Lisa Marie Contaldi

For Buyers

What’s Motivating More Buyers To Choose a Newly Built Home?

Planning to buy a home soon? Why not go for something brand-new? Because data shows a lot more buyers are seeing the appeal of new home construction these days – and you may find out it’s...

KCM Crew | December 26, 2024

For Buyers

The Personal Joys of Having a Home To Call Your Own

There’s no doubt that owning a home comes with significant financial benefits. And this time of year is a great time to reflect on the other reasons why owning a home is so meaningful.A h...

KCM Crew | December 25, 2024

For Buyers

The #1 Reason People Move: To Be Closer to Family and Friends

Have you ever thought about packing up and moving to be closer to the people who mean the most to you? Maybe you’re tired of long drives to see your family or wish your kids could spend m...

KCM Crew | December 24, 2024

For Sellers

How Home Equity May Help You Buy Your Next Home in Cash

Building equity in your house is one of the biggest financial advantages of homeownership. And right now, homeowners across the country are sitting on record amounts of it.Here’s a look a...

KCM Crew | December 23, 2024

For Buyers

The Truth About Down Payments

Some HighlightsThere’s a misconception going around that you have to put 20% of the purchase price down when you buy a home. But the truth is, many people don’t put down that much unless ...

KCM Crew | December 20, 2024

For Sellers

Struggling To Sell Your House? Read This.

When you sell your house, ideally, you want it to go something like this: your house sells for top dollar, you get it sold quickly, and it all goes down without a hitch.But what many peop...

KCM Crew | December 19, 2024

For Buyers

The Biggest Perks of Buying a Home This Winter

Waiting for perfect market conditions often means missing out. Because what you may not realize is, if you’re ready and able to buy, this time of year could actually give you an edge. Her...

KCM Crew | December 18, 2024

First-Time Buyers

More Starter Homes Are Hitting the Market

More entry-level homes – also known as starter homes – are popping up on the market. And after several years with very few homes available to buy and prices rising, there are finally some...

KCM Crew | December 17, 2024

For Sellers

Only an Expert Agent Can Give You an Accurate Value of Your Home

In today’s digital age, it’s tempting to rely on automated tools for everything — including figuring out how much your house is worth. But be careful. The automated estimates you’re seein...

KCM Crew | December 16, 2024

For Buyers

What Homebuyers Need To Know About Credit Scores

Some HighlightsData shows 7 out of 10 prospective homebuyers don’t know the minimum credit score required by lenders or that it varies by lender and loan type.According to Experian, the r...

KCM Crew | December 13, 2024

For Buyers

The Top 2 Reasons To Look at Newly Built Homes

When planning a move, a newly built home might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But with more brand-new homes on the market and builders focusing on smaller, more affordable opt...

KCM Crew | December 12, 2024

Affordability

Why Moving to a More Affordable Area Makes Sense

Moving to a more affordable area could be the fresh start you need to get ahead financially. While some markets are certainly more affordable than others, know that working with a trusted...

KCM Crew | December 11, 2024

Home Prices

What Will It Take for Prices To Come Down?

You may be wondering if home prices are going to crash. And believe it or not, some people might even be hoping this happens so they can finally purchase a more affordable home. But exper...

KCM Crew | December 10, 2024

For Sellers

Why More Sellers Are Hiring Real Estate Agents

Putting your house for sale on your own – often called “For Sale by Owner” or FSBO – might be on your mind. But you should know that it gets complicated very quickly, especially in today’...

KCM Crew | December 9, 2024

For Sellers

Why This Winter Is the Sweet Spot for Selling

Some HighlightsThinking about selling your house? Here are a few reasons why you may want to do it this season.Buyers looking right now are serious about moving and the number of homes fo...

KCM Crew | December 6, 2024

Home Prices

Why Owning a Home Is Worth It in the Long Run

Today’s mortgage rates and home prices may have you second-guessing whether it's still a good idea to buy a home right now. While market factors are definitely important, there’s also a b...

KCM Crew | December 5, 2024

Mortgage Rates

When Will Mortgage Rates Come Down?

One of the biggest questions on everyone’s minds right now is: when will mortgage rates come down? After several years of rising rates and a lot of bouncing around in 2024, we’re all eage...

KCM Crew | December 4, 2024

For Sellers

Sell Your House During the Winter Sweet Spot

A lot of people assume spring is the ideal time to sell a house. And sure, buyer demand usually picks up at that time of year. But here’s the catch: so does your competition because a lot...

KCM Crew | December 3, 2024

For Sellers

Should You Sell Your House As-Is or Make Repairs?

A recent study from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows most sellers (61%) completed at least minor repairs when selling their house. But sometimes life gets in the way and t...

KCM Crew | December 2, 2024

For Buyers

Investors Are Not Buying Up All the Homes

Some HighlightsThere’s a misconception Wall Street is buying all the homes on the market. But data proves that isn’t true.​Experts agree the share of homes bought by investors is declinin...

KCM Crew | November 29, 2024

For Sellers

Make Your House the Top Thing on Every Buyer’s Wish List This Season

With the holidays right around the corner, homeowners planning to move have a decision to make: sell now or wait? Some may even consider taking their house off the market until next sprin...

KCM Crew | November 28, 2024

Mortgage Rates

Control the Controllables If You’re Worried About Mortgage Rates

Chances are you’re hearing a lot about mortgage rates right now, and all you really want to hear is that they’re coming back down. And if you’ve seen headlines about the early November Fe...

KCM Crew | November 27, 2024

For Buyers

How Co-Buying a Home Helps with Affordability Today

Buying a home in today’s market can feel like an uphill battle – especially with home prices and mortgage rates putting pressure on your budget. If you’re feeling stuck, co-buying could b...

KCM Crew | November 26, 2024

Foreclosures

Why Today’s Mortgage Debt Isn’t a Sign of a Housing Market Crash

One major reason why we’re not heading toward a foreclosure crisis is the high level of equity homeowners have today. Unlike in the last housing bubble, where many homeowners owed more th...

KCM Crew | November 25, 2024

For Buyers

Is Wall Street Really Buying All the Homes?

Let’s be real – buying a home right now is tough. You’re scrolling through listings, rushing to open houses, and maybe even losing out to more competitive offers. Somewhere along the way,...

KCM Crew | November 19, 2024

For Sellers

Don’t Let These Two Concerns Hold You Back from Selling Your House

If you’re debating whether or not you want to sell right now, it might be because you’ve got some unanswered questions, like if moving really makes sense in today’s market. Maybe you’re w...

KCM Crew | November 18, 2024

Infographics

The Big Difference Between Renter and Homeowner Net Worth

Some HighlightsIf you’re torn between renting or buying, don’t forget to factor in the wealth-building power of homeownership.Unlike renters, homeowners gain equity as they pay their mort...

KCM Crew | November 15, 2024

For Sellers

Should You Sell Your House or Rent It Out?

When you’re ready to move, figuring out what to do with your house is a big decision. And today, more homeowners are considering renting their home instead of selling it. Recent data from...

KCM Crew | November 14, 2024

For Buyers

More Homes, Slower Price Growth – What It Means for You as a Buyer

There are more homes on the market right now than there have been in years – and that could be a game changer for you if you’re ready to buy. Let’s look at two reasons why.You Have More O...

KCM Crew | November 13, 2024

For Sellers

What’s Motivating Homeowners To Move Right Now

Over the past few years, some homeowners have decided to delay their move because they don’t want to sell and take on a higher mortgage rate on their next home. Maybe you’re thinking the ...

KCM Crew | November 12, 2024

For Buyers

The Majority of Veterans Are Unaware of a Key VA Loan Benefit

For over 79 years, Veterans Affairs (VA) home loans have helped countless Veterans achieve the dream of homeownership. But according to Veterans United, only 3 in 10 Veterans realize they...

KCM Crew | November 11, 2024

For Sellers

Why You Need an Agent To Set the Right Asking Price

Some HighlightsThe #1 task sellers struggle with is setting the right asking price for their house.Without an agent’s help, you may set a price that turns away buyers and takes a long tim...

KCM Crew | November 8, 2024

For Buyers

Renting vs. Buying: The Net Worth Gap You Need To See

Trying to decide between renting or buying a home? One key factor that could help you choose is just how much homeownership can grow your net worth.Every three years, the Federal Reserve ...

KCM Crew | November 7, 2024

Mortgage Rates

What To Look For From This Week’s Fed Meeting

You may be hearing a lot of talk about the Federal Reserve (the Fed) and how their actions will impact the housing market right now. Here’s why.The Fed meets again this week to decide the...

KCM Crew | November 6, 2024

For Sellers

Expect the Unexpected: Anticipating Volatility in Today’s Housing Market

You’ve probably noticed one thing if you’re thinking about making a move: the housing market feels a bit unpredictable right now. The truth is, from home prices to mortgage rates, we’re s...

KCM Crew | November 5, 2024

For Buyers

Is a Fixer Upper Right for You?

Looking to buy a home but feeling like almost everything is out of reach? Here’s the thing. There’s still a way to become a homeowner, even when affordability seems like a huge roadblock ...

KCM Crew | November 4, 2024

Infographics

Q&A: How Do Presidential Elections Impact the Housing Market?

Some HighlightsEven if you’re not looking to move right away, you may have questions about how the election will impact the housing market.When we look at historical trends, combined with...

KCM Crew | November 1, 2024

For Buyers

How Real Estate Agents Take the Fear Out of Moving

Feeling a bit unsure, or even afraid, to move with everything going on right now? The decision to move shouldn’t be scary, it should be exciting. And the best way to eliminate any fear is...

KCM Crew | October 31, 2024

For Buyers

Avoid These Top Homebuyer Mistakes in Today’s Market

No one likes making mistakes, especially when they happen in what’s likely the biggest transaction of your life – buying a home.That’s why partnering with a trusted agent is so important....

KCM Crew | October 30, 2024

For Buyers

Why Home Sales Bounce Back After Presidential Elections

With the 2024 Presidential election fast approaching, you might be wondering what impact, if any, it’s having on the housing market. Let’s break it down.Election Years Bring a Temporary S...

KCM Crew | October 29, 2024

For Buyers

Why Your House Will Shine in Today’s Market

Even though there are more homes available for sale than there were at this time last year, there are still more buyers than there are houses to choose from. So, know that if you’ve got m...

KCM Crew | October 28, 2024

For Buyers

Debunking Scary Myths About Buying a Home

Some HighlightsThere are a number of scary myths about homebuying in today’s market. Here’s what you need to know.Prices are not expected to crash, it is possible to buy even with student...

KCM Crew | October 25, 2024

Foreclosures

Why Today’s Foreclosure Numbers Won’t Trigger a Crash

With everything feeling more expensive these days, it’s natural to worry about how rising costs might impact the housing market. Many people are concerned that high prices and tighter bud...

KCM Crew | October 24, 2024

For Sellers

How Long Will It Take To Sell Your House?

As you’re getting ready to sell your house, one of the first questions you’re probably asking is, “how long is this going to take?” And that makes sense—you want to know what to expect.Wh...

KCM Crew | October 23, 2024

For Sellers

Planning To Sell Your House in 2025? Start Prepping Now

If your goal is to sell your house in 2025, now’s the time to start prepping. Even though it might seem like there’s plenty of time between now and the new year, you should get a head sta...

KCM Crew | October 22, 2024

For Buyers

What To Expect from Mortgage Rates and Home Prices in 2025

Curious about where the housing market is headed in 2025? The good news is that experts are offering some promising forecasts, especially when it comes to two key factors that directly af...

KCM Crew | October 21, 2024

For Buyers

Why Buying Now Is Worth It

Some HighlightsYou may be torn between buying a home now or waiting. But don’t forget to factor in the equity you’ll gain as prices rise.Experts forecast prices will climb over the next 5...

KCM Crew | October 18, 2024

For Buyers

Why Did More People Decide To Sell Their Homes Recently?

Homeowners typically slow down their moving plans as the summer months wrap up, and as a result, fewer homes are listed for sale in the fall. It’s a predictable, seasonal trend in real es...

KCM Crew | October 17, 2024

For Buyers

The Benefits of Using Your Equity To Make a Bigger Down Payment

Did you know? Homeowners are often able to put more money down when they buy their next home. That’s because, once they sell, they can use the equity they have in their current house towa...

KCM Crew | October 16, 2024

For Buyers

Why an Agent Is Essential When Buying a Newly Built Home

For some buyers, there’s a misconception that newly built homes aren’t made to last or fall short of the quality you can find in older homes. Unfortunately, this is turning some buyers aw...

KCM Crew | October 15, 2024

For Buyers

Why a Condo Could Be Your Perfect First Home

If you’re looking to break into homeownership but the price of single-family homes has you second-guessing, you might want to consider a condominium (condo) or townhome. These types of ho...

KCM Crew | October 14, 2024

For Buyers

Buying Beats Renting in These Top Cities

Some HighlightsBased on a recent study, in 22 of the top 50 metros, the monthly mortgage payment is lower than the rent payment.Make sure you work with a pro who can help you crunch the n...

KCM Crew | October 11, 2024

For Sellers

How Much Does It Cost To Sell My House?

If you’re toying with the idea of selling your house, you’re probably wondering how much it’ll cost. To be honest, the final number will depend on several factors like the offer you accep...

KCM Crew | October 10, 2024

Inventory

Two Reasons Why the Housing Market Won’t Crash

You may have heard chatter recently about the economy and talk about a possible recession. It's no surprise that kind of noise gets some people worried about a housing market crash. Maybe...

KCM Crew | October 9, 2024

For Sellers

Why Now’s Not the Time To Take Your House Off the Market

Has your house been sitting on the market longer than expected? If so, you’re bound to be frustrated by now. Maybe you’re even thinking it’s time to pull the listing and wait to see what ...

KCM Crew | October 8, 2024

For Sellers

Now’s the Time To Upgrade to Your Dream Home

If you’ve been wanting to sell your house and move up to a bigger or nicer home, you’re not alone. A recent Inman survey reveals the top motivator for today’s homebuyers is the desire for...

KCM Crew | October 7, 2024

Infographics

The Top 3 Reasons Affordability Is Improving

Some HighlightsAffordability is based on three key factors: mortgage rates, home prices, and wages.And today, it’s improving quickly as rates come down, prices level off, and wages climb....

KCM Crew | October 4, 2024

For Buyers

Home Values Rise Even as Median Prices Fall

Recent headlines have been buzzing about the median asking price of homes dropping compared to last year, and that’s sparked plenty of confusion. And as a buyer or seller, it’s easy to as...

KCM Crew | October 3, 2024

For Sellers

Secrets To Selling Your House Quickly

Seeing your house sit on the market without any bites is the ultimate frustration. And unfortunately, some sellers are in that tricky spot today.According to data from the National Associ...

KCM Crew | October 2, 2024

For Buyers

This Is the Sweet Spot Homebuyers Have Been Waiting For

After months of sitting on the sidelines, many homebuyers who were priced out by high mortgage rates and affordability challenges finally have an opportunity to make their move. With rate...

KCM Crew | October 1, 2024

For Buyers

Buying Beats Renting in 22 Major U.S. Cities

That’s right—according to a recent study from Zillow, in 22 of the 50 largest metro areas, monthly mortgage payments are now lower than rent payments (see chart below):As mortgage rates h...

KCM Crew | September 30, 2024

For Buyers

Buy Now, or Wait?

Some HighlightsIf you’re wondering if you should buy now or wait, here’s what you need to know. If you wait for rates to drop more, you’ll have to deal with more competition and higher pr...

KCM Crew | September 27, 2024

For Buyers

Don’t Fall for These Real Estate Agent Myths

When it’s time to buy or sell a home, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is who you’ll work with as your agent. That choice will have an impact on your entire experience and ...

KCM Crew | September 26, 2024

For Buyers

Why Buying Now May Be Worth It in the Long Run

Should you buy a home now or should you wait? That’s a question a lot of people have these days. And while what’s right for you is going to depend on a lot of different factors, here’s so...

KCM Crew | September 25, 2024

For Buyers

The Down Payment Assistance You Didn’t Know About

Believe it or not, almost 80% of first-time homebuyers qualify for down payment assistance, but only 13% actually use it. And if you’re hoping to buy a home, this is a mission-critical ga...

KCM Crew | September 24, 2024

For Sellers

Is Your House Priced Too High?

Every seller wants to get their house sold quickly, for as much money as they can, with as few headaches as possible. And chances are, you’re no different.But did you know one of the bigg...

KCM Crew | September 23, 2024

For Buyers

Lower Mortgage Rates Boost Your Buying Power

Some HighlightsMortgage rates are trending down and that’s great news for your bottom line.As rates drop, your monthly payment on your next home does too. Even a small change in mortgage ...

KCM Crew | September 20, 2024

For Sellers

Falling Mortgage Rates Are Bringing Buyers Back

If you’ve been hesitant to list your house because you’re worried no one’s buying, here’s your sign it may be time to talk with an agent.After months of high rates keeping buyers on the s...

KCM Crew | September 19, 2024

For Buyers

The Latest Builder Trend: Smaller, Less Expensive Homes

Even though affordability is improving, buying a home can still feel tough right now. But here’s some good news: builders are focusing their efforts on building smaller homes, and they’re...

KCM Crew | September 18, 2024

For Buyers

Mortgage Rates Drop to Lowest Level in over a Year and a Half

Mortgage rates have hit their lowest point in over a year and a half. And that’s big news if you’ve been sitting on the homebuying sidelines waiting for this moment.Even a small decline i...

KCM Crew | September 17, 2024

For Buyers

The Best Time To Buy a Home This Year

A shift is underway in the housing market this season. And if you’ve been sitting on the sidelines waiting for the right moment to jump back into your homebuying search, this is a great t...

KCM Crew | September 16, 2024

For Sellers

Checklist for Getting Your House Ready To Sell

Some HighlightsGetting your house ready to sell? Here’s a few tips on what you may want to do to prepare.Focus on making it inviting, showing it’s cared for, and boosting your curb appeal...

KCM Crew | September 13, 2024

For Buyers

What To Know About Closing Costs

Now that you’ve decided to buy a home and are ready to make it happen, it’s a good idea to plan ahead for the costs that are a typical part of the homebuying process. And while your down ...

KCM Crew | September 12, 2024

For Buyers

The Real Story Behind What’s Happening with Home Prices

If you’re wondering what’s going on with home prices lately, you’re definitely not the only one. With so much information out there, it can be hard to figure out your next move.As a buyer...

KCM Crew | September 11, 2024

For Buyers

Why Pre-Approval Should Be at the Top of Your Homebuying To-Do List

Since the supply of homes for sale is growing and mortgage rates are coming down, you may be thinking it’s finally your moment to jump into the market. To make sure you’re ready, you need...

KCM Crew | September 10, 2024

For Sellers

The Surprising Amount of Home Equity You’ve Gained over the Years

There are a number of reasons you may be thinking about selling your house. And as you weigh your options, you may find you’re unsure how you’re going to deal with one thing about today’s...

KCM Crew | September 9, 2024

For Buyers

The Latest on the Luxury Home Market

Luxury living is about more than just stunning views and cutting-edge smart home technology—it's about elevating your lifestyle. And if you're in the market for a million-dollar home, now...

KCM Crew | September 5, 2024

Mortgage Rates

How the Federal Reserve’s Next Move Could Impact the Housing Market

Now that it’s September, all eyes are on the Federal Reserve (the Fed). The overwhelming expectation is that they’ll cut the Federal Funds Rate at their upcoming meeting, driven primarily...

KCM Crew | September 4, 2024

For Sellers

Should You Sell Now? The Lifestyle Factors That Could Tip the Scale

Are you on the fence about whether to sell your house now or hold off? It’s a common dilemma, but here’s a key point to consider: your lifestyle might be the biggest factor in your decisi...

KCM Crew | September 3, 2024

For Buyers

Could a 55+ Community Be Right for You?

If you’re thinking about downsizing, you may be hearing about 55+ communities and wondering if they’d be a good fit for you. Here’s some information that could help you make your decision...

KCM Crew | September 2, 2024

For Sellers

How To Avoid Today's Top Seller Mistakes

Some HighlightsWant to know some of the top mistakes sellers are making today and how to make sure they don’t happen to you too?The biggest missteps are pricing a house too high, skipping...

KCM Crew | August 30, 2024

For Buyers

Are We Heading into a Balanced Market?

If you’ve been keeping an eye on the housing market over the past couple of years, you know sellers have had the upper hand. But is that going to shift now that inventory is growing? Here...

KCM Crew | August 29, 2024

For Buyers

2025 Housing Market Forecasts: What To Expect

Looking ahead to 2025, it's important to know what experts are projecting for the housing market. And whether you're thinking of buying or selling a home next year, having a clear picture...

KCM Crew | August 28, 2024

For Buyers

What's the Impact of Presidential Elections on the Housing Market?

It’s no surprise that the upcoming Presidential election might have you speculating about what’s ahead. And those unanswered thoughts can quickly spiral, causing fear and uncertainty to s...

KCM Crew | August 27, 2024

Mortgage Rates

What Mortgage Rate Are You Waiting For?

You won’t find anyone who’s going to argue that mortgage rates have had a big impact on housing affordability over the past couple of years. But there is hope on the horizon. Rates have a...

KCM Crew | August 26, 2024

For Buyers

How Growing Inventory Benefits Today's Buyers

Some HighlightsWhile the number of homes for sale varies by local area, nationally we’re up over 36% year-over-year, but still down almost 29% compared to what’s normal.​Here’s what that ...

KCM Crew | August 23, 2024

For Buyers

Today’s Biggest Housing Market Myths

Have you ever heard the phrase: don’t believe everything you hear? That’s especially true if you’re thinking about buying or selling a home in today’s housing market. There’s a lot of mis...

KCM Crew | August 22, 2024

For Sellers

The Number One Mistake Sellers Are Making: Overpricing Their House

In today's housing market, many sellers are making a critical mistake: overpricing their houses. This common error can lead to a home sitting on the market for a long time without any off...

KCM Crew | August 21, 2024

For Buyers

How To Choose a Great Local Real Estate Agent

Selecting the right real estate agent can make a world of difference when buying or selling a home. But how do you find the best one? Here are some tips to help you make that big decision...

KCM Crew | August 20, 2024

For Buyers

How Mortgage Rate Changes Impact Your Homebuying Power

If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home, you’ve probably got mortgage rates on your mind. That’s because you’ve likely heard that mortgage rates impact how much you can afford i...

KCM Crew | August 19, 2024

For Buyers

3 Reasons To Move in Today’s Shifting Market

Some HighlightsThe housing market is in a transition. And that gives you 3 key opportunities going into the fall.There are more homes actively for sale. Builders are motivated to sell, so...

KCM Crew | August 16, 2024

For Buyers

What Credit Score Do You Really Need To Buy a House?

When you're thinking about buying a home, your credit score is one of the biggest pieces of the puzzle. Think of it like your financial report card that lenders look at when trying to fig...

KCM Crew | August 15, 2024

Affordability

The Great Wealth Transfer: A New Era of Opportunity

In recent years, there’s been a significant shift in how wealth is distributed among generations. It’s called the Great Wealth Transfer.Historically, the transfer of wealth from one gener...

KCM Crew | August 14, 2024

For Buyers

Is Affordability Starting To Improve?

Over the past couple of years, a lot of people have had a hard time buying a home. And while affordability is still tight, there are signs it's getting a little better and might keep impr...

KCM Crew | August 13, 2024

For Buyers

Are There More Homes for Sale Where You Live?

One of the biggest bright spots in today’s housing market is how much the supply of homes for sale has grown since the beginning of this year. Recent data from Realtor.com shows that nati...

KCM Crew | August 12, 2024

For Sellers

Home Inspections For Sellers: How To Prepare

Some HighlightsIf you’re thinking about selling your house, it’s important to know what the home inspection is and what inspectors look for.As supply grows and buyers regain negotiation p...

KCM Crew | August 9, 2024

For Buyers

Where Will You Go After You Sell?

If you’re planning to sell your house and move, you probably know there’s been a shortage of options available. But here’s the good news: the supply of homes for sale has grown in a lot o...

KCM Crew | August 8, 2024

For Buyers

Mortgage Rates Down a Full Percent from Recent High

Mortgage rates have been one of the hottest topics in the housing market lately because of their impact on affordability. And if you’re someone who’s looking to make a move, you’ve probab...

KCM Crew | August 7, 2024

For Sellers

Helpful Negotiation Tactics for Today’s Housing Market

If you haven’t already heard, homebuyers are regaining some negotiating power in today’s market. And while that doesn’t make this a buyer’s market, it does mean buyers may be able to ask ...

KCM Crew | August 6, 2024

For Sellers

What Every Homeowner Should Know About Their Equity

Curious about selling your home? Understanding how much equity you have is the first step to unlocking what you can afford when you move. And since home prices rose so much over the past ...

KCM Crew | August 5, 2024