Gema Smith's Blog

Posted on 10/21/2024
What To Expect from Mortgage Rates and Home Prices in 2025
Curious about where the housing market is headed in 2025? The good news is that experts are offering some promising forecasts, especially when it comes to two key factors that directly affect your decisions: mortgage rates and home prices. Whether you're thinking of buying or selling, here’s a look at what the experts are saying and how it...
For Buyers
For Sellers
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Posted on 10/21/2024
Why Did More People Decide To Sell Their Homes Recently?
The most recent data from Realtor.com reveals that in September, the number of homes put up for sale increased by 11.6% compared to this time last year. As the green circle in the graph below shows, the typical September decline in homes coming to the market didn’t happen – that number actually went up (see graph below): Ralph...
For Buyers
Mortgage Rates
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Posted on 10/20/2024
How to choose the best gift for your party host
Whether you’re going to a formal dinner party or a casual...
Entertaining
Gift Ideas
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Posted on 10/14/2024
Why a Condo Could Be Your Perfect First Home
If you’re looking to break into homeownership but the price of single-family homes has you second-guessing, you might want to consider a condominium (condo) or townhome. These types of homes often come with a lower barrier to entry – and that can help you start to build equity and enjoy the benefits of owning a home sooner. Since...
For Buyers
Gema Smith
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Posted on 10/14/2024
How Much Does It Cost To Sell My House
If you’re toying with the idea of selling your house, you’re probably wondering how much it’ll cost. To be honest, the final number will depend on several factors like the offer you accept, if you help with your buyer’s closing costs, how many repairs you tackle, and more. So, to give you a ballpark of what to expect,...
For Sellers
Agent Value
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Posted on 10/13/2024
Holidays and home safety: Tips to keep your household safe
Winter holidays are a festive time when folks gather and celebrate. Part of the fun of these holidays is being able to decorate your home and host dinners or other meals. However, with this excitement comes certain risks you and your household should be aware of. Keep these tips in mind, so you can spend the holiday season...
Entertaining
Entertaining
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Posted on 10/11/2024
Creating a Personal Safety Net: A Comprehensive Guide for Seniors
Life is full of unexpected turns. Many of these surprises, particularly those related to health or finances, can significantly disrupt our daily routines. However, there are effective strategies to stay ahead of potential challenges and channel your resources toward achieving positive outcomes. One effective strategy is the establishment of a Personal Safety Net (PSN). The authors of Personal Safety...
Gema Smith
SRES
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Posted on 10/11/2024
Thriving at 60: 7 Essential Tips for Aging Gracefully
Reaching 60 can usher in a period of life filled with transformation and opportunities. Some look forward to retirement, while others explore entrepreneurship. Some find joy in spending time with grandchildren, while others pack their bags and set off on exciting global adventures—or even juggle all these things! This stage of life offers countless chances to live meaningfully,...
Gema Smith
SRES
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Posted on 10/10/2024
Welcoming the Journey of Aging: A Fresh Outlook on Aging and Heritage
Welcoming the Journey of Aging: A Fresh Outlook on Aging and Heritage Aging is an inevitable part of life, yet how we approach it can dramatically shape our experience. For centuries, various cultures have embraced aging with reverence, recognizing the wisdom and life experience that come with it. Today, as the world rapidly evolves, many of us are rediscovering...
Aging Gracefully
Wisdom And Growth
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Posted on 10/10/2024
Is Downsizing Your Home the Right Move for Retirement?
Is Downsizing Your Home the Right Move for Retirement? As retirement approaches, many people start to reflect on their living situation and whether it's time for a change. One option that often comes up is downsizing, but is it the right decision for you? This article will explore the pros and cons to help you determine whether downsizing your...
SRES
Gema Smith
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Posted on 10/10/2024
Questions to Ask Before Choosing an Active Adult Community
Choosing an active adult community is about more than just finding a new home—it's about matching your unique needs and desires with the right environment. You can count on an SRES® to guide you through the process of choosing the active adult community that is right for you. LOCATION AND ACCESSIBILITY Do you want to be close to...
Seniors Real Estate Specialist SRES
Gema Smith
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Posted on 10/07/2024
This Is the Sweet Spot Homebuyers Have Been Waiting For
After months of sitting on the sidelines, many homebuyers who were priced out by high mortgage rates and affordability challenges finally have an opportunity to make their move. With rates trending down, today’s market is a sweet spot for buyers—and it’s one that may not last long. So, if you’ve put your own move on the back burner,...
For Buyers
Mortgage Rates
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