When I began selling homes many years ago, the ‘Coming Soon’ sign was a staple—a way to let buyers know a home would soon be on the market. Over time, however, off-market listings gained traction, particularly among certain brokers who sold homes privately to exclusive buyers. While some high-end clients preferred this privacy, I’ve always believed this model limits exposure and ultimately hurts sellers by reducing competition.
In a recent Washington Post article, Michele Lerner highlights the frustration of homebuyers who miss out on properties they never knew were available. These off-market deals, or “pocket listings,” allow agents to market homes before they’re listed on the MLS, often to select buyers within their brokerage. Some brokers argue this gives sellers more control, but it can also lead to reduced transparency.
As a broker with Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty and Founder of Rainier Estates, I support keeping rules that require off-market listings to be disclosed. Transparency in real estate is crucial, especially when a home is often the largest financial commitment most people will ever make. By limiting a seller’s market exposure, they risk missing out on better offers.
For my sellers, I always recommend broad exposure. Why settle for one or two potential buyers when dozens more could be interested? In my experience, transparency and competition drive better outcomes for both buyers and sellers.
At the end of the day, my goal is to arm my clients with all the information they need to make the best choice for their future. Whether selling to a neighbor or a stranger, I help them understand their options and support them in making an informed decision.
Where do you land on this? Should the National Association of Realtors or the MLS allow ‘Coming Soon’ signs? Pocket Listings? Let me know your thoughts.
Why Buying a Home Now Makes Sense—Even with Higher Interest Rates
Today’s real estate market has many discussions about high interest rates. These rates are making home ownership more expensive. Rates are higher than they have been in recent years. Still, that doesn’t mean buying a home is a bad idea. In fact, consider the long-term picture. Purchasing a home today may be one of the smartest financial moves you can make. Here’s why:
1. Rent Increases Year After Year—But a Mortgage Stays the Same
One of the most compelling reasons to buy a home is the long-term stability it provides. Rent is not fixed; in fact, rents have been rising steadily, often by several percent each year. When you sign a lease, you must abide by the landlord’s decisions. The landlord will increase the rent at the end of the term. While you have a year or two of predictable rent payments, you have no control over future increases.
On the other hand, with a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage, your monthly payment will stay consistent. It won’t change no matter how much rents increase around you. That predictability means that while others face escalating rental costs, you’ll have a fixed payment. It helps you plan for the future with confidence.
2. Real Estate Values Appreciate Over Time
While the markets have ups and downs in the short term, real estate is historically a strong long-term investment. Over the past several decades, property values have generally increased, making home ownership a wealth-building tool. Even with higher interest rates, buying a home now means you are locking in today’s prices. This decision occurs before prices rise even more.
Real estate isn’t just about a place to live; it’s also about building equity. As you pay down your mortgage over time, you are building wealth—something that renting can never offer. Home prices will appreciate in your area. If they do, you will see a significant return on investment when you decide to sell.
3. The Benefits of Equity Over Time
When you pay rent, you’re essentially helping to build someone else’s equity. Your rent payment doesn’t give you with any return on investment. With every mortgage payment you make, a part goes toward building equity in your home. This money is working for you. It is growing your financial future.
Over time, as you make regular mortgage payments, you’ll start to see the payoff. This is clear in terms of home equity. You will also notice the eventual increase in the property’s value itself. The earlier you buy, the more you stand to gain as home prices continue to appreciate.
4. High Rates May Be Temporary—You Can Refinance Later
It’s important to remember that interest rates are cyclical. While they may be higher now, they aren’t likely to stay at these levels forever. In the future, when rates go down, you refinance your mortgage. This would secure a lower rate and reduce your monthly payment. By buying now, you secure a home at today’s prices. You take advantage of long-term value appreciation. You also leave the door open for future refinancing when rates are more favorable.
5. Leveraging Your Down Payment Now Will Save You More Later
You’re already in a better position than many others if you’ve been able to save for a down payment. In a market with rising rents, it is beneficial to buy now. You can still gather the necessary funds despite the potential for even higher home prices. It is advantageous to buy now. Even if you’re paying a higher interest rate today, fixed payments remain a strong long-term benefit of home ownership. Additionally, equity building and the potential for value growth far outweigh the temporary costs of a higher mortgage rate.
Final Thoughts
Purchasing a home is a significant financial decision. If you can manage the down payment and afford the mortgage, there are many reasons to act now. While interest rates are be higher than we’d like, they’re not the full story. Consider the stability of fixed-rate payments. Think about the potential for equity growth. Acknowledge the inevitability of rising rents. Buying a home today is an investment in your future. If you’re ready, this is the perfect time to take the leap.
Lisa Taylor Real Estate Broker with Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty CEO & Founder of Rainier Estates For a complimentary consultation on your estate, feel free to reach out: Email: Lisa.Taylor@RSIR.com
At Rainier Estates & Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty, we understand. Selling a home can be especially daunting for seniors, heirs, and executors. Our real estate concierge service is here to lighten the load. We handle personal property. We organize moves. We also sell the home. A common question we hear is: “Is a home inspection necessary if we’re selling ‘as-is’?”
We often respond with our own question. We ask, “Do you want to be transparent about the condition of the home?” The answer is usually a resounding “Yes!”
The Value of a Home Inspection
So, what does a home inspection entail? A comprehensive inspection typically includes:
Thermal Imaging: Detects hidden issues like heat loss or moisture intrusion.
Video Scopes: Provides insight into drains and sewer lines.
Aerial Drone Views: Assesses roofs and gutters from above.
Moisture Meters: Measures dampness in walls and floors.
Visual Checks: Inspects for cracks, rot, and signs of pests.
While inspectors may not be licensed electricians or plumbers, they can identify concerns and recommend professionals for further evaluation.
Cost Considerations
Wondering about the cost? Home inspection prices vary based on the home’s age and size. Additional services like sewer scopes or roof inspections also affect the price. In the Seattle area, expect to pay between $500 and $1000.00.
Once you have the inspection report, you can decide whether to address any issues. Alternatively, you can provide the report as it is to potential buyers. This transparency can lead to cleaner offers with fewer contingencies, as buyers appreciate knowing the home’s condition upfront. By being open about the “good, bad, and ugly,” you build trust with potential buyers.
Some buyers may still elect to obtain their own home inspections. They do this if they are truly serious about making an offer on your home. We always encourage that. We want the buyers to purchase with full confidence!
Let Us Handle It
With our Real Estate Concierge Service, you don’t have to navigate the complexities of selling your home alone. We handle every detail. We coordinate inspections, manage upgrades, and make recommendations based on the current market trends. Our experienced team acts as your knowledge base, guiding you to achieve the best possible outcome with ease.
At Rainier Estates & Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty, we believe that selling your home should be smooth. It should also be a stress-free process. Let us be your partner in this journey!
To arrange a complimentary in home consultation, feel free to email Lisa Taylor, Broker with Sotheby’s anytime! Lisa.Taylor@RSIR.com
