Hickory Area Happenings!

After years of suppressed supply, U.S. housing inventory is seeing a significant boost. As of July 2025, active home listings rose nearly 25% year-over-year—the 21st straight month of growth—bringing national inventory above 1 million for the third month in a row. States like Nevada (+52.9%), Maryland (+48.2%), and North Carolina are leading the surge New York Post.

Yet, despite more choices, affordability remains the market’s most pressing challenge. According to the National Association of REALTORS®, 25% of buyers cite housing affordability as their top concern, followed by hopes for lower mortgage rates (19%) and lingering inventory shortages (17%) National Association of REALTORS®. Mortgage rates for 15-year loans could dip to around 5.5% in late 2025—but prices are still climbing, making timing decisions tricky Ramsey Solutions+1.

2. A Market Tilt Toward Moderate Regional Growth

National home values are inching upward—home prices have seen modest gains of around 2–3% year-over-year HouseCanaryHAR.com. Still, growth isn’t evenly distributed. Smaller and more affordable markets—like Brunswick, GA (up 7.1%), Grand Island, NE (6.3%), and Glens Falls, NY (5.9%)—are outperforming many larger urban areas HouseCanary. At the same time, once-booming markets in Florida are cooling sharply, placing among the coldest in 2025, as rising property taxes and insurance costs dampen buyer enthusiasm Business Insider. Homes are also spending more time on the market in cities like Nashville, Orlando, Miami, and Tucson New York Post.

3. A Window of Opportunity on the Horizon

Experts now see the U.S. housing market in a “post-rate-cut opportunity” phase. A combination of easing mortgage rates, shifting investor behavior—including renewed bets from the likes of Warren Buffett—and adjustments in macroeconomic policy are creating potential openings for strategic investors AInvest. Meanwhile, projections for the market remain steady; analysts foresee house prices possibly growing but at a slower rate than before Norada Real EstateAInvest.

4. Premiums Persist in Top School Districts

While broader trends show moderation, homes in high-rated school districts continue to command hefty premiums—on average $1.21 million, or 135% above regional medians. Areas like Texas’s Carroll Independent School District ($2.16M, +391%), Laguna Beach Unified in California (~~$5M, +322%), and Reed Union near San Francisco (~~$4M) exemplify this trend New York Post. For families chasing education access, these markets remain fiercely competitive.

What It Means for Buyers, Sellers & Investors

Buyer’s Brief:

Where to look? Smaller cities and mid-size markets may offer more growth potential and affordability.
Choose your moment: More inventory and softening competition are giving buyers leverage—especially in previously overheated markets.
Mind the premiums: Top school zones still come with deep price tags. If school proximity isn’t a must, consider exploring nearby alternatives.

Seller’s Snapshot:

Set smart expectations: Slower sales and price adjustments are becoming more common, especially in South and West metros.
Highlight what matters: If your home boasts access to great schools, good mortgage terms, or energy-efficient upgrades, promoting those features can help differentiate.

Investor’s Insight:

Watch for the rate shift: If the Fed lowers rates in Q3, refinancing and acquisition opportunities may open up.
Eye growing markets: Investors looking for yield or growth may find better value in emerging markets outside coastal centers.

Final Thoughts

2025 is shaping up to be a nuanced housing year. The market is easing—but not crashing—thanks to rising inventory, persistent affordability strains, and shifting demand toward more affordable, often overlooked regions. Meanwhile, pockets of resilience like top school districts and rate-sensitive zones still command attention. Layer in the potential boost from expected mortgage rate cuts, and you’ve got a market that’s moving away from pandemic extremes toward a more considered and strategic landscape.

Let me know if you'd like a deeper dive into any of these trends—whether it’s regional snapshots, financing forecasts, or how proptech and AI are reshaping real estate dynamics.

Life changes are never simple. Whether it’s retirement, downsizing, relocating for a new job, or helping a loved one move into a better-suited space, real estate is always tied to a bigger story.

For me, being a Realtor® in Hickory, NC, isn’t about buying and selling houses—it’s about walking alongside people through some of life’s biggest transitions.

We have worked with retirees who were ready to trade in the upkeep of a large family home for a cozy condo with less maintenance. We've helped families navigate the emotional process of selling a parent’s estate home. And we’ve seen the joy in the eyes of newcomers discovering all that Catawba Valley has to offer.

Real estate is personal. It’s not just square footage or curb appeal—it’s about peace of mind, dignity, and fresh starts. That’s why we specialize in transitions. My role isn’t just to market your property or show you listings. It’s to listen, guide, and help you take the next step with confidence.

?? If you’re in a season of transition—retirement, downsizing, relocation, or selling an estate—let’s talk. I’d love to guide you through it with care.

Sheree Byrd, Realtor®

Hickory Housing Market Snapshot — Mid-2025

Median sale price: $347,000, down 1.4% year-over-year. Redfin
Homes sold: Up 41.8%, with 78 sold in June. Redfin
Days on market: Averaging 60 days, up from 51 last year. Redfin
Rocket report: Median sold price of $304,250 in July, marking 3.4% growth over the past year. Rocket

These stats show a market that’s active but cooling: more transactions happening, but buyers taking their time, and pricing remaining under pressure.

What This Means for You as a Seller

Market Factor	Opportunity for Sellers
Slight price dip (-1.4%)	Pricing smartly (e.g., 1–2% below comps) can spark interest and lead to quicker offers.
More homes are selling (+41.8%)	The demand is still real—well-presented homes are likely to stand out.
Longer selling time (60 days)	Patience helps, but proactive tactics (such as staging, virtual tours, and flexible terms) can make a difference.
Mixed signals—some growth, some cool-down	Timing and accurate expectations are key. Sellers need a knowledgeable local guide now more than ever.

Engage Thoughtfully: We Want Your Perspective!

Question for readers:
— What concerns are you most facing as a seller in Hickory right now? Is it pricing, preparing your home, or understanding market timing?
— If your listing sold faster than average—or took much longer—what worked (or didn't)?

Tell us in the comments! Your experiences help your neighbors, enrich our insights, and build a stronger local seller community.

Understanding the 2025 Fed Rate-Cut Outlook: What It Means for Real Estate

1. What’s Happening with Fed Rates?

As of mid-2025, the Federal Reserve has held the federal funds rate steady at 4.25%–4.50% for five consecutive meetings. ReutersWikipedia
However, growing economic softness—especially in the labor market—has prompted several Fed officials to lean toward easing policy soon. ReutersAP NewsInvestopedia

2. How Many Rate Cuts Are Likely—and When?

Goldman Sachs projects three 25-basis-point rate cuts in September, October, and December. Reuters

J.P. Morgan has accelerated its outlook, expecting four cuts starting in September—and possibly extending into early 2026. MarketWatchReuters
Fed Vice Chair Michelle Bowman supports three cuts this year, driven by weakening labor data and inflation trends. ReutersAP News

3. What Markets Are Saying

Market viewers are assigning a high probability (around 89–93%) to the first rate cut happening at the Fed’s September 2025 meeting.Reuters+1Fox Business
Investors anticipate multiple cuts over the remainder of the year, with some even forecasting early 2026 cuts.MarketWatchReuters+1

4. What This Means for Real Estate

Refinancing Opportunities – Lower interest rates could allow homeowners to refinance at better terms, boosting monthly savings.
Affordability Gains – Future buyers might qualify for larger loans as interest rates dip, potentially increasing demand.
Market Momentum – Historically, when rate cuts are proactive (rather than reactive to recessions), housing markets often experience favorable momentum. Fidelity Investments Investopedia
Cautious Optimism for Buyers and Sellers – While early cuts can stimulate housing, consumers should still watch for inflation and labor market developments that influence borrowing costs.

Bottom Line

The outlook for 2025 features a growing consensus: the Fed is poised to begin cutting rates as early as September, potentially delivering three to four cuts by year-end and beyond. These movements could significantly impact mortgage rates and real estate buying power.

An organized approach to listing your home starts here — because every successful sale begins with a solid plan. Here is how we make it easy and efficient:

Comprehensive home evaluation — Understand your property's strengths and areas for improvement.
Strategic staging & repairs — Make your home irresistible to buyers.
Smart pricing strategy — Price it right to attract the right offers quickly.
Professional photography & marketing — Showcase your homes best features everywhere buyers look.
Coordinated showings & communication — Keep your schedule manageable and stay informed every step of the way.
Selling your home does not have to feel overwhelming.

With the right plan, it can be smooth, profitable, and even exciting. Ready to start?

#SellSmart #HomeSellingTips #ListingStrategy #RealEstateExpert #MarketReady #StressFreeSelling

Ever heard the word “contingency” and wondered what it really means? ?? It’s just a fancy way of saying “this deal depends on X, Y, or Z happening first.” Whether it’s financing, inspections, or another key detail, contingencies are there to protect you. I’ll walk you through every step so nothing catches you by surprise! Ready to get started?

#thehelpfulagent #home #houseexpert #house #listreports #househunting #a072125 #realestate #realestateagent #realtor #investment #happyhomeowners #dreamhome

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make in your lifetime. The process can be exciting, overwhelming, and sometimes even stressful, especially when negotiations get tough. As a buyer, it’s easy to get caught up in the emotions of the moment and feel compelled to keep pushing forward with a deal, even when things aren’t going in your favor. But there are times when walking away from a negotiation is the best option.

Knowing when to walk away is a crucial skill that every buyer should have. It helps you avoid costly mistakes, protect your finances, and ensure you’re getting a home that truly fits your needs and budget. In this blog post, we’ll explore key signs that it’s time to walk away, practical tips for navigating tough negotiations, and how to make a confident decision when it comes to stepping back from a deal.

Why Walking Away Can Be the Smart Move

At first glance, it might seem counterintuitive to walk away from a potential deal, especially after you’ve spent so much time, energy, and possibly money getting to this point. However, sometimes walking away is the smartest thing you can do. It’s important to remember that the goal is to find a home that you love, fits your budget, and meets your needs. If negotiations are no longer aligning with these goals, it may be time to step back and reevaluate.

? Overpaying for a home: If the price exceeds what the market can support, or if the property has issues that aren’t being addressed, you could end up with a financial burden on your hands.

? Buying a home with hidden problems: If the seller isn’t open to reasonable repairs or price adjustments after inspections, you may inherit costly issues down the road.

? Emotional attachment clouding judgment: Sometimes, buyers get emotionally attached to a home and lose sight of red flags. Walking away ensures you don’t make an impulse decision that you’ll regret later.

Now that we understand the importance of knowing when to walk away, let's explore the specific situations where doing so may be your best course of action.

When the Price is Too High Understanding Market Value

One of the most common reasons buyers walk away from negotiations is the price. While it’s natural to feel attached to a property, you need to consider whether the asking price aligns with the market value of the home.

Red Flags to Look For:

? Comparable Homes are Priced Lower: Research comparable properties in the area (known as "comps"). If similar homes are selling for much less than the seller is asking, it could indicate that the home is overpriced.

? Appraisal Issues: If an appraisal comes in lower than the agreed-upon price, the lender may not approve the loan, and you may be required to come up with the difference in cash. If the seller refuses to lower the price, it could be a sign to walk away.

? The Seller is Unwilling to Negotiate: If the seller is firm on their price and not open to offers or price adjustments, it could indicate they are unwilling to compromise. In such cases, continuing negotiations might not be worth it. If the seller isn't willing to meet you halfway, walking away is a smart decision to avoid overpaying for the property.

When Inspections Reveal Serious Issues Home Inspections Are Crucial

A home inspection is one of the most important steps in the buying process. It provides valuable insight into the condition of the property, identifying potential problems that may not be immediately visible. When serious issues arise during the inspection, it’s crucial to evaluate how the seller responds. Red Flags to Look For:

? Expensive Repairs or Structural Issues: Issues like a compromised foundation, major plumbing or electrical problems, or a roof in need of replacement can cost tens of thousands of dollars. If the seller isn’t willing to make repairs or reduce the price to reflect these issues, walking away may be the best option.

? Seller Refuses to Address Concerns: If the seller is unwilling to negotiate or address significant problems that were uncovered during the inspection, it's a sign that they may not be motivated to close a fair deal.

? Ignoring Your Requests: If the seller dismisses your reasonable requests for repairs or credits, or refuses to negotiate on price due to the inspection findings, this may be a red flag. While no house is perfect, you should feel comfortable with the home’s condition before moving forward. If major issues are uncovered, and the seller is unwilling to cooperate, it’s wise to walk away to avoid a costly and stressful future.

When There Are Too Many Red Flags Spotting Potential Deal Breakers

Sometimes, negotiations become difficult because of multiple small issues that together create a bigger problem. These can include concerns about the neighborhood, title issues, or problems with the home’s history.

Red Flags to Look For:

? Neighborhood Issues: If you discover that the neighborhood is not what you thought it would be—whether it’s due to safety concerns, high crime rates, or future developments—this can significantly affect your long-term satisfaction with the property.

? Title Issues: Title issues, such as unclear ownership, unpaid property taxes, or unresolved liens, can be deal breakers. These issues can prevent you from closing the deal or cause significant legal problems down the road.

? Long Time on Market: If the property has been sitting on the market for a long time, it could be an indication that there are hidden issues that are turning other buyers away. It’s essential to do thorough research and consider whether these issues are worth dealing with. When there are too many red flags in the negotiation process or concerning the property itself, walking away might be your best option to avoid a problematic investment.

When the Seller is Unreasonable Navigating a Difficult Seller

In some negotiations, the seller might be difficult to work with. This can include being unreasonably stubborn on price, ignoring your requests, or refusing to negotiate in good faith. A challenging seller can make the process unnecessarily stressful and frustrating, and it’s important to know when to move on.

Red Flags to Look For:

? Unrealistic Expectations: If the seller is asking for a price far above the market value and is unwilling to budge, it might be a sign that they aren’t serious about selling. They could be testing the market or waiting for a buyer who is willing to overpay.

? Lack of Communication: If the seller is unresponsive or avoids communication, this can delay the process and make it difficult to move forward with the deal.

? Disrespectful Behavior: If the seller becomes combative, disrespectful, or dismissive during negotiations, it’s a clear sign that they may not be the right person to work with. If you’re encountering these issues, it might be time to walk away and focus on other opportunities where you feel respected and valued as a buyer.

Conclusion: Know When to Walk Away for Your Future

In real estate negotiations, knowing when to walk away is just as important as knowing when to make an offer. Tough negotiations can be stressful, but if the deal is no longer in your best interest—whether due to price, repairs, or uncooperative parties—it’s crucial to step back and reevaluate. Walking away allows you to avoid costly mistakes and emotional decisions, ensuring that when you commit to a property, it’s the right fit for your needs and budget.

As a buyer, trust your instincts and be prepared to walk away if the deal isn’t working out. The right property will come along, and knowing when to say "no" can lead you to a better opportunity. Stay confident, stay informed, and never settle for less than what you deserve in a real estate transaction.

Read the full article to stay in the know #article #news #notablearticle #listreports #realestate

Scott Bradley Brixen

June 12, 2025

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.

Where Did All Those Jobs Go? (May 2025 Edition)

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?

Where is All That Inventory?

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% YoY
Hawaii: -6.7% YoY
Iowa: -5.4% YoY
Illinois: -4.8% YoY
Minnesota: -3.6% YoY
Arizona: -3.6% YoY
Utah: -3.4% YoY
Colorado: -3.0% YoY
Massachusetts: -2.9% YoY
Florida: -2.2% YoY
Not 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.

OK, So Where are Home Prices Falling?

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:

Of the Top 100 cities by household size, 61 (61%) saw year-over-year declines in their median listing prices in April 2025. (This figure was 48 last month). But most of those YoY declines were small (1–3%).
The biggest decreases among the Top 100 were: Bridgeport CT (-13% YoY), Wichita KS (-11%), Durham-Chapel Hill NC (-10%), Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura CA (-9%), and Urban Honolulu HI (-9% YoY).
The largest increases among the Top 100 were: Baltimore MD (+10% YoY), Augusta-Richmond GA/SC (+8% YoY), Toledo OH (+14% YoY), New Haven CT (+7% YoY), and Syracuse NY (+6%).
Taking a look at the next 100 (101–200), 63 metros (61%) saw YoY declines in their median listing price. In other words, the trends we’re seeing in the Top 100 extend much deeper.

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.

Mortgage Market

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%.

June 18 FOMC Meeting: 100% probability that the policy rate will remain at 4.25–4.50% (no rate cut). This was 99% last week.
July 30 FOMC Meeting: 83% probability that the policy rate will remain at 4.25–4.50% (up from 70% last week). 17% probability that rates will be 25 bps below current (down from 29% last week). This implies one 25 bps rate cut at this meeting
September 17 FOMC Meeting: 57% probability that rates will be 25 bps below current (unchanged from last week). This implies one 25 bps rate cut on either July 30 or Sept 17, but not both. 10% probability that rates will be 50 bps below current (implying a 25 bps rate cut at both the July 30 and Sept 17 meetings).

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:

Authorization for State Treasurer to Invest in Digital Assets: This provision allows the Treasurer to include digital assets in the state’s investment portfolio.
Investment Requirements: Digital assets must be exchange-traded products with a minimum average market capitalization of $750 billion over the past twelve months, as verified by a commercially reasonable method determined by the State Treasurer.
Investment Caps and Management: The bill outlines strict guidelines for the maximum investment allocation in digital assets and sets standards for their custody and investment management.
Definitions and Standards: Clear definitions and standards are provided to ensure that only qualified digital assets are included.

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:

Shows sellers you're financially ready to buy
Gives you a clear price range to search within
Helps your offer stand out in multiple-offer situations

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:

Preview homes virtually before touring in person
Set your criteria in advance, so you're ready to decide
Work closely with your agent to schedule showings quickly.
Don’t let urgency cloud your judgment. Conduct basic due diligence and ask key questions before making your move.

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:

Offer above asking (within reason) if the market demands it
Limit contingencies where possible (e.g., inspection or financing)
Be flexible with your timeline, such as offering a rent-back period if needed
Include an earnest money deposit that shows good faith

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:

Study recent sales in your target areas
Watch how quickly homes are going under contract
Ask your agent for a comparative market analysis (CMA) Knowledge is power.
When you know what to expect, you're less likely to be blindsided or overpay.

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:

Location radius (within your desired commute or school district)
Home style or age
Must-have features (you might be able to add them later) Buyers who stay adaptable often uncover hidden gems that others overlook.

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:

Know your financial ceiling based on pre-approval and personal comfort
Decide in advance how much over asking you’re willing to go
Avoid emotional decisions that could lead to buyer’s remorse
Sometimes walking away is the best decision—another great home will come along.

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:

Understands your goals and timeline
Communicates promptly and clearly
Knows the local market dynamics
Can strategize on offer structure and negotiation
A skilled agent is your best advocate in a competitive environment.

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:

Schedule your home inspection promptly
Submit required documents to your lender quickly
Review disclosures and ask questions if anything is unclear
Staying proactive post-offer helps avoid delays and ensures a smoother path to closing.

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.

Check your credit score: A higher credit score may help you secure better mortgage rates. Aim for at least 620, though 740+ can offer more favorable terms.
Calculate your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio: Lenders typically prefer a DTI ratio below 43%.
Establish a realistic budget: Factor in mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs. Don’t forget one-time expenses like moving fees and furnishing.
Start saving early: Most lenders require a downpayment between 3% and 20%. You’ll also need to budget for closing costs, which can range from 2% to 5% of the home price.

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.

Gather financial documents: Tax returns, pay stubs, W-2s, bank statements, and proof of assets.
Shop around for lenders: Compare interest rates, fees, and customer service.
Understand your loan options: From FHA loans to conventional mortgages, choose what aligns with your financial goals.

3. Define Your Home Buying Priorities Knowing what you want (and what you can compromise on) helps streamline the search.

Location: Consider commute times, school districts, neighborhood safety, and nearby amenities.
Type of home: Single-family, condo, townhouse, new build, or fixer-upper?
Must-haves vs. nice-to-haves: Make a list to keep yourself focused during showings.
Future needs: Think about resale value and whether the home suits long-term goals like starting a family.

4. Work with a Real Estate Agent A knowledgeable real estate agent is a game-changer for first-time buyers.

Choose a buyer’s agent: They work in your best interest and can help you navigate negotiations, inspections, and paperwork.
Ask for referrals and interview agents: Look for experience, local expertise, and communication style that matches yours.
Lean on their insights: From market trends to property red flags, a good agent is your home-buying sidekick.

5. Start the House Hunt Now the fun begins! With your budget, priorities, and agent in place, start touring homes.

Use trusted search tools: MLS listings, real estate apps, and agent recommendations.
Take notes and photos: It’s easy to forget details after a few viewings.
Stay realistic: No house is perfect—stay grounded and focused on your top priorities.
Don’t rush: It’s okay to wait for the right property to come along.

6. Make a Competitive Offer Found "the one"? It’s time to submit an offer that stands out while staying within budget.

Rely on your agent’s advice: They’ll guide you based on market conditions and comparable home sales.
Include contingencies: Home inspection, financing, and appraisal contingencies can protect you.
Be prepared for negotiation: Counter-offers are common—keep your emotions in check.

7. Schedule a Home Inspection Even if the home looks perfect, inspections reveal underlying issues.

Hire a certified inspector: Ask for referrals and check credentials.
Attend the inspection if possible: You’ll get a clearer understanding of the home’s condition.
Review the report carefully: Discuss any concerns with your agent and consider requesting repairs or credits.

8. Secure Financing and Lock In Your Rate With an accepted offer in hand, it’s time to finalize your mortgage.

Submit final documentation: Respond quickly to lender requests to avoid delays.
Lock in your interest rate: Rates fluctuate, so locking in protects you from increases.
Review the loan estimate: Make sure you understand fees, terms, and monthly payments.

9. Prepare for Closing Day You’re almost there! Closing is the final step before you get the keys.

Review the closing disclosure: This document outlines all final costs.
Do a final walk-through: Ensure agreed-upon repairs were made and the home is in expected condition.
Bring necessary items: ID, payment for closing costs, and any required paperwork.
Sign, pay, and celebrate: Once everything is finalized, the keys are yours!

10. Settle Into Your New Home Congratulations, homeowner! But there are still a few to-dos to tackle.

Change the locks: It's a simple step that offers peace of mind.
Set up utilities and internet: Ideally done before moving day.
Update your address: Notify the USPS, bank, employer, and others.
Start an emergency fund: Homeownership comes with surprises, so it’s smart to set money aside for repairs.

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

2. A Market Tilt Toward Moderate Regional Growth

3. A Window of Opportunity on the Horizon

4. Premiums Persist in Top School Districts

What It Means for Buyers, Sellers & Investors

Buyer’s Brief:

Seller’s Snapshot:

Investor’s Insight:

Final Thoughts

Hickory Housing Market Snapshot — Mid-2025

What This Means for You as a Seller

Engage Thoughtfully: We Want Your Perspective!

Understanding the 2025 Fed Rate-Cut Outlook: What It Means for Real Estate

1. What’s Happening with Fed Rates?

2. How Many Rate Cuts Are Likely—and When?

3. What Markets Are Saying

4. What This Means for Real Estate

Bottom Line

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