. As Business Insider explains:
“If you were planning to get your hair done for a special event, you’d want to visit a stylist who specifically has experience doing that type of work — you wouldn’t make an appointment with someone who primarily does kids’ hair. The same concept applies to finding a real estate agent. If you have a smaller budget, you probably don’t want to work with an agent who exclusively sells multimillion-dollar properties.”
Take some time to talk with each agent you’re considering. Ask about their experience level and what they specialize in. This will help you find the one that’s the best fit for your search.
Myth #2: You Can Save Money by Not Using an Agent
As a seller, you may think you can save money by not working with a pro. However, the expertise, negotiation skills, and market knowledge an agent provides generally saves you money and helps you avoid making costly mistakes. Without that guidance, you could find yourself doing something like overpricing your house. And that’s a misstep that’ll cost you when it sits on the market for far too long. That’s why U.S. News Real Estate says:
“When it comes to buying or selling your home, hiring a professional to guide you through the process can save you money and headaches. It pays to have someone on your side who’s well-versed in the nuances of the market and can help ensure you get the best possible deal.”
Myth #3: Agents Will Push You To Spend More
You may also be worried an agent will push you to buy a more expensive house in order to increase their commission. But that’s not how that should go. A good agent will respect your budget and work hard to find a home that truly fits your financial situation and needs. With their market know-how, they’ll point you toward the best option for you, rather than try to pad their own pockets on your dime. As NerdWallet explains:
“Among other things, a good buyer’s agent will find homes for sale. A buyer’s agent will help you understand the type of home you can afford in the current market, find listed homes that match your needs and price range, and then help you narrow the options to the properties worth considering.”
Myth #4: Market Conditions Are the Same Everywhere, So Why Do I Need a Pro?
Maybe you believe housing market conditions are the same no matter where you are. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. Real estate markets are highly localized, and conditions can vary widely from one area to another. This is why you can’t pick just anyone you find online. You should choose an agent who’s an expert on your specific local market. As a recent article from Bankrate says:
“Real estate is very localized, and you want someone who’s extremely knowledgeable about the market in your specific area.”
You’ll know you’ve found the right person when they can explain the national trends and how your area stacks up too. That way you’re guaranteed to get the full picture when you ask: “how’s the market?”
Bottom Line
Don’t let myths keep you from the expert guidance you deserve. With market knowledge and top resources, a trusted local real estate agent isn’t just helpful, they’re invaluable.
In what could be one of the biggest financial decisions of your life, having the right pro by your side is a game changer. Let’s connect and make sure you get the best outcome possible.
Why Buying Now May Be Worth It in the Long Run
Should you buy a home now or should you wait? That’s a question a lot of people have these days. And while what’s right for you is going to depend on a lot of different factors, here’s something you’ll want to consider as you make your decision.
As soon as you buy, you’ll start gaining equity. And you’d be surprised how quickly that can add up – even with more moderate home price appreciation.
Each quarter, Fannie Mae releases the Home Price Expectations Survey. It asks over one hundred economists, real estate experts, and investment and market strategists what they forecast for home prices over the next five years. In the latest release, experts project prices will continue to rise nationally through at least 2028 (see the graph below):
While home prices are going to vary from one local area to the next, this shows they’re expected to keep going up nationally. The size of the increase varies from year-to-year, but the important takeaway is that prices are forecast to rise every single year – just at a moderate pace.
And while rising home prices may not sound great right now, once you own a home, that growth will be a big bonus for you. Here’s a look at what you stand to gain equity-wise once you buy. The graph below uses a typical home’s value and those HPES projections to show how much equity is at stake:
If you bought a $450,000 home at the beginning of this year, based on that starting value and the expert forecasts from the HPES, you could gain more than $90,000 in household wealth over the next five years. That’s significant.
So, if you’re ready and able to buy, and growing your wealth is important to you, you’ve got an opportunity in front of you. And now that mortgage rates have fallen, it may be time to consider making a move.
To talk more about your options and what makes sense, lean on a pro. They’ll be able to tell you what home prices are doing in your area and what that means for your move (and your future equity). The Mortgage Reports says:
“Given the intricacies of the current market, it’s more important than ever to stay informed and up to date about housing market conditions. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell in the remaining months of 2024, having a professional guide you through the process can make all the difference.”
Bottom Line
The decision to buy now or wait is a very personal one, but it’s valuable to have an expert’s perspective. They won’t push you, but they will explain things you may not have considered, like the equity that’s at stake.
If you want help weighing your options and thinking through how the current market factors in, let’s connect.
The Down Payment Assistance You Didn’t Know About
Believe it or not, almost 80% of first-time homebuyers qualify for down payment assistance, but only 13% actually use it. And if you’re hoping to buy a home, this is a mission-critical gap to close – fast (see graph below):
Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your down payment in today’s housing market.
Amplify Your Down Payment Potential
For first-time buyers, the name of the game with down payments is making sure you’re taking advantage of all the resources out there designed to help you. And a bunch of them can get you to your goal faster than you may have thought possible.
For example, there are loan options that require as little as 3% down, or even 0% for certain qualified borrowers, like Veterans. And let’s not forget down payment assistance, like grants and other opportunities, that help you cover the upfront cost of your down payment.
If you’re interested in exploring those options and what you may be able to use to your advantage, connect with a trusted lender. Because if you don’t at least see what’s available, you could be leaving money on the table and missing your chance at buying a home. These resources can boost your down payment. And a higher down payment could help lower your eventual monthly mortgage payment, and even avoid or reduce your fees like private mortgage insurance.
Don’t Let News Headlines About Down Payments Scare You
There’s one more thing to address. News coverage has been talking about how the typical down payment is rising. A report from Redfin states:
“The typical down payment for U.S. homebuyers hit a record high of $67,500 in June, up 14.8% from $58,788 a year earlier . . . This was the 12th consecutive month the median down payment rose year over year.”
But don’t let those high dollars scare you. Just because the average down payment is rising doesn’t mean down payment requirements are going up. That’s a key piece of the puzzle to understand. It’s really just because people are choosing to put more down to try to offset higher mortgage rates, and current homeowners who are putting their equity to work are using that to increase their down payment on their next home. As HousingWire explains:
“. . . buyers are putting down a higher percentage of the purchase price to lower their monthly mortgage payment. And buyers also had more equity from their home sales, which gives them more cushion.”
Let’s break those two reasons down a bit:
1. A bigger down payment helps lower your monthly mortgage payment. Affordability has been a challenge for many buyers recently, which is why those who have the ability to make a bigger down payment are going to do so in an effort to lower their future housing costs.
2. Buyers who already own a home have a record amount of equity to leverage. Someone who bought a home a few years ago has gained a significant amount of value in their house, thanks to home price appreciation. These people can put down much more than the average first-time buyer who hasn’t owned a home yet.
Bottom Line
What’s the best thing to do? Talk with a trusted lender about your options. They’ll help you figure out where you stand today and how to access the resources you may qualify for. Because help is out there, you just need to work with a pro to take advantage of it.
Is Your House Priced Too High?
Every seller wants to get their house sold quickly, for as much money as they can, with as few headaches as possible. And chances are, you’re no different.
But did you know one of the biggest things that could jeopardize your success is the asking price for your home? Pricing your house correctly is one of the most crucial steps in the selling process.
So, how do you know if you’re missing the mark? Here are four signs your high asking price might be turning potential buyers away—and why leaning on your real estate agent is the best way to course correct.
1. You’re Not Getting Many Showings or Offers
One of the most obvious signs your house may be overpriced is a lack of showings. If it’s been on the market for several weeks and only a few buyers have come to see it—or worse, you haven’t gotten any offers—it could be a clear indication the price isn’t matching up with what buyers expect. Because buyers who have been looking for a while can easily spot (and write off) a home that seems overpriced.
Your real estate agent will coach you through this, so lean on their experience for what you may want to try to bring more buyers in, including considering a price cut.
2. Buyers Have Consistent Negative Feedback after Showings
And if after the showings you do have, comments from the potential buyers aren’t great, you may need to course correct. Feedback from showings is an important part of understanding how buyers see your house. If they consistently say it’s overpriced compared to other homes they’ve seen, it’s time to reconsider your pricing strategy.
Your agent will gather and analyze this feedback for you, so you can look at how your house stacks up in the market. They can also suggest specific improvements or staging changes to better justify your asking price, or recommend one that aligns with today’s buyer expectations. As the National Association of Realtors (NAR) explains:
“Based on all the data gathered, agents may make adjustments to the initial price recommendation. This could involve adjusting for market conditions, property uniqueness, or other factors that may impact the property’s value.”
3. It’s Been on the Market for Too Long
And that lack of interest is ultimately going to lead to it sitting on the market without any serious bites. The longer it lingers, the more likely it is to raise red flags for buyers, who may wonder if something is wrong with it. Especially in today’s market with growing inventory, a long listing period means your house is stale – and that makes it even harder to sell.
Your real estate agent will be able to give you perspective on how quickly other homes in your area are selling and walk you through what’s working for other sellers. That way you can decide together if there’s something you want to do differently. As a Bankrate article says:
“Check with your agent about the average number of days homes spend on the market in your area. If your listing has been up significantly longer than average, that may be a sign to reduce the price.”
4. Your Neighbor’s House Sold Without an Issue
And here’s the last one to watch out for. If similar homes in your area are selling faster than yours, it’s a clear sign that something is off. This could be due to things like a lack of upgrades, outdated features, or a less desirable location. Or, it may be priced too high.
Your agent will keep you up to date on your competition and what changes, if any, you need to make your home more competitive. They’ll offer advice on small updates that could increase your home’s appeal or how to adjust your strategy to reflect the reality of the market today.
Bottom Line
Pricing a home correctly is both an art and a science. It requires a deep understanding of the market and buyer psychology. And when the price isn’t drawing in buyers, there’s no better resource than your agent on what you may want to do next.
RV Sticker Maps: Fun Rules and Traditions
One of the best parts of RV travel is the freedom to roam across the country, exploring new places and making memories along the way. And what better way to capture all those travels than with a sticker map? If you’ve ever hung out at an RV park or cruised down the highway, you’ve probably spotted these colorful maps proudly displayed on the side of an RV. They’re not just decorations—they’re a fun way to share your adventures and a visual reminder of all the places you’ve been.
In this post, we’ll dive into the fun world of RV sticker maps, go over some popular “rules” for when to add a new state, and show you how these maps can bring an extra layer of excitement to your RV travels.
What’s the Deal with RV Sticker Maps?
RVers love to tell the story of their journeys, and while many share photos and blog posts, the good ol’ sticker map remains a favorite. It’s affordable, simple, and a great conversation starter at any campground. If you’ve recently bought an RV, chances are you’ve already thought about getting one. (Psst—if you don’t know where to start, check out our blog post, “The Ultimate RV Bucket List Adventures.“)
So, what are the “rules” for these maps? Well, like many things in RV life, the answer depends on who you ask!
The Great RV Sticker Map Debate: When Do You Get to Add a Sticker?
This is where things get interesting. Every RVer seems to have their own set of rules about when they can add a new state to their map. Here are a few of the most common ones we’ve come across:
- You drove through the state in your car: Nope, sorry—if you weren’t in your RV, it doesn’t count!
- Stayed in the state without the RV: While this might explain how some folks manage to get a Hawaii sticker on their map, if the RV wasn’t there, neither was the sticker.
- Drove through the state in the RV, but didn’t stop: We lean toward saying this doesn’t count either. If you’re just cruising through and don’t actually experience the state, is it really worth a sticker?
- Drove through the state in the RV and got out for a bit: Maybe you stopped at a rest stop or filled up the gas tank. While that’s technically stepping foot in the state, we don’t think it qualifies for a sticker.
- Visited something unique in the state, but didn’t stay the night: Now we’re getting somewhere! If you saw something cool—even if it was just a quick stop—this could go either way.
- Spent at least one night camping in your RV: Ding, ding, ding! This is our preferred rule. If you set up camp and spent the night, the state definitely deserves a sticker.
- The state was your destination: If you stayed for a week or explored a national park, slap that sticker on with pride!
Personalizing Your RV Sticker Map
Of course, there’s more to RV sticker maps than just adding states. Here are a few fun ideas to make your map uniquely yours:
– One Sticker Per State: A classic way to keep track of your travels. It’s a fun challenge to get all 48 continental states (and maybe even Alaska and Hawaii one day!).
– Mark Milestones: Add special stickers to celebrate big moments, like your first cross-country trip or reaching 25 states.
– Collect Local Stickers: Some RVers like to pick up local stickers from each place they visit—maybe from a favorite brewery or a cool festival.
– Add Special Event Stickers: Did you attend a family reunion or a cool event on your trip? Add a sticker to commemorate the occasion.
– Trade Stickers with Fellow RVers: Meet a fellow traveler on the road? Swap stickers to make your map even more unique.
– Get Creative: Don’t feel limited to just state shapes—add fun designs that reflect your personal style or interests!
Who Gets to Add the Sticker?
Another fun debate: who in the family gets the honor of sticking the new state on the map? In our case, Shane (the driver) usually gets the job, but some families have their own traditions. How about yours?
Where Should You Put Your Map?
The location of your map is another personal choice. Some like to stick it on the back of the RV so others can see it on the road, while others prefer a more protected spot like inside a slide-out. We’ve even seen maps displayed on plexiglass or inside a window using suction cups. There’s no wrong way—just find what works best for you!
Does the Map Belong to You or the RV?
Here’s a question we’ve heard in RV circles: if you sell your RV, does the map stay with it or come with you? We’re still undecided, but what do you think? Should you start fresh with each new RV, or bring your sticker map along for the ride?
There’s No Sticker Map Mafia!
At the end of the day, there’s no right or wrong way to do your RV sticker map. Make your own rules and have fun with it! Each sticker represents a memory, a place, or an experience, and as your map fills up, it becomes a visual story of your adventures.
We’d love to hear from you! Do you have a sticker map on your RV? What rules do you follow when adding new states? Share your thoughts in the comments and feel free to post a picture of your map—we can’t wait to see it!
Safe travels and happy sticker collecting!
The Ultimate RV Bucket List Adventures
Have you ever seen *The Bucket List*? It’s a heartwarming 2007 film about two older men who, after being diagnosed with terminal lung cancer, decide to tackle a list of things they want to do before they “kick the bucket.” While the movie is a mix of laughter and tears, it reminds us all that life is short and it’s never too late to chase your dreams!
Now, we’re not saying you need a life-changing event to start checking things off your bucket list. Whether you’re retired, a weekend adventurer, or simply someone with a love for travel, an RV is the perfect way to bring those bucket list items to life. There’s just something special about seeing the country from the comfort of your home on wheels. So, let’s dive into some must-do RV bucket list experiences that will have you itching to hit the open road.
Camp at the Most Beautiful Places in America
Topping our list are America’s national parks, and for good reason. These breathtaking landscapes are the crown jewels of our country, and each one offers a unique, awe-inspiring experience. From towering mountains to serene forests, there’s a park for everyone. We love planning our RV trips around national parks, and the goal? Visit them all! With 63 national parks and 129 national monuments scattered across the U.S., there’s always a new adventure waiting.
Here are just a few bucket list-worthy national park experiences:
– Watch the sunrise at the Grand Canyon – No words can capture the beauty of those first rays of light spilling over the rim.
– Drive through the massive Redwoods in California – These giants will make you feel like you’ve entered another world.
– Watch Old Faithful erupt at Yellowstone – You won’t want to miss this natural wonder!
– Hike a glacier in Glacier National Park – It’s every bit as cool as it sounds (pun intended).
RVing is hands down the best way to explore these parks. Many of them offer campsites right inside the park, or you can find great RV parks just outside the gates, making it easy to wake up surrounded by nature.
Hit the Iconic Scenic Roads
While the destinations are incredible, let’s not forget that RVing is all about the journey too! The U.S. is home to some of the most iconic and scenic drives in the world, and no RV bucket list would be complete without cruising a few of them.
– Route 66: This one’s a classic—spanning 2,000 miles and packed with nostalgia. There’s even a song about it: “Get your kicks on Route 66!” This legendary highway takes you through quirky small towns, roadside diners, and stunning desert landscapes.
– Pacific Coast Highway (PCH): If you love dramatic ocean views, this coastal road from Southern California to Northern California is a must. With beaches, cliffs, and charming seaside towns along the way, you’ll want to stop often to soak it all in.
– Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park: This is hands down one of our favorites! The views are jaw-dropping, with towering peaks and deep valleys. You’ll find yourself pulling over every few minutes to snap photos.
– Million Dollar Highway (US 550 in Colorado): The stretch between Ouray and Silverton offers stunning mountain views, especially in the fall. Just be aware that some of these roads are a bit tight for large RVs!
Travel to All 50 States (Almost!)
Okay, we know getting to Hawaii in an RV isn’t going to happen, but why not make it a goal to RV through the other 49 states? Whether you tackle them all in one epic road trip or break it up into smaller adventures, it’s totally doable!
Here are a few regional road trips to help you get started:
– Pacific Northwest: Explore the waterfalls and scenic drives of the Columbia River Gorge, and don’t miss out on the beauty of Multnomah Falls in Oregon.
– East Coast National Parks: Hit up Everglades National Park in Florida or take in the Smoky Mountains on the Tennessee-North Carolina border. These parks offer tons of adventure, from hiking to RV-friendly campgrounds.
– Southwest National Parks: The Southwest is home to some of the most breathtaking national parks, like Mesa Verde, Arches, and of course, the Grand Canyon. These are all bucket list musts!
– Northeast: From Maine’s rugged coastline to the waterfalls of New York’s Robert H. Treman State Park, this region is perfect for scenic RV trips through rich history and nature.
– Midwest: You might not think of the Midwest first when it comes to RVing, but trust us, there are hidden gems like Robidoux RV Park in Nebraska, nestled in the shadow of Scotts Bluff National Monument.
– Alaska: If you’re feeling really adventurous, Alaska is calling! RVing through the rugged wilderness of Denali National Park is an experience like no other.
Tips for Planning Your Epic RV Adventures
Planning an RV trip, especially one that involves multiple bucket list stops, takes a little bit of prep. Here are a few tips to make it all run smoothly:
– Plan Ahead: RV spots at national parks fill up fast, so book your campground in advance. And don’t forget to pack the essentials!
– Use the 3-3-3 Rule: No more than 300 miles a day, stop every 3 hours, and arrive by 3 PM to keep the journey enjoyable.
– Get a National Park Pass: If you’re planning to hit up multiple parks, it’s worth investing in a pass to save on entry fees.
What Are You Waiting For?
If you’ve been dreaming about that ultimate road trip, there’s no better time than now. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or planning an extended adventure, the open road is calling. Start checking off your bucket list one state at a time and make unforgettable memories along the way.
Happy travels, and be sure to share your bucket list experiences with us in the comments! We’d love to hear about the places you’ve been and the ones you’re planning to see next.
Lower Mortgage Rates Boost Your Buying Power (Video)
As rates drop, your monthly payment on your next home will too. Let’s connect to talk about how today’s rates boost your purchasing power.
