With the cost of living rising across the board, it’s natural to feel concerned about how this impacts the housing market—especially with the worry that tighter budgets and high prices could lead to more foreclosures. But before jumping to conclusions about a possible market crash, let’s look at the data. The good news? There’s no foreclosure wave on the horizon. Here’s why.

How Today’s Market Differs from 2008

First, let’s address the biggest concern: is this 2008 all over again? Not even close. The data paints a very different picture today compared to what happened during the housing crash. Back in 2008, there was a massive spike in foreclosures due to poor lending practices and homeowners with little equity in their homes. But today’s numbers tell a much different story.

           

According to property data provider ATTOM, the number of homeowners entering the foreclosure process is significantly lower now than it was in 2008—and it’s even dipped in the most recent report. Why? One of the biggest reasons is that homeowners today are in a much stronger financial position than they were back then.

What About the Recent Uptick in Foreclosure Filings?

You might be wondering why foreclosure filings have ticked up slightly since 2020 and 2021. The answer lies in the foreclosure moratorium that was in place during the pandemic to protect homeowners. During that period, foreclosure activity was artificially low, with millions of people receiving relief to stay in their homes despite financial struggles. Now that the moratorium has been lifted, some foreclosures are starting to occur again—but they’re still well below the levels seen in the lead-up to the 2008 crash.

Why We’re Not Facing a Foreclosure Wave

Even with the rising cost of living, homeowners are much better equipped to handle financial challenges today, largely due to one key factor: equity. The equity cushion many homeowners have built up over the years is providing a crucial safety net.

As Bankrate explains:

“In the years after the housing crash, millions of foreclosures flooded the housing market, depressing prices. That’s not the case now. Most homeowners have a comfortable equity cushion in their homes.”

This equity acts as a buffer. If a homeowner is struggling with their mortgage payments, they can often sell their home before falling into foreclosure. In contrast, back in 2008, many homeowners were underwater—they owed more on their mortgages than their homes were worth, leaving them with no choice but foreclosure.

What This Means for the Housing Market in 2025

It’s true that today’s higher cost of living is a challenge for many, but it’s not triggering a wave of foreclosures. The equity that homeowners have built up over the years is protecting them, giving them options they didn’t have during the last housing crisis. Whether it’s selling their home or negotiating a deal with their lender, homeowners today are in a much better position to avoid foreclosure.

Additionally, lending standards have become much stricter since 2008, meaning that today’s buyers are more financially secure and less likely to default on their mortgages.

Bottom Line

Yes, we’re all feeling the pinch of rising costs for everyday expenses like gas and groceries, but that doesn’t mean the housing market is headed for another foreclosure crisis. The latest data shows that homeowners today are in a much stronger financial position, with significant equity providing a safety net that wasn’t there during the 2008 crash.

If you’re concerned about how market conditions might impact your plans, I’m here to help you navigate the Dallas-Fort Worth housing market with confidence. Let’s connect and discuss how you can make the most of your home’s equity and ensure a successful move in 2025.

Elevating your home buying (or selling) experience—every step of the way! 🏡✨ realtor, best agent, real estate, Southlake, Keller, Haslet, home buyer, home seller, home value, Trophy Club, Fort Worth, new home, house, home selling, seller tips, 4wheeltorhomes, 4wheeltor, Crystal Zschirnt, Westlake, Roanoke, Justin, Northlake, Flower Mound, Argyle, Texas

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𝗖𝗿𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗭𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗿𝗻𝘁 | 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗴𝗲𝗻𝘁 | 𝟴𝟭𝟳-𝟴𝟳𝟰-𝟳𝟲𝟳𝟳 | 𝗖𝗭@𝗥𝗲𝗱𝗳𝗶𝗻.𝗰𝗼𝗺

#DFWRealEstate #DFWRedfin #DFWEliteRealty #DFWHomes #4wheeltor #4wheeltorhomes

How Long Will It Take To Sell Your House?

If you’re getting ready to sell your home in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, one of the first questions you’re probably asking is, “How long will this take?” It’s a valid question—you need to know what to expect so you can plan your next steps. While the timeline for selling a home can vary depending on the market, there are a few things you should know about both national and local trends.

More Homes on the Market = More Competition

According to Realtor.com, the number of homes for sale has been steadily increasing this year. That’s great news for buyers, as it gives them more options to choose from. But as a seller, it also means homes are staying on the market a little longer because buyers have more choices.

Right now, it’s taking an average of 55 days from listing to closing to sell a home, according to Realtor.com. While this might feel longer than last year’s lightning-fast market, it’s still quicker than pre-pandemic norms. For comparison, in 2017-2019, it typically took around 60 days or more to sell a home, so today’s market is still moving faster than the historical average.

Why? Even though there are more homes available, buyer demand is still outpacing housing supply. That means well-priced homes that are staged and marketed correctly are still moving fast. As NerdWallet explains:

“Overall, though, demand still outpaces supply. This is hardly a mellow market: Good homes sell quickly . . .”

So, even though you might see homes on the market for longer than in the frenzy of recent years, your home can still sell quickly with the right strategy.

What Will Help Your Home Stand Out?

This is where having a top-notch real estate agent is key. A great agent (like me!) knows how to make sure your home grabs buyers' attention from the moment it hits the market. Here’s what we’ll focus on:

1. Pricing Your Home Right
   Overpricing can scare off buyers, while underpricing could leave money on the table. Your agent will help you find that sweet spot by analyzing local market trends and recent sales.

2. Staging for Success
   Homes that are staged sell faster and for more money because they allow buyers to envision living there. We’ll work together to highlight your home’s best features, making it shine online and in person.

3. Effective Marketing
   A strong marketing plan is essential in today’s competitive market. We’ll use professional photography, virtual tours, and targeted digital marketing strategies to get your home in front of the right buyers.

4. Navigating Local Market Trends
   The national average might be 55 days, but the Dallas-Fort Worth market can vary depending on your neighborhood. Whether you're selling in Haslet, Southlake, Keller, or elsewhere, a local expert like me can give you real-time insights on buyer demand, competition, and pricing strategies specific to your area.

Why Starting Early Is Key

The more time you have to prepare, the better. Starting early gives you the flexibility to make necessary repairs, tackle those long-overdue updates, and present your home in its best light. Rushing through the process might mean skipping important details that could cost you in the long run.

Pro Tip: The homes that sell fastest are typically the ones that are in great condition and priced competitively. Don’t wait until the last minute—getting your home ready now could make all the difference.

Bottom Line

If you’re planning to sell your home in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, understanding how long the process will take is crucial for planning your next steps. While the national average might give you a baseline, working with a local agent will provide the most accurate timeline based on local market conditions.

Let’s connect so I can help you price, market, and sell your home with confidence—and get you moving toward your next chapter!

Elevating your home selling experience—every step of the way! 🏡✨ realtor, best agent, real estate, Southlake, Keller, Haslet, home buyer, home seller, home value, Trophy Club, Fort Worth, new home, house, home selling, seller tips, 4wheeltorhomes, 4wheeltor, Crystal Zschirnt, Westlake, Roanoke, Justin, Northlake, Flower Mound, Argyle, Texas

💾 𝗡𝗼𝘄 | 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗲 | 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗞𝗻𝗼𝘄𝗹𝗲𝗱𝗴𝗲

𝗖𝗿𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗭𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗿𝗻𝘁 | 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗴𝗲𝗻𝘁 | 𝟴𝟭𝟳-𝟴𝟳𝟰-𝟳𝟲𝟳𝟳 | 𝗖𝗭@𝗥𝗲𝗱𝗳𝗶𝗻.𝗰𝗼𝗺

#DFWRealEstate #DFWRedfin #DFWEliteRealty #DFWHomes #4wheeltor #4wheeltorhomes

Planning To Sell Your House in 2025? Start Prepping Now

If you’re planning to sell your home in 2025, now is the perfect time to start prepping. While it might seem like you’ve got plenty of time before the new year, getting ahead on any updates or repairs now can make a huge difference when it’s time to list. As Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, points out:

“Now is the time to start thinking about what you need for your next home and then taking those steps to prepare to list . . . We have survey data that says 47 percent of sellers are taking longer than a month to get their home ready to sell, so getting them to start that process early can mean more flexibility.”

By starting early, you give yourself the time and flexibility to make sure your house is market-ready and in top shape by the end of the year. But before you dive into repairs, partner with an expert real estate agent to ensure you’re focusing on the improvements that will give you the best return in the Dallas-Fort Worth market.

Why Starting Early Is Essential

To sell quickly and for top dollar, your home needs to stand out, and that means taking care of repairs, decluttering, and making valuable updates. Starting now allows you to work at your own pace, rather than rushing through a long list of last-minute tasks, which could overwhelm you and potentially lead to costly mistakes.

Pro Tip: Homes that hit the market without necessary repairs or upgrades can turn buyers off quickly. Realtor.com warns:

“There are some important repairs to make before selling a house, so don’t be in too much of a hurry to get your home listed . . . buyers see right through the fact that you skipped important home renovations, and this might end up costing you time and money.”

By pacing yourself and knocking off one task at a time—whether it’s patching up that leaky faucet, refreshing your curb appeal, or adding a fresh coat of paint—you’ll be able to maximize your home’s appeal and minimize stress.

Where Should You Start?

Not sure where to focus your efforts? Many sellers are making updates in these key areas:

1️⃣ Landscaping and Curb Appeal: First impressions are everything. Clean up your yard, trim the bushes, add fresh mulch, and maybe even paint the front door for an inviting look.
2️⃣ Minor Kitchen Updates: The kitchen is a major selling point. Minor upgrades, like refreshing cabinet doors or updating hardware, can go a long way.
3️⃣ Fix Structural Issues: Leaky faucets, cracked windows, or any damage to the roof or HVAC system should be addressed upfront. These are red flags for buyers and could derail a sale.

But don’t stop there. The best way to ensure you’re tackling the right projects is to consult with your local real estate expert. What buyers are looking for in Dallas-Fort Worth might differ from national trends, and your agent will help tailor your list of to-dos based on what’s driving sales in your neighborhood.

Why a Local Agent Is Key

While national data gives you a general idea of what’s important, only a local agent knows exactly what’s trending in your area. For instance, if buyers in your neighborhood are snapping up homes with updated kitchens, your agent may suggest focusing your budget there instead of on projects that won’t add as much value.

As Point says:

“Not all renovations are created equal, and focusing on upgrades that offer the highest potential for increasing your home's value is key.”

Your agent can also help you determine whether larger projects, like replacing your roof or upgrading the HVAC system, are necessary based on recent sales. Even small tweaks—like adding new mulch, power-washing the driveway, or touching up paint—can make a big difference in how buyers perceive your home.

Bottom Line

If you’re thinking of selling your home in 2025, don’t wait until the last minute to start prepping. By starting now, you’ll have the time to complete necessary repairs and upgrades without the stress. Plus, you’ll set yourself up for a smoother, more successful sale.

Need advice on where to start? Let’s connect! I’m here to guide you through the process and help you focus on the updates that will elevate your home’s value in the Dallas-Fort Worth market.

Elevating your home selling experience—every step of the way. 🏡✨realtor, best agent, real estate, Southlake, Keller, Haslet, home buyer, home seller, home value, Trophy Club, Fort Worth, new home, house, home selling, seller tips, 4wheeltorhomes, 4wheeltor, Crystal Zschirnt, Westlake, Roanoke, Justin, Northlake, Flower Mound, Argyle, Texas

💾 𝗡𝗼𝘄 | 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗲 | 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗞𝗻𝗼𝘄𝗹𝗲𝗱𝗴𝗲

𝗖𝗿𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗭𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗿𝗻𝘁 | 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗴𝗲𝗻𝘁 | 𝟴𝟭𝟳-𝟴𝟳𝟰-𝟳𝟲𝟳𝟳 | 𝗖𝗭@𝗥𝗲𝗱𝗳𝗶𝗻.𝗰𝗼𝗺

#DFWRealEstate #DFWRedfin #DFWEliteRealty #DFWHomes #4wheeltor #4wheeltorhomes

What To Expect from Mortgage Rates and Home Prices in 2025

Are you wondering where the housing market is headed in 2025? While no one has a crystal ball, experts are offering some positive projections, especially regarding two factors that can directly affect your buying or selling plans: mortgage rates and home prices.

Whether you're thinking about buying or selling a home in the Dallas-Fort Worth area or elsewhere, here’s a breakdown of what the experts are forecasting for 2025 and how it might impact your next move.

Mortgage Rates Are Expected To Come Down

One of the biggest factors shaping your decisions is mortgage rates. The good news? Experts predict rates will gradually ease throughout 2025. 🏡📉 While the decline won’t be a straight shot, the overall trend should be lower than the peaks we’ve seen in recent years. The reason for those bumps along the way will depend on new economic data and inflation numbers as they come in, but don’t get too caught up in every fluctuation. Focus on the bigger picture—lower mortgage rates overall.

As rates come down, homes become more affordable, meaning lower monthly mortgage payments and greater flexibility in what you can afford if you’re looking to buy. According to Wells Fargo Senior Economist Charlie Dougherty:

“Lower financing costs will likely boost demand by pulling affordability-crunched buyers off of the sidelines.”

This could bring a wave of buyers and sellers back into the market. But with this renewed activity, you’ll likely see more competition. The takeaway? If you're considering a move, now is the time to start getting ahead of the game. Lean on your real estate agent to help you understand how shifting rates are impacting the local demand in Dallas-Fort Worth or wherever you plan to make your move.

Home Price Projections Show Modest Growth

While mortgage rates are forecasted to decline, home prices are expected to rise—just at a slower, more sustainable pace than we’ve seen in recent years. Experts predict national home prices will grow by an average of around 2.5% in 2025. That’s far more manageable than the rapid, double-digit increases we’ve witnessed in past years.

What’s behind this moderate growth? As more buyers re-enter the market due to lower rates, demand will increase. However, we’ll also see more sellers listing their homes, which will help increase inventory and prevent home prices from skyrocketing like they did in previous years.

Of course, these are national averages. Depending on where you’re looking in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex—whether it’s Haslet, Southlake, or Keller—the growth in home prices may vary. Some regions may experience faster price appreciation, while others could see slower growth. As Lance Lambert, Co-Founder of ResiClub, says:

“Even if the average national home price forecast for 2025 is correct, it’s possible that some regional housing markets could see mild home price declines, while some markets could still see elevated appreciation.”

This means working with a local real estate expert is key to understanding what’s happening in your specific area, so you don’t miss out on important trends that could impact your buying or selling decisions.

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers

For buyers, the combination of lower mortgage rates and modest price growth could make 2025 a more favorable time to enter the market. With lower rates, homes become more affordable, and as more listings come on the market, you’ll have a wider selection to choose from.

For sellers, while price growth may not be as extreme as in recent years, you can still expect to see appreciation in your property value. Plus, with more buyers coming back into the market, demand will help create a competitive landscape that works in your favor—especially if your home is in a sought-after area like DFW.

Bottom Line

With mortgage rates expected to decline and home prices projected to rise at a more moderate pace, 2025 is shaping up to be a promising year for both buyers and sellers.

If you’re planning to buy or sell in Dallas-Fort Worth, it’s crucial to work with a real estate expert who understands how these national trends translate locally. Let’s connect to discuss your options, so you can navigate the market with confidence and make the most of the opportunities ahead.

Elevating your home buying (or selling) experience—every step of the way! 🏡✨ realtor, best agent, real estate, Southlake, Keller, Haslet, home buyer, home seller, home value, Trophy Club, Fort Worth, new home, house, home selling, seller tips, 4wheeltorhomes, 4wheeltor, Crystal Zschirnt, Westlake, Roanoke, Justin, Northlake, Flower Mound, Argyle, Texas

💾 𝗡𝗼𝘄 | 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗲 | 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗞𝗻𝗼𝘄𝗹𝗲𝗱𝗴𝗲

𝗖𝗿𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗭𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗿𝗻𝘁 | 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗴𝗲𝗻𝘁 | 𝟴𝟭𝟳-𝟴𝟳𝟰-𝟳𝟲𝟳𝟳 | 𝗖𝗭@𝗥𝗲𝗱𝗳𝗶𝗻.𝗰𝗼𝗺

#DFWRealEstate #DFWRedfin #DFWEliteRealty #DFWHomes #4wheeltor #4wheeltorhomes

How Much Does It Cost To Sell My House?

If you’re thinking about selling your home, you’ve probably already started wondering, “How much will it cost me?” The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your final costs will depend on factors like the offer you accept, if you help with your buyer’s closing costs, what repairs you decide to handle, and more. But let me break down some of the typical expenses so you can go into the process with a clearer picture.

The Big Picture: Equity to the Rescue

One thing to keep in mind is that most homeowners today have a significant amount of equity built up in their homes. That equity can offset many of the costs you’ll face when selling, leaving you with a solid profit—and in many cases, enough to put toward your next home. So while selling comes with expenses, the financial gains you’ll likely walk away with can make it well worth it.

Key Costs to Expect

Let’s go over a few common selling costs so you can understand where your money will go and where you might be able to save.

1. Closing Costs and Commission Fees

At the closing table, you’ll have your own closing costs to cover, and you might even contribute to the buyer’s. According to U.S. News Real Estate:

“Sellers can expect to pay 2% to 4% of the sale price of the home in fees and taxes on top of the agent commission. Based on the national median home sale price, this means that closing costs in 2023 for sellers are about $7,740 to $15,480.”

Your closing costs will vary based on local taxes and the commission you agree to with your agent. And don’t forget—there’s a chance you could get a credit back at closing for items like prepaid property taxes or escrow, which can help offset some of these costs.

2. Pre-Listing Inspection and Repairs

A pre-listing inspection is an optional step but can be incredibly helpful. It gives you a heads-up on any issues that could come up later in the buyer’s inspection, allowing you to address them early on and reduce the risk of price negotiations.

If you choose not to go this route, your real estate agent can still offer advice on what updates will give you the best return. This can range from suggesting paint colors to simple repairs that can help maximize your home’s appeal without overextending your budget.

3. Home Staging

As the housing market becomes more competitive, staging can be a great way to make your home stand out. Bankrate notes:

“Home sellers typically pay somewhere between $782 and $2,817 in home staging costs . . . but the price tag can vary widely.”

The good news is that not all staging requires you to rent furniture or spend a lot of money. Your agent can guide you on simple ways to declutter or rearrange what you already have to make your home look its best.

Why Working with an Agent Is a Smart Investment

Sure, some of these costs are optional—but don’t make the mistake of thinking you can skip the most important one: hiring a great real estate agent. A seasoned agent is your secret weapon. Not only can they help with things like staging, pricing, and preparing your home, but their expert marketing and negotiation skills can often lead to a higher sale price.

A top agent will know exactly what buyers are looking for in your area, what repairs or updates are truly necessary, and how to position your home to sell quickly and for top dollar. In other words, their expertise can easily make up for the cost of their commission.

Bottom Line

Selling your home comes with some costs, but your equity can often cover these expenses and still leave you in a great financial position. Let’s chat so I can walk you through what to expect and help you prepare your home for a successful sale. Together, we’ll make sure you’re ready to maximize your return while keeping expenses in check. realtor, best agent, real estate, Southlake, Keller, Haslet, home buyer, home seller, home value, Trophy Club, Fort Worth, new home, house, home selling, seller tips, 4wheeltorhomes, 4wheeltor, Crystal Zschirnt, Westlake, Roanoke, Justin, Northlake, Flower Mound, Argyle, Texas

💾 𝗡𝗼𝘄 | 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗲 | 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗞𝗻𝗼𝘄𝗹𝗲𝗱𝗴𝗲

𝗖𝗿𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗭𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗿𝗻𝘁 | 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗴𝗲𝗻𝘁 | 𝟴𝟭𝟳-𝟴𝟳𝟰-𝟳𝟲𝟳𝟳 | 𝗖𝗭@𝗥𝗲𝗱𝗳𝗶𝗻.𝗰𝗼𝗺

#DFWRealEstate #DFWRedfin #DFWEliteRealty #DFWHomes #4wheeltor #4wheeltorhomes

Winter Home Improvement Ideas for Dallas Fort Worth Homeowners

Winter Home Improvement Ideas for DFW Homeowners

Winter is the perfect season to focus on indoor home improvement projects. The colder weather often keeps us inside, providing a great opportunity to tackle those upgrades and maintenance tasks that can enhance your home's comfort and efficiency. Here are some home improvement ideas for this winter, specifically tailored for the Dallas Fort Worth area:

1. Seal Air Leaks Improving your home's energy efficiency starts with sealing air leaks. This simple task can significantly reduce heating costs. Caulk around windows and doors and add weatherstripping to any drafty areas. This helps keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer, essential for Texas' varying climate.

2. Add Insulation Boost your home's insulation to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature year-round. Focus on the attic, walls, and floors to keep the heat in during winter and out during summer. Proper insulation reduces energy bills and enhances overall comfort.

3. Upgrade Your Windows If your windows are old and drafty, consider upgrading to energy-efficient models. New windows not only improve your home's insulation but also reduce noise pollution. Look for ENERGY STAR-rated windows for the best performance.

4. Install a Programmable Thermostat A programmable thermostat can automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule, ensuring your home is warm when you're there and saving energy when you're not. This upgrade is a simple yet effective way to cut down on energy costs.

5. Update Your Lighting Switch to energy-efficient LED bulbs. They use less energy and last longer than incandescent bulbs, which means savings on your electricity bill and fewer replacements over time. Consider installing dimmer switches to further enhance energy savings and create a cozy atmosphere.

6. Upgrade Your Appliances If your appliances are outdated, consider upgrading to new, energy-efficient models. Modern appliances use less energy and water, lowering your utility bills and reducing your carbon footprint.

7. Improve Indoor Air Quality Winter is an excellent time to focus on indoor air quality. Clean your air ducts, install an air purifier, and use a humidifier to maintain healthy humidity levels. These steps can help reduce the risk of allergies and asthma, creating a healthier living environment.

8. Renovate Your Basement Winter's cooler temperatures make it a great time to work on basement renovations. Transform this space into a functional area such as a home office, rec room, or additional living space. A finished basement can add significant value to your home.

9. Update Your Bathroom Consider a bathroom makeover this winter. Upgrading fixtures, installing a new shower or bathtub, or even a fresh coat of paint can make your bathroom more comfortable and inviting. This can also boost your home's resale value.

10. Paint Your Home Give your interior a fresh look with a new coat of paint. Winter is an excellent time for painting projects since the indoor air is drier, which helps paint dry faster. Choose neutral colors to appeal to a broader range of potential future buyers.

11. Organize Your Home Take advantage of the indoor time to declutter and organize your space. Clear out closets, cabinets, and storage areas. Organizing your home can reduce stress and make your space more efficient and enjoyable.

These winter home improvement projects can help you enhance the comfort, efficiency, and value of your home. Prioritize safety, and if you're not experienced with certain tasks, consider hiring professionals to ensure the work is done correctly and safely.

For more expert tips and personalized advice, contact me today! Let's make your Dallas Fort Worth home the best it can be this winter.

 

Moving with Pets: 5 Tips to Keep Your Furry Friends Calm and Happy

Moving to a new home is often exciting, but it can also be stressful, especially when pets are involved. While you're busy packing, organizing, and coordinating logistics, your pets may feel anxious and confused. Pets thrive on routine, and a big change like moving can throw their world into chaos.

The good news is, with a little planning, you can make the transition smoother for your furry companions. Here are five top tips to keep your pets calm, happy, and safe during your move.

1. Stick to Their Routine

Pets are creatures of habit, and keeping their routine as normal as possible is one of the best ways to ease their anxiety. If you feed them at a specific time or take them for regular walks, try to maintain these habits throughout the moving process. Consistency will provide comfort amidst the chaos.

Did you know? According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), sticking to a routine during stressful events like moving can help reduce anxiety in pets by keeping things familiar and predictable.

2. Create a Safe Space

On moving day, things can get hectic with movers, boxes, and noise. Create a quiet, safe space for your pets by setting aside a room with their favorite toys, bed, and blankets. This will give them a sense of security and help them feel calm while everything is being packed up.

If possible, keep them in this space until the majority of the move is complete. Alternatively, you could consider leaving them with a friend or family member for the day to avoid the stress of moving altogether.

3. Schedule a Vet Visit

Before moving, schedule a visit with your vet to ensure your pet is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations. If your pet has a tendency to get anxious, ask your vet about calming solutions such as supplements, sprays, or even medication.

Pro tip: According to PetMD, animals can experience travel anxiety, especially if moving long distances. Your vet may recommend solutions such as calming treats or pheromone sprays that mimic the scent of a mother animal, providing a sense of comfort.

4. Pack Their Essentials Last

Keep your pet’s essentials, such as food, water bowls, leash, and favorite toys, packed separately and accessible. This "pet essentials bag" will come in handy for the first few days at your new home, ensuring your pets have everything they need without digging through boxes.

It’s like a mini moving kit just for them—complete with their essentials to help them feel comfortable in the new environment right away.

5. Update Their Information

Don’t forget to update your pet’s ID tags and microchip information with your new address and contact details. In the chaos of moving, it’s easy for pets to get disoriented or accidentally wander off. Ensuring their identification is up to date gives you peace of mind in case they get lost.

Fun fact: According to ASPCA, pets with updated microchip information are significantly more likely to be returned to their owners if lost, with a 38.5% return rate for cats and 52.2% for dogs, compared to much lower rates for those without a microchip.

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Final Thoughts

Moving with pets doesn’t have to be stressful. With a bit of extra planning and attention, you can ensure a smooth transition for both you and your furry friends. Whether you're relocating across town or moving to a new city, these tips will help keep your pets calm and happy throughout the process.

Need more advice on how to make your move as stress-free as possible? Feel free to reach out—I’m here to help with all your home buying or selling needs in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.

Elevating your home buying (or selling) experience—pets included! realtor, best agent, real estate, Southlake, Keller, Haslet, home buyer, home seller, home value, Trophy Club, Fort Worth, new home, house, home selling, seller tips, 4wheeltorhomes, 4wheeltor, Crystal Zschirnt, Westlake, Roanoke, Justin, Northlake, Flower Mound, Argyle, Texas

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𝗖𝗿𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗭𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗿𝗻𝘁 | 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗴𝗲𝗻𝘁 | 𝟴𝟭𝟳-𝟴𝟳𝟰-𝟳𝟲𝟳𝟳 | 𝗖𝗭@𝗥𝗲𝗱𝗳𝗶𝗻.𝗰𝗼𝗺

#DFWRealEstate #DFWRedfin #DFWEliteRealty #DFWHomes #4wheeltor #4wheeltorhomes

Home Values Rise Even as Median Prices Fall

 
Recent headlines are buzzing about how the median asking price of homes is lower than last year, and that’s causing some confusion. As a buyer or seller, it’s easy to assume that means home prices are dropping, but here’s the thing—the numbers don’t tell the full story.

Nationally, home values are actually rising, even if the median price is down a bit. So, let’s break this down so you can understand what’s really going on without getting caught up in all the media noise.

Homes on the Market Right Now Are Smaller

The main reason for the dip in the median price is the size of homes currently for sale. The median price represents the middle point of all listed homes, and that’s influenced by the mix of homes on the market at any given time.

Here’s an easy way to explain it. Imagine you have three coins: one nickel and two dimes. If you line them up, the median value is 10 cents. But if you have two nickels and one dime, the median value becomes five cents. The value of each coin didn’t change—it’s just the mix that’s different.

Right now, we’re seeing more smaller, less expensive homes on the market, and that’s pulling the overall median price down. But that doesn’t mean home values are declining.

As Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, puts it:

“The share of inventory of smaller and more affordable homes has grown, which helps hold down the median price even as per-square-foot prices grow further.”

In other words, the price per square foot is what really tells the story.

Price Per Square Foot Is Still Rising

A more reliable way to measure home values is by looking at the price per square foot. This shows how much buyers are paying for space in the home, regardless of its size.

While the median asking price might drop due to more smaller homes being listed, the price per square foot data reveals that home values are still climbing. Ralph McLaughlin, Senior Economist at Realtor.com, explains:

“When a change in the mix of inventory toward smaller homes is accounted for, the typical home listed this year has increased in asking price compared with last year.”

This means that even though smaller homes are skewing the median price, the average value of a home is still on the rise.

Home Appreciation Remains Strong

According to the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), home values have been appreciating steadily since 2012. So, while the headlines might make it seem like home prices are crashing, that’s not the case. Values are still going up nationally, just at a more moderate pace.

But remember, real estate is local. While national trends provide a broad view, your local market might tell a different story. That’s where a trusted real estate agent comes in—someone who can give you up-to-date insights on what’s happening in your area.

Bottom Line

The decrease in the median price you’re hearing about is not the same as a decrease in home values. It’s mostly due to more smaller, affordable homes hitting the market. The key thing to pay attention to is price per square foot, which gives you a better sense of overall value—and those prices are still climbing.

If you have questions about home prices in our area or want to know how your home fits into the market, reach out. I’m here to help you navigate the market with clarity and confidence! realtor, best agent, real estate, Southlake, Keller, Haslet, home buyer, home seller, home value, Trophy Club, Fort Worth, new home, house, home selling, seller tips, 4wheeltorhomes, 4wheeltor, Crystal Zschirnt, Westlake, Roanoke, Justin, Northlake, Flower Mound, Argyle, Texas

💾 𝗡𝗼𝘄 | 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗲 | 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗞𝗻𝗼𝘄𝗹𝗲𝗱𝗴𝗲

𝗖𝗿𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗭𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗿𝗻𝘁 | 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗴𝗲𝗻𝘁 | 𝟴𝟭𝟳-𝟴𝟳𝟰-𝟳𝟲𝟳𝟳 | 𝗖𝗭@𝗥𝗲𝗱𝗳𝗶𝗻.𝗰𝗼𝗺

#DFWRealEstate #DFWRedfin #DFWEliteRealty #DFWHomes #4wheeltor #4wheeltorhomes