Jonathan Steele, Realtor

09/01/2026

A beautiful home is only part of the story. 🏡

Before you make an offer, there are a few bigger-picture things worth considering, from location and budget to your lifestyle and long-term plans. Swipe through for 5 considerations to keep in mind before buying a home 👉

Ready to find a home that fits your life and your goals? As your local real estate expert, I’m here to help you navigate the process, answer your questions and make a confident move. Let’s talk! ✨

08/20/2026

Hydrostatic pressure happens. The ground soaks up water and it works its way into the foundation. Digging channel at the base of the wall and bringing the water to a bucket to then pump out is a common solution. We live in an old house, but the basement is dry thanks to the sump pump. Don't forget the battery back-up.

08/19/2026

Community Events Friday 8/21

* Delmar Loop Vintage Nightfest: Explore vintage clothing, local art, drinks, and music starting at 4:00 PM at The Church on Delmar.
* Gallery Laughs with Dulcé Sloan: Enjoy a stand-up comedy showcase and cocktail hour starting at 5:00 PM at the Saint Louis Art Museum.
* Summer Nights Drone Show: Catch the outdoor aerial drone spectacular beginning at 5:00 PM at Grant's Farm.
* “Red Brick Blue Tarp” Film Screening: Attend a free documentary short screening and Q&A session at 7:30 PM hosted by St. Louis Public Radio.

Saturday 8/22

* Rainbow Fit Club Walk: Join a community game of catch and a 1.5-mile morning walk starting at 8:00 AM in Tower Grove Park.
* Social Wellness Club: Experience morning fitness challenges, cold plunges, and a live DJ starting at 10:00 AM at Bel Air Social.
* August Community Yard Sale: Browse local vendors and fill-a-bag sales starting at 8:00 AM at Upcycle Treasure Box.
* MO Better Night at Energizer Park: Connect in the hospitality area and watch St. Louis CITY SC play the Houston Dynamo starting at 7:30 PM at Energizer Park.

08/17/2026

I have seen price reductions lately. We like to call this a "correction". Sellers should carefully consider pricing these days and not chase the market down. If you need to sell and haven't gone to market, maybe plan on the fall. September and October are good months to hit. If you have been on the market with no action this summer, get a check up on from your real estate agent.

08/15/2026

Prices are up, both city and county YoY. There’s less inventory this August as well. Days on market are a little longer in City.

08/13/2026

Out in the St. Louis area and region making some music and new friends in Ballwin, Hillsboro, South City, CWE, Midtown and more.

08/12/2026

When you bought your home, you probably did so because it was spacious and catered to your growing family's needs. But there comes a time when it makes sense to downsize your home.

Here are five signs that it’s time to downsize your home.

Nothing left for savings
A bigger home comes with higher maintenance costs, higher utility bills, and higher landscaping costs. You may come to understand that your housing costs don’t give you many options to save for a rainy day. Trimming down your monthly expenses is important.

Too much space in your home
If you are retired and your children have moved away, downsizing can allow you to breathe easier and enjoy your work-free days. It doesn’t make sense to pay taxes, homeowners insurance, and maintenance expenses on rooms that go unused.

It's time to enjoy life's luxuries
If you are able to pay for your mortgage and maintenance costs without any hurdles, that’s great news. But if all the occasional costs and upgrades monopolize too much of your income and you can’t take vacations, dine out, or just give your family a treat, then that may be a sign that it’s time to consider a smaller, less expensive home.

Mortgage, property taxes, and insurance are too high
Spending more of your income on the mortgage, property taxes, and insurance creates room for disaster should unexpected expenses arise. Also, remember that housing costs can increase with changes in circumstance. You don’t want to find yourself in a situation where you have lost a job and all those costs are starring at you. Downsizing means being realistic.

You can make a profit
If your home’s value has appreciated to a point where it makes sense to sell it rather than hang onto it, then cashing it in may be better for you. Buying a smaller house after selling your current home can give you more financial freedom.
I understand letting go of a home where you've built memories can be difficult. But wouldn't it be a better idea to build new memories in a home without any time and financial constraints. It's my goal to help you in any way I can so don't hesitate to contact me with any questions.

08/10/2026

You guys ready for GnR? Coming to STL!

After a sprawling 2025 world tour that saw Guns N’ Roses return to Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Latin America, the powerhouse rock icons have

08/08/2026

I learned from an experienced lender that home prices and interest rates seek some equilibrium. The bottom line for borrowers is often the monthly payments, which rise with interest rates. Sellers faced with slow movement may have concede in some way, usually price. This is national data.

Driven by rising mortgage rates and peak summer lulls, price cuts reached 20% in July as buyers leverage market softening to secure deals.

08/06/2026

Buyers aren't just shopping for a house, they're imagining the life they'll live there. 🌿

One of the easiest ways to create that emotional connection is by making outdoor spaces feel welcoming and purposeful. A thoughtfully styled backyard helps buyers see possibilities, adds perceived value, and can make your home feel like it offers even more living space.

The best part? You don't need an elaborate makeover to make a lasting impression.

Save this tip for when it's time to sell, and follow for more simple strategies that can help your home stand out. 🏡

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