Lauren Black - Realtor

06/15/2026

Looking for your next chapter?

Whether you're searching for a cozy cottage worthy of a Hallmark novel, a lakefront retreat with "main character energy," or the perfect family home where new memories can be written, I'd love to help.

Every home has a story.

The question is: which one will be yours?

06/13/2026

Absorption rate measures how quickly homes are selling in a market. Why does it matter? It helps sellers understand current market conditions, set a competitive price, and gauge how much competition they'll face. I can help you understand this key metric to help you price strategically and sell with confidence. 🏡

06/11/2026

Because even though you want rates to come down, experts say this latest inflation data could actually set the stage for rates to stay “higher for longer.” So, what can you do about it? Should you just wait?

My advice is simple. Focus on what you can control. Even in a market like this, there are things you can do to get the best mortgage rate possible. Because sometimes you need to move no matter what’s happening – and that’s okay. You just need the right strategy.

Let's talk about what this means for your situation and your timing. Drop a comment below or send over a message. Because you don’t have to figure it out alone. And there are still ways to move forward.

06/07/2026

Pricing your home too high might sound like a strategy, but in today’s market, it can actually cost you. Buyers have more options now, and overpriced homes often sit longer, get fewer offers, and end up needing price cuts. The key? Pricing strategically from day one to create demand and competition. 🔑

Thinking about selling? Contact me to find out what your home could realistically sell for in today’s market.

06/03/2026

June is National Homeownership Month! Homeownership is about more than having a place to live; it's about building equity, creating stability, and investing in your future. Whether you've owned your home for years or you're dreaming of becoming a homeowner, this month is a great time to celebrate the opportunities that homeownership provides.

If buying a home is one of your goals this year, let's talk about the steps you can take to make it happen.

05/30/2026

Rates have been moving around lately and it's understandable if that's given you pause. But here's some context worth sitting with: today's rates are still lower than they were in each of the last three spring markets. The uncertainty is real, but so is the opportunity. Want to see how the numbers actually look for you right now? I can help!

05/28/2026

Did you try to buy a home last year and feel stuck? Maybe there just weren’t enough options. Or, nothing really fit what you were looking for. That’s starting to change. There are now nearly 2x as many new listings hitting the market compared to a few months ago. Those are homes that were just put up for sale. That means more fresh options and a better chance of finding the house that actually works for you. If you’re curious what’s out there in our area right now, I'd love to help.

05/26/2026

The market up here is getting off to a bit of a slower, less predictable start compared to some other areas—and honestly, that’s pretty normal this time of year with winter weather still hanging on.

Here’s what we’re seeing so far:
New listings jumped about 30% from January to February (more homes hitting the market 👀), but pending sales dipped around 13%. That tells us buyers haven’t quite jumped in full speed yet as we head toward spring.

Right now, it’s really a timing market. Things are starting to pick up, but we’re not in full spring mode just yet.

A few other trends worth noting:
• Condo prices (and price per square foot) are on the rise 📈
• Buyer demand is still there—but it’s more selective
• Certain price ranges and property types are getting more attention than others

👉 For sellers:
If you’re selling a non-waterfront home, you may see a bit more competition. Pricing it right and making sure it shows well is going to be key!

👉 For buyers:
This could be a great window of opportunity. Some homes are sitting a little longer right now, which might give you a chance to get in before things heat up later this spring.

As always, every situation is unique—so if you’re wondering what this means for you specifically, feel free to reach out. I’m happy to help you make sense of it all!

05/25/2026

Today we honor all of the men and women who have bravely served and sacrificed to protect our homes. Every day we spend working, building and growing in the Land of the Free is a gift that these heroes have given us.

We are also thinking of the families who are remembering their loved heroes today, too. We celebrate their courage, valor and incredible strength with you. Happy Memorial Day!

05/24/2026

Composting is popular these days and it’s easy to understand why. Good for the environment, simple to do and a super boost to your garden? What’s not to love! In this beginner’s guide, you will find the basics of composting, including how to start, what to use and additional tips and tricks. Check out this blog!

https://familyandhome.co/composting-101

Composting is popular these days and it’s easy to understand why. Good for the environment, simple to do and a super boost to your garden? What’s not to love! In this beginner’s guide, you will find the basics of composting, including how to start, what to use and additional tips and tricks. W...