Dawn Lacey, Realtor - LPT Realty

09/20/2026

The Best Time To Buy a Home in 2026 Is Almost Here

If you want to buy a house this year, there’s still a way to make it happen, even with today’s rates. This fall gives you the chance to get some of the best seasonal perks the market has to offer.

Want help figuring out when those advantages typically show up in our market?

Let's have a quick conversation about how our market works and the steps you’ll need to take to get ready.

Want to buy a house this year, but not sure if the timing’s right? Seasonally, it may actually be a better time to buy than you expect.

09/20/2026

What Is a Title Search?
Ever wondered what a title search actually involves when you’re buying or selling a home? As someone who guides clients through every step in Columbia, SC, I know how crucial this process is for peace of mind. A title search means digging into public records to confirm who legally owns the property and to uncover any liens, claims, judgments, unpaid property taxes, or loans that might affect the sale. Because courthouse records and legal paperwork can be overwhelming, buyers and lenders usually hire a title company or attorney to handle this part. Once the search wraps up, buyers get a preliminary title report. If the title comes back clean, you have got clear ownership. I always make sure my clients have the information and support they need for a smooth, confident closing.

09/19/2026

Selling This Fall? You Want To Get These 4 Things Right.

Selling this fall is absolutely doable. And now you know four of the biggest things to get right.

If you want to sell before the end of the year, let’s make sure you have a winning strategy from day one.

Selling your house this fall is absolutely doable. But there’s something you need to know about this time of year.

09/19/2026

Time to check in: How are you doing on your yearly financial goals?
We're halfway through the year, which makes it a great time to pause and see how your financial goals are shaping up. I always find that a quick mid-year check looking over things like your interest rates, fees, emergency savings, and credit score can give you a clearer picture and set you up for a stronger finish. Whether you're thinking of buying or selling a home in Columbia, SC, or just wanting to make smart moves for your future, a little review now can make a big difference. I believe in having a proven plan and staying one step ahead, both in real estate and in building financial confidence.

09/18/2026

Discover this property for $566,900—a great opportunity that truly stands out.

09/18/2026

Selling this fall? Starting strong matters even more this time of year.

In the fall, buyer activity typically starts to slow while the number of homes for sale climbs. That means fewer buyers may be looking at more options – so you want your house to stand out from day one.

Here’s the cheat sheet for how to make that happen.

Price it for today’s buyers. Not what your neighbor sold for a few years back.

Make your house hard to pass up. Tackle essential repairs and spend time on your curb appeal.

Stay flexible when offers come in. This is not the season to play hardball.

And be ready to adjust when needed. If you keep getting the same feedback from buyers, take it to heart.

If you want to sell before the end of the year, let’s make sure you have the right strategy from the start. Because with the right plan, selling in the fall is a no brainer.

09/18/2026

AD Mortgage Study Finds Buying Now Beats Waiting in 61% of Historical Scenarios
A recent study analyzing data from 2000 to 2022 revealed something worth considering: in 61% of historical scenarios, purchasing a home right away resulted in lower total costs compared to waiting. The key takeaway isn’t just about interest rates—factors like home prices, your ability to save, and specific local market trends can have an even bigger impact on your long-term costs. For those navigating the Columbia, SC market or nearby communities, understanding how these elements play out locally is essential. My approach has always been to focus on your individual needs and help you make sense of what these findings mean for your own path to homeownership.
https://www.housing-trends.com/agent-news/dawn-lacey/1977112-AD-Mortgage-Study-Finds-Buying-Now-Beats-Waiting-in-61%25-of-H

09/17/2026

The best time to buy a home this year is here.

Realtor.com says September 27–October 3 is expected to bring the best combination of buyer-friendly conditions in 2026.

We’re talking about more homes to choose from, better pricing, less competition, and more time to decide. And maybe that’s enough to offset some of the pressure today’s higher rates are putting on your budget.

Want to find out? Let’s have a quick conversation about what’s expected in our market and what’s available in your price point. Just DM me to get started.

And just so you know, the window doesn’t close after that one week. It’s open all October long.

09/17/2026

US Confidence Hits Seven-Mo Low
Recently, consumer confidence in the US dipped to its lowest point in seven months. While many people felt a bit better about their current situation in mid-Q3, their outlook for income, business, and jobs over the next few months became more cautious. The present-conditions index improved by about seven points, reaching 121, but the expectations gauge dropped by six to 68 a level that’s often linked to recession concerns. Early Q3 also saw employers cut 23,000 jobs, and unemployment ticked up to around 4%, mostly because more people stepped away from the labor force rather than because of increased hiring. Despite this uncertainty, buyers’ interest in purchasing homes only eased slightly in mid-Q3 and continued to climb, with about 61% still expecting interest rates to rise.

09/16/2026

South Carolina Cities Lead Nation in Top Metros for New Construction Report
It’s exciting to see South Carolina shine on the national stage when it comes to new home construction! Three of our metros have landed in the top 10 spots for purchasing new homes. Charleston stands out, with new homes selling at 12.2% less than existing home prices. Southern cities like ours continue to attract buyers, thanks in part to builder-friendly zoning, affordable land, and fewer restrictions on new builds. As someone who helps buyers and sellers navigate the Columbia market and surrounding areas every day, I know firsthand how these local trends can create unique opportunities for my clients. If you’re curious about how this could impact your next move, I’m always here to provide a personalized approach.
https://www.housing-trends.com/agent-news/dawn-lacey/1958356-South-Carolina-Cities-Lead-Nation-in-Top-Metros-for-New-Cons