Michelle Thayer

09/23/2026

St. Clair County home prices just reached a new high for this period. 🏡

The three-month rolling median sales price reached $281,000 in August 2026.

That is:

📈 6.0% higher than August 2025
📈 16.1% higher than January 2026
💰 Still $19,000 below the overall MLS median of $300,000

What does that mean?

For homeowners, it may mean you have more equity than you realize. For buyers, St. Clair County may still offer an attractive price point compared with the broader market.

But remember: countywide numbers don’t determine the value of one particular home. Your neighborhood, condition, updates, property type, and recent comparable sales all play a part.

Wondering what the market looks like in your town or neighborhood? Send me a message with your city, and I’ll put together a local snapshot.

Michelle Thayer, Associate Broker
Epique Realty
Helping you find your way home.

08/19/2026

❓ "The inspection came back with issues — now what?"

Don't panic. Almost every inspection turns up something. The key is knowing what's a dealbreaker vs. normal wear and tear.

✅ Ask: "What are your top 3 concerns about this home?" ✅ Ask: "What's genuine wear-and-tear vs. a real problem?" ✅ Ask: "What should I negotiate now vs. handle after I move in?"

A good inspection isn't about finding a "perfect" house — it's about going in with eyes wide open.

First time navigating this? I'll be right there with you at the inspection. 🔍

08/18/2026

❓ "What am I actually paying for when I pay commission?"

Fair question — and one every seller deserves a straight answer to. Here's what a good listing agent is doing behind the scenes:

✅ Pricing strategy backed by real market data ✅ Professional photos, marketing, and MLS exposure to the right buyers ✅ Negotiating your offer, inspection repairs, and appraisal issues ✅ Managing the paperwork, deadlines, and closing details so nothing falls through

It's not just a sign in the yard — it's protecting your bottom line from listing day to closing table.

Have questions about what you'd actually net on a sale? Ask me anything. 💬

08/14/2026

❓ "What actually happens between 'I want to buy a house' and getting the keys?"

It feels like a mystery until you've done it. Here's the short version:

1️⃣ Get pre-approved 2️⃣ Tour homes + make an offer 3️⃣ Inspection & negotiation 4️⃣ Appraisal & final loan approval 5️⃣ Closing day — keys in hand! 🔑

Most buyers are surprised it's usually 30-45 days from accepted offer to closing. Knowing the roadmap makes the whole thing way less stressful.

Want the full breakdown for YOUR situation? Let's chat.

08/13/2026

❓ "What's my home actually worth right now?"

Not what Zillow says. Not what your neighbor sold for in 2022. What it's worth TODAY, in this market.

✅ A real valuation looks at recent comparable sales, current buyer demand, and your home's condition — not just square footage ✅ Overpricing almost always backfires — homes that sit and get a price cut make buyers wonder "what's wrong with it?" ✅ Pricing right from day one is still the #1 lever for selling fast and for top dollar

Curious what your home could sell for this season? I'll run you a free, no-pressure market analysis. 📊

08/12/2026

❓ "How much house can I actually afford?"

This is the #1 question every first-time buyer types into Google at 11pm. Here's the real answer: it starts BEFORE you look at a single listing.

✅ Get pre-approved (not just pre-qualified) — it shows sellers you're serious and gives you a real number to shop with ✅ Factor in more than the mortgage: taxes, insurance, and a maintenance cushion (budget ~1% of home value/year) ✅ Remember your payment can shift over time as taxes and insurance are reassessed

Thinking about buying? Let's talk numbers before you fall in love with a listing. 🏡

07/24/2026

This home beautifully balances modern comfort with rustic charm. The stacked firewood adds character, while the soft textures and natural light create a warm and inviting feel. Looking for a home with unique details? We can help you find it!

07/24/2026

Spa day in your bathroom. Kids running the schedule. Neighbors over for a potluck. The best staycations start with a home you actually want to be in. If yours doesn't quite feel that way yet, send me a message and let's talk!

07/23/2026

Thinking about selling your home? Get a quick estimate of your home's worth.

Thinking about selling your home? Get a quick estimate of your home's value.