Finger Lakes Real Estate with Vicki Schamel

06/12/2026

Happy Friday, have a great weekend!

06/12/2026

Wondering what this means for your specific situation? Reach out today. Let's cut through the noise together and make a plan that actually works for you.

Data shows inflation is moving in the wrong direction. But before the headlines send anyone into a panic, here's what's actually going on, why it matters for the housing market, and what it means if you're thinking about buying or selling.

06/11/2026

This 2026, as the United States commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the Finger Lakes will go beyond Fourth of July weekend with a full season of history-filled celebrations featuring exhibits, immersive cultural experiences, live music, family fun, and more.

Experience unforgettable Fourth of July and America 250 celebrations in the Finger Lakes, from lakeside fireworks to parades, concerts, and patriotic events for all ages.

06/10/2026

If you’re a prospective first-time homebuyer, or a homeowner looking to make a change, you’re likely asking: now what?

The short answer: Get comfortable with these interest rates, and learn to buy anyway—if you can find a way to do so.

Home loans with an interest rate above 6% may be the new normal for the foreseeable future, so how do you buy a home anyway?

06/08/2026

One of the biggest questions I’m getting right now is: “What’s going to happen with the housing market in the second half of the year?”

And it makes sense why everyone is asking.

Affordability is tight. Rates feel high. Prices do too.

And people want to know if the second half of the year is going to be better.

Here's the honest answer. A lot of it depends on what happens with inflation – and the lingering uncertainty overseas. But even in today’s market, there’s opportunity, if you know where to look. Want a breakdown of what’s impacting the market, where experts think things could go from here, and what you can actually do about it?

Send a DM or drop a comment below and let's discuss.

06/05/2026

Move over, color-drenching! This softer, layered look is taking over.

According to Farrow & Ball, gradient paint is set to define 2026. A color expert explains how to use tonal layering to add depth and warmth to any room.

06/05/2026

Smaller homes are having a moment.

That’s because affordability is tight and, for many buyers, smaller is what fits the budget. And builders are listening.

Newly built homes have been trending smaller since 2014 – and that’s on purpose.

They're more affordable than larger homes. And many come with built-in community amenities like walking trails, fitness centers, and even co-working spaces, so less space still delivers.

If you've been feeling priced out of bigger homes, a smaller one could fit your budget and your lifestyle. And with brand-new everything, it may not feel like as much of a compromise as you think.

DM me to walk through what's available in our area.

06/03/2026

A lot of people have been waiting for rates to drop or prices to come down before making a move. But the reality is, sometimes life changes before the market does.
A growing family.
An empty nest.
A new job.
Retirement.
Needing to be closer to loved ones.

Those are the real reasons 1 in 5 buyers last year said they felt like they had to move, no matter the market. Because life doesn't wait for the timing to be perfect. And if that’s where you are right now, you can still move. You may even have more options than you think. You just need someone who can help you find them.

06/03/2026

The Federal Reserve has a new chair, but mortgage rates moved in the wrong direction this week. Even so, a review of the spring housing market reveals genuine green shoots—and a clear lesson for sellers about what actually moves homes.

Mortgage rates jump to 6.51%, but fresh spring data reveals green shoots for buyers and a lesson for sellers.

06/01/2026

Have a great week!