Karen Peoples Realtor - Peoples Elite Realty Group

09/22/2026

Homes in Highly Rated School Zones Cost 35% More Than the Average U.S. Home--But the Premium Is Much Smaller in Some Parts of the Country
One question I hear often from families and investors alike is how much it really costs to buy a home in a highly rated school zone. The numbers can be eye-opening: homes in these top school districts come with a 35% higher price tag than the average U.S. home, requiring a household income of $159,000 compared to $118,000 for the median home. Only 13% of these properties are affordable to a typical earner, and the premium you'll pay can vary quite a bit depending on the metro area. Having spent over 17 years guiding buyers, sellers, and investors through the many nuances of real estate, I know how important it is to weigh these factors as you plan your next move. Every client's needs are unique, and understanding the true impact of location—especially when schools are a priority—can make all the difference in finding the right fit for your goals.

09/21/2026

Your dreams don't have an expiration date--believe in yourself, take that first step, and let your journey begin today.

The best chapters of your life are still waiting to be written.

09/21/2026

US Home Prices Face Real Value Erosion
With over 17 years guiding clients through changing real estate landscapes, I’ve seen how market trends can shape both opportunities and challenges. In Q2 2026, US home prices continued their upward climb on paper, but the real story lies beneath those numbers. While one federal index remained flat from mid to late Q2 (after adjusting for seasonality), a national index did show a yearly appreciation of about 1.5% in late Q2—up slightly from 1% in mid Q2. However, this is still about 2 points behind inflation, which hovered near 3.5%.

That means, even as nominal prices hold steady or rise, the real value of homes has actually declined for the 13th consecutive month. Lower inflation and stronger price growth have helped slow this erosion, but the pressure remains. Interestingly, one federal measure has tracked positive annual appreciation every quarter since early 2012, underscoring the resilience of nominal home values, even when adjusted for inflation.

As we move deeper into the year, affordability remains front and center—typical monthly payments for existing single-family homes have climbed again, making it even tougher for first-time buyers to break into the market. For everyone navigating buying, selling, or investing, understanding these shifts is essential. My commitment is to keep you informed and prepared through every stage, ensuring your real estate journey is as smooth and successful as possible.

09/21/2026

For Sale in Garland! 🏡

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Charming 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1 car garage home in Garland with convenient access to I-635! Step inside to a welcoming entry with a formal dining room l...! ❤️

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09/20/2026

Photos coming Sept. 18th. Charming 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1 car garage home in Garland with convenient access to I-635! Step inside to a welcoming entry with a formal dining room located just to the left, offering a great space for gatherings and entertaining. The open floor plan flows into the family room and kitchen, with the kitchen overlooking the main living area and creating an inviting space for everyday living. The updated kitchen features stainless steel appliances, attractive countertops, updated flooring and lighting, and a neutral gray color palette that continues throughout the home. Both bathrooms have also been updated, adding to the home's fresh and comfortable appeal. The spacious family room provides plenty of room for relaxing and entertaining, while the open layout allows for an easy flow between the main living areas. Step outside to a nice-sized backyard with a deck and plenty of room for outdoor entertaining, pets, play, gardening, or simply relaxing. Conveniently located near shopping, dining, entertainment, and major highways, this Garland home offers an appealing floor plan, updated finishes, comfortable living spaces, and easy access to I-635.

09/20/2026

House Price Appreciation by State and Metro Area in the Second Quarter of 2026
Staying informed on home price trends is key for anyone navigating real estate decisions. In the second quarter of 2026, U.S. house prices increased by 2.1% year-over-year, with 47 states seeing gains—Alaska and Vermont leading the way, while New Mexico and Washington saw slight declines. On the metro front, 75 areas experienced appreciation, with Elgin, IL at the top and Everett, WA seeing a decrease.

With over 17 years in the industry, I’ve learned that understanding these shifts is crucial for buyers, sellers, and investors alike. Every market tells a unique story, and having current data ensures my clients are equipped to make confident choices, no matter their real estate goals. As always, I’m here to provide the guidance and insight needed for a smooth and informed transaction.


http://www.peopleseliterealtygroup.com/agent-news/karen-peoples/1963933-House-Price-Appreciation-by-State-and-Metro-Area-in-the-Seco

09/19/2026

Home Sales on the Rise, but Momentum May Be Fading
July brought a 7% uptick in home sales, with values increasing 1.1% year-over-year to $371,757. Inventory also saw a slight boost, now at 1.41 million homes—a welcome shift for buyers who have been navigating limited choices. Mortgage payments dipped by 0.9%, though there’s potential for them to climb again. Notably, the median days to pending rose to 25, and 27.1% of listings experienced price cuts, highlighting the nuanced dynamics at play right now.

As someone who has guided buyers, sellers, and investors through many market cycles, I know how important it is to interpret these changes in light of your unique goals. Real estate is rarely one-size-fits-all, and understanding what these numbers mean for you is key to making confident decisions. Whether you’re considering your next move or simply keeping a close eye on the market, staying informed is a powerful first step. Experience you can trust. Service you’ll remember.


http://www.peopleseliterealtygroup.com/agent-news/karen-peoples/1903982-Home-Sales-on-the-Rise%2C-but-Momentum-May-Be-Fading

09/18/2026

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