Nancy Stevenson - Bozeman Real Estate Group

10/28/2026

Many homeowners have built significant equity over the past several years but aren't sure of the best way to access it when needed. A HELOC and a cash-out refinance each have advantages depending on your goals, current mortgage rate, and financial situation. Before making a decision, it's worth understanding how each option works and the long-term impact it could have on your finances. If you'd like to discuss your home's current value and available equity, I'd be happy to help.

(406) 580-1450 [email protected]

A HELOC and a cash-out refinance can both unlock home equity, but understanding how each works can help homeowners choose the option that best fits their financial goals.

10/27/2026

Helping an adult child buy their first home doesn't necessarily mean writing a huge check. Parents may be able to help with a down payment, closing costs, a gift of equity, co-signing, or simply helping their child understand financing and make better decisions. The right approach depends on both generations' financial situations, and protecting the parents' financial security should remain a priority. If homeownership is a goal for someone in your family, let's talk about the different ways you may be able to help and which options are worth exploring.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/NancyStevenson/2026/10/27/Helping-Your-Adult-Children-Become-Homeowners

10/26/2026

Homeownership comes with expenses beyond the mortgage payment. A common rule of thumb is to budget about 1% to 2% of your home's value each year for maintenance and repairs, although the right amount depends on the home's age, condition, climate, and major systems.You may not spend that amount every year, but setting money aside creates a reserve for things like HVAC repairs, plumbing problems, appliances, roofing, and routine upkeep.Regular maintenance can also prevent small problems from becoming expensive ones. If you'd like a list of maintenance items homeowners should keep on their radar, contact me. I'm always happy to be a real estate resource.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/NancyStevenson/2026/10/26/Plan-for-Repairs-Before-They-Become-Surprises

(406) 580-1450 [email protected]

10/23/2026

When buyers have more choices, your home needs a reason to make their short list.Start with a competitive price, strong curb appeal, clean and uncluttered rooms, and repairs or updates that remove obvious objections. Professional photos and compelling online marketing can help earn the showing, but the home still needs to deliver when buyers walk through the door.You might also consider strategic incentives, such as closing cost assistance or an interest rate buydown, when appropriate.The goal isn't simply to be for sale. It's to be one of the homes buyers remember and seriously consider.If you're thinking about selling, contact me. I can help you evaluate the competition and develop a strategy to make your home stand out.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/NancyStevenson/2026/10/23/Give-Buyers-a-Reason-to-Choose-Your-Home-Over-Others

(406) 580-1450 [email protected]

10/22/2026

Most of us want to remain independent and comfortable in our homes as long as possible. Fortunately, aging in place doesn't always require major renovations. Better lighting, grab bars, lever-style handles, safer showers, fewer thresholds, improved stairways, and smart-home technology are just a few changes that can make everyday living safer and easier.The best time to think about these improvements is before you need them. And sometimes, it makes more sense to find a home that already offers the features you'll want in the years ahead.Wondering whether your current home fits your future needs? Contact me and let's talk about your options.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/NancyStevenson/2026/10/22/17-Ways-to-Make-Your-Home-Safer-As-You-Get-Older

(406) 580-1450 [email protected]

10/21/2026

Everyone wants to know where mortgage rates are headed. The truth is, even the experts have been surprised. Many predicted lower rates in 2025 and 2026, yet rates have remained higher than expected. Instead of trying to time the market, focus on what you can control. If today's payment comfortably fits your budget, you can begin building equity immediately. And if rates fall in the future, refinancing may lower your payment while allowing you to keep the equity you've already built. Waiting for the "perfect" rate could mean missing months or years of appreciation and principal reduction. If you're wondering whether now is the right time to buy, let's review your options together and determine what makes the most financial sense for you.

(406) 580-1450 [email protected]

Many experts expected mortgage rates to decline, but today's market reminds us that buying based on affordability, not forecasts, is often the smartest long-term strategy.

10/20/2026

The best deal isn't always about getting the lowest price. It can also mean better terms, seller concessions, fewer unexpected expenses, or simply avoiding an overpriced home. Before making an offer, I help my buyers ask the questions that reveal what may be negotiable and where opportunities might exist. If you're thinking about buying, contact me and let's talk about how to approach your next offer strategically.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/NancyStevenson/2026/10/20/Why-Buyers-Who-Ask-Better-Questions-Get-Better-Deals

10/19/2026

Use this as a checklist to quickly see if you are ready for showings.• Make your bed first thing when you get up. • Don't leave dirty dishes in the sink.• Squeegee your shower so it will sparkle.• Assign cubbies to each family member. A place for everything; everything in its place.• Run the dishwasher & unload when it's done.• Wipe and clean as you use high-touch surfaces.• Scan files you need to save and stop saving paper.• Create a doorway box for things ready to be donated or recycled now.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/NancyStevenson/2026/10/19/Ready-for-Visitors

(406) 580-1450 [email protected]

10/16/2026

Leaving your home vacant for an extended period could create an insurance surprise when you least expect it. Many homeowner policies contain a vacancy clause that may limit or exclude certain coverage after the property has been unoccupied for a specified period, often 30 to 60 consecutive days.This can be especially important if you've moved into your next home before your current one sells, inherited a property, or have a home undergoing major renovations.Before leaving a property vacant, contact your insurance professional. You may need a vacant home endorsement or different coverage to stay properly protected.If you're planning a move that could leave your home vacant, I'm happy to help you think through the details before they become problems.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/NancyStevenson/2026/10/16/Vacant-homes-can-expose-owner-to-insurance-risks

(406) 580-1450 [email protected]

10/15/2026

Online estimates are handy but they don't tell the full story. Your home's upgrades, condition, and location details can make a big difference that algorithms just can't measure. Want to know what your home is actually worth? Let's talk about a personalized market analysis that gives you real answers, not just estimates.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/NancyStevenson/2026/10/15/Online-estimates-are-like-throwing-horseshoes-blindfolded

(406) 580-1450 [email protected]