Paula Messer Real Estate

10/22/2026

Everyone wants to know where mortgage rates are headed. The truth is, even the experts have been surprised. Many predicted lower rates in 2025 and 2026, yet rates have remained higher than expected. Instead of trying to time the market, focus on what you can control. If today's payment comfortably fits your budget, you can begin building equity immediately. And if rates fall in the future, refinancing may lower your payment while allowing you to keep the equity you've already built. Waiting for the "perfect" rate could mean missing months or years of appreciation and principal reduction. If you're wondering whether now is the right time to buy, let's review your options together and determine what makes the most financial sense for you.

Start as a client, leave as a friend for Life.
(251) 510-6665 [email protected]

Many experts expected mortgage rates to decline, but today's market reminds us that buying based on affordability, not forecasts, is often the smartest long-term strategy.

10/20/2026

New Homes Cost Less in 1 in 3 Major Markets

Newly built homes now cost less than existing ones in about 1 in 3 major markets. How much less, exactly? Nationally, a newly built home typically sells for about $35,000 less. So, brand-new could be more budget-friendly than you think. Want to see how newly built and existing homes compare where you’re looking? Let’s tour one of each.



Have a wonderful day! Paula Messer, iXL Real Estate
, ,

10/20/2026

Use this as a checklist to quickly see if you are ready for showings.• Make your bed first thing when you get up. • Don't leave dirty dishes in the sink.• Squeegee your shower so it will sparkle.• Assign cubbies to each family member. A place for everything; everything in its place.• Run the dishwasher & unload when it's done.• Wipe and clean as you use high-touch surfaces.• Scan files you need to save and stop saving paper.• Create a doorway box for things ready to be donated or recycled now.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/PaulaMesser/2026/10/19/Ready-for-Visitors

Start as a client, leave as a friend for Life.
(251) 510-6665 [email protected]

10/19/2026

Noticing water inside your fridge or on the floor? Good news—it’s often an easy fix. Try these quick DIY steps to stop the leak. 💪

Water puddles in or around your fridge? It might be an easy fix—try these quick troubleshooting tips.

10/17/2026

Home sales may be slower than last year. But that doesn't mean buyers have disappeared.

At the current pace, almost 4 million homes are expected to sell this year. That's about 11,000 each day, 450 an hour, and nearly 8 every minute.

Why? Because even in this market, there are still buyers out there who have a reason to move.

People get new jobs, families grow, people retire, downsize, and move closer to the people they love. And those changes create buyers and sellers in every kind of market.

In fact, the latest report from NAR shows sales actually ticked up slightly in September, even though they're still below last year's pace.

So, don't let a headline convince you no one is buying. You don't need every buyer. You just need the right one – and a strategy that helps your house get their attention.

If you're thinking about selling, let's talk about how to make...



Have a wonderful day! Paula Messer, iXL Real Estate
, ,

10/17/2026

Fire and the outdoor patio make the perfect design pairing. 🔥✨

Explore stunning patio fireplace ideas, from cozy classics to modern designs! 😉

Discover stunning patio fireplace ideas to enhance your outdoor space. From cozy classics to modern marvels, find your inspiration here

10/17/2026

Leaving your home vacant for an extended period could create an insurance surprise when you least expect it. Many homeowner policies contain a vacancy clause that may limit or exclude certain coverage after the property has been unoccupied for a specified period, often 30 to 60 consecutive days.This can be especially important if you've moved into your next home before your current one sells, inherited a property, or have a home undergoing major renovations.Before leaving a property vacant, contact your insurance professional. You may need a vacant home endorsement or different coverage to stay properly protected.If you're planning a move that could leave your home vacant, I'm happy to help you think through the details before they become problems.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/PaulaMesser/2026/10/16/Vacant-homes-can-expose-owner-to-insurance-risks

Start as a client, leave as a friend for Life.
(251) 510-6665 [email protected]

10/16/2026

Interested in a job that helps serve the residents of Mobile County? Take a look and apply today for available positions on our website at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/mobilecounty

10/15/2026

Hoping mortgage rates will come down soon? The latest inflation report just made that outlook a little more complicated.

Inflation climbed to 3.7% in September, higher than economists expected. And while rising gas prices were a big driver, costs increased across several other categories too.

Why does that matter for housing? Because stubborn inflation makes it harder for the Fed to justify lowering their Federal Funds Rate. It could even increase the chances of another hike.

Now, the Fed doesn't directly control mortgage rates. But inflation and Fed expectations influence them, which means there's no guarantee mortgage rates will move lower anytime soon.

If you're planning to buy or sell, don't let a hoped-for rate drop be the only thing driving your timeline.

Let's look at what today's market means for your move and build a plan around the numbers you can...



Have a wonderful day! Paula Messer, iXL Real Estate
, ,

10/15/2026

Most homeowners lock their doors, secure their valuables, and protect their online accounts—but few think about protecting their property's title. While title fraud is uncommon, criminals have been known to use stolen identities to file fraudulent documents against real estate. Understanding the warning signs and available protections can help safeguard your home and provide greater peace of mind. It's another example of why staying informed is one of the best ways to protect your investment.

Start as a client, leave as a friend for Life.
(251) 510-6665 [email protected]

Title fraud is rare but understanding how it works and taking a few preventive steps can help homeowners protect one of their most valuable assets.