The Federal Reserve signaled possible rate cuts to come, which could influence lower mortgage rates and spur housing activity. Mortgage rates, which averaged 6.63% this week, according to Freddie Mac, are likely to feel downward pressure after the Federal Reserve on Wednesday held its key short-term interest rate steady and indicated possible rate cuts to come, housing analysts say. Economists expect a more robust real estate market this year if rate predictions hold true. Although the Fed’s rate does not directly impact mortgage rates, it often influences them Jessica Lautz, deputy chief economist at the National Association of REALTORS®, anticipates mortgage rates to remain in the 6% range for most of the year. “While this is certainly higher than the historic lows seen in 2020 and 2021, this is lower than the historical norm of 7.74%,” Lautz says. With less volatility in mortgage rates, consumers may feel more confident to resume house hunting. Last fall, mortgage rates surged to nearly 8%, shaking buyer confidence and causing home sales to dip. This week’s 6.63% average translates to about $251 less for a typical monthly mortgage payment compared to fall when rates hit a peak, Lautz says. Mortgage rates have held relatively stable for nearly two months, which is bringing more buyers back into the housing market, says Sam Khater, Freddie Mac’s chief economist. Further, “the economy continues to outperform due to solid job and income growth, while household formation is increasing at rates above pre-pandemic levels,” he says. “These favorable factors should provide fundamental support to the market in the months ahead.” Lower mortgage rates are helping to improve housing affordability, adds NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun. Pending home sales rose 8.3% in December and are now higher than a year ago, NAR’s latest housing report shows. Homeowners also may find more incentive to sell. “Many delayed home sellers may be willing to give up 3% to 4% rates as life circumstances have changed, thereby boosting inventory,” Yun says. “Home sales will no doubt rise this year.” NAR is forecasting a 13% increase in existing-home sales compared to 2023. That rising trend is expected to continue into 2025, with another 15.8% uptick, NAR notes. Freddie Mac reports the following national averages with mortgage rates for the week ending Feb. 1: 30-year fixed-rate mortgages: averaged 6.63%, dropping from last week’s 6.69% average. Last year at this time, 30-year rates averaged 6.09%. 15-year fixed-rate mortgages: averaged 5.94%, falling from last week’s 5.96% average. A year ago, 15-year rates averaged 5.14%. --------------- Source: NAR

KEY POINTS The average rate on the 30-year fixed mortgage hit 7.04% on Monday, according to Mortgage News Daily. Mortgage rates have been on a wild ride since the summer, briefly crossing to a 20-year high of 8% in October. With the all-important spring housing market closing in, rates are more important than ever, given high and still-rising home prices. The average rate on the popular 30-year fixed mortgage crossed over 7% on Monday for the first time since December, hitting 7.04%, according to Mortgage News Daily. It comes after the rate took the sharpest jump in more than a year Friday, after the January employment report came in much higher than expected. Rates then moved up even more Monday after a monthly manufacturing report came in high as well. Mortgage rates have been on a wild ride since the summer, briefly crossing to a 20-year high of 8% in October. Rates then fell sharply, as investors saw more and more evidence that the Federal Reserve would end its latest phase of interest rate increases. Mortgage rates do not follow the Fed directly, but they follow loosely the yield on the 10-year Treasury, which is heavily influenced by the central bank’s impression of the economy at any given time. “The rapid increase in rates over the past two days is actually not too surprising given the fact that the market was widely seen as overly optimistic on the Fed rate cut outlook. The Fed has repeatedly pointed to economic data having the final say in that outlook and data has been shockingly unfriendly to rates as of Friday morning’s jobs report,” said Matthew Graham, chief operating officer at Mortgage News Daily. As mortgage rates fell over the past two months, buyers seemed to be returning to the market. That coincided with a slight uptick in the number of homes for sale. Total inventory, however, is still historically low and is keeping competition high. It is also keeping home prices stubbornly hot. High prices and low supply combined to make 2023 the worst for home sales since 1995. Most predict 2024 will be better. “The strong job market is good news for the spring buying season as higher household incomes are a necessary component, but it also means that mortgage rates are not likely to drop much further at this point,” said Michael Fratantoni, chief economist at the Mortgage Bankers Association. Mortgage applications to purchase a home had been rising steadily, but fell back in the last few weeks, as mortgage rates edged higher. With the all-important spring housing market closing in, rates are more important than ever, given high and still-rising home prices. The median price of an existing home sold in December (the most recent data) was $382,600, according to the National Association of Realtors, an increase of 4.4% from December 2022. That was the sixth consecutive month of year-over-year price gains. The median price for the full year was $389,800, a record high. Given how high prices are, even small rate swings are having an outsized effect on monthly payments, which are the final determination of affordability. Just a half percentage point swing can cost or save a buyer more than $200 a month on the median-priced home. So what next? “The future of rates in 2024 is all about ifs and thens,” said Graham. “If we see more data like last Friday’s jobs report, rates will have a hard time getting back below 7%. But inflation is even more important than the labor market. If inflation comes in cooler than expected, it could balance the outlook.” ------------------- Source: CNBC

There’s nothing quite like walking into a professionally designed home. Everything looks fresh and beautiful—with every item thoughtfully curated. If you’re not a designer, you might be wondering, “Where did they buy that?” While many designers stick to shopping trade-only stores—those aren't their only sources for furniture and decor. It's possible to get the designer look if you know where to go and what to look for. Here are 16 stores where interior designers love to shop. Lulu And Georgia Interior designer and HGTV star Shay Holland is a big fan of Lulu and Georgia. “If you want a timeless, luxe look for your space, Lulu and Georgia is the place to look over and over again.” While Holland generally prefers brick-and-mortar stores, she tells me Lulu And Georgia is one of the few places she truly trusts for online shopping. “I’m a huge fan of their stylish kitchenware and you can find very reasonably priced decorative accents of exceptional quality. Known for its wide range of rugs, the company also has a great sale section.” But Holland isn’t the only designer touting this retailer. Designers Erin Loscialpo and Meredith Gough of Darby Wallis Design highly laud the brand’s collaboration with Sarah Sherman Samuel, which features everything from furniture to lighting and rugs. TJX Stores While many are under the impression that designers only shop at expensive or obscure stores—this simply isn’t true according to interior designer Kate Dawson, calling big box stores including HomeGoods, HomeSense, TJ Maxx, and Marshalls (all of which have the same parent company (TJX) her absolute favorite places to source decor. “They have a huge, ever-changing inventory that gets replenished pretty much every day. These stores never disappoint! You can find fabulous pillows, beautiful pairs of picture frames, stunning and large pieces of art, contemporary pairs of lamps, and fantastic faux plants all at a great price point! Which always pleases my clients.” While many of Dawson’s projects are accessibly priced, she reveals that end designers also hit up the discounters as well. “These stores are every designer's secret (not-so-secret) weapon when it comes to finishing off a space.” Tumbleweed and Dandelion Tumbleweed and Dandelion has a brick-and-mortar location on Abbot Kinney in Venice, California but also sells online. Holland tells me this store is always at the top of her list for creating homes with a coastal, cottage, or California vibe. “I met the owner, Lizzie McGraw when I walked into the store while while sourcing furnishings for our HGTV families. The location in Venice Beach is actually where Lizzie once lived and now the rooms are filled with her touches, from signature scented soy wax candles infused with essential oils to custom home furnishings.” McGraw is best known for designing celebrity homes including those of Josh Brolin, Sharon Osbourne, and Brooke Burke. “Despite its star ties, Tumbleweed and Dandelion pieces definitely invoke that laid-back coastal ease my clients crave,” explains the designer. Ballard Designs Interior designer Jennifer Hunter loves Ballard designs. With something for every room in the home, it’s an excellent source for traditional and contemporary pieces. However, what sets Ballard apart is that they upholster pieces with fabrics provided by the customer. “It is a wonderful way to go custom without the price tag,” she explains. West Elm Looking for a big-ticket item like a desk or bed? You can’t go wrong at West Elm. Many designers love this store, including the founders of Darby Wallis Design. The tabletop offerings are also worth exploring according to designer Andrea DeRosa of Avenue Interior Design. “We adore a great fashion collaboration and especially love the West Elm X Rhode collaboration. We want everything from this collab.” McGee And Company McGee and Company has a huge following among interior designers including Audrey Scheck. “Renowned interior designer, Shea McGee, expertly curates a wide selection of products spanning pillows, decor, furniture, rugs, art, kitchen accessories, and lighting. Their products are trendy yet timeless, and they are suitable for a wide range of design aesthetics.” So even if you can’t have Shea McGee personally design your home, this shop is the next best thing. Target While many will argue that buying socks, sunscreen, and home furnishings from the same place isn’t necessarily a good thing—Target is the exception to this rule. Loscialpo and Gough are fans of Target, specifically the Studio McGee line. A fantastic value, it has a similar vibe to McGee and Company for so much less. For example, while a McGee And Company burl wood side table costs $900, the Target version is just $140. It’s ideal for mixing and matching to complete the look at an attainable cost. Minted Finding affordable artwork can be a challenge, but according to Loscialpo and Gough, with Minted, it doesn’t have to be. “Minted is a great source for artwork, as they curate from local artists all over the world to give a home a unique, personal feel.” While Minted is probably best known for its stationery, the decor also scores points with interior designers. With a variety of prints and framing options, there’s something for everyone. Rejuvenation Hardware can make or break a kitchen or bathroom. One of the best places to source unique hardware is Rejuvenation. “Specializing in premium kitchen and bathroom products, Rejuvenation is known for its excellent selection of hardware. Most of their pieces are available in an array of beautiful finishes that add a luxe touch to any space,” says Scheck. Dinosaur Designs Dinosaur Designs isn’t exactly a household name in the States just yet, but for those looking for interesting pieces unavailable anywhere else DeRosa suggests checking it out. “Dinosaur Designs is an Australian-based company specializing in resin and no two vessels are the same.” This shop’s serveware and drinkware are the epitome of chic whimsical. Best of all, it’s the perfect place to scour for housewarming gifts. Oka Oka is a ideal store for those who want something unique, but don’t want to hunt for it. “Oka has wonderful ceramic lamps with custom-looking lamp shades in beautiful block prints. Everyone is always asking where we purchased the lamps,” says Hunter. Anthropologie Once considered just a clothing retailer, Anthropologie has leveled up its furniture game in recent years, delivering a vintage aesthetic without the stress or price tag. “Anthropologie has great collaborations with designers like Amber Lewis where the pieces look one of a kind or vintage. No one ever believes that it came from Anthropologie,” says Hunter. The brand’s collaboration with House of Hackney is also a true winner with gorgeous pieces that look like nothing else. Estate Sales It’s not just bargain hunters who like to hit up estate sales every weekend, it’s also interior designers according to Dawson. “I love to go to estate sales—mainly for glassware. I have found the most beautiful wine glasses, decanters, martini glasses, and even cordials at these sales, and with the popularity of home bars continuing to be a trend, there is no better place to find unique and beautiful glassware to fill your open shelves. Adding unique pieces like this always elevates a design.” ---------------- Source: Forbes

KEY POINTS One-quarter of American ultra-high-net individuals plan to buy a home this year, according to a new Douglas Elliman and Knight Frank Wealth Report. The ultrawealthy ranked “lifestyle” and “investment” at the top of their list of priorities, followed by taxes and safety. The report forecasts that Miami and New York will be the best-performing U.S. luxury markets this year. Globally, the top market for luxury real estate is expected to be Auckland, New Zealand. The ultrawealthy are looking for a better lifestyle and strong investment when it comes to buying their next home, according to a new study. One-quarter of American ultra-high-net individuals, or those worth $30 million or more, plan to buy a residential property this year, according to the Douglas Elliman and Knight Frank Wealth Report. The average ultra-high-net-worth individual already owns four homes, according to the report. One-quarter of their residential portfolio is outside their home country. When it comes to priorities for their next big purchase, the ultrawealthy ranked “lifestyle” and “investment” at the top of the list, followed by taxes and safety. While luxury real estate has been buffeted by many of the same pressures as the rest of the market — low supply, slow sales, rising prices — the ultra-high-end has fared slightly better. Last year in the U.S., there were 34 sales over $50 million, down from 45 in 2022 but still way up from the pre-pandemic years. With interest rates stabilizing and possibly falling this year, real estate experts say there are early signs that luxury supply may be growing, which could lead to more sales. “If we do see a pivot to lower rates, or at least more confidence that inflation is going in the right direction, I think you will begin to see inventory building up again,” said Liam Bailey, partner and global head of research at Knight Frank. The report forecasts that the best-performing U.S. luxury market this year for price growth will be Miami, with an expected increase of 4%, according to the report. New York ranked second in the U.S., with expected price growth of 2%, followed by Los Angeles with 1% growth. Globally, the top market for luxury real estate is expected to be Auckland, New Zealand, with projected price growth of 10% in 2024. Mumbai ranks second, at 5.5%; followed by Dubai (5%); Madrid (5%); Sydney (5%); and Stockholm (4.5%). Last year, the world’s top 100 luxury real estate markets posted a solid 3% gain on average price. The best-performing luxury real estate market in the world was Manila, Philippines, with 26% growth, fueled in part by investors fleeing Hong Kong and China. Dubai came in second place, at 16% price growth, followed by the Bahamas at 15% and the Algarve region in Portugal at 12%. Among the worst performers last year were New York, with prices down 2%, and San Francisco, basically flat at 0.5%. The biggest decline in the world among prime markets was Oxford, in the U.K., down 8%. Bailey said ultrawealthy American buyers are increasingly venturing overseas. He said U.S. buyers are now the leading foreign purchasers of ultraprime London properties — those priced above $10 million. They are also increasingly active in Europe. “They’ve become quite a big presence, so much more noticeable now in Italy, France and Portugal particularly than they were,” Bailey said. “I think the American buyers have become much happier to explore and kind of think about alternatives.” Still, $1 million doesn’t buy what it used to in the U.S. and abroad. In Monaco, the world’s most expensive real estate market, $1 million gets you 172 square feet of prime real estate, according to the Wealth Report. In Aspen, you get 215 square feet, while in Hong Kong, you get 237 square feet, which makes New York look like a bargain with 367 square feet. -------------------- Source: CNBC

New research shows that house hunters are willing to accept a smaller property as long as it has these key amenities. Home buyers appear willing to sacrifice property size to afford homeownership, as the average size of a newly constructed house drops to its lowest level in 13 years—2,479 square feet, according to new research from the National Association of Home Builders. Twenty-six percent of builders say they plan to build even smaller in 2024, the research shows. But while buyers may accept a smaller home, they want it to be more personalized, said Donald Ruthroff, founding principal at Design Story Spaces LLC, during a press conference this week at the International Builders’ Show in Las Vegas. “They want it to feel like it was made just for them and be significantly different than their neighbors’ homes,” he said. Ruthroff added that an example of this personalization could be a kitchen island that resembles a piece of furniture. Nearly 40% of home buyers say they’re willing to buy a home with a smaller lot while 35% say they’d buy a smaller house, according to the NAHB survey, called “What Home Buyers Really Want(link is external).” Respondents who opt for a smaller home say they’d be most willing to shrink spaces like the home office (53%) and the dining room (52%). But they’re not willing to sacrifice the size of the kitchen or closets, said Rose Quint, NAHB’s assistant vice president of survey research, at the press conference. Buyers are prioritizing other key features around the home. Eighty percent or more of home buyers in NAHB’s survey rate the following property amenities as “essential” or “desirable”: Laundry room Patio Energy Star windows Exterior lighting Ceiling fan Garage storage Front porch Hardwood flooring Full bath on the main level Energy Star appliances Walk-in pantry Landscaping Table space in the kitchen Technology features are gaining popularity, too. Over the last decade, the following home features have posted the most significant growth among home buyers, according to NAHB: Security cameras Wired home security system Programmable thermostat Multi-zone HVAC system Energy management system Video doorbell “Buyers want technology mostly to increase the safety of their home and also to better control the temperature inside their home,” Quint said. She also flagged other home features posting significant growth over the past 10 years, including: Quartz or engineered stone for kitchen countertops Lighting control system Outdoor fireplace Outdoor kitchen Built-in seating in the kitchen Exposed beams Also, with the growth of multigenerational living, more home buyers appear to prefer two primary bedroom suites rather than one: 55% say they prefer this layout, NAHB data shows. What Builders Are Prioritizing NAHB also surveyed homebuilders to find the features they say they’re most likely to include in a newly built home in 2024. Topping their list: Laundry room Great room (kitchen/family/living room) Nine-foot-plus first-floor ceilings Central island in kitchen Walk-in closet in primary bedroom Low-E windows Walk-in pantry Front porch Programmable thermostat Two-car garage Indoor fireplace Patio Quartz kitchen countertops On the other hand, some of the least likely features builders say they’ll include in a typical home in 2024 include cork flooring for living areas on the main level, geothermal heat pump, dual toilets in a primary bath, glass walls and a pet washing station, the NAHB survey finds. --------------- Source: NAR

According to hommes.studio , fall decor should emphasize natural elements, earthy tones, and quiet luxury, bringing warmth and comfort to your living spaces in 2024. As f all arrives, it's the perfect time to refresh your home with the latest seasonal trends. Here are seven key trends to incorporate into your home this season. 1. Embrace Earthy Tones Fall 2024 is all about rich, nature-inspired colors like terracotta, muted greens, and warm browns. These tones create a cozy, grounded atmosphere that can be used as a primary palette or as accents to brighten your space. 2. Natural Materials Sustainability remains a key focus this year, with natural materials like wood, stone, and linen taking center stage. These elements not only look beautiful but also enhance well-being, bringing a touch of nature indoors. 3. Luxurious Textures Velvet continues to dominate fall decor, adding elegance and warmth. Whether through throw pillows or larger furniture pieces, velvet's plush texture creates a cozy, sophisticated vibe. 4. Personalized Design Individualism is a big trend this season, with unique, custom pieces adding personality to any space. Think antique finds or handcrafted furniture that reflect your style. 5. Mixed Metals Mixing metals, like combining brass with brushed nickel, adds a subtle layer of sophistication to any room. Incorporate this trend through lighting, hardware, or decorative accents. 6. Quiet Luxury Understated elegance is key this fall. Focus on quality materials like leather and cashmere to create a serene, luxurious environment without bold patterns or colors. 7. Mono-Rooms For a unified, immersive look, consider creating a mono-room by using a single color or material throughout. This cohesive design approach works especially well in smaller spaces, making them feel larger and more intentional. By embracing these trends, you can transform your home into a cozy, stylish retreat that reflects the best of the season. Get in touch with the Benson Group today to explore homes that match your budget and lifestyle perfectly! Source: hommes.studio

The Bay Area, famous for its rich history and breathtaking landscapes, harbors a spooky secret. According to the San Francisco Chronicle, two of its luxurious hotels have earned a spot on Historic Hotels of America's exclusive list of "America’s Most Haunted." Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa: Ghosts in Wine Country Nestled in the serene Sonoma Valley, the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa offers more than just relaxation—guests and staff have long reported encounters with the supernatural. One of the most infamous figures is Victoria, an early settler who celebrated her wedding and anniversaries at the hotel. On foggy nights, she is said to stroll the inn’s hallways, making her ghostly presence known. The paranormal activity doesn’t stop there. The inn is also home to the eerie figure of an elderly man, frequently spotted in one of its oldest rooms. This room, dating back to the 1920s, has a chilling backstory. A guest was reportedly beheaded in the bathtub by a jealous lover, and since then, visitors have experienced flickering lights, strange noises, and even shadowy figures—proof that Wine Country offers more than just a great vintage. Claremont Club & Spa: Berkeley’s Paranormal Playground Across the bay, Berkeley’s historic Claremont Club & Spa, which opened in 1915, has developed its own eerie reputation. Phantom elevators that move without cause, unexplained voices, and ghostly sightings have sparked ghost stories for over a century. Among the most talked-about spirits is a peaceful apparition of a 6-year-old girl. Guests have described encounters with her at night, where she gently reaches out, as if to greet them. Whether you're a fan of historic hotels or a thrill-seeker looking for a brush with the paranormal, these Bay Area landmarks are sure to give you an unforgettable stay. Source: www.sfchronicle.com

According to the Keeping Current Matters, if selling your home in 2025 is on the horizon, now’s the ideal time to start preparing. While the new year may seem far off, starting early can make a big difference in how smoothly the process goes. Prepping in advance means you’ll have ample time to address repairs, updates, and any improvements that will help your home stand out when it hits the market. Why Early Prep Matters Getting an early start on your home prep helps you pace out tasks like repairs, decluttering, and possible upgrades—ensuring your property shines. Whether it’s fixing a leaky faucet, refreshing your landscaping, or adding a fresh coat of paint, knocking out tasks now reduces last-minute stress. When your home looks its best, it has a stronger chance of selling quickly and for a favorable price. Key Improvements to Consider If you’re ready to start on your to-do list, think about the areas of your home that have the highest impact on buyers. Common improvements for sellers include enhancing curb appeal, refreshing interiors with paint, and ensuring appliances are in top shape. However, the most effective updates depend on your local market, which is where a local real estate agent’s insight becomes essential. The Advantage of Working with a Local Agent A knowledgeable agent understands buyer preferences in your area and can guide you on which updates will yield the best returns. For instance, if nearby homes with updated kitchens are selling faster, an agent might advise focusing on kitchen enhancements over other changes. Local agents are also attuned to market trends, helping you decide if major updates, like a new roof or HVAC system, make sense based on recent home sales. Smaller touches, like landscaping, adding fresh mulch, or a freshly painted front door, can also have a big impact, and an agent can guide you through these cost-effective improvements. Bottom Line Planning to sell next year? Don’t wait to get your home market-ready. By starting now, you’ll be well-prepared to make a great impression on buyers when 2025 arrives. For guidance on prioritizing tasks, connect with a Benson Group and take the first step toward a successful sale. Source: www.keepingcurrentmatters.com

According to  The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), the "Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers" report since 1981 offers an in-depth analysis of home buying and selling trends over the past year. The 2024 report reveals pivotal trends shaping the real estate market today. 1. First-Time Home Buyers First-time buyers have reached a historical low, facing inventory shortages, high down payment challenges, and debt from rent, student loans, and other sources. Finding a suitable property remains the toughest step for these buyers. 2. Rising Household Income Household income among home buyers has climbed to new heights, with higher interest rates and rising home prices pushing income needs upward. In the last two years, incomes for first-time buyers have risen by an average of $26,000. 3. Median Age of Buyers The median age of home buyers is at an all-time high, as many save longer to buy in today’s competitive market. Both first-time and repeat buyers are older on average, with some repeat buyers moving after retirement. 4. Families with Children Under 18 Buyers with children under 18 represent only 27% of recent buyers—a historic low. The trend toward older buyers and delayed family planning has influenced this demographic. 5. Growing Interest in Multigenerational Homes Multigenerational living has grown to 17% of buyers, reflecting a shift toward larger homes for extended families or cost-saving arrangements as housing affordability declines. 6. Typical Down Payments on the Rise Down payments are the highest since 1997 for first-time buyers and 2003 for repeat buyers, as homeowners leverage increased home equity for larger down payments and lower monthly mortgage payments. 7. Surge in All-Cash Purchases All-cash home purchases are at a record high of 26%, partly due to the use of inheritance and financial assets among first-time buyers and home equity for repeat buyers. 8. Increased Urban Purchases City living is back in demand, with 16% of buyers moving to urban areas—the highest in a decade. Most buyers still prefer suburbs and small towns, but urban areas offer dynamic communities and amenities beyond workplace proximity. 9. Buyers’ Use of Real Estate Agents A significant 88% of home buyers rely on real estate agents for support, from finding the right property to negotiating deals. Real estate agents play an essential role in helping buyers make informed decisions. 10. Sellers’ Use of Agents For sellers, 90% used an agent, favoring professional expertise for pricing, marketing, and finding buyers. FSBO (For Sale By Owner) sales are at a historic low of 6%. These trends underscore the evolving dynamics of the real estate market, from home affordability challenges to rising demand for multigenerational housing and professional guidance in transactions. Source: The National Association of REALTORS®

According to US News , moving is one of the most stressful life events, ranking just behind divorce and the death of a loved one. Amid the whirlwind of packing, coordinating with movers, and settling into a new home, it’s easy to overlook crucial steps that can make your transition smoother and safer. While unpacking boxes and arranging furniture often take center stage, some less obvious tasks are just as important for your peace of mind and long-term comfort. Here are 8 commonly forgotten tasks  every homeowner should prioritize when moving into a new home: 1. Deep Clean Before Moving In Starting with a clean slate is key. Many homeowners rush to move in without giving their new home a proper deep cleaning. Whether you tackle this yourself or hire professionals, make sure to clean areas like cabinets, drawers, and closets, where previous owners may have left behind unexpected—and sometimes dangerous—items. Thorough cleaning not only creates a fresh environment but also makes future upkeep easier. 2. Change the Toilet Seats This simple, low-cost change is often overlooked. Swapping out toilet seats ensures better hygiene and eliminates lingering germs from previous occupants. It’s a quick and easy DIY task, and it’s well worth the peace of mind. 3. Change the Locks Even if you receive all the keys at closing, there’s no way to guarantee that others—like former housekeepers or dog walkers—don’t still have copies. Changing locks or rekeying existing ones is a cost-effective way to secure your new home and your family’s safety. 4. Replace and Clean Filters Don’t underestimate the importance of clean filters. Air filters, dryer vents, and even dishwasher filters can harbor dirt, lint, or debris left behind by the previous owners. A clogged dryer vent, for example, can become a fire hazard. Checking and replacing these filters improves air quality, efficiency, and safety. 5. Test and Update Smoke Detectors Smoke detectors are vital safety devices that require regular maintenance. Test each one upon moving in and replace batteries or units as needed. Don’t rely on assumptions; take the time to ensure your detectors are fully operational. 6. Update Your Address Everywhere Filing a change of address with the postal service is just the start. Update your address with key entities like your bank, insurance provider, driver’s license, voter registration, and subscription services. Forgetting this step could lead to misplaced packages or important documents being sent to your old address. 7. Reset Smart-Home Systems If your new home features smart locks, thermostats, or security systems, reset these devices to ensure that only you have access. Neglecting this step could leave your home vulnerable to previous owners or third parties. 8. Create a Receipt Folder for Future Tax Benefits Homeownership comes with long-term considerations, including potential tax advantages. Start a dedicated folder (physical or digital) for receipts related to home improvements, like renovations or system upgrades. These expenses can help reduce capital gains taxes when you sell the property in the future. Even small projects, like adding grab bars in a bathroom, can add up over time. Taking these proactive steps helps set the tone for a successful move and ensures that your new house feels like home from day one. Change the Locks! Eight Commonly Forgotten Tasks When Moving into a New Home Contact Benson Group  today to learn more about streamlining your move and protecting your investment. From start to finish, we’re here to guide you with expert advice and personalized solutions. Source: US News

According to Keeping Current Matter, a recent study from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows that 61% of sellers completed at least minor repairs before selling their homes. However, 39% of sellers chose to sell as-is, often due to time, budget, or resource constraints. What Does Selling As-Is Really Mean? Selling as-is means you won't make any repairs before the sale, and you won’t negotiate fixes after a buyer’s inspection. While this may seem like an easier option, it comes with trade-offs. Homes that are updated tend to sell for more, as buyers are often willing to pay a premium for a move-in ready home. Selling as-is may attract fewer buyers and could result in a longer time on the market, potentially leading to a lower sale price. The good news is that 56% of buyers are open to purchasing a home that needs work, especially in today’s market, where affordability remains a challenge. This means there may still be buyers willing to take on the necessary repairs themselves. A skilled agent can help you evaluate your options by comparing local sales and advising on pricing strategies. Whether you choose to sell as-is or make repairs, your agent will market your home effectively, emphasizing its best features to attract buyers. Selling as-is is possible in today’s market, but it’s essential to understand the trade-offs. To ensure you're making the best decision for your sale, contact Benson Group today . Our team of professionals will guide you every step of the way to help you achieve the best possible outcome. Source: keepingcurrentmatters.com

According to ElleDecor, a fireplace can transform any room into a cozy winter retreat. Whether you’re looking to enhance your living room, bedroom, or outdoor space, there are endless ways to incorporate a fireplace for warmth and ambiance. 1. Sultry Red Mantel This sophisticated setup features rich red velvet armchairs paired with red-velvet-lined stockings and a minimal bordering garland, creating an elegant and festive vibe perfect for holiday hibernation. 2. Merry Mantel Designer Ken Fulk's cozy, evergreen-laden mantel is a masterclass in maximalism, featuring a heaping spray of evergreen leaves, doubled by more greenery, topped with white blooms and a knowing deer overseeing the room for a touch of snowy enchantment. 3. Snowy Mantel Anthropologie’s holiday collection offers voluminous boughs of evergreen and warm twinkle lights, creating a chic and seasonal ambiance without the need for blow-up cartoon figures, just perfect for a more sophisticated holiday decor. 4. Patterned Mantel New York designer Phillip Thomas turns holiday decor on its head with a pair of blue Ming vases housing a billowing spray of seasonal greens, complemented by tasteful pomegranates for a unique, decorative flair. 5. Vintage Mantel Embrace nostalgia with this charming setup featuring a mix of saved mementos, found antiques, and dried foliage, creating a cozy ambiance that evokes Christmases of yesteryear. The cocooning leather chair adds to the vintage feel. 6. Modern Mantel Chandos Collective offers a clean, modern aesthetic with a floor-to-mantel garland of colorful foliage and greens, making it the perfect backdrop for a glorious tall Christmas tree and adding a fresh, vibrant touch to any living room. 7. Rustic Mantel Moment A perfect blend of hygge and holiday cheer, this rustic mantel utilizes an assortment of chopped wood, lit lanterns, and chic berry wreaths to create a cozy, woodsy feel that’s ideal for curling up with a book or a close friend. 8. Heightened Mantel Think outside the box with an elevated mantel design that stretches garland along the ceiling trim, enhanced by vertical-running lights for a majestic look that draws the eye upward, giving the room a sense of grandeur. 9. Colorful Mantel A coordinated color scheme of blue and red jars filled with candies complements the stockings, proving that a cackling fire isn’t always necessary to add warmth to a room. This lively setup is perfect for adding a festive pop of color. 10. High-Volume Mantel For a truly festive vibe, embrace abundance with a larger-than-life garland that matches the volume of your Christmas tree. This bold, over-the-top display will fill your space with a delightful evergreen aroma and plenty of holiday cheer. Ready to transform your holiday space with a cozy fireplace? Contact the Benson Group today to explore more decorating ideas and find the perfect home for your festive season. Source: elledecor.com