Margaret Hakim, Realtor Broker, John L. Scott Salem Real Estate

04/09/2026

You’ve probably seen influencers online saying home prices are about to crash. But don’t believe everything you hear.

This is what housing market experts are saying.

Nationally, home prices are expected to keep rising over the next five years. Not at the breakneck pace we saw a few years back, but steadily.

So, where’s the confusion coming from? Some markets are seeing small price declines right now – and that’s what’s getting amplified online. But it’s not the full picture.

When you average price trends across the entire country together, prices are going up, not down. And this isn’t a crash.

If you want clarity on what’s real (and what’s just noise), let’s talk.

04/06/2026

When your house sits on the market longer than expected, it can get frustrating fast.

10/23/2025

This Saturday Oct 25th, I'll be hosting this open house. Please come by and check it out. Hope to see you there!

10/22/2025

10/14/2025

Think new homes always cost more? Not right now.

The latest data shows the median price of a newly built home is actually over $30K less than an existing one.

That’s because builders are adjusting prices and offering serious incentives to move inventory. It’s also because builders have been focusing on smaller homes lately.

If price was the reason you ruled out new construction, it might be time for another look. Want to see what’s available near you? Let’s chat.

10/10/2025

There’s a lot to digest when it comes to understanding how mortgage rates shift and change over time, and we aren’t going to get into all of that today. But if there’s one thing to watch on where they’re likely headed, it’s the 10-year treasury yield.

Basically, the 10-year treasury yield is a widely watched benchmark for long-term interest rates. And as the yield goes up or down, mortgage rates tend to follow.

The good news is – the gap between the two is starting to narrow. And with experts saying the 10-year yield should come down going into next year, that means there’s room for mortgage rates to come down too.

I know this is a lot to keep track of. And that’s exactly why you should have an expert on your side. I’ll do the heavy lifting for you and will keep you posted as new data comes out and as rates fall further.

DM me the ideal mortgage rate you’re looking for, and when we hit that number, I’ll be the first to let you know.

10/07/2025

Only 8 out of 100 people know the minimum down payment required for a conventional home loan. Most overestimate what’s really needed. If you want more information about what’s actually required, talk to a trusted lender.

10/04/2025

Closing costs are a key part of buying a home, but they can vary more than most people realize. Knowing your numbers (and how to potentially bring them down) can go a long way and help you feel confident about your purchase.

Let’s look at typical closing costs in our area and get you a personalized estimate, so you can craft your ideal budget.

If you’re planning to buy a home this year, there’s one expense you can’t afford to overlook: closing costs. 

10/03/2025

79% of homeowners surveyed regret waiting to sell.

If you’ve been holding off, take this as your sign.

Don’t let “I wish I sold sooner” become part of your story.

09/29/2025

There's a split happening in the housing market right now.

Some places are buyer friendly. And others are seller strong.

In some states, inventory has risen. That gives buyers more breathing room, more choices, and more negotiating power.

But in others? Listings are still scarce, which means sellers are calling the shots.

That divide is exactly why local expertise matters. The strategy you’ll need depends on which side of the market you’re in.

So, which side is our market on? DM me to find out.

09/10/2025

About half of homes are selling for under their asking price right now.

While that feels very different from the past few years, it’s actually a return to what’s considered normal for the market.

And the sellers who succeed today are the ones who recognize this shift. They price smart from day one, make their home stand out, and stay flexible when buyers ask for give-and-take.

You need to plan for the market we’re in, not the one we saw a few years back. And I can help.

Want to know what I think your house would sell for today? DM me.