Maria Torres, Iowa Realty

10/13/2026

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It's expected that more than 250,000 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed each year. Education and awareness are supported to keep advancing the battle against the disease.

10/13/2026

The Fed is raising the Fed Funds Rate to cool inflation, and that can keep upward pressure on mortgage rates for a while. But you can still make a move that works for you.

It just takes the right strategy.

Buyers need to know their real budget at today's rates. Sellers need a price and plan that fits what buyers can afford right now.

Relief on rates could take some time. If you're thinking about a move, let's put together a game plan built for today's rates, so you'll know your next step.

10/12/2026

Learn more about paper's journey from the recycling bin to the store shelf.

The process of making paper: from start to finish.

10/11/2026

Planning for the years ahead often comes down to one big decision: stay or move.

Staying in your house could mean you have to do some updates like grab bars, walk-in showers, and wider doorways. Moving to a 55+ community lets you skip the remodel and puts a lot of perks right outside your door.

Many offer on-site amenities, added security, and an HOA that takes care of shared spaces. Plus, they make it easy to feel connected to the people around you.

And the equity you've built in your current house could help you make the move.

Weighing your options? Reach out to talk through what makes the most sense for you.

10/09/2026

There's been some talk about whether mortgage rates could climb to 9%. Here's some perspective.

Getting there would take a rare mix of things, all lasting a full year: a booming economy with no slowdown in jobs, the Fed raising rates more than expected, and the conflict in Iran continuing to keep oil prices high.

That's an unlikely combination. So, don’t let it make you worry.

Have questions about mortgage rates? Drop them in the comments. That's what a trusted agent is for – keeping you informed so a headline never makes your decisions for you.

10/09/2026

Use these tips to make digital copies of your old photos.

Bring your family’s precious photo prints into the digital age.

10/08/2026

How does a musical group find success with no instruments?

10/07/2026

Over half of homes (60%) are selling below their original asking price right now. And that stat’s held steady for about a year and a half.

With affordability still so tight, having room to negotiate on price will take some of the biggest financial pressures off your move.

Where you've got the most pull comes down to the neighborhood. Let's chat, and we'll pinpoint where you can push hardest.

10/07/2026

Find out how you can color drench a room for added drama.

Here's why color drenching is all the rage.

10/06/2026

This Houston-area family home is spectularly spacious and refined.

Step inside a Houston-area home renovation from designer Sara Hillery.