🏡 The Steps to Homeownership Check Your FinancesReview your credit score, income, and savings. A healthy credit score and some money set aside for a down payment and closing costs will set you up for success. Get Pre-ApprovedTalk to a trusted lender to find out how much home you can afford. A pre-approval letter shows sellers you’re serious and ready to buy. Find Your REALTOR®Partner with an experienced agent (like me 😉) who knows your area and will guide you every step of the way—from search to keys in hand! Start Your Home SearchMake a list of your must-haves and … Continue reading...
What the cost of renting is costing you vs if you buy a home?
Now imagine putting that same monthly payment toward a mortgage. Even if home prices and interest rates seem high right now, every payment you make as a homeowner builds equity — a long-term investment in your future. Plus, you benefit from tax deductions on mortgage interest and the potential appreciation of your home’s value over time. Of course, owning a home comes with responsibilities: maintenance, property taxes, and insurance. But it also comes with freedom — the freedom to make your space truly yours, the stability of predictable payments, and the satisfaction of watching your … Continue reading...
Are you thinking of selling your home soon, here are some things you should do now.
You’ve got big plans for 2026. But what you do this year could be the difference between a smooth sale and a stressful one. If you’re thinking of selling next spring (the busiest season in real estate), the smartest move you can make is to start prepping now. As Realtor.com says: “If you’re aiming to sell in 2026, now is the time to start preparing, especially if you want to maximize the spring market’s higher buyer activity.” Because the reality is, from small repairs to touch-ups and decluttering, the earlier you start, the easier it’ll be when you’re ready to list. And, the better your … Continue reading...
Why you home may not be selling by another Realtor friend of mine
Price Right? Based on recent market data from August and September 2025, the Big Bear market is showing a trend toward a more balanced, or even buyer-friendly, environment. The average days on market has increased, and homes are selling, on average, for 97% of their asking price. This means that a pricing strategy that worked six months ago may not be effective today. The Problem: The most common reason a home doesn't sell is an incorrect initial price. An overpriced home will deter serious buyers and make it seem less appealing, even if it's a beautiful property. The Solution: We … Continue reading...
𝟖 𝐇𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐓𝐢𝐩𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫!
𝟖 𝐇𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐓𝐢𝐩𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 1. Make sure your gutters stay clean and clog free. It's best to do this before leaves get wet from rain or snow. 2. Check caulking and weather strips around doors and windows. 3. Trim back tree branches that are too close to your house or other building structures. 4. Check for peeling paint and scrub any mildewed areas you find on your siding. 5. Service your kitchen disposal by grinding several cups of ice cubes. 6. Examine, repair and replace caulk and grout around your bathtubs and showers. 7. Pour one gallon of water down unused … Continue reading...
How do your bookselfves look?
Moving into a new home takes time to feel comfortable. For some, that means fresh paint or family photos. For book lovers, it’s all about getting the bookshelves in order. A bookshelf isn’t just storage—it’s self-expression. It reflects your passions, showcases favorite reads, and adds personality to your home. If your shelves are looking more cluttered than curated, here’s why organizing them matters and how to get started. Why Organize Your Bookshelves? Aesthetics Bookshelves often end up in … Continue reading...
It is Mold Awareness Month
September is Mold Awareness Month, our yearly reminder of the importance of protecting our homes and families from harmful mold exposure. Here’s what to know, what to look for, and what to do if you suspect mold could be an issue in your home. First things first: mold thrives in damp environments. Bathrooms, basements, attics, and kitchens are common hotspots, especially in areas with poor ventilation or water damage. Beyond being unsightly, mold growth can trigger allergies, respiratory issues, and even more serious health concerns for individuals with asthma or weakened immune systems. This … Continue reading...
Sell My House Fast – Strategies for a Quick and Profitable Sale
Selling a home quickly can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can be done efficiently and effectively. Whether you're relocating for a job, downsizing, or simply ready for a change, a swift sale can save time and reduce stress. The key is to make your home appealing to potential buyers while ensuring the process is seamless. This involves a combination of strategic preparation, effective pricing, and targeted marketing. Additionally, choosing the right real estate agent can make a significant difference in how quickly your home sells. Understanding the costs involved is … Continue reading...
How Hot Is It, what you can do to stay COOLER
Scorching temps? No sweat! You can beat the Texas heat without burning through your budget. Try these simple, energy-saving hacks to keep your cool (and your wallet happy) all summer long: ♦ Flip your fan switch; Set ceiling fans to spin counterclockwise to push cool air down and make your space feel chill without adjusting the thermostat. ♦ Seal the deal; Caulk those window gaps, check door seals, and update weather stripping to stop the hot air hustle. ♦ Tweak the temp – Adjust your thermostat a few degrees when you're away, your AC (and energy bill) … Continue reading...
Do not make these mistakes if you are selling a home!
Are you thinking about selling your house? Some common mistakes today can make the process more stressful or even cost you money. Fortunately, home-selling mistakes are easy to avoid, as long as you know what to watch for. Let’s break down the biggest seller slip-ups and how an agent helps you steer clear of them. 1. Overpricing Your House It’s completely natural to want top dollar for your house, especially if you’ve put a lot of work into it. But in today’s shifting market, pricing it too high can backfire. Investopedia explains: “Setting a list price too high could mean your … Continue reading...