LeAnne Carswell's (leannecarswell) Blog

The holidays are almost here, and your home is about to be center stage for festive getherings and cozy reunions.Whether you're looking forward to hosting or dreading it, the good news is that you don't have to empty your wallet while prepping your home. As a real estate agent, I've seen firsthan...

Homeownership is amazing—but it's also a total lifestyle shift from the rental days. From surprise plumbing issues to finally being able to pick paint colors, there's a whole lot that changes. If you're considering making the leap, understanding these shifts can prepare you for what lies ahead an...

You might be thinking, 'Am I missing out on options if I don't buy a home during the peak session?'While it's true that spring and summer typically bring an influx of listings, they also bring more competition and, in turn, higher prices. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), h...

Are climate risks part of your home search checklist? If not, you might be missing critical information that impacts your long-term investment. The Zillow Consumer Housing Trends Report 2024 shows that a growing number of buyers are considering factors like flooding, wildfires, and extreme temera...

Since September, mortgage rates have been on a rollercoaster. They first dipped into the low 5% range only to climb past 7% by the end of October. Yikes. If you're feeling overwhelmed, you're not alone. These rate fluctuations can make home buying feel like a guessing game. Fortunately, you don't...

If you're about to buy a home, you might think you've budgeted everything. But are you prepared for all the fees that come with closing?  Nearly 91% of buyers in the Zillow Consumer Housing Trends Report 2024 said they encountered at least one unexpected cost during the closing process.  Let’s br...

Thinking about updating your home? You're not alone. Over the past five years, 94% of homeowners completed a major renovation project. Whether it’s a fresh coat of paint or a full bathroom remodel, staying on top of the latest trends can help you make smart decisions that add value and enjoyment ...

By now, you’ve probably heard about the news: the Federal Reserve recently cut interest rates for the first time in four years.  But what does that really mean for home buyers and sellers? You might be wondering how this impacts mortgage rates, home prices, or your ability to make a move in today...

For most homeowners, selling a home feels less like a straightforward transaction and more like taking on a second job. A job that doesn’t just demand your money but also your most precious resource: time. In fact, according to recent data, selling a home can consume over a third of your waking h...

No matter how many elections you’ve lived through, each one can feel a bit like a wildcard when November draws near and you’re wondering whether you should make a move—or wait until the dust settles. Generally speaking, presidential elections have only a small and temporary impact on the housing ...