Gema Smith's Blog

Posted on 06/30/2025

Multi-Generational Homebuying Hit a Record High – Here’s Why

Multi-generational living is on the rise. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 17% of homebuyers purchase a home to share with parents, adult children, or extended family. That’s the highest share ever recorded by NAR (see graph below): And what’s behind the increase? Affordability. NAR explains: “In 2024, a notable 36% of homebuyers cited “cost savings”...

For Buyers

First Time Buyers

+ 9 more

Posted on 06/30/2025

What Every Homeowner Needs To Know In Today’s Shifting Market

Here’s something you need to know. The housing market is getting back to a healthier, more normal place. And even though it may not sound like it, this shift is actually a good thing. It’s what you should expect. It’s just that our expectations have been skewed by the intense seller’s market over the past few years. But...

For Sellers

Home Price

+ 7 more

Posted on 06/29/2025

What you'll need to know about escrow accounts

If you’re new to the homebuying process, you may be...

Escrow

Escrow Accounts

+ 2 more

Posted on 06/24/2025

Is Selling Alone Worth the Risk? Why Agents Lead the Way

Selling your home can be a big decision, and you might have considered going the "For Sale by Owner" (FSBO) route to save on commission. However, current market trends suggest that more and more homeowners are finding that selling without an agent just isn't worth the risk. The Declining Trend of FSBO Sales Recent data from the National...

For Sellers

Agent Value

+ 5 more

Posted on 06/23/2025

Why Homeownership Is Going To Be Worth It

Life can feel a bit unpredictable these days. What’s happening with inflation? The economy? The housing market? But in the middle of all that uncertainty, there’s one thing a lot of people still crave – a place to call their own. Because when everything else feels up in the air, home can be the thing that grounds you....

For Buyers

First Time Buyers

+ 7 more

Posted on 06/23/2025

Why More Sellers Are Choosing To Move, Even with Today’s Rates

It’s hard to let go of a 3% mortgage rate. There’s no question about it. It’s the main reason why so many homeowners have delayed their move in recent years. But here’s something to consider. While your low rate might be ideal, it doesn’t make up being too cramped, having a staircase your knees can’t handle anymore, or...

For Sellers

Mortgage Rates

+ 3 more

Posted on 06/22/2025

3 Major Ways Technology Is Changing Real Estate Today

Technology enhances our lives in new and once-unimaginable ways. The real estate business is one that’s benefited from some of these technological advances, as our needs and priorities have changed during the last decade. Here are some of the most important emerging trends in real estate technology today: Artificial Intelligence Artificial intelligence (AI) is the backbone of the...

+ 11 more

Posted on 06/19/2025

Smart Financial Planning for a Secure and Fulfilling Retirement

As we grow older, financial peace of mind becomes more important than ever. Whether you're approaching retirement or already enjoying your golden years, taking the right steps today can help you build a more secure and stress-free tomorrow. In this guide, I’m breaking down practical, effective strategies to help you take control of your finances and enjoy your...

Financial Planning For Seniors

Retirement Money Management

+ 10 more

Posted on 06/19/2025

Why Staying Social Could Be the Secret to Healthy Aging

A large-scale study using data from the University of Michigan’s Health and Retirement Study (HRS) revealed a compelling connection: Adults over 60 who actively participate in social activities—whether through volunteering, spending time with family, or joining clubs—were significantly less likely to experience early mortality than those with limited social engagement. Researchers from the University of California, San Francisco,...

Healthy Aging Tips

Social Wellness For Seniors

+ 5 more

Posted on 06/19/2025

How the Lifestyle of Seniors is Evolving and What’s Next

Baby boomers have always been a generation that reshaped the world around them. From redefining culture to pushing the boundaries of what aging looks like, they’ve consistently challenged the status quo. So it’s no surprise that as they move into retirement, the idea of what it means to grow older is transforming once again. What used to be...

Evolving Retirement Lifestyle

Modern Senior Living Communities

+ 6 more

Posted on 06/19/2025

Passive Real Estate Investing vs. 401(k): Smarter Ways to Build Long-Term Wealth

Are you weighing your options for growing your wealth for retirement? While 401(k) retirement plans have long been a traditional choice, passive real estate investing is emerging as a compelling alternative. In this article, we’ll break down the key differences, advantages, and risks of both strategies to help you decide which path best aligns with your financial goals....

Passive Real Estate Investing

401 K Vs Real Estate Investing

+ 12 more

Posted on 06/18/2025

Smart Home Upgrades: Boosting Your Property's Value and Appeal

Thinking about sprucing up your home? Whether you're planning to sell in the near future or simply want to enhance your living space, it's wise to consider which projects offer the best return on your investment. Not all renovations are created equal when it comes to adding value, so making informed decisions can save you time, money, and...

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