I'm excited to share a big milestone with you: I am now certified as a Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®)!

Moving into a new stage of life—whether that means rightsizing, relocating closer to family, or adapting a home to age in place—comes with unique financial, emotional, and lifestyle choices. As an SRES®, I’ve undergone specialized training to help adults 50+ navigate these major transitions with confidence, clarity, and peace of mind. To support our community, I am kicking off a new monthly newsletter feature dedicated entirely to senior living topics. Each month, we’ll dive into practical tips on everything from decluttering and reverse mortgages to accessible home modifications and local retirement resources. My goal is to make your real estate journey as seamless and stress-free as possible.

What is Your Home Worth?

Ever wonder how your home's estimated market value is changing over time? Keeping tabs on your equity is one of the easiest ways to make smart financial decisions—whether you're thinking of selling soon or simply want to know where your biggest asset stands. Simply scan the QR code or click the image to sign up for a complimentary, automated monthly home value report delivered directly to your inbox. No spam, no obligation—just clear, real-time insights to help you stay informed and plan with confidence. 

What the June Numbers Mean for Your Home’s Value

While Emmet County inventory spiked this past June with new listings jumping 35%, buyer demand has remained cautious as mortgage interest rates hover around the mid-6% range. This rate environment has put gentle downward pressure on prices, leading to an 8.49% drop in median sold prices year-over-year. However, sellers who price competitively are still finding success— homes sold in June spent slightly less time on the market than last year (down to 67 days average), and average sold prices actually saw a modest uptick of 4.44%. In a shifting market driven by interest rate movements, tracking your hyper-local equity is key to making smart, timely decisions.  Although I can send you an automated market analysis of your property, to really get a clear idea of your home's true market value, please reach out.  I offer complimentary, no-pressure home market analysis year round as a service to the community.

Market Shifts With New Buyer Preferences

Buyer priorities evolve. And so does what actually adds value to a property.

Today, flexible space leads the list. Rooms that can shift between office, gym, or guest use are more compelling than single-purpose layouts. It’s not about size alone—it’s about adaptability.

Energy performance has moved from nice-to-have to expected. Smart thermostats, improved insulation, and efficient windows resonate with cost-conscious buyers and show long-term thinking.

Outdoor living is another standout. Defined spaces for dining or relaxing, even on modest lots, often outperform unfinished yards. Usability matters more than scale.

Tech integration counts too. Clean, simple smart-home features—lighting, security, climate—add convenience without overwhelming complexity.

And condition remains king. Buyers place a premium on homes that feel move-in ready, especially when time and labor feel harder to come by than they did five years ago.

Value in 2026 is tied to how a home fits current buyer priorities. Your Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network agent can help identify which improvements align with today’s market and your home’s greatest potential.

Pearl Couscous Salad with Beans 

Salad Ingredients:

•1 cup pearl couscous  • 1 can black beans rinsed & drained • I can black-eyed peas rinsed & drained • 3 small bell peppers diced • 1 red onion diced • 2 tomatoes diced • 1 cup corn kernels • 1 cup cilantro chopped  • 2 tablespoons jalapeño diced

Dressing Ingredients:

1/2 cup olive oil • 2 tbsp vinegar • juice of one lime • 1/2 tsp ground cumin • 1/2 tsp paprika • 1/2 tsp garlic powder • 2 tbsp honey • 1 tsp salt • 1/4 black pepper

Instructions:

1. Cook couscous according to package instructions, rinse and set aside to cool.
2. In a large bowl combine all salad ingredients.
3. To make the dressing, whisk together all dressing ingredients.
4. Stir dressing into salad.