"The goal isn't more money. The goal is living life on your terms." - Chris Brogan

Hey Everyone,

Welcome to this week’s edition of The Ridgeline Rundown!

Are you thinking about selling? Then this week's newsletter is a must-read. We're revealing the 3 biggest pricing mistakes sellers are making in today's market – mistakes that could cost you time and money. Learn how to price your home strategically and attract the right buyers.

As always, I'm here as a no-strings-attached resource for any real estate questions, market insights, or local happenings. Enjoy this week's updates, and reach out anytime!

Mortgage Minute

Mortgage rates, after a period of unusual stability, finally dipped below 7% for top-tier 30-year fixed loans, the first time since December 17th. This drop follows weaker-than-expected services sector data, which typically pushes rates lower. While some attribute additional bond market improvement to economic headwinds associated with new fiscal policies, others cite delays in those policies' implementation. Regardless of the cause, the result is lower rates.

The Insider’s Guide to Real Estate | Tips

The 3 Biggest Mistakes Sellers Are Making Right Now

If you want to sell your house, having the right strategies and expectations is key. But some sellers haven’t adjusted to where the market is today. They’re not factoring in that there are more homes for sale or that buyers are being more selective with their budgets. And those sellers are making some costly mistakes.

Here’s a quick rundown of the 3 most common missteps sellers are making, and how partnering with an expert agent can help you avoid every single one of them.

1. Pricing the Home Too High 

   According to a survey by John Burns Real Estate Consulting (JBREC) and Keeping Current Matters (KCM), real estate agents agree the #1 thing sellers struggle with right now is setting the right price for their house (see graph below):

   

   And more often than not, homeowners tend to overprice their listings. If you aren’t up to speed on what’s happening in your local market, you may give in to the temptation to price high so you can have as much wiggle room as possible to negotiate. You don’t want to do this.

   Today’s buyers are more cautious due to higher rates and tight budgets, and a price that feels out of reach will scare them off. And if no one’s looking at your house, how’s it going to sell? This is exactly why more sellers are having to do price cuts.

   To avoid this headache, trust your agent’s expertise from day 1. A great agent will be able to tell you what your neighbor’s house just sold for and how that impacts the value of your home.

   2. Skipping Repairs

      Another common mistake is trying to avoid doing work on your house. That leaky faucet or squeaky door might not bother you, but to buyers, small maintenance issues can be red flags. They may assume those little flaws are signs of bigger problems — and it could cost you when offers come in lower or buyers ask for concessions. As Investopedia says:

   The solution? Work with your agent to prioritize anything you’ll need to tackle before the photographer comes in. These minor upgrades can pay off big when it’s time to sell.

   3. Refusing To Negotiate

      Buyers today are feeling the pinch of high home prices and mortgage rates. With affordability that tight, they may come in with an offer that’s lower than you want to see. Don’t take it personally. Instead, focus on the end goal: selling your house. Your agent can help you negotiate confidently without letting emotions cloud your judgment.

   At the same time, with more homes on the market, buyers have options — and with that comes more negotiating power. They may ask for repairs, closing cost assistance, or other concessions. Be prepared to have these conversations. Again, lean on your agent to guide you. Sometimes a small compromise can seal the deal without derailing your bottom line. As U.S. News Real Estate explains:

   The Biggest Mistake of All? Not Using a Real Estate Agent

   Notice anything? For each of these mistakes, partnering with an agent helps prevent them from happening in the first place. That makes trying to sell your house without an agent’s help the biggest mistake of all.

   Bottom Line

   Avoid these common mistakes by starting with the right plan — and the right agent. Let’s connect so you don’t fall into any of these traps.

Featured Listing

Colorado Springs Social Scene

Military News and Updates

El Paso County to consider forever chemicals testing agreement with Air Force

Kids across the nation from families of numerous military branches have been selected as semifinalists for the Military Child of the Year Award, including six from Colorado Springs and surrounding areas.

The Military Child of the Year Award is presented by Operation Homefront, a national nonprofit working to build strong, stable, and secure military families. The yearly award celebrates the accomplishments of America’s military children by recognizing the positive influence they have on their families, schools, and communities, despite the unique challenges these young people often face as they serve the nation alongside their parents. 

Feel free to reach out with any real estate questions—I’m here to help, no matter the state!

Referrals are the biggest compliment, so send anyone my way. Until next time!