So, there's been some buzz around the National Association of Realtors (NAR) latest announcement about real estate commissions being negotiable. If you’re imagining this as some kind of industry shake-up, think again! It’s really just a formal nod to what's been going on all along in the world of real estate.

Selling a home is a significant financial and emotional undertaking. It's more than just putting a "For Sale" sign in your yard and waiting for offers. This is where a skilled listing agent steps in, bringing a wealth of knowledge and resources that can make a world of difference in your home selling experience. Here are 12 often overlooked ways in which listing agents can help homeowners sell their properties faster and for more money.

As we navigate through 2024, homeowners are faced with a critical question: Is this the right time to sell a home? The real estate market is constantly evolving, influenced by various economic, technological, and social factors. In this article, we'll explore the key considerations for homeowners thinking about selling their property in 2024.

Predicting the movement of interest rates with absolute certainty is challenging due to the complex interplay of various economic factors. As of 2024, potential homebuyers should stay informed about the economic indicators, central bank policies, and market predictions to gauge the trajectory of interest rates. It's also wise to consult with financial advisors to understand how these rates might impact individual mortgage options and overall home affordability. Ultimately, while interest rates are a significant factor, they are just one piece of the larger puzzle when it comes to making smart home-buying decisions.

The year 2024 brings with it new challenges and opportunities, especially when it comes to the real estate market. As potential homebuyers weigh their options, the question on many minds is: "Is buying a home this year worth it?" This decision, like most significant financial commitments, depends on a variety of factors including market trends, personal finances, and long-term goals.

Selling a home is a complex and often challenging process, requiring a strategic approach to ensure a timely and profitable transaction. While many homeowners are aware of the basic responsibilities of a listing agent, such as marketing the property and coordinating showings, there are numerous hidden ways these professionals contribute to a successful sale. In this blog post, we'll uncover 12 lesser-known ways listing agents can help homeowners sell their property faster and for more money.

Spring may be busy with planting and cleaning and putting a home on the market. But Fall is a fabulous time to sell. With a few months before the major holidays settle in, home buyers are eager to find and settle into their new home. Especially before winter sets in. While families who want to close before the school year begins are more likely to make their move in the spring, millennials, and empty-nesters usually are more willing to jump into the fall real estate market.

Interest rates have risen and the inventory of housing continues to dwindle causing a seller’s market to some degree. Higher interest rates have forced many buyers to the sidelines hoping for some sort of reprieve. Sellers are seeing prices climb but many aren’t wanting to wade into a new home with a new higher interest rates so homes are not going on the market as fast as they once were.

School bells will be ringing soon and the last vestiges of summer are beginning to fade. It’s time to take those last few trips to squeeze out every drop of summer getaway fun both near and far. Water fun is top of the list – splash pads, beaches and lakes still await every Michigander.

Depending on your southern zip code, up north could mean anything to Memphis, Tennessee to Manitoba, Canada. In Michigan, up north could be Holly and Lake Orion or Bay City and beyond. As the state became more populated the destination of “up north” kept moving, well, north. Then as more of that population entered the middle class and beyond, automobiles became more prevalent and backwoods areas became more accessible.

City living offers conveniences and plenty of distractions but when it’s time to relax and get un-distracted, head to an Oakland County or Metropark. With plenty of water, woods and open space to enjoy, each one is a little slice of outdoor heaven. But what’s the difference between an Oakland County Park and a Metro Park? Three words – location, location, location. Each park system has incredible amenities but Oakland County Parks are just that – only in Oakland County. The Metropark system spans across five counties.

President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, an Executive Order on January 1, 1863, that declared "all persons held as slaves" within the rebellious states "are, and henceforward shall be free." But it would be two more years before that order could be carried out. After the Civil War had been won, Union General Gordon Granger rode into Galveston, Texas and issued order General Order Number Three on June 19, 1865. It stated, “The people are informed that in accordance with a Proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free.” That special day was celebrated as Juneteenth the following year. But it wasn’t until President Joe Biden signed a bill into law in 2021 making Juneteenth a Federal Holiday, that the event was nationally celebrated.

Spring has finally decided to stick around and summer isn’t far behind. With more potential homeowners on the prowl for a deal, spending time inside and outside of your home can help seal the deal on that big sale. Most folks live in what they’d describe as a “clean home” but realtors know there’s that step above to the “show-ready” home. Taking the time to make your home sparkle for its next occupant is all about a few tricks and some old fashioned elbow grease.

Honoring and respecting those who gave the ultimate sacrifice in the U.S. Military, Memorial Day is a day to reflect and celebrate those heroes. Originally dubbed, Decoration Day, the honors began during the American Civil War and then after World War I, the event evolved into Memorial Day as a way to observe and honor those who have died in all U.S. Wars. All around Metro Detroit, there will be parades, festivals and more.

Right in the heart of Royal Oak is a little shop with a big heart. InkCourage is the brainstorm of Ange, a soft-spoken, instantly likeable former College for Creative Studies student (my alma mater, so I’m admittedly biased). She started the business by helping out a friend who needed a gentle reminder of how amazing she really was. Ange knew that words have power. And she has proved it. The power to uplift a friend, create change, welcome inclusion and just plain old give someone a boost of sunshine. The store is filled with comforting messages on equally comforting quality sweatshirts and t-shirts delightfully embroidered and printed with uplifting words of empowerment. The shop also sells jewelry, temporary tattoos, stickers, buttons and other gifts so you can keep those words of encouragement literally on hand.

Buying a home? Welcome to the competition with other buyers due to low inventory. Selling a home? Welcome again to sifting through multiple offers to find the right one. Both sides can be a confusing and grueling tedious task just to get to the dotted line for both buyer and seller. For those navigating the real estate market, get helpful information from experts. Darrin Roberts is a listing agent with Jim Shaffer and Associates and sees both sides of the equation. And he offers some help.