Interview your agent!

Agent reputation. Does it matter?

I think it does and let me tell you why.

If your agent is unprofessional it could hurt YOU in the long run.

Does your agent have a reputation of honest and transparent dealings?

Are their buyers prequalified and ready to buy?

Are their sellers serious and straightforward?

Has your agent set proper expectations with YOU, their client, so everyone is set up to succeed?

Is your agent easy to work with?

Does your agent return phone calls, text messages, and emails?

All of this can effect YOU when the rubber meets the road because in multiple offer situations, who you work with might make or break the deal.

So how do you know if you are working with a professional? Read reviews online (Zillow is a great resource), ask your friends and neighbors but most of all, interview your agent

What did you say? Yes, interview your agent!

Any time someone allows us to help them with buying and selling we have in some way or another “got the job”.

Its okay to talk to multiple agents and then decide who you feel most comfortable working with. True professionals welcome the chance to shine and earn your trust and business.

With Gratitude

I really love my job. I know lots of people feel that way but for me there are so many gratifying aspects of real estate.
And testimonials like this are what keep me coming back on the hard days.
If we have worked together in the past just know that I value our relationship and your trust in me. I am forever grateful.
With gratitude.

I want to, but

I wanna buy a house, but.....

I Challenge You

“I’m horrible at math” (and other lies I’ve told myself)

I remember it clearly. Handing my mom my 9th grade report card and telling her, “Mom, I just suck at math. I’ll never be good at it.”

That year, I took Algebra 1 and it was torture! Honestly, I didn't understand anything the teacher was writing on the board. I'm not sure how I even passed that class.

Fast forward to my sophomore year and my first day in geometry.

My teacher was kind and thoughtful and she knew how to teach artists and poets (also known as non-mathers like me). Suddenly math didn’t seem like a foreign language.

For once, I was excited about math and my confidence went through the roof. I finally felt like one of the “smart” kids.

I often think about that statement I made back when I was just 15 years old:

“I'm horrible at math”

And how I truly believed that (and sometimes still do) about myself. It’s made me realize that we can be our worst enemies when it comes to the lies we tell ourselves.

What if I would have said instead; “I'm awesome at math!” I might still have struggled in Algebra 1 but maybe I wouldn't have felt so down on myself.

I’ve learned that sometimes it's worth it to try again. Soooo…. you aren’t good at writing or drawing or public speaking. But what if you allowed yourself to try again.

We would never do that to our children. “Oh, you tried that once and you’re just not good at it. Time to give up!” NEVER We would keep encouraging them to try and try again.

So I challenge you to do the same.

What’s something you’ve always told yourself you are “no good at”?

I'm here to cheer you on!

What do buyers look for in buying a house?

Weird things I look for in every home that maybe you should consider too.

1. Functional floor plan. Quirky floor plans can be charming but for some buyers it can be a deal killer. Is there good flow in the home? Does the bedroom layout make sense?

2. Bathtub. You might never take a bath, but having a tub is something I will always want in a home. Whether you are bathing kids or dogs, I think a tub is critical.

3. Pantry. This might seem frivolous but to me a pantry is a must. I need to be able to clearly see my canned goods and other non perishable food items or frankly, I will forget they are there. A good pantry will have somewhat narrow shelves so that things don’t get lost in the pantry abyss (this is similar to what happens to socks in the dryer, they just disappear).

4. A dedicated laundry room. Not every home will be large enough for a dedicated space for duds but in my opinion this is a room that helps simplify and organize one of our least favorite of chores. Check out Pinterest for some amazing laundry room set ups.

All of these items may or may not be important to you but I think they are worth considering when it comes to the resale of your home.

While you can deal with the quirky floor plan, lack of tub, no pantry or laundry room, the next buyer might just decide another home is a better fit for them.

Costliest Mistakes when selling your home

The 5 costliest mistakes to avoid when selling your home (watch out for #3).

1. Not approving showings. Lets face it - selling your home can be an inconvenience and inconvenient showings come with the territory.

2. Skipping the cleaning and decluttering. You are used to all your “stuff” but to a buyer a dirty and cluttered home is a major distraction. Clean and cleared surfaces are attractive and give buyers confidence about the quality and value of your home.

3. Overpricing the market. You hired your agent for their professional guidance. If they tell you your home is worth $400,000 don’t insist on listing if for $500,000. That unicorn buyer (the one that will overpay for your home) is not out there.

4. Skipping major repairs and offering a “credit” instead. Carpet credits or painting credits don’t really work. As a rule of thumb if a repair or replacement costs you $1000 the buyer will want $1500 as a credit. Put your best foot forward and you will be rewarded with top dollar for your home.

5. Not listening to the market. If your feedback is consistently the same: price is too high, buyers don’t like the shag carpet or cigarette smell is a turn off. Listen! These are your customers and not adjusting to their feedback is a mistake.

Your home has value

I don’t get this question very often, but when markets shift, it can catch sellers off guard — especially after several years of an incredibly strong seller’s market.

So when someone asks me, “Carrie, why isn’t my house selling?”

I know it’s coming from a place of confusion, frustration and a whole lot of emotion.

Here’s the truth, said with care:

Sometimes a home doesn’t sell because the price was built around what you need, what you spent or what you’re hoping to walk away with… instead of what today’s market is actually willing to pay.

And that doesn’t mean you misjudged anything.

It just means the ground has shifted under all of us, and part of my job is to help translate what the market is saying without letting it feel personal.

Your home has value — real value — but buyers determine that number, not our attachment or our plans for the next chapter.

So let’s look at the data together. Let’s adjust where needed, refine the strategy and position your home where it can truly be seen and chosen.

You deserve the truth wrapped in kindness, and that’s exactly what I’m here to give.

With gratitude.

Adjustments to make

Here are the three reasons your home is not sold yet.

1. Price: buyers know the market. They have access to tons of data online and while the market is still crazy buyers are not in the mood to grossly overpay for your home.

2. Condition: too small, too dated, too smelly, major repairs, dysfunctional floor plan, you get the picture.

3. Location: too close to the road, in town, out of town, on a mountain, in a valley, again, you get the picture.

.Two of these things you can change, one you cannot. So if your home is not selling you will need to have a closer look at 1 and 2 and see what adjustments need to be made.

Ask A Realtor

Need a goat wrangler, a locksmith, property check on a house that should probably be condemned (which is what I’m doing in this photo ) and a mariachi band by 3pm? Call a Realtor.

We’re not just showing houses—we’re solving problems you didn’t even know existed. Roof leak? I’ve got a guy. Permitting issue from 1987? I know someone who knows someone’s cousin who married a zoning official.

Realtors are the MacGyvers of the modern world—with a cell phone instead of a Swiss Army knife and caffeine instead of a mullet.

Creative? Always. Solution-oriented? That’s my superpower. We don’t just find a way—we invent one if we have to. The Ninjas of No-problemo.

You want the impossible done yesterday?

Ask a Realtor.

You want it done with resourcefulness, grit, and a half dead phone at 2% battery?

Still ask a Realtor.

Plan these expenses

If you are thinking about buying a home these are some of the expenses you should plan for.

Some of these are fairly fixed and some vary based on purchase price and other factors.

Here’s a quick run down for you:

1. Home inspection $400 - $1000 (optional) Appraisal $600 - $1200 (mandatory)

2. Title fees $400 - $600 (mandatory)

3. Survey $500 - $700 (optional)

Reach out with questions.

Biggest Mistakes of Sellers

I hate to burst your bubble, but here’s a list of the biggest mistakes I see sellers making when trying to sell a home.

1. Not approving showings, even the last minute ones. If buyers can’t see it they won’t buy it.

2. Cluttered spaces. Even though buyers know your stuff doesn’t go with the house, lots of clutter ends up being a huge distraction.

3. Unwillingness to negotiate on price, timing or other factors. Buyers need to feel like they are “winning” too and most expect a seller to negotiate some. Build a little wiggle room into your price but not too much

4. Unpleasant odors. This is a biggie! Cigarette smoke and dirty litter box top the list of offensive odors.

5. Unwillingness to make repairs. If it falls into the category of “any reasonable buyer would want this fixed” it just makes sense to fix it!

6. Pricing too high. This is probably the most important factor. A home priced too high will not sell and might even help other homes sell quicker and for more money

Music in your DNA

Ever had a song—or a whole band—slide right into your bloodstream like it already knew your secrets?

Like the melody was written into your genetic code, waiting to be unlocked?

From the very first riff of the very first track, Jamiroquai got me. Hook, line, and funky bass line. Forever kind of love.

It’s like the music knows me. (Yeah, I get how weird that sounds. I’m rolling my eyes at myself too. )

What’s the soundtrack that feels like it was custom-built for your DNA?

Hint: if you once saved up your chore money for a box set (and if you’re too young to know what that is—well, bless your streaming heart) you already know the answer.

Side note: I caught Jamiroquai live in Denver about 15 years ago. Pure magic. And since then? The lead singer’s been banned from the U.S. for driving too fast. True story.

Forever Grateful

I really love my job. I know lots of people feel that way but for me there are so many gratifying aspects of real estate.

And testimonials like this are what keep me coming back on the hard days.

If we have worked together in the past just know that I value our relationship and your trust in me. I am forever grateful.

With gratitude.

Real Estate Decisions

Did you know that 81% of buyers say that animal related considerations played a role in deciding on their next living situation?

Not such a big deal when you have a cat or two, but what if you have a 100 pound St Bernard??

Has there ever been a time you made a real estate decision because of your fur baby?

I would love to hear about it!

What do buyers notice?

Selling your house? Just remember: buyers notice everything — the good, the bad, and the “what were they thinking?”

They walk in with HGTV dreams and laser-sharp vision. They will sniff, squint, and side-eye their way through your entire home like it’s an open house and an episode of CSI.

Think the judgiest in-laws you've ever met… but with checkbooks.

Here’s what they’re picking up on within seconds:

LIGHT: If it’s too dark, the home can feel closed-in. Too bright, and it’s uncomfortable. Aim for warm, natural lighting that feels welcoming.

SMELL: Odors matter. Think pet smells, strong perfumes, or last night’s dinner — all of it can be off-putting. Avoid heavy air fresheners, too. The goal is clean and neutral — ideally, buyers shouldn’t notice any smell at all.

SPACE: That comfy but bulky furniture you love? It might make a room feel smaller to buyers. Less furniture means more open space — and more appeal.

CLEANLINESS: Messy bathrooms and kitchens are major red flags. Clean thoroughly, especially the areas buyers will pay the most attention to. First impressions stick.

CEILINGS: Yes, people look up. Water stains, cobwebs, or odd marks can raise concerns. It’s worth addressing these before showings.

PERSONAL ITEMS: Personal photos, collections, or themed décor can make it harder for buyers to picture themselves living there. Keep it simple and neutral.

OUTDATED FIXTURES: Older light fixtures, wallpaper, or dated tile may stand out — and not in a good way. A few modern updates can go a long way.

The takeaway?Your home doesn’t need to be perfect, but it should feel clean, neutral, and well-cared for. When you create a space buyers can see themselves in, you increase the chances of turning interest into an offer.

Your House's value is down by 30%

The other day I showed a house that was occupied by smokers.

I am not here to harp or preach but I want to share the straight facts with you.

If you choose to smoke that’s on you but please understand that if you decide to smoke IN your home you have probably slashed your home value by upwards of 30%.

Bad odors are one of the biggest turn offs for buyers and one that they CANNOT get past. Do yourself a favor (quit smoking) and smoke outside!

This market is evolving

No more monkeying around.

As the market continues to evolve the art of skill and communication becomes paramount.

In 2021 the market was pretty bananas and the pace of the market was extreme. When helping sellers price their homes we could easily pad the value by 10% - 15%. And we were successful.

Buyers were making offers at asking or above and everyone was happy. Appraisers were able to support these increasing values and because the rates were lower then buyers felt good about their purchases, even if they did pay above asking.

This market is evolving but it’s not bad news. Hear me out.

Homes are still selling but pricing is critical. I’ll say it again for for people in back - pricing is critical. No more monkeying around

Sellers are still getting multiple offers and they are still getting above asking but only if they are priced right.

Gone are the days of padding by $50,000.

So while some sellers might be feeling a market slow down, the ones that listen to the sound advice of their real estate professionals will still be seeing showings and offers.

And for buyers, while rates have gone up please remember that 2.5% was likely a once in a lifetime event. Rates of 5-7% are normal AND historically low. Ask anyone who bought a house in the 80’s what their rate was for some perspective. I’ll say it again and again till I’m blue in the face - the interest rate on rent is 100%

Closing Costs

CLOSING COSTS!

Might as well be a four letter word.

Every buyer and sellers worst nightmare, fees that rack up for days. Processing fees, appraisal fee, title fees, credit report fee, recording fee, commission fees, release fees and I could go on and on.

But here’s the deal.

These fees represent the cost of doing business when buying or selling real estate.

These are not made up fees, they are actual costs that you will incur when you buy and sell real estate.

Some fees are just buyer fees, such as those associated with getting a loan.

And some fees are just for the seller such as real estate commissions and title insurance..

When you have a trusted advisor on you side, they will explain these to you so you don’t feel like someone is taking you to the cleaners.

Negotiating Inspection Items

I’m going to tell you a little secret: Negotiating inspection items can be a bit tricky.

Shows like Million Dollar Listing have not helped either. I cannot tell you how many times the agent on TV says, “We will just get the seller at inspection”. Yeah, it doesn’t work that way.

The purpose of the inspection is to reveal items that cannot be seen with the naked eye or issues that only a thorough home inspection would find.

In other words, the giant carpet stain you saw during the showing is not something that should end up on your list of inspection requests.

For the best results stick to health and safety issues.

And remember, it doesn’t hurt to ask for the things that are important to you. The seller cannot “ditch” you because you sent over a list of inspection requests. All they can do is say no.

If you have kept your list to major items that “any reasonable buyer” would find objectionable the seller is probably going to agree with you.

One of my biggest roles in a real estate transaction is helping you through this process whether you are the buyer or the seller.

Your body is the first to know

You don’t always know who you love right away.

But your body does.

Your pupils literally dilate when you see someone you love.

Before your brain catches up. Before you say a word. Before you’re even sure what you feel.

Your eyes speak a truth your mouth hasn’t even formed.

Isn’t that beautiful?

The idea that your body leans toward what feels like home? Even in silence, even in surprise, even in doubt—your biology is busy recognizing connection.

So much of our emotional truth lives below language.

The flutter in your chest. The calm in your breath. The light in your eyes. Love isn’t just poetic—it’s physiological.

And your body is the first to know.

I’m wondering, has your body ever told you the truth before your mind could?