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https://www.instagram.com/tessmarquez/ If you’ve been thinking, “Why can’t I sell my house?”  — you’re not alone. More homeowners are searching for answers right now than ever before. But here’s the truth: homes are still selling every day. If yours isn’t, it usually comes down to a few key factors — and the good news is, they can be fixed. Instead of guessing or relying on online searches, it’s better to take a closer look at what might be holding your home back. 🔍 Why You Can’t Sell Your House (And How to Fix It) 🏠 1. Presentation Matters More Than Ever Today’s buyers are comparing homes quickly — often online before they ever step inside. If your home feels: Dated Cluttered Poorly maintained Or lacks strong photos …it can easily get skipped. You don’t need a full remodel, but small improvements make a big difference: Clean and declutter Neutral colors Simple updates Strong curb appeal Professional photos First impressions are everything in today’s market. 💰 2. Pricing Needs to Match Today’s Market One of the biggest reasons sellers say “I can’t sell my house”  is pricing. The market has shifted. What homes sold for a few years ago — or even last year — may not reflect today’s buyer expectations. If your home is priced too high: Buyers may not even schedule a showing Or you’ll receive low offers (if any) A well-priced home attracts attention, creates competition, and often sells faster. 🚪 3. Access Can Make or Break Your Sale If buyers can’t see your home, they won’t buy it. Limiting showings — like: Only evenings No weekends Long notice requirements …can reduce your chances significantly. The easier it is to show your home, the more opportunities you create for offers. 📊 The Real Truth: The Market Is Giving You Feedback If your home isn’t selling, it doesn’t mean something is wrong — it means something needs to be adjusted. The key is understanding what buyers are telling you through: Showings Feedback Online activity 💬 Ask the Right Questions Instead of searching online, have a real conversation with a real expert. Ask: What are buyers looking for right now? What feedback are we getting? What’s stopping offers from coming in? These answers will give you clarity — and a path forward. 📌 Bottom Line If you feel stuck thinking, “I can’t sell my house,”  don’t get discouraged. Small changes in presentation, pricing, or access can completely shift your results. The sellers who adapt are the ones who succeed in today’s market. If your home isn’t getting offers and you’re not sure why, let’s take a closer look together. I’ll give you a clear, honest breakdown of what’s happening and what steps can help get your home sold. 📩 Contact me at   TessMarquez.com  | (626) 712-5156  or call/text anytime! By Tess Marquez, Realtor & Probate Specialist

https://www.instagram.com/tessmarquez/ If you’ve been scrolling through social media lately, you may have seen posts claiming that home prices are dropping . Naturally, that can make homeowners pause and ask questions like: Is the housing market about to crash? Is my home losing value? Should I wait before selling? Let’s clear things up. The truth is that while a few markets have experienced minor adjustments, the overall housing market is still stable , and home prices across most of the country are holding steady or continuing to rise . Are Home Prices Dropping Across the United States? When discussing whether home prices are dropping , it’s important to look at reliable national data instead of social media headlines. According to the National Association of Realtors , the housing market remains resilient. Their latest data shows that home prices continued to rise in the fourth quarter of 2025 , with the national median home price increasing 1.2% year-over-year to $414,900 . While the pace of growth has slowed compared to previous years, the key takeaway is this: Home prices nationally are still increasing. In many regions of the country, including the Northeast, Midwest, and South, home values are continuing to appreciate. Why Some Markets Look Like Prices Are Dropping You may still see headlines suggesting that home prices are dropping , especially in certain cities. Some markets in the western U.S. have experienced small price adjustments , but this is not unusual after several years of rapid growth. Real estate markets move in cycles. After strong appreciation, it's normal to see periods where prices level off or slightly adjust  before continuing their long-term upward trend. These adjustments are not signs of a housing crash , but rather a healthy correction in areas that previously saw extremely fast price increases. The Bigger Picture: Home Values Are Still Up Even in markets where small price declines have occurred recently, the longer-term perspective tells a very different story. Data from platforms like Zillow  and ResiClub  shows that when you zoom out and look at the last five years, home values remain significantly higher than they were before . This means most homeowners have built substantial equity over time. In other words, while short-term fluctuations happen in any market, the overall trend in real estate continues to move upward over the long run . Why Local Market Knowledge Matters Another important factor to remember is that real estate is local . National headlines may talk about whether home prices are dropping , but every neighborhood and city behaves differently. Factors that affect your home's value include: Local housing supply and demand Neighborhood desirability School districts Property condition and upgrades Buyer activity in your area That’s why the most accurate way to understand your home’s value is through a local market analysis , not a national headline. Bottom Line Despite what some online posts suggest, home prices are not crashing . In most markets across the country, prices are holding steady or continuing to rise , just at a slower and more sustainable pace. For homeowners, this means the market remains strong and stable. If you’re wondering what your home may be worth in today’s market , the best place to start is with a personalized home value analysis based on recent sales in your neighborhood. 📩 Contact me at   TessMarquez.com  | (626) 712-5156  or call/text anytime! By Tess Marquez, Realtor & Probate Specialist

https://www.instagram.com/tessmarquez/ Selling your home in today’s market is absolutely possible. In fact, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR) , thousands of homes continue to sell every single day across the country. But here’s the truth: the market in 2026 is not the same as it was a few years ago. Inventory has grown. Buyers have more options. And expectations are higher. The homeowners who succeed are the ones who adapt. The ones who struggle? They’re often making the same outdated assumptions. Let’s break down the biggest 2026 home selling mistakes , and how you can avoid them. 1. 2026 Home Selling Mistakes: Pricing Based on Yesterday’s Market One of the biggest 2026 home selling mistakes is pricing your home based on what your neighbor sold for a few years ago. That market no longer exists. With more inventory available, buyers are comparing homes carefully. If your price feels inflated, they simply move on. Overpricing often leads to: Fewer showings Lower or delayed offers Longer time on market Nearly 1 in 5 sellers had to reduce their price last year, and most of those reductions were avoidable. What To Do Instead Price for today’s market conditions. Study recent comparable sales, current competition, and buyer behavior in your neighborhood to find the value “sweet spot.” 2. Skipping Repairs Buyers Now Expect A few years ago, sellers could list “as-is” and still receive multiple offers over asking. That’s no longer the case. NAR reports that roughly two-thirds of sellers are now making repairs before listing. Why? Because buyers are more selective. When inventory rises, buyers compare homes side-by-side. A property that feels dated or needs visible work quickly loses attention. What To Do Instead Focus on high-impact, low-stress improvements. You don’t need perfection, you need presentation. Small updates such as: Minor repairs Fresh paint Improved curb appeal Simple staging …can significantly increase perceived value and offer strength. 3. Refusing To Negotiate Another major 2026 home selling mistake  is taking a hard stance during negotiations. Today’s buyers are more budget-conscious. Affordability matters. Inspection credits, repair requests, and modest price adjustments are common again. Redfin data shows inspection and repair disputes were a leading cause of failed transactions in 2025. If sellers refuse to compromise, buyers often walk away. What To Do Instead Stay flexible. Understanding what buyers in your specific neighborhood expect gives you leverage. Reasonable negotiations keep deals moving forward and prevent your home from returning to the market. Why Strategy Matters More Than Ever in 2026 The sellers winning right now aren’t doing anything extreme. They are: Pricing realistically Preparing the home properly Listening to local market data Staying open during negotiations These aren’t dramatic shifts, but they make a powerful difference. In today’s environment, success comes from aligning with how buyers behave now. Bottom Line The market hasn’t stopped, it’s shifted. Avoiding these 2026 home selling mistakes  can mean the difference between sitting on the market and selling confidently. If you're thinking about selling and want a strategy built specifically around your home, your neighborhood, and today’s buyer expectations, let’s create a plan that works. 📩 Contact me at   TessMarquez.com  | (626) 712-5156  or call/text anytime! By Tess Marquez, Realtor & Probate Specialist

https://www.instagram.com/tessmarquez/ One decision can determine whether your home sells quickly or sits on the market…Whether buyers make an offer or scroll past…And whether you walk away with the best return. That decision is your asking price . Many homeowners today rely on online estimates to decide what their home is worth. While these tools are convenient, they often miss the details that truly impact value. The #1 Home Pricing Strategy Mistake Sellers Make The biggest mistake sellers make is trusting automated numbers without professional guidance. Online home value tools are fast, free, and easy. But they don’t actually see your home. They rely on public data and past sales, information that can be outdated or incomplete. And in a shifting market, even a small pricing error can cost thousands or delay your sale. Where Online Estimates Fall Short Automated valuations cannot account for: • Property condition • Upgrades and renovations • Unique features • Street appeal • Current buyer demand in your neighborhood Industry sources like Bankrate confirm that algorithms can’t evaluate subjective details that influence value, something a local expert evaluates every day. That means your home could be priced too high and sit… or too low and leave money behind. Why a Local Expert Improves Your Home Pricing Strategy A strong home pricing strategy  is based on what buyers are paying right now, not what sold months ago. A local real estate professional analyzes: • Active competition • Buyer behavior this month • Neighborhood trends • Features buyers will pay more for • Pricing strategies that create urgency According to industry research, sellers consistently trust agents more than automated tools when determining true market value, because real expertise combines data with real-world insight. And in many cases, a professional evaluation reveals your home may be worth more than an online estimate suggests. Bottom Line Online tools are a helpful starting point, but they’re not a pricing strategy. If you want to sell for the most money in the least amount of time, accurate pricing matters from day one. That’s where local expertise makes the difference. Thinking about selling and want the right price, not just an estimate? 📩 Contact me at   TessMarquez.com  | (626) 712-5156  or call/text anytime! By Tess Marquez, Realtor & Probate Specialist

https://www.instagram.com/tessmarquez/ If you saw headlines saying home sales dropped in January, it may have raised concerns, especially if you’re thinking about selling. But context matters. The reality is that a slowdown in January happens almost every year. Real estate follows predictable seasonal patterns, and winter typically brings fewer closings due to holidays, weather, and scheduling delays. That doesn’t mean buyers disappeared or demand weakened. Why Home Sales Slowed in January Recent data from the National Association of Realtors showed existing home sales declined about 8.4% month-over-month. While that sounds dramatic, the reason home sales slowed in January  is largely tied to seasonal trends rather than weakening demand. Historically, home sales slowed in January  as winter weather, holiday schedules, and delayed transaction timelines push many closings into the following months. This year followed that same pattern, although the drop appeared slightly larger due to widespread winter storms across multiple states. Because existing home sales track completed closings, not signed contracts, many transactions simply shifted into February and March. This means when home sales slowed in January , it reflected timing changes instead of buyer hesitation. What This Means for the Spring Market Historically, housing activity increases as winter ends. February marks the beginning of the spring ramp-up, with momentum building through late spring and early summer. Current indicators still point to a market with steady demand: • Affordability has improved for several consecutive months • Inventory is gradually increasing in many markets • Buyers are gaining negotiating opportunities • Delayed transactions are expected to close soon • Sellers preparing early often benefit from less competition For homeowners considering selling, this transition period can create strategic advantages, including motivated buyers and stronger pricing positioning before peak inventory arrives. Local Impact: What Sellers Should Understand National headlines don’t always reflect local market conditions. Many neighborhoods continue to see strong buyer interest, especially for well-prepared homes priced correctly. Even during seasonal slowdowns: • Move-up buyers remain active • Downsizers continue planning transitions • Probate and trust sales move regardless of season • Investors monitor opportunities • First-time buyers re-enter when affordability improves That’s why interpreting one monthly report without local context can be misleading. Bottom Line Don’t confuse a seasonal slowdown with a market losing strength. Many January sales were delayed due to weather and scheduling factors, not canceled. As conditions improve and the spring market approaches, activity is expected to pick up. For buyers and sellers alike, preparation now can create better opportunities in the months ahead. Have questions about what market headlines mean for your home or timing your move? Tess Marquez provides clear guidance, accurate home valuations, and a proven strategy tailored to today’s market conditions. 📩 Contact me at   TessMarquez.com  | (626) 712-5156  or call/text anytime! By Tess Marquez, Realtor & Probate Specialist |

https://www.instagram.com/tessmarquez/ If you’re planning to buy a home this year, it’s easy to assume spring is the “right” time to move. Many buyers wait, hoping mortgage rates will dip a little more or that more homes will hit the market. But here’s what most buyers don’t realize: buying before spring can actually put you in a stronger position , financially and emotionally. Making a move just a few weeks earlier can mean less competition, less pressure, and real savings . Why Buying Before Spring  Can Work in Your Favor Buying a home before spring gives buyers an advantage that often disappears once the market heats up. With fewer active buyers, sellers are typically more flexible, and you’re less likely to feel rushed into decisions. Below are three key reasons why acting early may be the smarter move. 1. Waiting for Lower Rates May Not Pay Off Many buyers are holding out, hoping mortgage rates will drop further. The reality? Most experts agree rates are expected to stay relatively steady. Industry forecasts suggest mortgage rates will likely remain in the low-6% range  this year. Rates have already dropped about a full percentage point over the past year, improving affordability more than many buyers realize. As Redfin economist Chen Zhao explains: “House hunters should know that this may be near the lowest mortgage rates fall for the foreseeable future.” Buying before spring  allows you to act while competition is lighter instead of waiting for more buyers to enter the market. 2. Spring Brings More Competition and More Stress Spring is popular for a reason, but popularity comes with pressure. According to Realtor.com  data: Homes take about 70 days to sell in winter In spring, that drops to around 50 days That faster pace can mean bidding wars, rushed decisions, and less negotiating room. Buying before spring  often allows more time to evaluate options and make confident choices. 3. Home Prices Tend to Rise When Demand Increases Higher demand typically pushes prices up. The National Association of Realtors reports that buyers who purchased earlier in the year saved roughly $30,000–$35,000  compared to those who bought during spring or early summer price peaks. Buying a home before spring  may help you avoid paying a premium driven by seasonal competition. Bottom Line: Is Buying a Home Before Spring Right for You? Buying before spring isn’t about rushing, it’s about timing the market strategically. For buyers who are financially ready, moving earlier can mean: Less competition More negotiating leverage Lower stress Potential savings Ready to Take the Next Step? If you’d like to talk through current opportunities, local pricing trends, or your buying options, I’m happy to help guide you through the process with clarity and confidence. 📩 Contact me at   TessMarquez.com  | (626) 712-5156  or call/text anytime! By Tess Marquez, Realtor & Probate Specialist |   TessMarquez.com

https://www.instagram.com/tessmarquez/ For many homeowners, retirement is no longer a distant idea, it’s quickly becoming reality. As that transition approaches, more people are rethinking whether their current home still supports the lifestyle they want moving forward. According to Realtor.com  and U.S. Census data, nearly 12,000 people will turn 65 every day for the next two years . At the same time, a growing percentage of Americans plan to retire in 2026 and 2027 , which is why homeowners downsizing for retirement has become a major housing trend. If retirement is on your horizon, now is the time to start thinking ahead. Why Homeowners Are Downsizing for Retirement Downsizing isn’t about giving something up, it’s about gaining ease and flexibility. Many homeowners downsizing for retirement are choosing homes that are: Easier to maintain Easier to navigate day-to-day Better aligned with their current lifestyle Instead of managing extra space, stairs, and upkeep, retirees are prioritizing comfort, simplicity, and peace of mind. Lifestyle Is the Biggest Driver Behind Downsizing Data from the National Association of Realtors shows that the most common reasons people over 60 move are not market-driven, they’re lifestyle-driven. The top reasons include: Being closer to children, grandchildren, or long-time friends Wanting a smaller, more functional home Retiring and no longer needing to live near work Reducing monthly expenses like utilities, insurance, and maintenance For homeowners downsizing for retirement, the goal is simple: a home that fits the years ahead, not the years behind. Home Equity Is Making Downsizing More Feasible One major factor making downsizing possible is home equity. According to Cotality, the average homeowner today has approximately $299,000 in equity , and longtime homeowners often have even more. Years of appreciation combined with lower mortgage balances give many homeowners downsizing for retirement more options than they expect. That equity can help fund a smaller home, reduce monthly costs, or provide additional financial flexibility during retirement. Thinking About Downsizing for Retirement? Start With Clarity Leaving a longtime home can be emotional, but downsizing doesn’t mean closing the door on memories. It means creating space for a new chapter that better fits your lifestyle today. The first step isn’t selling.It ’s understanding what your home and equity make possible. Bottom Line Homeowners downsizing for retirement are choosing simplicity, flexibility, and control. If retirement is approaching and you’re starting to wonder whether your current home still fits your plans, understanding your options now can make future decisions much easier. If you’re considering downsizing for retirement, now or in the near future, a no-pressure conversation can help you understand what options make sense for your goals. I’m happy to help you explore what your next step could look like. 📩 Contact me at   TessMarquez.com  | (626) 712-5156  or call/text anytime! By Tess Marquez, Realtor & Probate Specialist |   TessMarquez.com

https://www.instagram.com/tessmarquez/ When buyers see a home that’s been on the market for a while, the reaction is almost automatic: What’s wrong with it?Why hasn’t it sold?Am I missing something? A few years ago, those questions made sense. In today’s market, though, skipping homes sitting on the market  could mean missing a real opportunity. Homes Sitting on the Market Aren’t Automatically a Red Flag Not long ago, homes were selling in days, sometimes hours. Anything that didn’t move immediately stood out for the wrong reasons. That’s no longer the case. Inventory has increased, buyers have more choices, and homes are taking longer to sell across many areas. A longer time on market  has become more normal, even if it feels unfamiliar compared to the frenzy of recent years. In many cases, a home sitting for 60–70 days isn’t slow, it’s simply reflective of today’s market conditions. Why Some Homes Take Longer to Sell Most of the time, homes sitting on the market  aren’t delayed because something is “wrong.” More often, it comes down to factors like: Higher inventory in the neighborhood Pricing that started slightly above market value Photos or online presentation that didn’t stand out Buyers gravitating toward newer or flashier listings nearby Timing that didn’t align when the home first launched None of these are deal-breakers on their own. What Buyers Often Get Wrong It’s easy to assume a home that hasn’t sold must have hidden issues. While that can happen occasionally, it’s far from the norm. And when a property does  have concerns, inspections usually reveal them quickly. That information doesn’t mean you walk away, it often becomes a negotiation tool . This is where buyers sometimes find the best value:homes others overlooked simply because they sat longer than expected. How to Spot the Opportunities The key isn’t avoiding homes sitting on the market, it’s knowing which ones deserve a second look  and which ones don’t. That requires understanding pricing history, disclosures, neighborhood trends, and how the home compares to recent sales. A local agent can help uncover details that aren’t obvious from an online listing alone. Bottom Line A home sitting on the market isn’t always a warning sign.Sometimes, it’s an overlooked opportunity . If you’re curious which homes are worth a second look, and which ones to skip, getting local insight can make all the difference. 📩 Contact me at   TessMarquez.com  | (626) 712-5156  or call/text anytime! By Tess Marquez, Realtor & Probate Specialist |   TessMarquez.com

https://www.instagram.com/tessmarquez/ If you’ve been seeing headlines about foreclosure activity rising for months in a row, it’s understandable to feel concerned. On the surface, those stories can sound alarming, especially for anyone who remembers what happened during the 2008 housing crash. But when you look beyond the headlines and examine the full context, a very different picture emerges. 👉 Rising foreclosure headlines are not a red flag for today’s housing market. What we’re seeing is not a crisis, it’s a return to normal market activity after years of unusually low levels. Rising Foreclosure Headlines Explained: What the Data Really Shows Yes, foreclosure filings are up. According to ATTOM data, filings increased about 32% year over year . That number often gets attention because it sounds dramatic. But numbers without context can be misleading. Here’s what matters: Today’s foreclosure levels are well within historically normal ranges Activity remains far below pre-pandemic and 2008 crash levels There is no evidence of a wave of distressed sales During the housing crash, foreclosure filings exceeded 1 million per year . Today, even with the recent increase, filings are a fraction of that. When you compare current data to the last “normal” housing years (2017–2019), we’re simply moving back toward typical market behavior. This is normalization, not a warning sign. Why This Market Is Nothing Like 2008 One of the biggest fears driving today’s foreclosure headlines is the idea that history might repeat itself. But the fundamentals of today’s housing market are very different. Stronger Lending Standards Mortgage lending today is far more disciplined than it was in the mid-2000s. Risky loan products and widespread over-leveraging are no longer the norm. More Qualified Borrowers Most homeowners today went through stricter qualification processes, making widespread defaults far less likely. Record Levels of Home Equity This is the most important difference. Over the past several years, home values have risen significantly. Most homeowners now have substantial equity in their homes. That equity acts as a financial cushion. If someone faces hardship, they often have options, such as selling the property, rather than being forced into foreclosure. In many cases, homeowners can sell and walk away with proceeds instead of debt. That simply wasn’t true in 2008. What Industry Experts Are Saying Rob Barber, CEO of ATTOM, sums it up clearly: “Foreclosure activity increased in 2025, reflecting a continued normalization of the housing market following several years of historically low levels… foreclosure activity remains well below pre-pandemic norms and a fraction of what we saw during the last housing crisis.” The key word here is normalization . While some households are under financial pressure, the data does not point to widespread distress or market instability. Bottom Line: Rising Foreclosure Headlines Don’t Signal a Crash Foreclosure activity is increasing, but within normal, healthy ranges. The housing market today is supported by stronger lending, more qualified buyers, and record homeowner equity. The real problem isn’t the data.It ’s the headlines, often designed to scare rather than explain. That’s why having reliable context matters. Understanding your options starts with accurate information. 📩 Contact me at   TessMarquez.com  | (626) 712-5156  or call/text anytime! By Tess Marquez, Realtor & Probate Specialist |   TessMarquez.com

https://www.instagram.com/tessmarquez/ If you’ve been wondering whether 2026 is finally the year affordability improves, you’re not alone. For the past few years, rising mortgage rates and limited inventory made buying or selling feel out of reach for many. The good news? Experts agree the market is shifting in a more balanced direction, and housing affordability is improving in 2026 . In fact, 2025 marked the best affordability conditions in three years , and momentum is expected to continue into 2026. This outlook is driven by three key factors shaping the housing market: mortgage rates, housing inventory, and home price growth . Housing Affordability Improving in 2026 Starts With Mortgage Rates Mortgage rates have already come down from their peak, dropping nearly a full percentage point over the past year. While that may sound modest, it makes a meaningful difference in monthly payments and overall buying power. Most forecasts suggest rates will hover in the low-6% range throughout 2026 . Where they go next will depend on economic conditions, job growth, and future decisions by the Federal Reserve. The key takeaway? Rates are already lower than they were a year ago, and that creates opportunity. For buyers:  Lower rates help stretch buying power and reduce monthly costs. For sellers:  Rates in the 6% range appear to be the new normal, and strong equity positions are helping many sellers make moves confidently. More Inventory Means More Options Housing inventory made a noticeable comeback in 2025, rising by about 15% . That shift gave buyers something they hadn’t had in years: more choices, more time, and more negotiating power. It also helped slow the rapid pace of price growth. Looking ahead, experts at Realtor.com  project inventory will grow by another 8.9% in 2026 . For buyers:  More homes on the market means better selection and leverage. For sellers:  Strategic pricing matters more than ever to attract serious buyers. Home Prices Are Rising — Just More Slowly With more homes available, price growth is cooling to a healthier pace. While some headlines suggest prices could fall dramatically, most economists disagree. Nationally, experts forecast home prices will rise about 1.6% in 2026 . That’s slower than previous years, but still positive, and far more sustainable. Local markets will vary. Some areas may see stronger appreciation, while others may experience slight price adjustments. That’s why local insight is critical when making decisions. As Zillow  explains, this shift points to a market with steadier pricing, improved affordability, and more balanced negotiating power. More Homes Are Expected to Sell in 2026 When lower rates, rising inventory, and slower price growth come together, affordability improves, and more people are able to move forward. That’s why economists expect home sales activity to increase in 2026 . Buyers gain breathing room. Sellers benefit from price stability and consistent demand. The market becomes more predictable, something we haven’t seen in years. Bottom Line Housing affordability won’t change overnight, but the trend is clear. In 2026, buyers and sellers should experience more balance, more options, and more confidence  than they’ve had in quite some time. If you’re thinking about making a move, this could be the window you’ve been waiting for. 📩 Contact me at   TessMarquez.com  | (626) 712-5156  or call/text anytime! By Tess Marquez, Realtor & Probate Specialist |   TessMarquez.com

https://www.instagram.com/tessmarquez/ Buying a home is exciting. Touring properties, imagining your furniture in each room, and picturing your next chapter is all part of the fun. But before any of that can turn into reality, there’s one crucial step that sets everything in motion: mortgage pre-approval . Whether you’re planning to buy soon or just exploring your options, getting pre-approved early gives you clarity, confidence, and control, especially in today’s market. What Is Mortgage Pre-Approval, Really? Mortgage pre-approval isn’t a rough estimate or online calculator result. It’s a formal review by a lender who looks at your financial picture, including your income, credit score, assets, debts, and savings. Once that review is complete, the lender tells you how much they’re willing to lend you. This turns your home search from guesswork into a focused, realistic plan, so you know exactly what price range makes sense before you start shopping. Why Mortgage Pre-Approval Gives Buyers an Advantage The market is constantly changing. Mortgage rates fluctuate, inventory shifts, and well-priced homes can still move quickly. That’s why mortgage pre-approval matters more than ever. Here’s what it gives you: Clarity You’ll understand what you can comfortably afford before falling in love with a home that doesn’t fit your budget. Confidence Sellers take pre-approved buyers seriously. It shows you’re financially prepared and ready to move forward. Control If the right home hits the market or interest rates shift in your favor, you won’t be scrambling. You’ll already be positioned to act. Financial experts agree that pre-approval strengthens your position. It shows sellers and lenders that your finances have already been reviewed, not just estimated, making your offer far more credible. In simple terms: mortgage pre-approval helps you make smarter decisions and avoid missing out when the right opportunity comes along. Don’t Wait Until You’re “Ready” Getting pre-approved doesn’t mean you’re committing to buying a home tomorrow. Most pre-approvals are valid for 60 to 90 days and can be updated if your timeline or circumstances change. A good question to ask yourself is: “If the right home came on the market today, would I be ready to make an offer?” If the answer is no, mortgage pre-approval is the logical next step. Bottom Line Mortgage pre-approval doesn’t limit your options, it opens doors. Buyers who succeed in today’s market aren’t waiting on the sidelines. They’re planning ahead. By getting pre-approved early and working with the right professionals, you’ll be prepared, confident, and ready when the right home appears. If you’re thinking about buying in the coming months, start with mortgage pre-approval. Contact me  to connect with a trusted lender and get clear guidance on the process, so when the right home comes along, you’re ready to move forward with confidence. 📩 Contact me at   TessMarquez.com  | (626) 712-5156  or call/text anytime! By Tess Marquez, Realtor & Probate Specialist |   TessMarquez.com

https://www.instagram.com/tessmarquez/ A More Balanced Housing Market Is Taking Shape in 2026 If a move is on your radar for next year, there’s good reason to feel encouraged. The 2026 housing market outlook  points to a calmer, more balanced environment than we’ve seen in recent years. After a long stretch of uncertainty, marked by high mortgage rates, limited inventory, and stalled decision-making, the market is gradually shifting. While 2026 won’t be “easy,” it’s shaping up to offer more choices, better timing, and clearer opportunities  for both buyers and sellers. This optimism isn’t speculation. It’s coming directly from leading housing economists across the country. What Housing Experts Are Saying About 2026 According to Realtor.com , Chief Economist Danielle Hale notes that after years of difficulty: 2026 is expected to bring a modest but meaningful step toward a healthier housing market for buyers, sellers, and renters alike. The National Association of Realtors  echoes this sentiment, describing 2026 with one word: opportunity . Their economists expect easing mortgage rates and increased housing supply to help unlock movement that’s been stalled for nearly three years. Meanwhile, Mark Fleming, Chief Economist at First American , points to a crucial shift in affordability: Income growth is beginning to outpace home price appreciation, improving buying power even if mortgage rates decline slowly. And from the buyer-seller balance perspective, Zillow  reports that buyers are gaining inventory options while sellers are benefiting from steadier pricing and more consistent demand, giving both sides room to breathe. Why the 2026 Housing Market Outlook Is Different Locally While national trends are moving in a positive direction, real estate remains highly local. According to Lisa Sturtevant, Chief Economist at Bright MLS , 2026 may become one of the most geographically divided markets in years. That means some areas will experience faster price growth, others will stabilize, and some may move more slowly. Local employment, housing supply, and buyer demand will ultimately determine how national trends play out in your neighborhood. This is why understanding local market data , not just national headlines, will matter more than ever in 2026. Bottom Line: Opportunity Favors the Informed The 2026 housing market outlook  is pointing toward progress, more balance, more inventory, and improved affordability over time. But success won’t come from timing the market perfectly. It will come from understanding how these trends apply locally  and knowing when to act. If you’d like a clear breakdown of what these trends mean for your local market, and how to position yourself to take advantage of them, let’s start the conversation and plan ahead with confidence. 📩 Contact me at   TessMarquez.com  | (626) 712-5156  or call/text anytime! By Tess Marquez, Realtor & Probate Specialist |   TessMarquez.com