Lyssa Gugliotta

10/29/2026

Don't Let the Fear of a Buyer Backing Out Scare You Away from Selling

What if you finally get an offer on your house... and then the buyer backs out?
It's every seller's nightmare. And with headlines about canceled contracts on the rise, it's a concern worth talking about.

But here's what those headlines aren't telling you: 85–90% of home sales still make it to closing.

And there's more good news. You can actually take steps to protect your sale before your house even hits the market.

According to a Redfin survey, 70% of agents say inspection or repair issues are a reason buyers back out. That's the biggest reason reported, by far.

So, what's one smart move you can make?

Consider getting a pre-listing inspection. It could help you spot potential problems early, decide what to fix, and avoid surprises that might send a buyer running.

And that's just one piece of the puzzle. The right preparation, pricing, and negotiation strategy can make a real difference.

Selling your house doesn't have to feel like a gamble. A little preparation can give you a much stronger start.

Thinking about selling? Send me a message, and let's talk about how to set your sale up for success.

10/28/2026

Who’s Buying Homes with Cash Right Now?

More than 1 in 4 homes are being bought with cash right now. But here's something that might surprise you about who's buying them.

It's not just wealthy investors swooping in with deep pockets.

A lot of these cash buyers are everyday homeowners who've built up serious equity over the years. And that equity is giving them more buying power than they may have ever imagined.

According to Cotality, the average homeowner with a mortgage has about $310,000 in equity.

Think about what that could mean for your next move.

You might have enough equity to buy your next home outright. No mortgage payment. No worrying about today's interest rates.

And even if you can't pay all cash, that equity could help you borrow significantly less.

But what if you're buying with a mortgage?

Here's some good news: Nearly 3 out of 4 homebuyers are still using financing. You're actually in the majority.

So don't let the headlines about cash buyers make you second-guess what's possible for you. Whether you're buying your first home or using equity to make your next move, there may be more opportunities than you think.

Wondering how you stack up in today's market? Send me a message. Let's talk about your options.

10/26/2026

Look at the updated Commack Market Watch Market Watch Report.

It's important to work with a local real estate expert who understands the changing market.

10/26/2026

Why Builders May Be More Motivated To Sell Than Homeowners

Pending home sales just dropped 11.3% compared to last year. But what if that slowdown could actually help you get a better deal on a brand-new home?
Here's why that matters.

When the market slows, homeowners and builders don't always react the same way.

A homeowner who isn't getting the offers they want can decide to stay put and wait. But builders? They've already invested in houses they need to sell. And every completed home that sits unsold costs them money.

That can make builders more motivated to negotiate. And the numbers prove they're already making moves.

According to the National Association of Home Builders, 65% of builders are offering incentives, and 43% are cutting prices. The typical reduction? 6%.
For buyers, that could mean serious savings. Think lower prices, help with closing costs, or even a better mortgage rate.

And the biggest opportunities may be hiding in brand-new homes that are already built and waiting for buyers.

So, before you rule out new construction, let’s see which builders in our area may be ready to negotiate.

10/25/2026

Understanding Home Insurance Before You Buy
Home insurance can feel like something to handle near the end of the buying process. In reality, it's worth thinking about much earlier.
The property itself can affect what coverage is available and what it costs. Roof age, location, past claims, certain features, and regional risks may all matter to...

Home insurance affects more than your monthly housing costs. Learn what buyers should ask about coverage, deductibles, exclusions, and insurability.

10/23/2026

Why More Buyers Are Turning To Adjustable-Rate Mortgages Today

When mortgage rates climb, buying a home can start to feel like trying to hit a moving target. Every jump in rates makes monthly payments bigger, and that pushes a lot of buyers to look for another way in.

10/22/2026

Home Projects That Can Improve Everyday Function
Not every home project needs to be about resale value or making a room look newer. Some of the most useful improvements are the ones that make everyday tasks a little easier.
If you're deciding where to spend time or money, look for the places where your home regularly slows you down.
Fix the Entryway...

A few targeted home projects can make daily routines easier. Focus on changes that improve storage, movement, lighting, and how your space works.

10/22/2026

To Sell or Rent? How To Choose the Best Path for Your House.

Selling your house is a big step, and you want it to go smoothly. And with houses taking a little longer to sell these days, renting it out might start to sound like a nice backup plan.

10/21/2026

Won't you help us to put a holiday meal on our neighbors table. Please let me know if you are willing and I will send you a list of the items we need donated. All food goes to Long Island Cares and stays right here on Long Island helping our own neighbors.

10/21/2026

Confused by Home Price Headlines? Here’s Why.

Whether you own a house already or you’re looking to buy one, you probably care about home prices.