November Market Update and Newsletter

I’ve heard people say the market is “stuck in the mud.” Personally, I think we’re in an eddy, and the river is making up its mind about which way to flow based on the conflicting currents. To wit: Sales are stagnant, inventory continues to decline, yet rates are sitting near three-year lows. Macro economic trends are generally strong, but there is still considerable uncertainty in the economy and job market, especially locally, with the government shutdown. Sprinkle in layoffs at UPS, AWS, GM, and Target, and that uncertainty is keeping people on the sidelines.

The hope now is that the Fed’s recent rate cut gives things a little spark — perhaps boosting the stock market, improving consumer confidence, and getting people moving again. The ending of the shutdown will definitely help. What’s interesting is that consumer confidence didn’t go down this month. It stayed level, which, given everything happening, is a small win and indicates some of the slowness may be transitory.

As we move into the holiday season and the traditional slowdown, my concern is that we don’t end up with a double dip — lower sales and even lower inventory. If that does happen, though, there will still be opportunities.

Every market shift creates them. If you’d like to discuss what that might look like for your situation, please give me a call; I’m happy to walk you through different strategies.

Now, let’s talk about something that’s been bugging me a bit lately: I keep hearing people say we’re in a buyer’s market. We are not in a buyer’s market. Not even close. Just because we’re seeing some contingencies in contracts doesn’t make it a buyer’s market — it makes it a balanced market. Not every deal even has contingencies, and 47% of sales are at or above list price. When the numbers show homes are selling for an average of 99.5% of the original list price and houses are on the market for just 27 days on average, it’s hard to argue that buyers are in control.

Here’s the reality — about 77% of REALTORS have been licensed for less than 15 years, and 51% of all agents have been in the business less than 5 years. Therefore, they have never seen a true buyer’s market or experienced what one is. A real buyer’s market means an excess of inventory, price drops, and homes sitting on the market for months. That’s not what we’re seeing today.

More than ever, who you work with matters. Experience counts. Knowledge counts. Understanding how to navigate through uncertainty counts. If you’d like to discuss your next move, whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, let’s connect.

Have a great Thanksgiving!

Chris

Thinking About Selling? Why Late Fall May be the Right Time to Make your Move!

Most people assume the “best” time to sell a home is in the spring. It’s a common belief — but not necessarily true. While spring does bring more activity, it also brings more competition. Right now, in the late fall market, homeowners actually have some unique advantages that are worth knowing about if you’ve been considering a move.

1. Inventory Is Still Low – There are fewer homes on the market than we typically see in spring and summer. That means less competition and more visibility for your home. Buyers who are actively looking right now don’t have as many choices — and that can put you in a stronger negotiating position.
2. Buyers Shopping Now Are Serious – Buyers who tour homes in November and December aren’t “just browsing.” They’re motivated. Maybe there’s a job relocation. Maybe their lease ends soon. Maybe they want to settle into a new home before the new year. Whatever the reason, they’re focused — and that makes the process smoother for sellers.
3. Your Home Shows Well in Fall – The cozy warmth of fall decorating, the soft lighting in the early evenings, and the natural beauty of the season can help buyers emotionally connect with your home. People don’t just buy based on logic — they buy based on how a home feels.
4. You Can Get a Jump on 2026 – If you sell now, you can use the quieter winter months to prepare, relocate, renovate, or simply settle into your next chapter — without the rush and chaos that spring buyers and sellers typically face.

Of course, every situation and house is unique — and the timing should fit your goals. If you’re curious what your home could sell for in today’s market, or you’re wondering about timing, let’s talk. There’s no pressure and no obligation — just clear guidance so you can make the smartest decision for you.

We’re here to help you make your next move with confidence — whether that’s now, in the spring, or sometime down the road.

Recipe of the Month | Cranberry Brie Bites

Recipe courtesy of Delish

Step 1: Arrange a rack in center of oven; preheat to 375°. Grease a mini (24-cup) muffin tin with cooking spray. On a lightly floured surface, roll out crescent dough and pinch together seams. Cut into 24 squares. Press squares into prepared cups.

Step 2: Cut Brie into small pieces and place inside dough. Top with a spoonful of cranberry sauce, pecans, and one piece of rosemary.

Step 3: Bake bites until pastry is golden brown, about 15 minutes.