Housing Predictions for 2025

A balanced housing market is one where there is an even playing field between buyers and sellers—homes take a bit longer to sell, and prices stabilize. This happens when supply and demand in the housing market are roughly equal, creating a fairer environment for all parties involved. Here’s what that means for you:

For Buyers:

More options to choose from: With an increase in housing inventory, you’ll have a wider selection of homes, reducing the pressure to settle quickly.

Less pressure to bid high on every home: Gone are the days of aggressive bidding wars—buyers can now make offers closer to asking prices.

Time to negotiate on price and terms: Buyers can take their time to assess properties and negotiate better deals on key terms like contingencies, repairs, or closing costs.

For Sellers:

Serious buyers are still out there: While there may be fewer offers compared to a seller’s market, those who are actively searching tend to be committed and well-qualified.

Pricing right matters—competitive listings sell faster: With stabilized pricing, appropriately priced homes stand out and attract attention more quickly.

Homes may stay on the market longer, so planning is key: Sellers need to adjust expectations and account for slightly longer timelines in their moving or selling plans.

Why This Matters

Experts predict that we could see more balance in 2025, marking a shift from the extreme highs and lows of recent years. This market shift provides opportunities for both buyers and sellers to make confident, informed decisions without feeling rushed or overextended.

Is Now the Sweet Spot?

If you’re planning to buy or sell in the near future, this balanced market could be your sweet spot to make a move. Buyers can take advantage of increased inventory, while sellers can still attract serious offers with the right strategy. Connect with a trusted real estate professional to navigate this evolving market and make the most of these opportunities!

5 Counterintuitive Ways You Can Ruin Your Credit

Regarding your credit, you may think you know how to safeguard your FICO score – pay your bills on time and don’t overextend. However, some behaviors that seem harmless, or even helpful, could unexpectedly tank your score. Learning more about what these actions could be will help you keep your credit safe and avoid pitfalls.

Closing Old Credit Cards

Many people have old credit cards cluttering up desk drawers that are not really needed anymore. But before you close an old card you never use, understand that the length of credit is one factor of good credit, so closing an old card could lower your score.

Paying Off All Debt

Lenders like to see that you can manage debt. Paying off all debt can lower your score. Keeping a small, manageable balance and regular payments might be a better strategy.

Co-Signing Loans

Helping someone by co-signing a loan might seem like a generous offer but understand the risks. If they miss even one payment, that bad debt will show up on your credit report and could dramatically affect your credit score.

Applying for Credit

If you are considering a new car or home loan, you may think applying to multiple places is the responsible thing to do. Too many inquiries in a short amount of time can lower your score.

Ignoring Small Bills

Take all your bills seriously. Even small bills like cable or the pool service could end up in collections if not paid on time. A collection can negatively impact your credit score for up to 10 years.

Taking your credit seriously is only the first step. Understanding all the unintended ways you can damage your score is the best way to protect
your credit and financial health.

Should You Use a Cell Phone for Listing Pictures?

Buying at the Top of Your Budget

While it can be tempting to max out your budget when purchasing a home, it is crucial to consider the full picture. Here are some pros and cons:

Pros:

1. Wider Selection – You may have access to more desirable neighborhoods and properties.

2. Potential for Appreciation – Higher-priced homes may appreciate faster, offering better long-term investment value.

3. Dream Features – You might secure that dream kitchen or spacious backyard you have always wanted!

Cons:

1. Financial Strain – Stretching your budget can lead to stress with monthly payments, maintenance, and unexpected expenses.

2. Less Room for Negotiation – A higher budget can lead to less flexibility when it comes to making offers.

3. Future Needs – Consider if your current lifestyle will change; you do not want to be house poor down the line!

Ready to buy? Let's walk through this process together to make sure you're getting the home of your dreams without a nightmare mortgage payment!

Be Careful of What You Ask For!

Fair warning, you can find my face on Buffalo Road/Mount Read Blvd. If you see me, you'll also be looking at a building where there's 1400 square feet of available office space. Questions? I'm here to answer them!