Laura B Byther Realtor

10/20/2026

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.

10/20/2026

🏡 There’s something special about your first home. The first set of keys, the first night in your own space, decorating every room just the way you want, and realizing this place is officially YOURS. 🤍✨

It might not have everything on your wish list right away, and that’s okay! Sometimes the joy is in starting somewhere, making it your own, and watching your life grow within those walls.

Your first home doesn’t have to be your forever home. It just has to be the right next step for you. 🗝️

Thinking about buying your first place? Let’s talk about what that could look like for you!

10/19/2026

The first home you buy doesn't have to be a single-family house. If affordability has been holding you back, let's expand your search and see whether a condo could fit the price point you're looking for.

When you picture buying your first home, chances are you’re imagining a traditional single-family house with its own yard, maybe a garage, and little extra room to grow. But with affordability still tight, getting everything on that list right away may come with a higher price tag than you’re co...

10/18/2026

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 yours one of the homes that sells.

10/17/2026

Don't let a headline about slowing home sales convince you no one is buying. Homes are still selling every minute of every day.

If you need or want to move, let's talk about what it'll take to make sure yours is one of them.

If you’ve seen headlines saying home sales are slowing down, you may be wondering: is this really a good time to sell?

10/17/2026

The right home matters, but the neighborhood? That can make all the difference!

Think about your everyday life. Do you want to be close to your favorite coffee shop? Have parks nearby for weekend walks? Enjoy a quiet street, a shorter commute, or local spots where you can become a regular? ☕🌳

Finding the right neighborhood isn't just about where you sleep at night. It's about finding a place that fits your routines, your priorities, and the life you want to live.

Because the goal isn't just to love your house. It's to love the life you build around it, too. 🤍

What's one thing your ideal neighborhood absolutely HAS to have? Tell me in the comments! 👇

10/16/2026

Same time of year. 2 very different stories. And mortgage rates are a big reason why.

Last fall, mortgage rates came down and the number of homes for sale barely budged. This fall, rates have climbed above 7%. Some buyers have pulled back, homes are taking longer to sell, and instead of coming off the market, more listings are sticking around.

Since August, the number of homes for sale has grown by about 25,000. So, what does that mean for you?

Buying? You’ve got more homes to choose from and potentially more room to negotiate on price, repairs, or closing costs.
Selling? Buyers have more options, so you’ve got to give them a reason to choose your house. That means getting the price right from day one and making sure your house stands out from the competition.

Want to know what this shift looks like where you live? Drop a comment or send me a DM, and let’s look at the local numbers together.

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 actually work with.

10/14/2026

In many places right now, inventory is growing and homes are taking a bit longer to sell. And that’s information that should shape the strategy you use going in.

Whether you're buying or selling, let's look at how long homes are taking to sell in your neighborhood, so your offer, or your price, fits today's market.

Mortgage rates being back above 7% isn't exactly the news most people wanted. But it’s changing the market in ways that matter whether you’re buying or selling.

10/13/2026

✨ Staging your home is one of those little things that can make a big difference! 🏡
It’s not about making your space look perfect or spending a fortune on decor. It’s about creating a welcoming atmosphere, highlighting your home’s best features, and helping others see its potential.
Sometimes, a few simple changes can make your space feel completely different. And the best part? You get to enjoy a fresh, organized home in the process! 🤍