Carrie Crates, Realtor

09/23/2026

Happy Fall

🍂 Happy First Day of Fall! 🍁

Cozy sweaters, crisp mornings, football Sundays, changing leaves, and all the best fall traditions are officially here! 🎃🏈☕️

09/03/2026

Back-to-school is easier when your home is set up to support the routine. 🎒🏡

A few intentional changes can help mornings run smoother, reduce clutter, and keep everyone organized throughout the school year.

Here are a few simple ideas to try:

📚 Create a dedicated homework zone with good lighting, minimal distractions, and easy access to school supplies.
🎒 Set up a drop zone near the entryway for backpacks, shoes, lunch bags, and jackets so nothing gets misplaced.
🗓️ Use a family command center with a shared calendar, reminders, and activity schedules to keep everyone on the same page.
🍎 Prep snacks and lunches in advance by organizing the pantry and refrigerator with grab-and-go options.
🔌 Create a charging station for laptops, tablets, and phones so devices are ready for the next school day.
🧺 Declutter high-traffic areas to make busy mornings feel less chaotic and give everyone more space to move around.

Small systems like these can make a big difference, helping your home work with your family's routine instead of against it!

09/02/2026

Want to get mortgage-ready? 🏡💰

Lenders look at several key factors during the application process—and understanding what they’re checking can set you up for success. One of the most important documents? Your bank statement.

Here’s what it tells them:

📄 Proof that your reported income matches what’s in your account
💳 A snapshot of your spending habits and financial responsibility
💵 Insight into how you'll fund your down payment

Take time to review your statements and get organized—this step can make a big difference in how smoothly your mortgage approval goes.

Once you’ve checked these boxes, you’re one step closer to buying your new home!

08/26/2026

Happy National Dog Day!

08/05/2026

Catch a live Cincinnati Bengals training camp practice at Paycor Stadium! Enjoy drills, merchandise, and player autographs. See the team in action up close.

06/20/2026

Every buyer has that one non-negotiable 🏡✨

When searching for the right home, there’s always one feature that rises to the top of the list. Maybe it’s a chef’s kitchen, a great school district, a home office, a spacious backyard, or the perfect location close to everything you love.

The truth is, finding the right home often comes down to how well it fits your lifestyle, not just the number of bedrooms or square footage.

So, what’s the one thing your next home absolutely must have?

06/16/2026

For years, buyers have faced low inventory, bidding wars, and intense competition. But in many markets, Summer 2026 is starting to look a little different.

Here’s what buyers are seeing:

📈 More Inventory: Buyers have more options than they've had in recent years.
⏳ Homes Are Sitting Longer: Longer days on market can create opportunities for negotiation.
💰 Seller Concessions Are Back: Some sellers are helping with closing costs, repairs, or rate buydowns.
🏠 Price Reductions Are Increasing: More listings are adjusting prices to attract buyers.
🤝 Negotiation Is Returning: Buyers may have more leverage than they realize—especially when they're prepared.

The best opportunities aren't always found by waiting for rates to change. They're often found by understanding the market, knowing where leverage exists, and acting when the right home appears.

Thinking about buying this summer? Let's talk about where the opportunities may be hiding.

06/15/2026

Can we address the elephant in the room? 🐘🏡

A lot of homeowners are nervous about selling before finding their next home. But today’s market still gives sellers strong advantages, especially when it comes to flexibility and equity.

There are strategies to help line up timelines, strengthen offers, and make your next move smoother than you think.

Thinking about making a move this year? Let’s talk. 💬

06/11/2026

Mortgage rates will always fluctuate, and while many buyers hope for rates to return to historic lows, the reality is that timing the market perfectly is nearly impossible.

What matters most is whether today’s decision aligns with your financial goals, budget, and long-term plans. It’s making a smart, informed decision that works for your long-term goals.

Want to explore what buying could look like in today’s market? Let’s connect and talk strategy.

06/09/2026

When it comes to kitchen faucets, which finish speaks to your style? Is it sleek black or glamorous gold?

🖤 A black faucet offers timeless elegance with a bold, modern edge. It’s versatile, low-maintenance, and pairs beautifully with minimalist or industrial designs.
✨ A gold faucet brings a sense of luxury and warmth, creating an instant statement piece that elevates any space with its sophisticated shine.

Which one would you choose to complete your dream kitchen?