Melissa Schechterle Realtor

04/24/2024

Myths About the 2024 Housing Market [INFOGRAPHIC]

When it comes to the current housing market, there are some myths circling around right now. Some of the more common ones are that it’s better to wait for mortgage rates to fall or prices to crash. But there are others about the supply of homes for sale and down payments. Let’s connect so you have an expert to help separate fact from fiction in today’s housing market.

When it comes to the current housing market, there are some myths circling around right now. 

04/20/2024

If you’re looking to move, you know affordability is tight right now.

But there are some signs it’s starting to get a little bit better and may improve as the year goes on.

We’ve still got a long way to go. But if you want someone to keep you up to date on the latest, I can help.

04/17/2024

Should I Move with Today’s Mortgage Rates?

When mortgage rates spiked up over the last few years, some homeowners put their plans to move on pause. Maybe you did too because you didn’t want to sell and take on a higher mortgage rate for your next home. But is that still the right strategy for you?

In today’s market, data shows more homeowners are getting used to where rates are and thinking it may be time to move.

What Would Motivate You To Move?

Now that you know why other people would move, take a minute to think about what would make a move worth it for you. Is it time to take a chance and go for your dream job, even though it’s not local? Are you looking for a neighborhood that has more to offer and a close-knit sense of community? Maybe you just need more space, you’re looking for your next great adventure, or you want a house that opens up rental opportunities to pad your income.

And here’s something else to consider. Mortgage rates are...

When mortgage rates spiked up over the last few years, some homeowners put their plans to move on pause.

04/13/2024

Builders Are Building Smaller Homes

There’s no arguing it, affordability is still tight. And if you’re trying to buy a home, that may mean you need to look at smaller houses to find one that’s still in your budget. But there is a silver lining: builders are focused on building these smaller homes right now and they’re offering incentives. And that can help give you more options that fit the bill.

Newly Built Homes Are Trending Smaller

During the pandemic, homebuyers wanted (and could afford) larger homes – and builders delivered. They focused on homes that were bigger, so people had more space for things like working from home, having a home gym, bonus rooms for virtual school, and more.

But with the affordability challenges buyers are facing today, builders are increasingly shifting their attention to bringing smaller single-family homes to the market.

So, why the shift to less square footage? It’s simple. Builders want to build what they know...

There’s no arguing it, affordability is still tight.

04/10/2024

The Top 5 Reasons You Need a Real Estate Agent when Buying a Home

You may have heard headlines in the news lately about agents in the real estate industry and discussions about their commissions. And if you’re following along, it can be pretty confusing. But here’s the thing you really need to know – expert advice from a trusted real estate agent is priceless, now more than ever. And here’s why.

A real estate agent does a lot more than you may realize.

1. Deliver Industry Experience

The right agent – the professional – will coach you through everything from start to finish.

2. Provide Expert Local Knowledge

In a world that’s powered by data, a great agent can clarify what it all means, separate fact from fiction, and help you understand how current market trends apply to your unique search.

3. Explain Pricing and Market Value

Agents help you understand the latest pricing trends in your area.

4. Review Contracts and Fine Print

In a...

You may have heard headlines in the news lately about agents in the real estate industry and discussions about their commissions.

04/06/2024

If you have student loan debt, keep reading.

A lot of people think they can’t buy a home if they’re still paying off student loans.

But here's the scoop: that isn’t necessarily true. Other people with student loans are becoming homeowners – maybe you can too.

Each situation is different, but if you have questions or want to learn more about your options, reach out to a trusted lender.

04/03/2024

Why Overpricing Your House Can Cost You

If you’re trying to sell your house, you may be looking at this spring season as the sweet spot – and you’re not wrong. But while conditions are great for sellers like you, you’ll still want to be strategic when it comes time to set your asking price.

The Downside of Overpricing Your House

The asking price for your house sends a message to potential buyers. From the moment they see your listing, the price and the photos are what’s going to make the biggest first impression. And, if it’s priced too high, you may turn people away.

That’s because no homebuyer wants to pay more than they have to, especially not today. Many are already feeling the pinch on their budget due to ongoing home price appreciation and today’s mortgage rates. And if they think your house is overpriced, they may write it off without even stepping foot in the front door, or simply won’t make an offer if they think it’s priced too high.

If...

If you’re trying to sell your house, you may be looking at this spring season as the sweet spot – and you’re not wrong.

03/30/2024

Outdoor Upgrades To Wow Homebuyers

Want to move, but trying to decide what to tackle before selling? Let’s connect to go over the best ways to spend your time and money.

03/27/2024

Helpful Tips for First-Time Homebuyers

Trying to buy your first home right now? Let’s connect so you’ve got a pro who can help.

03/23/2024

The single ladies are making big moves in the housing market. Whether they're all about independence, looking for a tight-knit community, or just want to be closer to loved ones, these women are making homeownership a reality.

Feeling inspired to make a move of your own? Let's chat about it. Send me a message today to kickstart your journey toward owning a home.

03/20/2024

Your Home Is a Powerful Investment

Going into 2023, there was a lot of talk about a possible recession that would cause the housing market to crash. Some in the media were even forecasting home prices would drop by as much as 10-20%—and that might have made you feel a bit unsure about buying a home.

But here’s what actually happened: home prices went up more than usual. Brian D. Luke, Head of Commodities at S&P Dow Jones Indices, explains: “Looking back at the year, 2023 appears to have exceeded average annual home price gains over the past 35 years.”

The big takeaway? Home prices almost always go up.

As an article from Forbes says: “. . . the U.S. real estate market has a long and reliable history of increasing in value over time.”

In fact, since 1980, the only time home prices dropped was during the housing market crash. Fortunately, the market today isn’t like it was in 2008. For starters, there aren’t enough available homes to meet buyer...

Going into 2023, there was a lot of talk about a possible recession that would cause the housing market to crash.