Family First Realty

09/12/2026

Providence County Home Prices Surge 7.5% in July 2026
In July 2026, Providence County saw a notable 7.5% increase in home prices compared to the previous year. As someone who’s spent over thirty years guiding Rhode Island buyers and sellers through changing markets, I know how numbers like these can spark both excitement and questions about what’s next for your home or investment. My approach has always been rooted in clear guidance and a deep understanding of our local neighborhoods—helping you interpret what shifts like this might mean for your real estate plans, whether you’re considering a move, a renovation, or simply keeping an eye on your property’s value.


https://www.housing-trends.com/agent-news/vickie-pizzarelli-1/1932850-Providence-County-Home-Prices-Surge-7.5%25-in-July-2026

09/12/2026

The Housing Market Split in 2. Which Side Is Your House On?

Your home's price point is the real story right now, more than anything you're hearing in national headlines. Let's map out exactly where your house fits in this split market and build a pricing strategy that gets you the speed and price you're after.

Ask a couple people how the housing market is doing and you’ll probably get a couple different answers. That’s because right now, the market runs on 2 very different tracks, split by price point.

09/11/2026

Homes priced at $1M+ saw sales jump 14.8% compared to last year, even as the overall housing market cooled off. That’s according to the latest data from NAR.

If you’re sitting on a high-end property, this is a good time to be selling. Buyers with serious budgets are active right now, and well-priced luxury listings are moving fast.

Not sure how this applies to your house or our market? Drop a comment or send me a DM, and let’s figure it out together and build a plan that gets you the speed and price you’re after.

09/11/2026

41st annual Charlestown Seafood Festival kicks off
One of my favorite local summer traditions is back: the 41st annual Charlestown Seafood Festival at Ninigret Park. From lively music and family-friendly rides to a delicious array of food vendors (yes, there’s more than just seafood!), this festival truly captures the spirit of community that makes Rhode Island so special. Saturday night’s fireworks are always a highlight, and it’s wonderful to see our local restaurants getting well-deserved support. As someone who’s helped many families make Rhode Island their home, I know how much these events contribute to the sense of belonging and pride we feel in our neighborhoods. Whether you’re new to the area or a long-time resident, this is a great weekend to experience what makes our community unique.
https://www.housing-trends.com/agent-news/vickie-pizzarelli-1/1892542-41st-annual-Charlestown-Seafood-Festival-kicks-off

09/10/2026

U.S. Office Downturn: Where Investors Look
The landscape of U.S. office space is shifting—hybrid work is reshaping how these buildings are used, challenging investors to think beyond traditional leasing. In my years guiding clients through changing markets, I’ve seen firsthand how adaptability becomes crucial in moments like these. Converting offices to residential units has emerged as a promising trend, especially in areas with strong transit links and established amenities. However, this isn’t a simple switch—deep floor plates, plumbing, HVAC, and design all demand careful attention before any project moves forward.

What’s catching the most interest right now? Premium and specialized properties—think medical offices, labs, and workplaces rich in amenities—are outperforming the typical office building. At the same time, flexible office models that offer shorter-term options are gaining traction. As lenders grow more cautious, distressed sales may rise, making a solid business plan and creative financing more important than ever for investors looking to stabilize or reposition assets.

Success in this evolving market isn’t about quick fixes. It’s about local knowledge, smart upgrades, sustainability, and understanding what incentives are available. The experts agree: this is a multi-year evolution, not an overnight change. My approach—grounded in local expertise and a commitment to honest advice—remains the same: help clients navigate these shifts with confidence, whether it’s a new use for an old building or a fresh opportunity in a changing neighborhood.

09/10/2026

Data Centers Are Moving Closer to Homes. What Does That Mean for You?

As more data centers pop up, they're becoming another piece of the puzzle buyers and homeowners need to understand.

Have a data center nearby or one coming soon? Let’s talk about what it could mean for your home or your next move.

Data centers probably weren't on your list of things to think about when buying or selling a home.

09/09/2026

Look Beyond a Staged Property
As someone who has spent over three decades guiding buyers and sellers through the real estate process, I know how easy it is to get swept up by a beautifully staged home during an open house. While an inviting presentation is always a pleasure, I encourage my clients to look deeper—beyond the surface details. Pay close attention to the home's true condition, not just the décor or furnishings. Your investment deserves scrutiny of the fundamentals, not just the finishing touches.

Equally important is the neighborhood itself. I always remind buyers to take time exploring the area: notice signs of growth, like new developments or expanding local businesses, which may signal long-term value. A home is more than the four walls you tour; it’s the community you’ll join. My approach has always centered on delivering honest advice and empowering you to make thoughtful, informed decisions as you search for the right fit—because peace of mind matters just as much as curb appeal.

09/09/2026

Everyone's been watching mortgage rates. But there's another trend buyers shouldn't overlook...

Every fall, the housing market tends to shift.

More homes hit the market. Asking prices often soften. And sellers are usually more willing to negotiate.

Those seasonal changes happen almost every year – and they can make buying a little easier.

Let's talk about whether those same trends are showing up in our local market – and what it means for you.

09/08/2026

7 Lessons Every Real Estate Agent Needs To Be A Lifelong Learner
After three decades in real estate, one lesson stands out: the best agents never stop learning. Whether it's reviewing the market daily, staying updated on tech trends each quarter, sharpening legal knowledge, or honing negotiation skills, lifelong learning is essential to building genuine trust with clients. Maintaining a strong digital presence and nurturing relationships through networking are just as vital as setting aside time each week for continued education. Experience has shown me that expertise isn’t a one-time achievement—it’s a commitment. By staying curious and adaptable, we serve our clients better and help them move forward with confidence.