Looking Back at 2025 & Moving Forward with Confidence
2025 was a year of both challenges and opportunities in the real estate market. We saw interest rates trend downward, inventory increase, and the market begin to shift closer to balance, giving buyers more options while requiring sellers to be more strategic.
Like any industry, real estate has its ups and downs, and I’m grateful to have helped my clients confidently navigate every step along the way.
To wrap up the year, I shared 12 Days of Real Estate Tips across social media. If you missed them, or want to bookmark them for the year ahead, here they are all in one place.
12 Real Estate Tips to Set You Up for Success
1. Get Your Finances in Order
Buyers: Review your credit score, set a realistic budget, and get pre-approved for a mortgage.
Sellers: Consider both market value and your personal financial goals when pricing your home your realtor should guide you here.
2. Look for (and Make) Needed Repairs
Buyers: Test items like taps, doors, and handles during showings and note any concerns in your offer.
Sellers: Fix anything that could impact value or turn buyers off, such as chipped paint, leaky faucets, or worn flooring.
3. Stage & Showcase
Buyers: Think about how your current lifestyle fits the space — not just today, but a few years down the road.
Sellers: Declutter, deep clean, and stage to highlight space, natural light, and key features.
4. Choose the Right Realtor
Buyers: Interview agents, compare strategies, and work with someone who knows your neighbourhood and aligns with your goals.
Sellers: A strong pricing and marketing strategy makes all the difference — expert guidance is key.
5. Get a Professional Home Inspection
Buyers: Include a “must-pass home inspection” condition to avoid surprises after closing.
Sellers: A pre-inspection can help uncover issues early and strengthen negotiations.
6. Communicate Clearly
Buyers: Be upfront about your timeline, expectations, and deal-breakers.
Sellers: Discuss offers, negotiation limits, and acceptable adjustments before listing.
7. Protect Your Investment
Buyers: Review homeowner’s insurance options and inventory your belongings before moving.
Sellers: Keep your home insurance active until all closing documents are finalized.
8. Understand the Hidden Costs
Buyers: Budget for legal fees, closing costs, taxes, and insurance.
Sellers: Factor in realtor fees, taxes, and moving expenses when planning your next step.
9. Factor in Taxes
Buyers: Keep all closing documents and receipts, they matter later.
Sellers: Understand capital gains, land transfer taxes, and available exemptions.
10. Know What’s Included (and What’s Not)
Buyers: Do a thorough final walkthrough to ensure everything agreed upon is in place.
Sellers: Clearly outline which fixtures, appliances, and upgrades stay with the home to avoid surprises.
11. Compare Mortgage Options
Buyers: Explore fixed vs. variable rates, different lenders, and term lengths.
Sellers: If you’re buying again, understand what you can comfortably afford next.
12. Stay Grounded
Buyers: Buying a home can be emotional — remember your “why” and don’t rush decisions.
Sellers: Be realistic, know your goals, and stand firm on what matters most.
Ready for a Fresh Start in the New Year?
If you’re thinking about making a move, I’d love to help. Let’s make 2026 a memorable year — for all the right reasons.
📞 Call/text me anytime — I’m here to help you make the most of your summer real estate goals.
Follow along on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn for tips and tricks with anything home related!