Beth Goethel Group - RE/MAX Preferred Real Estate

10/21/2026

If your home has been sitting on the market longer than expected, waiting it out isn’t always the best strategy. 🏡

A listing that isn’t getting showings or offers is giving us information. The goal is to figure out why buyers aren’t responding and make intentional adjustments.

A few things I look at:

• Pricing: Are buyers seeing enough value compared with similar homes currently for sale or recently sold?
• Photos + presentation: Your online listing is often the first showing. If the photos, staging, or first impression aren’t connecting, buyers may scroll right past.
• Curb appeal: Sometimes a few small exterior changes can completely change how a home feels before buyers even walk inside.
• Showing availability: The harder a property is to see, the easier it is for buyers to move on to the next option.
• Buyer feedback: Repeated comments about the same feature, condition, or price point shouldn’t be ignored. That feedback can help shape the next move.

And no, the answer isn’t automatically “drop the price.” Sometimes the listing simply needs a stronger real estate marketing strategy, better positioning, or refreshed presentation.

If your home isn’t getting the attention it should, let’s look at the data and figure out what needs to change.

10/21/2026

Confused by Home Price Headlines? Here’s Why.

National headlines can’t tell you what your home is worth or how much room you have to negotiate. Local data can. If you’re thinking about buying or selling, let’s look at how prices are moving in your area, so you can set your price or make your offer with confidence.

Whether you own a house already or you’re looking to buy one, you probably care about home prices.

10/19/2026

Touring homes is exciting, but after the third or fourth one, they can all start to blur together. 👀🏡

These are 5 questions I’d keep in mind at every showing:

• How old are the major systems? Think roof, HVAC, water heater, plumbing, and electrical.
• What would I want to change right away? Small cosmetic updates are one thing. Major projects are another.
• How does the layout actually work for my everyday life? Don’t just look at finishes. Think storage, flow, work-from-home space, pets, guests, and routines.
• What comes with the property? Appliances, fixtures, window treatments, sheds, or other items may not automatically stay.
• Can I picture myself living here after the “pretty” wears off? Location, noise, commute, maintenance, and monthly costs matter just as much as the kitchen.

A showing isn’t just about asking, “Do I like this house?” It’s about figuring out whether the home actually fits your life, budget, and long-term plans.

10/19/2026

Want a More Affordable Home? Don’t Overlook Condos.

The first home you buy doesn't have to be a single-family house. If affordability has been holding you back, let's expand your search and see whether a condo could fit the price point you're looking for.

When you picture buying your first home, chances are you’re imagining a traditional single-family house with its own yard, maybe a garage, and little extra room to grow. But with affordability still tight, getting everything on that list right away may come with a higher price tag than you’re co...

10/17/2026

Getting an offer accepted is a huge milestone, but the deal isn’t officially done until closing day. 🏡

A few things can still derail a transaction after everyone says yes:

• Inspection issues that lead to repair disputes
• A low appraisal that doesn’t support the purchase price
• Financing changes like new debt, missed payments, or job changes
• Title problems such as liens or ownership issues
• Last-minute condition changes before the final walkthrough

The biggest takeaway? Once you’re under contract, don’t make major financial moves without checking with your lender and real estate team first.

A smooth closing comes down to staying informed, communicating quickly, and handling issues before they become deal breakers.

10/16/2026

A long home inspection report can look terrifying at first glance, but not every item on it is a dealbreaker. 🏡🔍

Inspection reports are designed to document everything the inspector sees, from small maintenance items to issues that may need more attention. The key is knowing what deserves a closer look.

As a buyer, I’d focus on things like:

• Safety concerns such as electrical, structural, or fire hazards
• Major systems including the roof, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical
• Water intrusion or moisture issues that could lead to bigger problems
• Expensive repairs that could significantly affect your budget after closing
• Anything that changes how you feel about the value or condition of the home

That loose doorknob or dripping faucet? Probably not worth panicking over. A roof nearing the end of its life or evidence of foundation movement? That deserves a bigger conversation.

The goal of a home inspection isn’t to find a “perfect” house. It’s to help you understand what you’re buying, what may need attention, and what could potentially be negotiated before closing.

Don’t let page count scare you. Read the report with context and a strategy!

10/16/2026

The Biggest Credit Hurdle for Renters Who Want To Buy

The credit landscape is changing, but action is required on your part. You have to take credit for what you do. And the sooner you get started, the better.

Ready to see where you stand? A quick conversation with a loan officer costs you nothing and could show you you're closer to owning a home than you think.

What's the biggest payment you make every month? If you’re a renter, it's probably your rent.

10/15/2026

Homes Are Still Selling – Even in a Slower Market

Don't let a headline about slowing home sales convince you no one is buying. Homes are still selling every minute of every day.

If you need or want to move, let's talk about what it'll take to make sure yours is one of them.

If you’ve seen headlines saying home sales are slowing down, you may be wondering: is this really a good time to sell?

10/14/2026

Crisp mornings, cozy season, and one goal: get your home sold before the holidays. 🍂🏡

If you’ve been thinking about listing, there’s still time to make a move before the year wraps up. With the right pricing, presentation, and marketing strategy, your home can stand out to serious buyers this season.

Thinking about selling your home this fall? Let’s make a plan!

10/14/2026

Why There are More Homes for Sale Right Now (and What It Means for You)

In many places right now, inventory is growing and homes are taking a bit longer to sell. And that’s information that should shape the strategy you use going in.

Whether you're buying or selling, let's look at how long homes are taking to sell in your neighborhood, so your offer, or your price, fits today's market.

Mortgage rates being back above 7% isn't exactly the news most people wanted. But it’s changing the market in ways that matter whether you’re buying or selling.