06/25/2026
It's easy to assume that every dollar you put into your home will come back to you when you sell but that's not always the case. In fact, some upgrades can actually hurt your return or limit your home's appeal.Highly personalized renovations, luxury upgrades in mid-range neighborhoods, or projects that don't match buyer expectations often miss the mark. Things like overly customized kitchens, high-end tech features, or converting functional spaces into something niche can make it harder for buyers to see themselves in the home.The key is understanding what buyers in your market value—and where your money will have the most impact. Sometimes, simple updates like fresh paint, minor repairs, or improving curb appeal can deliver a better return than major renovations.Before you invest in upgrades, it's worth having a quick conversation. I can help you prioritize what makes sense based on today's market and connect you with trusted professionals if needed.
Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/TemaraPresley/2026/06/25/Some-renovations-cost-more-than-they-return
Helping homeowners when they buy, sell and all the years in between.
(503) 705-2546 [email protected]
06/24/2026
The absorption rate tells you whether you're in a buyer's, seller's, or balanced market, and I can help you make the most of it.
Helping homeowners when they buy, sell and all the years in between.
(503) 705-2546 [email protected]
A Key to Reading the Market
Understanding your local absorption rate helps you price smart, plan strategically, and market your home based on how quickly homes are actually selling.
06/22/2026
It's easy to assume that every dollar you put Online estimates like the Zestimate can be a convenient way to get a quick idea of your home's value but they don't tell the full story.These algorithms rely on public data and broad assumptions, which means they often miss the details that really matter. Things like your home's condition, upgrades, layout, lot placement, and even buyer demand in your specific neighborhood can significantly impact value and those aren't always reflected online.In today's market, pricing is as much about strategy as it is about data. Two homes with similar stats can sell for very different prices depending on how they're presented, marketed, and positioned.If you're curious about what your home might really be worth, not just what an algorithm says, I can provide a more accurate, real-time perspective based on what's happening right now in your market. There's no pressure, just good information to help you make smart decisions.
Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/TemaraPresley/2026/06/22/Your-home-s-value-is-not-just-a-number
Helping homeowners when they buy, sell and all the years in between.
(503) 705-2546 [email protected]
06/19/2026
June is National Homeownership Month. REALTORS® do more than open doors; we help you find your way home. Let's talk about how we can help you make your next move.
Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/TemaraPresley/2026/06/19/June-is-National-Homeownership-Month
Helping homeowners when they buy, sell and all the years in between.
(503) 705-2546 [email protected]
06/18/2026
Most homeowners think of equity as something they access only when they sell, but it can also be a tool for building long-term wealth. Equity may help fund renovations, consolidate higher-interest debt, invest in another property, or support other financial goals.The key is using it strategically and understanding both the opportunities and risks involved. Your home is one of your largest financial assets, and how you manage that equity can have a major impact over time.If you're curious about ways your home equity could support your long-term goals, let's talk. I can help you explore options and connect you with trusted professionals who can guide you through the financial side of the process.
Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/TemaraPresley/2026/06/18/Don-t-Let-Your-Equity-Sit-Idle
Helping homeowners when they buy, sell and all the years in between.
(503) 705-2546 [email protected]
06/17/2026
Working with an agent who truly understands VA loans can make all the difference especially when it comes to protecting your benefits and avoiding delays. If you're a veteran or active-duty service member thinking about buying, let's talk about how your VA benefits can help you own a home with confidence.
Helping homeowners when they buy, sell and all the years in between.
(503) 705-2546 [email protected]
The Hidden Advantage of a VA-Savvy Agent
This article explains how working with a VA-savvy real estate agent helps veterans and service members save time, avoid surprises, and make the most of their home loan benefits.
06/15/2026
When you make a mortgage payment, it may feel like just another monthly expense, but there's more happening behind the scenes. A portion of each payment goes toward reducing your loan balance. That's called amortization, and it quietly builds equity over time.In the early years, the progress may seem slow. But as time goes on, more of each payment goes toward principal, accelerating that equity growth. Combine that with potential appreciation, and your home can become a powerful financial asset.It's one of the reasons homeownership is often viewed as a long-term wealth-building strategy. If you'd like to see how equity could build over time in your situation, I'd be glad to break it down for you.
Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/TemaraPresley/2026/06/15/Every-Payment-Does-More-Than-You-Think
Helping homeowners when they buy, sell and all the years in between.
(503) 705-2546 [email protected]
06/12/2026
Buyers who feel they missed a window of opportunity to buy before rates started increasing should investigate financing alternatives. Waiting for rates to drop can mean missing out as inflation, rising prices and rents may outweigh any savings. And if rates do fall, you could face stiff competition from a flood of new buyers in the market.
Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/TemaraPresley/2026/06/12/Waiting-for-lower-rates-can-cost-in-other-ways
Helping homeowners when they buy, sell and all the years in between.
(503) 705-2546 [email protected]