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The May BLS job report looked strong on the surface, but large (and consistent) downward revisions to prior months suggest that the labor market is loosening up more than the Fed lets on. Also, the May CPI report turned out much better (that is, lower) than feared.
A recap of May “jobs week”ADP: Almost no job growth in May. ADP reported that private employers added just 37,000 jobs in May — far below Wall Street expectations of around 120,000. Small companies (<50 employees) actually lost a net 13,000 jobs, and half of the industry categories tracked by ADP saw net job declines. [ADP]
BLS: Strong on the surface. In direct contrast to ADP’s data, the BLS jobs report showed that the US added a solid 139,000 jobs in May, with the unemployment rate steady at 4.2%. But wait…the prior two months’ numbers were revised down by 95,000 jobs! And the birth/death model — which is supposed to capture small business start-ups and failures — added nearly 200,000 jobs on a non-seasonally adjusted basis. [BLS]
TP: Real (ADP) vs. imputed (BLS). It’s getting to be a bit ridiculous. The birth-death model is adding imaginary jobs every month, and the initial BLS jobs numbers are typically revised down — twice!
Home inventory levels continue to rise. The May update of Realtor.com’s Residential Listing Database showed that active inventory (which excludes homes already under contract) had risen 31.5% YoY to 1,036,101 units. The last time we had over 1 million homes for sale was December 2019 — just before the pandemic spurred a massive inventory drawdown. [Realtor.com]
TP: Back in December 2019, we had 1 million active listings and homes were selling at a 5.0–5.5 million unit annual pace. Today we’re back above 1 million active listings, but we’re selling homes at a 4.0 million unit annual pace.
Median listing prices trending lower. Let’s start with this: median listing prices aren’t the best way to look at home price appreciation. That’s because they can be skewed significantly by the changing mix of properties for sale. That said, it’s worth noting that in 60% of the Top 100 metros, median listing prices are down year-over-year. In most cities, however, these declines are modest (1–3%), especially when compared to the gains over the past 5 years. [Realtor.com]
May CPI was better (lower) than expected. Both the “headline” and “core” CPI (Consumer Price Index = inflation for you and me) rose by just 0.1% month-over-month, which meant that annual “core” inflation remained at +2.8% YoY. Wall Street expectations were for “headline” CPI to rise by 0.2% MoM and for “core” CPI to climb 0.3% MoM. Phew! [BLS]
TP: This was a surprisingly tame inflation report. Many of the larger categories (energy, new & used car prices) saw prices FALL month-over-month. If not for the 0.3% MoM (+3.9% YoY) increase in Shelter costs (which have an incredible 44% weighting in “core” CPI), the index could have gone backwards. And if you annualize the last 3 months of “core” CPI increases, you get 1.7% — well below the Fed’s 2% target. Like we asked last week, How Close is Close Enough?
Home insurance costs are a disaster. According to analysis from Zillow, average annual home insurance premiums have risen 38% since 2019, far outstripping the 22% rise in average annual household income over the same period. What’s happening? Two things: 1) a ~50% rise in home prices since 2019 (so higher repair/replacement costs), and 2) an increased incidence of catastrophic $1bn+ claim events (bigger underwriting losses for insurers). [Zillow]
TP: Home insurance used to be something a potential homebuyer never really thought about much. Downpayment, monthly mortgage bills, annual property tax — sure. But now both the availability and affordability of home insurance is a major concern.
Last Friday, we got the important Bureau of Labor Statistics employment report. It showed that the US added 139,000 jobs in May — a bit higher than expectations — but the data for the previous two months was revised down by 95,000 jobs!
In fact, the initial jobs data almost always gets revised down — twice! The problem is that the bond market reacts immediately to the headline figure, but generally ignores the revisions. Why? Because people are too busy looking at the new month’s data to worry about the past!
As the table below shows, the number of jobs added in 2025 year-to-date has already been revised down by a total of 192,000 (that’s an average of 48,000 per month)!
And this certainly isn’t just a 2025 thing. In 2024, the monthly job additions were revised down by a total of 211,000 (~18,000 per month). And in 2023, the monthly job additions were revised down by a total of 360,000 (30,000 per month).
It really makes you wonder: would the Fed be so comfortable with interest rates this high if they could somehow see the revised jobs numbers first?
I love diving into the latest monthly numbers from Realtor.com’s Residential Listing Database. In May 2025, total active inventory (which excludes homes under contract) rose 8.0% month-over-month (pretty normal for this time of year) and 31.5% year-over-year to 1,036,101 units. That’s the first time we’ve had more than a million homes for sale since December 2019. At the national level, active inventory is now just 12% below pre-pandemic levels.
But as I’ve noted previously, the inventory situation is VERY different from state to state. Broadly speaking, the South and West have inventory levels that are near or above pre-pandemic levels, while the Northeast and Midwest have inventory levels that are still well below pre-pandemic levels.
Inventory is also concentrated in a few states. Florida and Texas alone represent 30% of the total active inventory in the country, despite only having 15% of the population. And both states’ inventory levels are ~30% above May 2019 levels. (Note: In May 2019, Florida and Texas had just 20% of the total active inventory in the country).
It’s a totally different situation for New York State and Pennsylvania, where inventory levels are still ~43% below pre-pandemic levels.
Inventory Levels for the Seven Largest States by Population
In fact, there are currently 10 states with inventory levels (May 2025) that are ABOVE pre-pandemic levels (May 2019). You’ll notice that the majority of these states are in the South or the mountain West. You may also recall that most of these states benefited heavily from pandemic-era migration trends AND saw huge home price movements.
10 States with Inventory Levels (May 2025) ABOVE Pre-Pandemic Levels (May 2019)
Colorado: +34.5%Texas: +32.5%Florida: +26.3%Washington: +25.8%Tennessee: +25.3%Arizona: +24.3%Idaho: +21.8%Utah: +18.8%Hawaii: +8.4%Oregon: +4.1%
So are home price trends reflecting the supply situation in these states? In general, yes. There are currently 20 states where median listing prices are DOWN year-over-year, and the majority of those were also in the list above (had inventory above pre-pandemic levels).
States where Median Listing Prices are Falling YoY (May 2024 vs. May 2019)
Kansas: -7.7% YoYHawaii: -6.7% YoYIowa: -5.4% YoYIllinois: -4.8% YoYMinnesota: -3.6% YoYArizona: -3.6% YoYUtah: -3.4% YoYColorado: -3.0% YoYMassachusetts: -2.9% YoYFlorida: -2.2% YoYNot shown: CT, TN, DE, MT, CA, OH, TX, NJ, MS, ID (all down by 2% or less)
It’s important to note a few things about the data above. First, we’re looking at median listing prices, which can easily be skewed by the “mix” of properties available. Second, you can’t look at supply in isolation; many of these states saw an influx of new residents, and that means higher demand. Third, we’re only looking at existing homes; and many of the states with inventory levels above pre-pandemic levels ALSO saw an apartment and home building boom.
The Realtor.com data also looks at the median listing price on a monthly basis. I was curious which cities were seeing the largest declines. Remember: the listing price can be seriously skewed by the mix of properties on sale from month to month — so this is a far-from-perfect measure of appreciation or depreciation. Still, here’s what I found:
We’ve got to be careful here, because more accurate measures of home price appreciation (Case-Shiller, FHFA etc.) are saying that home prices are still trending up in all the bigger cities except Tampa. And even Tampa is only down slightly after rising by ~70% over the previous 5 years.
Initially, the bond market took the May BLS jobs numbers pretty badly. But as economists and investors dissected the report, it became clear that this was a weaker job report than it appeared at first glance. We were also braced for a bad May CPI report, which was expected to show a reacceleration in annual inflation. Instead, both the “headline” and “core” indexes were pretty much flat (and could have gone backwards if not for Shelter costs).
Add this all together and US treasury yields and average 30-year mortgage rates were little changed. The mortgage market just can’t seem to shake 7%.
Here’s what the Fed Funds Rate futures market is currently pricing in for rate cuts. Note that the current Fed Funds Rate policy range is 4.25–4.50%.
Today we honor the journey toward freedom, equality, and justice while remembering that the work continues daily. Happy Juneteenth.
#thehelpfulagent #home #house #houseexpert #listreports #freedom #a061925 #freedomforall #juneteenth
https://www.carolinajournal.com/nc-moves-toward-cryptocurrency-adoption-with-new-bill-for-state-investments-in-digital-assets/
North Carolina Speaker of the House Destin Hall, R-Cladwell, introduced cryptocurrency legislation on Monday that would enable the state to invest in digital assets like Bitcoin, potentially making North Carolina a leader in aligning with the latest finance technology.
The NC Digital Assets Investments Act would diversify the state’s investments by allowing the state treasurer to include digital assets in the state’s investment portfolio. Reps. Stephen Ross, R-Alamance, Mark Brody, R-Union, and Mike Schietzelt, R-Wake, signed on as sponsors to HB92 .
“We are seeing a rapid shift towards embracing blockchain technology and digital assets across the United States,” said Hall. “Investing in digital assets like Bitcoin not only has the potential to generate positive yields for our state investment fund but also positions North Carolina as a leader in technological adoption & innovation. I am proud to sponsor this bill, and I thank my colleagues Representatives Ross and Brody for their work in previous sessions to set the stage for this bill now in 2025.”
According to a press release, key provisions of the bill include:
Notably, at just under $2 trillion in total market capitalization, Bitcoin is the only cryptocurrency that meets the requirements spelled out in the bill. The next largest crypto-asset, Ethereum, clocks in at approximately $317 billion.
Legislators pointed to a variety of reasons to invest in digital assets, such as the U.S. dollar facing periods of inflation and devaluation, as well as enhance the potential returns of our portfolio.
“Blockchain technology, decentralized finance, and other innovations in the crypto space will shape our future in many new ways. North Carolina is poised to capitalize on these emerging opportunities,” said Schietzelt.
Dan Spuller, Head of Industry Affairs at the Washington-based Blockchain Association and co-chair of the North Carolina Blockchain Initiative task force applauded House leaders for pushing the bill forward, noting previous legislation that aligned with the latest effort.
“North Carolina has led on digital asset policy, from the updated Money Transmitters Act of 2016 to the bipartisan Regulatory Sandbox Act of 2021 and last year’s HB 690, which prohibited Central Bank Digital Currencies,” said Spuller. “Passing HB 92 will further cement the state’s leadership in financial and technological innovation.”
As the temperatures rise, so does the competition in the real estate market. Summer is traditionally one of the busiest seasons for home buying, with families aiming to move before a new school year, and sellers eager to close before fall. But with high demand often comes high stakes. If you're hoping to buy a home during the summer, you’ll need a smart, strategic approach to stand out and secure the property you want. This guide will walk you through practical summer homebuyer strategies that can help you navigate a competitive market and come out ahead.
Why Summer Is a Hot Market for Homebuyers
In many regions, summer brings more inventory and more buyers to the market. With longer daylight hours and more flexible schedules, it's a natural time for house hunting. However, the influx of activity means bidding wars, faster sales, and fewer chances to hesitate. Homes can go under contract in a matter of days—or even hours. According to recent housing reports, homes listed in June or July often sell faster and at higher prices than during other times of the year. This makes preparation and decisiveness key to success.
Get Pre-Approved Before You Shop
One of the most effective ways to show sellers you're serious is to get pre-approved for a mortgage before you start viewing homes. Pre-approval is more than just a casual estimate; it’s a letter from your lender stating how much you're qualified to borrow based on your income, assets, and credit.
Benefits of Pre-Approval:
Tip: Don’t confuse pre-qualification with pre-approval. Sellers often favor offers backed by full pre-approval letters.
Act Quickly—But Thoughtfully
In a fast-paced market, time is of the essence. If you find a home that fits your needs and budget, don’t wait too long to make an offer. However, it’s equally important to stay grounded. Smart ways to move fast:
Make a Strong, Clean Offer
When competing against multiple buyers, it’s not always the highest bid that wins—it’s the best overall offer. A “clean” offer minimizes contingencies and uncertainty for the seller. Ways to strengthen your offer:
A trusted real estate agent can help craft an offer strategy that aligns with your goals while appealing to sellers.
Understand Local Market Conditions
Every market behaves differently. What works in one city or neighborhood may not apply elsewhere. Understanding local trends—such as average days on market, list-to-sale price ratios, and seasonal inventory cycles—can help you make informed decisions. Research tips:
Stay Flexible and Open-Minded
In a competitive summer market, it’s easy to get emotionally invested in “the one.” But being too rigid can cause you to miss great opportunities. Broaden your search criteria slightly and consider homes that might need light cosmetic updates or different layouts. Consider being flexible on:
Be Ready for a Bidding War—But Set Your Limits
In hot summer markets, bidding wars are common, especially for move-in-ready homes in desirable neighborhoods. While it can be tempting to keep upping your bid, it’s important to know your maximum and stick to it. How to prepare:
Partner with a Proactive Real Estate Agent
Having a knowledgeable and responsive buyer’s agent can make all the difference. In a fast-moving market, you need someone who can act quickly, negotiate confidently, and help you position yourself as the winning offer. Look for an agent who:
Prepare for Post-Acceptance Steps
Once your offer is accepted, things move quickly. Being organized and ready for the next phase is crucial. Make sure your lender, inspector, and other professionals are lined up ahead of time. Key next steps:
Final Thoughts: Success Favors the Prepared
Buying a home in the summer can be thrilling—but it’s not for the faint of heart. With more competition, buyers must be sharp, strategic, and prepared. By getting pre-approved, acting decisively, and working with the right real estate professionals, you’ll greatly increase your chances of landing the right home at the right price.
If you’re planning to make a move this summer, now is the time to prepare. Talk to a local agent, get your financing in order, and start exploring neighborhoods. With the right game plan, you’ll be ready to turn up the heat and win big—even in a sizzling market.
Ready to dive into your summer home search? Connect with us to start your journey and get tailored advice based on your market. Your dream home might be closer than you think!
Buying your first home is one of the most exciting—and overwhelming—milestones in life. From saving for a down payment to signing on the dotted line, there are many moving parts to manage. Whether you're dreaming of a cozy condo, a charming starter house, or a suburban townhouse, navigating the process with a solid plan can make all the difference. That’s where this ultimate checklist for first-time home buyers comes in.
Use this guide to walk through each step confidently and ensure you’re prepared for what lies ahead.
1. Evaluate Your Financial Readiness Before you browse listings or attend open houses, it's essential to assess your financial health.
2. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage Pre-approval shows sellers you're serious and financially prepared. It also helps you understand what you can realistically afford.
3. Define Your Home Buying Priorities Knowing what you want (and what you can compromise on) helps streamline the search.
4. Work with a Real Estate Agent A knowledgeable real estate agent is a game-changer for first-time buyers.
5. Start the House Hunt Now the fun begins! With your budget, priorities, and agent in place, start touring homes.
6. Make a Competitive Offer Found "the one"? It’s time to submit an offer that stands out while staying within budget.
7. Schedule a Home Inspection Even if the home looks perfect, inspections reveal underlying issues.
8. Secure Financing and Lock In Your Rate With an accepted offer in hand, it’s time to finalize your mortgage.
9. Prepare for Closing Day You’re almost there! Closing is the final step before you get the keys.
10. Settle Into Your New Home Congratulations, homeowner! But there are still a few to-dos to tackle.
Final Thoughts Buying your first home is a journey that blends excitement with education. With the right preparation and a clear plan, you can navigate the process with confidence and ease. Use this checklist as your trusted companion—from first thought to front door.
Sign up for your free monthly Home Report for personalized insights on your home equity, forecast value and more.
Use my personal link to get started or send me a message! https://lstrep.co/uGVGZUfMS
The 3-month (partial) reprieve on tariffs between US and China sparked joy for the stock market, but saw the bond market sell off.
All this crazy volatility reminds me how nice it is to own a home: no daily investment stress & powerful long-term wealth creation.
Hope you enjoy my update on national and local real estate!
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Enjoy this compilation of amazing things to do in Hickory, NC
If you have a 3% mortgage rate, you’re probably pretty hesitant to let that go. And even if you’ve toyed with the idea of moving, this nagging thought may be holding you back: “why would I give that up?”
But when you ask that question, you may be putting your needs on the back burner without realizing it. Most people don’t move because of their mortgage rate. They move because they want or need to. So, let’s flip the script and ask this instead:
What are the chances you’ll still be in your current house 5 years from now?
Think about your life for a moment. Picture what the next few years will hold. Are you planning on growing your family? Do you have adult children about to move out? Is retirement on the horizon? Are you already bursting at the seams?
If nothing’s going to change, and you love where you are, staying put might make perfect sense. But if there’s even a slight chance a move is coming, even if it’s not immediate, it’s worth thinking about your timeline.
Because even a year or two can make a big difference in what your next home might cost you.
Each quarter, Fannie Mae asks more than 100 housing market experts to weigh in on where they project home prices are headed. And the consensus is clear. Home prices are expected to rise through at least 2029 (see graph below):
While those projections aren’t calling for big increases each year, it's still an increase. And sure, some markets may see flatter prices or slower growth, or even slight dips in the short term. But look further out. In the long run, prices almost always rise. And over the next 5 years, the anticipated increase – however slight – will add up fast.
Here’s an example. Let's say you'll be looking to buy a roughly $400,000 house when you move. If you wait and move 5 years from now, based on these expert projections, it could cost nearly $80,000 more than it would now (see graph below):
That means the longer you wait, the more your future home will cost you.
If you know a move is likely in your future, it may make sense to really think about your timeline. You certainly don't have to move now. But financially, it may still be worth having a conversation about your options before prices inch higher. Because while rates are expected to come down, it’s not by much. And if you’re holding out in hopes we’ll see the return of 3% rates, experts agree it’s just not in the cards (see graph below):
So, the question really isn’t: “why would I move?” It’s: “when should I?” – because when you see the real numbers, waiting may not be the savings strategy you thought it was. And that’s the best conversation you can have with your trusted agent right now.
Keeping that low mortgage rate is smart – until it starts holding you back.
If a move is likely on the horizon for you, even if it’s a few years down the line, it’s worth thinking through the numbers now, so you can plan ahead.
What other price point do you want to see these numbers for? Let’s have that conversation, so I can show you how the math adds up. That way, you can make an informed decision about your timeline.
The information contained, and the opinions expressed, in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Keeping Current Matters, Inc. does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision. Keeping Current Matters, Inc. will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on the information or opinions contained herein.
https://www.rent.com/blog/pros-and-cons-living-in-hickory-nc/
Located in the scenic foothills of North Carolina, Hickory is a beautiful place to settle down. For anyone considering a move to this area of North Carolina, Hickory combines affordability with Southern hospitality, making it appealing to a range of people at different stages in life. That said, like any city, Hickory has its own set of advantages and challenges. Below, we’ll break down 13 of the top pros and cons of living in Hickory to help you make the best decision for you.
Walk Score: 28 | Bike Score: 26Median Sale Price: $319,500Houses for rent in Hickory | Apartments for rent in Hickory | Homes for sale in Hickory
Hickory has a notably lower cost of living compared to other cities in North Carolina. Housing is especially affordable, with median home prices well below the national average, making it a great place to stretch your budget.
One downside of living in Hickory is the lack of robust public transportation. Most residents rely on personal vehicles for commuting, which can be an issue if you don’t like getting behind the wheel on a daily basis.
Hickory is a hub for the furniture and manufacturing industries, offering plenty of job opportunities in these industries. The city has a long history in furniture production, and large employers like CommScope and Corning create a steady demand for skilled workers.
If you’re looking for a lively nightlife scene, Hickory may miss the mark. While there are a few local bars and restaurants that offer evening entertainment, options are relatively sparse compared to larger cities.
Hickory is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, including Lake Hickory and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Outdoorsy types can enjoy hiking, boating, and fishing within close proximity to the city, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
Summers in Hickory can be uncomfortably hot and humid, especially if you’re not a fan of high temperatures. The humid climate may feel especially overwhelming during July and August, particularly for those who prefer milder conditions.
Hickory is home to several well-regarded schools like Lenoir-Rhyne University, making it one of the top North Carolina college towns. The city’s focus on education provides ample opportunities for students and families looking to settle down in a place that prioritizes continuing education.
While Hickory has some fantastic local Southern cuisine, the variety of restaurants offering international flavors is limited. You might find yourself traveling to nearby cities for more eclectic dining experiences.
There’s a strong sense of community in Hickory where neighbors know each other, and people often gather for local events. This tight-knit atmosphere is ideal for those seeking a slower, more personable way of life.
While Hickory has seen growth in certain industries, others haven’t experienced the same level of development. The economy can feel stagnant in areas outside of manufacturing, leading to fewer job opportunities for people in other fields.
Hickory is conveniently located near major highways, making it easy to take day trips to larger North Carolina cities, like Charlotte, Asheville, or Winston-Salem. You get the benefits of small-town living while still being close to bigger cities with more options.
Though Hickory does have a few cultural venues like the Hickory Museum of Art and a community theater, the selection of entertainment options can feel underwhelming. Residents often venture out of town for bigger concerts, shows, or events.
Compared to larger cities, traffic in Hickory is minimal, making commuting around town quick and easy. This is a great benefit for people who want to avoid long drives or heavy congestion.
https://finance.yahoo.com/personal-finance/mortgages/article/how-to-downsize-your-home-155147403.html
You often hear about homebuying as a way of expanding: getting more space, building more wealth, or putting down deeper roots. But for some people, buying a house is about the opposite — downsizing.
There are many reasons to move into a smaller house. It’s a common decision in retirement, for example, when older homeowners want a place with less maintenance or just don’t have the mobility to live in a large, multi-story property anymore. It also might be necessary for budgetary reasons if you find yourself operating on less income and in need of a lower monthly mortgage payment. If you’re considering downsizing your home soon, here’s how to go about it.
Downsizing your house requires more than just finding a new place and moving in. Because you’re going from a larger home to a smaller one, you’ll also need to work in a few other steps. Keep reading for a step-by-step guide to the downsizing process.
As we mentioned, downsizing is common for retirees, but those aren’t the only consumers who choose to downsize their properties.
Here are a few other grounds for moving into a smaller home:
Financial reasons: You might need to save money or free up monthly cash flow.
Less upkeep: If you’re tired of taking care of a big house or just want a lower-maintenance property, you might think about downsizing.
Divorce: As you and your former spouse start new lives separately, you might opt to sell your joint home and buy or rent smaller spaces with the proceeds.
An empty nest: If all of you're kids have moved out and you're an empty nester, you might prefer a smaller place.
Location change: If you’re moving to a new city where home prices are higher than you’re used to, you may be forced to downsize to afford a house in the area.
Mobility issues: If you’re aging and can no longer manage stairs, a smaller, one-story property may be a better option.
Understanding why you want to downsize can help guide you through the rest of the process. For example, if you’re looking for a lower-upkeep home, it might inform what type of property you shop for (perhaps a condo over a detached single-family home).
Learn more: How to handle your mortgage when getting a divorce
Before you can start searching for a new home, you’ll need to put together a detailed budget. What are you looking for in terms of a monthly payment? How much can you spend on utilities, taxes, insurance, and other expenses?
Most financial experts recommend spending no more than 28% of your gross (pre-tax) monthly income on your mortgage and 36% of your income on total debts each month. So if you make $5,000 per month, you should be aiming for a monthly housing budget of about $1,400 (28% of 5,000).
The “28” of the 28/36 rule includes your mortgage principal, interest, property taxes, homeowners insurance, and any other expenses that make up your monthly payment. However, it does not include things like utilities and moving costs. Make sure to factor in these other costs when building your budget for moving into a smaller place.
Next, you need to find the right type of home to move into. Depending on your goals, you might have many options. Here are just a few considerations for your new home:
Detached, single-family home: This might be a good option if you want privacy or a yard for kids, grandkids, or pets.
Townhome: This is like a smaller version of a single-family home, and a townhouse typically costs less than a full single-family home. However, you may have neighbors with attached walls, and townhomes tend to have at least two stories. They’re probably not the best fit for older homeowners who want to age in place and avoid using the stairs
Condo: This could be the right choice if you’re looking for something low-maintenance but still want to own your own place. In condos, the community association takes care of many maintenance tasks, such as landscaping, with the exception of those in your actual unit. They also come with certain community amenities, like pools or fitness centers.
Tiny home: Maybe you’re really wanting a smaller space — like, only a few hundred square feet. Tiny houses can be great for environmental reasons and affordability.
Apartment: Renting an apartment might be a good fit if you want even more help with maintenance from a landlord, or you don’t plan to stay put for long.
Retirement or assisted living community: This might be a good fit if you’re a senior looking to be around others your age or just want extra help getting around.
If you need help deciding what’s best for your budget, talk to a real estate agent in your area. They can help you determine the best option in your local housing market.
Once you find a place, you’ll need to take stock of just how much real estate you have to work with. How big is each room, and what are the dimensions? Your real estate agent may be able to provide you with a detailed layout that offers this info, or you might need to go in and measure the square footage yourself.
Either way, this will help you determine which furniture you have space for, what you will need to leave behind, and what you may need to replace with smaller, more compact options.
When you know the dimensions you’re working with, you can start prepping for your move. To start, you’ll need to declutter. You can sell or donate any furniture or large items you won’t have room for, and then move on to smaller items, such as clothing, home decor, and kitchenware. Consider donating or selling anything you rarely (or never) use anymore, or items that are duplicates.
Good options for donating or selling items include:
Goodwill
The Salvation Army
Habitat for Humanity ReStore
American Veterans (AMVETS)
If you can’t offload all of your items, you may need to look into a self-storage unit. These can keep your things safe and secure until you need them.
After you’ve closed on your home or secured your rental, it’s time to make the move. With fewer belongings, you may opt to do this yourself, enlist the help of friends and family, or rent a small truck to move to your new place.
If you choose to use a moving service, be sure to shop around for a moving company and time your move wisely. Moving services tend to be cheaper on a weekday, in the middle of the month, and in the wintertime.
There are multiple benefits to downsizing your home. A smaller, more affordable house can save you money on monthly payments. It can also reduce the labor and cash spent on home maintenance, repairs, and upkeep, and make it easier for you to move around your property (especially as you get older).
First, determine your goal for downsizing and put together a budget for your move. Then, find a property, take measurements, and start downsizing your furniture and other belongings.
This depends on your finances and goals, but many people consider downsizing once their children have permanently left the house or they have entered retirement.
Downsizing typically means less storage space, which can lead to more clutter if you’re not careful. With your limited real estate, you might also not have room for guests or hobbies.
Laura Grace Tarpley edited this article.
Whether you’re selling your home or trying to win an unspoken competition among neighbors for the cutest house on the block, curb appeal is the best way to catch eyes and compliments.
“Just like the right accessory can turn heads at any gathering, giving your home's curb appeal a fresh update is essential to making an outstanding impression,” says Mike Kenney, a broker and owner with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Kenney & Company in Colorado Springs.
There are many ways to upgrade your home, but if you’re looking to stand out, consider today's top trends (and potentially get your money back when you sell). “Investing in curb appeal provides a remarkable return on investment, often surpassing 100%,” Kenney says. “Basic landscaping and yard upkeep can yield up to 200% ROI, while upgrades like outdoor kitchens and new patios typically return around 90-100%.”
Here, real estate experts and home decor specialists chime in with their favorite curb appeal trends for 2025.
Common among 2025 curb appeal trends is the concept of biophilia, which refers to our natural desire to connect with nature. Many of the color choices, lighting picks, and gardening trends all have this in mind. “As understanding of biophilia spreads, trends are shifting to emphasize colors, textures, and forms that allude to nature,” says Yardzen design director Kevin Lenhart.
Lenhart sees exterior color trends tending toward warm, earthy tones, including pale tans, forest greens, navy blues, and charcoal. “Natural accents from stone and wood are increasingly popular for strategic accents,” he adds.
Lenhart describes this trend as humanizing design. “We’re seeing a bit of a retreat from the austerity and minimalism of some varieties of the modern aesthetic. People are shifting away from cool grays toward warmer colors, and allowing more detail and variety into their designs,” he says. “I see this as a more human take on design—we’re allowing our personalities in all their complexity to manifest in our designs. We’re also aspiring toward a warmer emotional state through a warmer color palette.”
Regardless of what you call it, the overall effect is certainly trending and making homes more attractive. “Cumulatively, this adds up to more inviting scenes, which boost curb appeal,” Lenhart adds.
In keeping with biophilia, natural paint colors are making their mark on home exteriors this year. "Neutral shades with subtle earth-inspired tones—think warm grays, soft greens, and classic taupes—are making waves this year,” Kenney says. “Complement these neutral shades with eye-catching front door colors like navy blue, vibrant teal, or even earthy terra-cotta to make your entrance memorable.”
Sabrina Phillips, a contractor and owner of Designing Women of Orange County, says shades like warm taupe, soft olive, and clay are also popping up everywhere. “At the same time, bold, moody colors like deep navy and charcoal are perfect for doors and shutters,” Phillips says.
If you’re repainting the entire home, Phillips suggests using a bold color as the focal point of your home by painting the front door or shutters. “Then keep the rest of the house more neutral,” she says. “Natural wood accents also work beautifully to soften bolder colors and tie everything together.”
Not a fan of earth tones? “In a world of homes with pretty standard exterior colors, one way to make them stand out is with fresh front door colors,” says Mike Kelly Jr., a broker and owner with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Foothills in Hickory, North Carolina. “This year, pastels like pale blues or yellows seem to be pretty popular.”
Whatever you do, don’t paint your brick, Kelly says. “In the last few years, it has become super trendy to paint the brick on homes, and when done right, it can upgrade a home's look,” he says. “Often, some pressure washing and fresh paint on the trim will allow your home to achieve that timeless look intended when the home was built.”
Of course, as with all trends, you risk having your tastes change with the times. “This is a tough one because this really depends on where you live. I would just say to pay attention to surrounding homes, but don't necessarily conform to the norm,” Kelly says. “Sometimes, a neighborhood will have homes in pastel colors, so painting a home with deep, dark colors will definitely stand out, but sometimes not in a good way. I feel like the white home black trim look, while hot in recent years, is destined to become something that will date a home in a few years, so just make sure you don't make color choices that might be hard to change when tastes change in the future.”
Emily Kantz, color marketing manager with Sherwin-Williams, says their most popular exterior paint color these days is a black hue called Tricorn Black SW 6258.
“We’ve seen a new emerging trend in exterior paint colors in the last couple of years: black and dark exteriors,” she says. “Dark paint colors have always been popular for exteriors, especially for doors and trims, but from the amount of gallons sold lately, we can tell homeowners are now using it on their entire homes.”
Don’t want to commit to the whole house? “A great way for homeowners to update their home’s facade is to take on smaller projects that are easy to DIY, like repainting their trims, windows, and front doors,” she adds. “Blacks like Tricorn Black are a beautiful shade to add to these sorts of projects, especially on an all-white house to create a modern yet trendy black-and-white contrasting look.”
A bigger front door can also help make your front entrance more grand. “Front doors are getting larger and more pronounced. As a result, we are installing a lot larger than standard-size front steps and porches,” says Thomas Miller, owner at Concrete Works NJ. “Additionally, we're seeing front steps the full width of front porches, which creates a more grand entrance look. Decorative concrete has been more popular in these areas, too, because you can choose colors that complement the front door color.”
“Front doors are becoming statement pieces, often with a pop of color or unique design,” says Alice Moszczynski, interior designer at Planner 5D. “Think clean lines with bold colors or materials like glass, steel, or wood with interesting textures. Enhancing your front door can be as simple as adding stylish hardware, like a chic knocker.”
Top it off with finishing features. “The front door remains a pivotal feature for curb appeal in 2025, with contemporary designs showcasing clean lines, matte finishes, and modern smart locks,” Kenney says. “Unique glass inserts and minimalist hardware are popular touches.”
Give your pathways some love by either cleaning them up or replacing them entirely. “Stamped concrete continues to gain popularity and momentum year after year,” Miller says. “I believe this is a result of advancements in stamped concrete, with more styles and installation work making it look more realistic. Customers love the flexibility of layout with concrete being able to counter different shapes like with curves and right angles that complement landscaping.”
Miller also sees customers asking for wider aprons to match their existing driveways, widening of current driveways, and new walkways from the front door of the home to the street level. Miller also says he’s seeing an increase in demand for rustic and country styles with these boardwalks and stone stamps.
Regularly staining and sealing wood decks and fences around your property is part of the general upkeep. But it’s also an easy way to make your home look great from the street level.
Vageesh Bakhshi, senior product manager at Cabot, says the company's 2025 color of the year— Burnt Hickory—is a natural brown hue with charcoal undertones that’s on trend right now. “In 2025, exterior color trends are all about warm, earthy tones, deep natural hues, and timeless neutrals that complement organic materials like wood, stone, and metal,” Bakhshi says.
Bakhshi suggests using it on wooden elements of your home, including decking, shutters, fences, pergolas, planters, and even outdoor furniture. “By identifying the wooden elements of the home’s exterior, homeowners can prioritize the areas that are most in need of attention and tackle projects that will create the biggest impact.”
“In 2025, sustainability continues to dominate, with homeowners turning toward xeriscaping and incorporating drought-tolerant plants, succulents, and native grasses,” Kenney says.
Want an easy way to get started? Kenney suggests installing decorative rock beds or mulch around plants to provide a visually appealing and low-maintenance garden upgrade.
Eco-friendly landscaping that requires less water is one way homeowners are saving money. In fact, Hippo’s Housepower Report found that 59% of homeowners surveyed said they will prioritize energy efficiency and sustainability in 2025, says Courtney Klosterman, a home insights expert with Hippo Home Insurance.
“As common as a green, grassy lawn may be, it uses a lot of water. Reduce your water usage—and time mowing your lawn—by ditching the grass altogether,” Klosterman adds. “You can go the xeriscape route and lay down sand or rocks in your front yard. Or you can let nature do its thing and use a more natural ground covering like moss, clover, or ornamental grass that doesn’t require much upkeep.”
Lighting is often thought of practically for safety and visibility, but it's also a powerful design tool. “Thoughtful lighting choices enhance architectural features, improve visibility, and create an inviting ambience that boosts a home's marketability,” Kenney says. “Opt for adjustable LED fixtures to easily highlight your home's best features, like columns, porches, or landscapes.”
“A tip I have for doing this right is to pay attention to the tone of the light that the fixture gives off. You want a more natural light tone with outdoor lighting, so stay away from the bright white fixtures that can give off a less civilized vibe,” Kelly says. “Make sure the fixtures you choose vibe off the same kind of light to create a more cohesive look in your twilight and evening landscape. If you choose to go with wired lights, see if the lighting contractor can make it work with smart home technology so that you can easily change settings in one central place.”
While most outdoor landscape lighting has been controlled with timers in the past, new advancements in smart technology sync lighting schedules with sunrise, sunset, and daylight saving time.
“In addition to all the functionality of an astronomical timer, smart lighting systems allow you to control your outdoor lights with voice commands like ‘Hey Google,’” says Calvin Mackin, lighting manager at R.P. Marzilli & Company. “You can use them for simple on/off control, scheduled automation, or even customized ‘scenes’ that let you illuminate different areas of your home separately—whether it’s the front yard, backyard, or special party lighting for an event.”
“We’ve been seeing a lot of interest in layered landscaping, where clients mix different textures, heights, and colors to create more depth and personality in their front yards,” Phillips says. “Instead of plain lawns, people are choosing layered garden beds that feel unique to their style.”
Be sure to top it off with landscape lighting. “With proper lighting to illuminate pathways, sidewalks, and points of interest, you create a sense of safety, cohesiveness, and even romance,” Phillips says.
And if you’re wondering what to plant, Phillips has suggestions. “Pollinator-friendly gardens, which attract bees and butterflies, are not only beautiful but great for the environment. I’m also seeing a lot of geometric garden beds, where plants are arranged in creative, eye-catching patterns that really make a statement,” she says. “Another fun trend is edible landscaping—mixing herbs, veggies, and flowers together, so your front yard looks stunning and serves a purpose at the same time.”