Christine Bouley of Coldwell Banker Town & Country R.E.

09/28/2026

09/28/2026

The Housing Market Is Getting More Negotiable
Lately, we’re seeing a welcome shift—inventory is on the rise in several markets. This means buyers now have more options and a little more breathing room, instead of feeling rushed into hasty decisions. With more homes to choose from, the negotiating table just got a lot more interesting, especially for properties that have lingered or started out overpriced. Sellers are stepping up with price adjustments, concessions, and repairs to attract motivated buyers. My approach has always been rooted in strategy and negotiation, so whether you’re comparing listings or preparing to sell, this is the moment to be thorough and realistic. It’s about careful comparison on the buyer’s side, and smart pricing and strong terms for sellers—because real results come from experience and honest communication. Let’s make sure your next move is the right one.

09/27/2026

New listings hit a four-year high
We’re seeing a notable shift in the US housing market: new listings have climbed by 8%, marking the highest level since August 2022. More homes on the market means buyers have fresh options to explore, and active listings are edging closer to balanced territory. While pending sales have reached a low point, affordability remains a challenge with mortgage rates sitting at 6.66% and median prices up 2.2%. After more than twenty years helping clients navigate these ups and downs, I know how important it is to have a thoughtful game plan—especially when the numbers are moving in real time. Whether you’re considering your first purchase or thinking about listing, strategy and honest communication can make all the difference in reaching your goals.


https://www.housing-trends.com/agent-news/christine-bouley/1967133-New-listings-hit-a-four-year-high

09/26/2026

First-Time Homebuyers: Essential Post-Closing Checklist Items
Closing on your first home is a huge milestone—congratulations! But the real work begins after you get the keys. After helping clients for over twenty years, I know the transition can feel overwhelming, so here’s my tried-and-true checklist to set you up for success: establish a realistic budget that includes your mortgage, utilities, property taxes, and ongoing maintenance. Start building your emergency fund, take a close look at your insurance coverage, and make debt repayment a priority. Hold off on big renovations for now, and remember to check in on your budget and retirement plan regularly. HOME WORK doesn’t stop at closing—I’m here to help you feel confident and prepared every step of the way.


https://www.housing-trends.com/agent-news/christine-bouley/1978119-First-Time-Homebuyers%3A-Essential-Post-Closing-Checklist-Item

09/25/2026

Timeless character meets exceptional craftsmanship in this masterfully refurbished all-brick home. Offering 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths, the home beautifully showcases its original woodwork and hardwood floors. The upgrades are too many to list, you just must come see! The finished basement features a family room, laundry, 3/4 bath and storage areas that top a durable epoxy floor. A huge covered front porch, attractive landscaping and an impressive 3-car garage complete this truly special, move-in-ready property.

09/25/2026

New Listings Rise as Summer Comes to a Close
As summer winds down, the real estate landscape is shifting again: new home listings have edged up by 1.2%, reaching a three-month high, while pending sales dipped 1.3%—the lowest since March. Even with a 1.8% increase in the median sale price compared to last year, the median asking price has slipped by 0.1%. These subtle changes are happening against the backdrop of higher mortgage rates and ongoing economic uncertainty. After more than twenty years guiding clients through both steady and changing markets, I know that timing and strategy matter. Whether you’re considering your first purchase or getting ready to list, a thoughtful approach can make all the difference. HOME WORK is truly what I do best—helping you navigate every twist in the market, so your next move feels right.


https://www.housing-trends.com/agent-news/christine-bouley/1967893-New-Listings-Rise-as-Summer-Comes-to-a-Close

09/24/2026

Post-Purchase Costs Buyers Should Expect
Many buyers focus on down payments and closing costs, but it’s what happens after the keys are in your hand that often takes people by surprise. In my two decades of guiding clients through their real estate journeys, I’ve seen how first-year ownership comes with its own set of expenses—especially for repairs, furnishings, and appliances. Did you know that buyers of newly built homes typically spend an average of $26.9K in their first year, compared to $18.7K for existing homes? That includes around $4.3K for appliances and household equipment in new construction (and $3.7K for existing homes), along with home furnishings—averaging $8.3K for new builds and $3.9K for existing properties. The biggest first-year cost? Alterations and repairs, which can run $14.3K for new homes and $11.1K for existing ones. Planning ahead for these real costs can make your transition to homeownership much smoother. My approach is always about preparing you for each step—so you can focus on settling into your new space with confidence.

09/23/2026

The Best Time to Buy a Home in 2026
Curious about when buyers truly have the upper hand? Recent projections pinpoint September 27 to October 3, 2026, as the sweet spot. During this window, the national market is set to offer a robust selection—active listings could surge by 31.9% from the year's start and sit 13.3% above the average week, giving buyers more options than usual. Even better, listing prices are expected to be 3.5% below their seasonal peak, which could mean saving around $14,000 on a median-priced home of $416,000. Competition is forecasted to drop by 30.1% compared to the busiest time of year, and homes may linger on the market for an average of 64 days—giving you time to make thoughtful decisions. Year-over-year, inventory keeps expanding while demand softens, making early fall ideal for choice and late fall possibly even better for price flexibility. After decades of helping clients navigate shifting markets, I know how timing plays a critical role in securing the right home and the best deal. If you’re thinking about making a move, let’s make sure you’re ready for the moments that matter most.