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June 26.2025
3 Minutes Read

Avoiding Costly Selling Mistakes: Smart Strategies for Homeowners

Couple discussing home selling mistakes in modern living room.

Understanding the Selling Process: Avoiding Costly Missteps

Selling a home can feel like a rollercoaster—one moment you're thrilled with the prospect of a new beginning, and the next, you're overwhelmed with decisions that could impact your finances significantly. Zillow's recent survey sheds light on common pitfalls that homeowners often stumble upon during this crucial time.

Investing in Projects: The Right vs. Wrong

It's a common misconception that large renovations will automatically lead to a higher sale price. According to Zillow, nearly 23% of homeowners believe that building an addition offers the best return on investment. In reality, simple cosmetic updates often yield a better payoff. Attention to detail—such as fresh paint and improved landscaping—can elevate a property's appeal without straining your wallet. Christina Pappas, an industry expert, states, "A strong first impression is crucial; it can be the difference between a swift sale and a prolonged listing." A thoughtful presentation, effective marketing strategies, and strategic updates can enhance buyer interest.

The Digital Influence: Screen Appeal Matters

Today’s buyers often form their first impression online, making 'screen appeal' just as important as traditional curb appeal. Despite this growing trend, 40% of homeowners still believe curb appeal reigns supreme. However, homes showcased with high-quality images and immersive online tours tend to sell faster and for higher prices—up to 2% more according to Zillow. Ensuring an attractive digital presentation is essential in capturing potential buyers' attention in a crowded market.

Hiring the Right Help: Don’t Skip the Essentials

Choosing a real estate agent is one of the most important steps in selling a home, and yet, many homeowners overlook essential steps. Surprisingly, 25% of sellers consider skipping reviews, sales history research, and interviews when selecting an agent. These steps are crucial to ensuring that you find someone knowledgeable who can accurately price your home and provide essential insights into the local market.

Highlighting Features: What Really Matters?

Homeowners often highlight trendy features like open floor plans, but nearly 45% of owners think these will enhance resale value. Contrary to this belief, homes with natural materials, such as white oak flooring and stone countertops, have been shown to command a higher price. Recognizing what buyers truly seek can help sellers better position their property and avoid missteps.

Disclosures: Transparency is Key

One of the most significant areas where confusion arises is in seller disclosures. A concerning statistic shows that more than half of homeowners incorrectly believe they should hide issues like structural problems or pest infestations. Honesty in disclosures not only builds trust but can also prevent legal issues after the sale.

Empowering Homeowners: Bringing It All Together

Being informed and making smart decisions enhances your ability to navigate the home-selling landscape successfully. Homeowners can avoid common pitfalls by focusing on appealing presentations, effective marketing, and strategic updates in their homes. Furthermore, transparency in disclosures fosters a trustworthy relationship with potential buyers.

For those embarking on the home-selling journey, keeping these insights in mind can empower you to make savvy choices that could save you thousands down the road. Ensuring your home is ready for sale, understanding the current market, and working with professionals who have your best interests at heart are key steps that can translate to better financial outcomes.

As you proceed on your selling journey, remember that preparation is your best ally. Don't miss out on putting your home in the best light!

Real Estate News

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07.21.2025

Buyers Gain Leverage as Real Estate Inventory Reaches 5-Year High

Update New Market Balance: What It Means for Buyers and Sellers The real estate market in the United States is experiencing a dramatic shift as inventory levels soar to a five-year high. According to recent data from Zillow, June 2025 saw a remarkable 1.36 million homes listed for sale, the most since November 2019. The dynamics are changing, creating a more balanced situation between buyers and sellers in many regions. Understanding the Inventory Surge More homes for sale indicates a response to earlier tight market conditions where buyers struggled to find available properties. Slower buyer demand is also a factor contributing to this surge. Sellers are now returning to the market alongside an uptrend in new construction, making it easier for buyers to find homes that meet their needs without the intense competition previously felt. Price Cuts: A Record High One significant indicator of this changing market is the rising number of price cuts. A record-high 26.6% of homes listed for sale reduced their prices in June. This rate is particularly noticeable in the Sun Belt and Mountain West regions, which saw substantial price increases in the past few years. The trend of pricing adjustments shows sellers are more eager than ever to attract buyers, differentiating their listings from others on the market. First-Time Homebuyers and Affordability Challenges While buyers overall gain more negotiating power, affordability remains a major issue. The current market shift favors those with better purchasing power, which often excludes first-time buyers who find themselves still grappling with high prices and mortgage costs. Experts caution that the balance achieved may still benefit wealthier buyers more significantly until more reasonable conditions prevail for all buyers. Implications for Homebuyers This new environment offers several advantages for homebuyers. They can expect a wider selection of homes, the luxury of time to make decisions, and increased bargaining capabilities compared to previous years. In most markets, homes are selling in approximately 19 days, just one day quicker than pre-pandemic averages, granting buyers a bit more breathing room. The Changing Landscape of the Housing Market The market's heat index reveals a stark change, with 22 of the 50 largest metropolitan areas now categorized as neutral markets—where neither buyers nor sellers dominate. This is a significant shift from just eight such markets a year ago. Looking ahead, Zillow forecasts that by the end of the year, inventory levels may reach pre-pandemic figures, further facilitating a balanced market that better serves potential homeowners. Conclusion: Navigating the New Landscape The ongoing transformation of the housing market signals a new chapter for both buyers and sellers. Whether you're considering buying your first home or strategically pricing your current one, staying informed about market trends is more essential than ever. Embrace this moment as an opportunity to explore the options available to you, whether you're ready to buy, sell, or simply learn more about the evolving landscape of real estate.

07.09.2025

The Growing Housing Deficit: How It Affects Families and Communities

Update Understanding the Growing Housing DeficitAmerica's housing deficit reached an alarming 4.7 million units by mid-2025, according to the latest Census data analyzed by Zillow. Despite a construction surge that added 1.4 million new homes to the market, the deficit continued to grow by 159,000 homes in 2023. This stark disparity highlights the ongoing affordability crisis impacting millions of families across the country.Families, Friends, and Roommates: The Changing LandscapeThe statistics tell a poignant story that many families know too well. In 2023, around 8.1 million families shared their homes with non-relatives, revealing not just economic necessity but a shift in living situations. While some find comfort in the company of friends or roommates, it’s clear that the majority of these families would prefer the privacy and independence of their own space—a place they can truly call their own.The Heart of the Matter: Affordability CrisisThis growing housing gap is more than just numbers; it represents a burgeoning affordability crisis affecting everyday Americans. The challenges are compounded as families grapple with rising mortgage costs. A median-income family could comfortably afford a home in 2019 but now finds that they'd require an additional $17,000 to achieve the same goal. This underscores the urgency of finding solutions.The Role of Construction in Housing SupplyOver the past few years, there's been a notable increase in homebuilding activity as a response to the pressing demand. Builders completed 1.45 million units in 2023, showing that efforts are underway to plug the housing deficit. However, this construction boom has only managed to slow the growth of the housing deficit rather than reverse it altogether. Experts like Orphe Divounguy from Zillow stress the importance of not just building more homes, but also ensuring that building regulations allow for more density and affordability in the housing market.Breaking the Cycle: What's Next?The issue of housing affordability serves as a wake-up call for local governments and communities to re-evaluate their housing policies. Reducing stringent building regulations and allowing for higher density developments are crucial steps communities can take towards alleviating the housing crisis. These measures can help create an environment where more homes are built, effectively bridging the gap between supply and demand.Looking Forward: How Communities Can AdaptThe narrative surrounding the housing deficit goes beyond construction numbers; it’s about communities coming together to identify solutions. As local governments consider policies that facilitate homebuilding, they also need to engage with residents, ensuring that developments reflect community needs and preferences. As we look toward the future, it is vital to foster a collaborative approach that empowers residents and encourages inclusive planning.Your Role in the Housing CrisisHow Can You Make a Difference?Each of us has a role to play in tackling the housing crisis. Whether through advocating for policy changes, supporting local initiatives for affordable housing, or simply raising awareness about the issue, your voice matters. Communities thrive when residents take an active interest in shaping their neighborhoods.As we navigate this challenging landscape, it’s essential to keep the conversation about housing affordability going. Let's work together towards solutions that create welcoming and accessible communities for everyone.

07.03.2025

Rent Faster and Smarter: Why Pet-Friendly Rentals Are the Future

Update The Rise of Pet-Friendly Rentals: A Landlord's Advantage In a rapidly changing rental landscape, landlords have discovered that saying yes to pets is not just a noble gesture – it’s a savvy business decision. Zillow’s recent analysis reveals that more and more renters are prioritizing pet-friendly environments, with the number of pet owners leasing rental homes soaring to 58%, up from 46% just a few years ago. As a landlord, recognizing and adapting to these trends can be the key to unlocking a faster rental experience and attracting suitable tenants. Understanding Market Demand: Why Renters Want Pets The pandemic has led to a notable shift in renters’ lifestyles, with many people opting for more stable living situations and companion animals becoming integral to their households. Nearly half of prospective tenants reported skipping properties that didn’t welcome pets, indicating a significant market demand that landlords can’t afford to ignore. Emily McDonald, a Zillow rental trends expert, states, "Allowing pets can be a strategic edge for landlords competing to fill units." This insight emphasizes the importance of adjusting rental policies to meet the expectations of the modern renter. The Financial Benefits of Pet-Friendly Properties Allowing pets in rental properties does not only enhance the appeal; it can also yield tangible financial benefits. Properties that accept furry tenants typically attract 9% more views, 12% more saves, and 11% more shares than non-pet-friendly alternatives. Additionally, listings allowing pets were rented out an average of eight days faster. This quicker turnover can decrease vacancy rates and provide a more consistent stream of rental income, making it a win-win for landlords and tenants alike. A Closer Look at Regional Trends Interestingly, Texas topped the charts with cities like Austin, Dallas, and San Antonio boasting 80%, 79%, and 78% pet-friendly rental listings, respectively. Such statistics highlight a regional preference that can guide landlords in strategic decision-making. Conversely, cities like Houston and Providence show a more modest acceptance of pets, indicating a potential area for awareness and initiative. Landlords in areas with high competition for pets could leverage their pet policies as a marketing tool to stand out. Do Pets Really Make a Difference? Yes, They Do! The evidence is compelling: pet-friendly rentals not only retain tenants but also foster a welcoming environment that resonates with animal lovers. Renters who are greeted by property owners that appreciate their pets are more likely to feel a connection that translates into longevity in their rental tenure. This human-centered approach, particularly in communities where pets are cherished, significantly boosts positive tenant-landlord relationships. Real Stories from Landlords and Tenants The testimonials from both landlords and tenants encapsulate the benefits of pet-friendly homes. For instance, a landlord in Austin reported that allowing pets has not only increased the speed at which her rental units fill but has also led to long-term tenants who value a pet-inclusive community. Meanwhile, renters express their gratitude for having their beloved animals alongside them, creating emotional satisfaction that is difficult to measure monetarily. Future Predictions: The Evolving Rental Market As the rental market matures, it’s likely that pet-friendly policies will evolve further. With a growing number of millennial and Gen Z renters entering the market, the expectation for pet-friendly housing will continue to increase. It will take forward-thinking landlords who adapt to these shifts to flourish in a world where companionship extends beyond humans. Take Action: Open Your Doors to Pets The next step for landlords is to embrace this trend wholeheartedly. By proactively marketing pet-friendly listings and possibly considering additional pet-friendly amenities, landlords can capitalize on the changing landscape. Not only will this foster enduring relationships with renters, but it will also enhance the overall reputation of rental businesses in their communities. In conclusion, the data is clear: welcoming pets is not just a trend; it’s a strategic approach for landlords looking to thrive in a competitive market. Consider how you might adapt your rental policies to embrace this retrending preference and enjoy a mutually beneficial relationship with tenants.

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