Gilbert AZ Realtor Marci Johnson EXP Realty

04/30/2026

What are street-smart home upgrades that add the most value?
The best value comes from those that (1) boost curb appeal, (2) improve most-used spaces (kitchens and bathrooms), and (3) improve energy efficiency.
These fall into the “best ROI” category, and won’t necessarily break the bank:
New garage door: This upgrade can offer a ROI of 90-100%. That’s because it can give your home a modern look.
New entry door: This also gets major aesthetic and security points, and can increase resale value all on its own.
Minor kitchen remodel: Focus on painting cabinets, updating countertops, adding new hardware and installing energy-efficient appliances, to achieve a fresh look that says “modern and new.”
Energy efficient add-ons: New windows, smart thermostats and added attic insulation impress buyers looking closely at energy bills.
Cosmetic upgrades: The best cosmetic upgrades are fresh paint inside and out, flooring upgrades and replacing dated lighting fixtures.
If there are roof, plumbing or HVAC problems, get those addressed.
And for final touches, prune trees, add fresh mulch and place exterior lights around.

04/24/2026

Some fun things around town if you're looking for things to do!

03/17/2026

When real estate agents talk about "curb appeal," it’s that first impression you get when you approach a home. Is it well maintained? Lawns manicured? Special added touches? But curb appeal stretches from the front curb to the back wall. Check out this refresh I did with a client of their laundry room, located separate from the house out back. It started with old linoleum floors, white walls open with beams showing, and being used as a storage room. For just $250 or so, sellers now have this happy space to catch a buyer's eye.

03/11/2026

A reminder, just in case you haven't been watching the financial news...
MORTGAGE RATES are the lowest they've been in 3 years—around 5.99%. So does that mean the homeselling/buying market will heat up?

Well...let's put it this way. It only will if YOU say it will. If you and many just like you, decide it's finally time to act this spring, then YES, the market will sizzle. (Isn't it nice to have such influence?)
Yes, mortgage applications increased 2.8% last week, but only YOU will decide just how hot this market gets.
Make your move now, and you'll be making news!

03/03/2026

Let's discuss that "million dollar moment." When I hand you the keys to your new home, or you pass them on to a new owner and receive your check!
I noticed three homes went under contract last weekend in my Val Vista Lakes neighborhood...homes that had been on the market awhile. Seems the market is finally heating up now that mortgage rates have fallen to under 5.99%. It's a good time to buy, and also to sell!

02/17/2026

Will I give you homework? Yes I will! That way our partnership is most effective. If you're getting ready to sell your home, there are tips and tricks to getting it done quicker and with the least amount of pain, while meeting your most important financial goals. You want an agent who will partner with you and educate you in the essential elements of success as you sell your home.

02/09/2026

Here's a little secret when considering whether to put extra money down on a home loan or use those extra funds to buy down your rate. In most cases, doing a rate buydown through the lender can save $100's a month. Check out these tips.
https://finance.yahoo.com/personal-finance/mortgages/article/buy-down-interest-rate-172228613.html

02/04/2026

I bring people and homes together—educating, advocating and delivering great results for buyers and sellers. Hitting home runs is my passion.

01/26/2026

It's now officially possible to get a home loan in the 5's. The result is a rush of people getting new mortgages. Whether you're refinancing or looking for a new home with a new mortgage, the time to act is now.

New home loan applications and refinancing both remained strong following record-low interest rates.

01/18/2026

Looking at new builds today. This Lehi Groves home gets 10 ⭐️’s.

01/15/2026

Well, here is some great news! Mortgage rates dropped again today. If you are sitting on the sidelines, now is the time to move, before prices are pushed higher. The last time rates were this low was in 2022.
Now's a good time to get prequalified if buying a home this year is on your agenda. Do. Not. Wait.
If you DM or call me, we can start the process today. Buying or selling, it's time!

The average rate on 30-year fixed home loans dropped to 6.06% for the week ending Jan. 15, the lowest level since September 2022.