Spring is in full swing, and the housing market is picking up along with it. And if you’ve been wondering whether now is the right time to buy or sell, here’s the inside scoop on why this spring may be a great time to make your move. 1. There Are More Homes for Sale After a long stretch of tight inventory, the number of homes for sale is finally improving. According to recent national data  from Realtor.com , active listings are up 27.5% compared to this time last year. Look at the graph below and follow the green line for 2025. You can see, even though inventory levels still haven’t returned to pre-pandemic norms ( shown in gra y), that number is higher than it has been going into the spring market over the past few years ( see graph below ): Buyers:  This means you have more choices, and you can be more selective. Sellers: With more homes available than in recent years, you’re more likely to find what you’re looking for when you move. And knowing that inventory is still below more normal levels means there will be demand for your home when you sell it, too. 2. Home Price Growth Is Moderating As inventory grows, the pace of home price growth  is slowing down – and that will continue into the spring market. This is because prices are driven by supply and demand. When there are more homes for sale, buyers have more options, so there’s less competition for each house. Rising supply and less buyer competition causes price growth to slow, but it should still remain positive in most markets. As Freddie Mac   says : “In 2025, we expect the pace of house price appreciation to moderate from the levels seen in 2024, while still maintaining a positive trajectory.” And while prices aren’t dropping at the national level, every market is different. Some areas are seeing stronger price growth, while others are cooling off or even seeing some price declines. Buyers:  The slower pace of growth means prices aren’t rising as quickly as before – and that’s a relief. Any home you buy now is likely to appreciate in value over time, helping you build equity. Sellers:  While prices are still rising, you might need to adjust your expectations. Overpricing your house in a more balanced market could mean it takes longer to sell. Pricing your house competitively is going to be key to attracting offers. 3. Mortgage Rates Are Stabilizing One of the biggest hurdles for buyers over the past couple of years has been high, volatile mortgage rates. But there’s some good news – overall, they’ve stabilized in recent weeks – and have even declined a bit since the beginning of this year. And while that decrease hasn’t been a big drop, stabilizing mortgage rates has helped make buying a home a bit more predictable. According  to Selma Hepp, Chief Economist at CoreLogic : “With the spring homebuying season upon us, the recent improvements in mortgage rates may help invite homebuyers back into the market.” Buyers:  When mortgage rates are more stable, it’s easier to plan ahead because you have a better idea of what your future payment might be. But remember, rates will continue to be volatile. So, lean on your agent and your lender to make sure you know what the latest mortgage rate means for you. Sellers:  Slightly lower rates that are starting to stabilize are encouraging more buyers to move forward with their plans. That’s good for demand when you’re planning to sell your house. 4. More Buyers Are Returning With more inventory, slowing price growth, and stabilizing mortgage rates, buyers are gaining confidence and coming back into the market. Demand is picking up, and data  from the Mortgage Bankers Association  (MBA) shows an increase in mortgage applications compared to the start of the year ( see graph below ): Buyers:  Acting sooner rather than later could be a smart move before your competition heats up even more. Sellers:  This is great news for you – more buyers mean a better chance of selling your house quickly. Bottom Line Do you have questions about what the spring market means for you? Let’s connect and talk about how to craft your plan this season. With more homes for sale, slowing price growth, and stabilizing mortgage rates, how will this impact your decision to buy or sell this spring?

Last year, 70% of buyers abandoned  their home search – and maybe you were one of them. It makes sense. Inventory was low, prices were high, and mortgage rates were up and down like a rollercoaster. All of that made it really hard to find a home you loved – and could afford. But guess what? The market is shifting. So, if you paused your moving plans in 2024, it might be time to hit play again. Here’s why. More Inventory Opens Up More Options Even if you could make the numbers work, the lack of available homes in recent years probably made it hard to come by something that fit your needs. But inventory is rising , which means you have more options now. According to Realtor.com , inventory has jumped  27.5% since this time last year (see graph below): So, if you were reluctant to list your house because you weren’t sure where you’d go if it sold, you have more choices than you did a year ago. That’s a big win. Homes Are Staying on the Market Longer, Too When the supply of homes for sale is low, they’re snatched up quickly because there just aren't enough of them to go around. And a few years ago, that meant your house could sell overnight. While that’s not always a bad thing, if you’re planning a move and also need to find your next home, a slower pace isn’t the end of the world. In fact, it’s welcome relief. Now that inventory has grown, homes are staying on the market longer, meaning you don’t have to feel as rushed in the process ( see graph below): The latest data  shows the typical time homes spent on the market went up by about 8% this year – that’s higher than we’ve seen since 2020, but still a faster pace than before the market ramped up. And it’s about a week longer than last year. Talk about a sweet spot for movers. It may seem like just a few days, but it gives you more flexibility and time to be thoughtful about your decisions. As Hannah Jones, Senior Economic Research Analyst at Realtor.com , notes: “There are more homes for sale than in the last few years, which means the market pace is a bit more manageable–with longer days on market–and many sellers are more flexible . . . Though buyers face still-high housing costs, they may find a bit more give in the market, which could give them more time to make a decision, even in the busy spring and summer months.” And if you’re thinking – but wait – doesn’t that mean it will be harder to sell my house? Don’t worry. With inventory still almost 23% below the pre-pandemic norm, well-priced homes are selling,  especially as more buyers step back into the game this season. Bottom Line With growing inventory, sellers who want to upgrade, downsize, or relocate have more choices. Plus, with less pressure to rush into an offer, it could be a great time to revisit your home search if you’ve put it on hold. With more homes on the market and more time to make decisions, what else do you need to see in order to kickstart your home search again? Let’s talk about what’s happening in our local market right now.

Spring is just around the corner, and with it comes one of the most bustling times in the real estate market. For those considering buying a home this season, preparation is key to navigating the competitive landscape successfully. Understanding the importance of getting pre-approved for a mortgage can give you a significant edge over other buyers who might not be as prepared. Are you wondering how to make your offer stand out in a sea of potential buyers? Join us as we explore essential tips and strategies to confidently step into the spring market and make your dream home a reality. Spring Home Buying Essentials As the spring market heats up, it’s crucial to be well-prepared. Let’s explore the key elements that will set you up for success in your home buying journey. Importance of Pre-Approval Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is a critical first step in the home buying process. It provides you with a clear understanding of your budget and demonstrates to sellers that you’re a serious buyer. To get pre-approved, start by gathering your financial documents, including pay stubs, tax returns, and bank statements. Then, approach multiple lenders to compare rates and terms. A pre-approval letter typically outlines the loan amount you qualify for, giving you a realistic picture of your purchasing power. This can help you focus your home search on properties within your budget. Remember, pre-approval is different from pre-qualification. Pre-approval involves a more thorough review of your finances and carries more weight with sellers. Preparing Financially for Purchase Financial preparation goes beyond securing a mortgage pre-approval. It involves a comprehensive assessment of your current financial situation and future goals. Start by reviewing your credit score and addressing any issues that might affect your loan terms. Pay down existing debts and avoid taking on new credit obligations during the home buying process. Create a detailed budget that accounts for all homeownership costs, including property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and potential HOA fees. Don’t forget to factor in closing costs, which can range from 2% to 5% of the purchase price. Consider setting aside funds for unexpected expenses and repairs that may arise after moving in. A well-prepared buyer is better equipped to handle the financial challenges of homeownership. Crafting a Standout Offer In a competitive market, your offer needs to shine. Let’s explore how to make your bid more attractive to sellers. Key Elements of a Strong Offer A compelling offer goes beyond just the purchase price. It should address the seller’s needs and stand out from the competition. Offer a competitive price based on recent comparable sales in the area. Include a substantial earnest money deposit to show your commitment. Be flexible with the closing date to accommodate the seller’s timeline. Consider including an escalation clause if you’re in a multiple-offer situation. This automatically increases your bid up to a specified limit if other offers come in higher. Minimize contingencies where possible, but don’t waive important protections like the home inspection. Instead, consider shortening contingency periods to make your offer more appealing. Strategies for Competitive Markets In hot markets, buyers need to be strategic and quick to act. Here are some tactics to give you an edge: Get your financing in order early and be prepared to move fast when you find the right home. Work with a local agent who has strong relationships in the community and insider knowledge of upcoming listings. If possible, offer all-cash or a larger down payment. This can be particularly appealing to sellers worried about appraisal issues. Be prepared for potential bidding wars. Decide on your maximum budget beforehand and stick to it to avoid emotional overspending. Navigating the Spring Market Spring brings unique challenges and opportunities to the real estate market. Understanding these dynamics can help you make informed decisions. Understanding Seasonal Trends Spring typically sees an increase in inventory as more sellers list their homes. This can provide buyers with more options, but also means increased competition. Expect faster-paced transactions during spring. Homes often sell more quickly, so be prepared to make decisions swiftly. Keep an eye on market indicators like days on market and price trends. These can help you gauge how competitive your local market is becoming. Timing Your Home Purchase While spring offers more choices, it’s important to balance this with your personal timeline and financial readiness. Consider your lease expiration, job situation, and personal life events when deciding when to buy. Don’t rush into a purchase just because it’s the “hot” season. If possible, start your search early in the season to beat the peak rush. This might give you a chance to find a great home before competition intensifies. Be prepared for potential delays in the process due to the high volume of transactions during spring. Factor this into your planning, especially if you need to move by a specific date. Virtual Seller Seminar Insights Our upcoming virtual seller seminar offers valuable information for both buyers and sellers. Here’s why you should consider viewing. Benefits of Attending Virtual seminars provide a wealth of knowledge from the comfort of your home. They offer insights into current market conditions and expert strategies for success. For buyers, understanding the seller’s perspective can be invaluable. You’ll gain insights into what motivates sellers and how to craft offers that appeal to them. These seminars often cover topics like: - Current market trends and forecasts - Pricing strategies - Home staging tips - Negotiation tactics By attending, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the buying process and potentially gain an edge in competitive situations. How to Participate Viewing our virtual seller seminar is quick and easy. Simply visit our website and watch the videos at your own pace! www.hiltonhomes4sale.com/sellerseminar Expert Tips for First-Time Buyers First-time buyers face unique challenges in the spring market. Let’s explore some expert advice to help you navigate this exciting journey. Common Mistakes to Avoid One of the biggest mistakes first-time buyers make is underestimating the total cost of homeownership. Remember to factor in property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and potential HOA fees. “Buy the house you can afford today, not the one you think you can afford in five years.” - Real estate expert John Smith Avoid emotional decision-making. It’s easy to fall in love with a home and overlook important issues or stretch your budget too far. Don’t skip the home inspection, even in a competitive market. It’s a crucial step that can uncover potential problems and save you money in the long run. Lastly, resist the urge to drain your savings for a down payment. Maintain an emergency fund for unexpected expenses after moving in. Leveraging Professional Advice Working with experienced professionals can make a significant difference in your home buying journey. Here’s how to make the most of their expertise: Choose a real estate agent who specializes in working with first-time buyers in your target area. Consult with a mortgage professional early in the process to understand your financing options. Consider working with a real estate attorney, especially in complex transactions or if you’re buying in an unfamiliar area. Ask your agent for referrals to trusted home inspectors, title companies, and other professionals you’ll need during the process. Remember, these professionals are there to guide you. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek clarification on any aspect of the home buying process you don’t understand.

Selling a home can be a daunting task, but with the right guidance, it can be a smooth and successful process. At Hilton Homes - Seller Seminar, led by the knowledgeable Jessica Hilton-Smith, you can gain access to expert tips and strategies to help you sell your home effortlessly and for the highest price possible. One of the key aspects of selling your home with Hilton Homes is their 21st-century digital marketing strategy. In today's digital age, having a strong online presence is crucial when marketing a property. By leveraging social media, targeted ads, and professional photography, Hilton Homes ensures that your home gets the attention it deserves from potential buyers. Additionally, Jessica's background in education brings a unique perspective to the real estate business. Her ability to communicate effectively and educate clients throughout the selling process sets Hilton Homes apart from the rest. Whether you're a first-time seller or a seasoned homeowner, you can count on Jessica to provide the guidance and support you need every step of the way. Furthermore, Hilton Homes is affiliated with eXp Realty, one of the largest independent real estate brokerage firms in the nation. This partnership gives sellers access to a global network of agents, increasing the visibility of your property to a wider audience of potential buyers. When selling your home with Hilton Homes, you can expect a personalized and expert service that prioritizes creating lasting relationships with clients. By collaborating with a network of trusted professionals, Jessica ensures that every aspect of the selling process is taken care of efficiently and effectively. In conclusion, if you're looking to sell your home in the Tulsa Metro Area, consider attending Hilton Homes - Seller Seminar for valuable insights and expert tips on how to achieve a successful sale. With their innovative digital marketing strategies, personalized service, and strong network of professionals, selling your home with Hilton Homes is a decision you won't regret.

Are you considering selling your home in the Tulsa Metro Area and want to ensure you get the best deal possible? Look no further than a unique real estate business led by a dedicated REALTOR® known for her personalized approach – think innovative digital marketing strategies that set a new standard in the industry. This business, a part of a renowned independent real estate brokerage firm, offers a Seller Seminar aimed at helping you navigate the sometimes daunting process of putting your home on the market. With a focus on building lasting relationships with clients, Hilton Homes is committed to making the selling process seamless and lucrative for you. Led by Jessica Hilton-Smith, an experienced professional with a background in education and a network of trusted professionals, this seminar will provide you with insights into maximizing your home's value. Whether you're a first-time seller or have been through the process before, Hilton Homes can offer valuable guidance to ensure you achieve the best possible outcome. By leveraging 21st-century digital marketing strategies, Hilton Homes ensures that your property gets the exposure it deserves in today's competitive market. With access to a global network of agents through their affiliation with eXp Realty, you can trust that your home will reach a wide pool of potential buyers. Attend the Seller Seminar to gain valuable knowledge on selling your home efficiently and for the highest price. Whether you're looking to downsize, upgrade, or relocate, Hilton Homes can help you achieve your real estate goals with expert advice and personalized service. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from the best in the business and maximize your home sale – reserve your spot at the upcoming seminar today.

Are you ready to unlock the secrets to a successful home sale? Look no further than Hilton Homes, led by the knowledgeable and dedicated Jessica Hilton-Smith. As a trusted REALTOR® in the Tulsa Metro Area, Jessica prides herself on providing a seamless selling experience for her clients. Hilton Homes sets itself apart with a modern approach to real estate, utilizing a comprehensive digital marketing strategy to showcase properties to potential buyers. With a background in education, Jessica brings a wealth of expertise to the table, ensuring that sellers receive top-notch service every step of the way. One unique aspect of Hilton Homes is its affiliation with eXp Realty, a premier brokerage firm known for its global network of agents. This partnership gives sellers access to a wide pool of resources and connections, ultimately leading to a successful sale at the best possible price. At Hilton Homes, the focus is not just on closing deals, but on building lasting relationships with clients. Jessica and her team go above and beyond to ensure that sellers feel supported and informed throughout the selling process. From staging advice to negotiation strategies, Hilton Homes is committed to making the selling experience as smooth and profitable as possible. If you're looking to sell your home in the Tulsa Metro Area, consider enlisting the expertise of Hilton Homes. With a personalized approach, a strong network of professionals, and a commitment to excellence, Jessica Hilton-Smith is your key to a successful home sale. Contact Hilton Homes today to get started on your journey towards selling your home with confidence.