Sarah & Jerad Howell, The Property Shoppe SS Group, EXP Realty LLC

06/18/2026

Think Home Prices Will Crash? Here's What the Experts Actually Expect.

A lot of buyers are waiting because they think prices will fall, but that’s not what the experts are saying.

If you're trying to decide whether waiting still makes sense, let's connect. That way you understand what's happening in our local market and what it could mean for your plans.

One of the biggest reasons buyers are still sitting on the sidelines is because they think home prices are going to come down.

06/18/2026

Is It Still a Seller's Market? Here's What the Data Says.

Right now, local markets are moving in very different directions. And your strategy as a buyer or seller should reflect your market.

Want to know which way our local market is leaning and what that means for your move? Let's connect.

Remember a few years back when sellers held all the power and buyers were stuck offering way over asking or waiving inspections just to get a chance at the house? In many markets, those days are behind us.

06/17/2026

Should You Pay for Your Buyer’s Closing Costs? What Sellers Need To Know.

The sellers having the most success today are the ones who understand the market has changed and are adapting to meet it where it is.

Sometimes that means negotiating on closing costs. Sometimes it means offering something else. The key is knowing which concessions are worth it for our local market.

If you’re wondering what's normal in our area, what's worth negotiating, and where it makes sense to stand firm, let’s connect.

A few years ago, sellers could get away with saying "no" to just about everything.

06/16/2026

I’m incredibly honored and grateful to be recognized by Money Law & Title as a Top Agent by Transactions for the month of April! 🏆

Real estate may look like an individual business from the outside, but the truth is that no one succeeds alone. Every contract, every closing, and every happy client is the result of a team of professionals working together behind the scenes to make it happen.

One of the most important lessons I've learned is to surround yourself with great people—people who communicate, solve problems, protect your clients, and show up when it matters most.

That's exactly what I've found with Money Law & Title. They consistently go above and beyond to help ensure smooth transactions and exceptional service for our clients. Having trusted partners in your corner makes all the difference, and they have certainly become part of my team.

Thank you to my amazing clients for trusting me with one of the biggest decisions of your lives. Thank you to my family, friends, referral partners, lenders, inspectors, and everyone who plays a role in helping our clients achieve their real estate goals.

Most importantly, thank you to Money Law & Title for this recognition. It is truly an honor, and I look forward to helping many more families buy, sell, and invest in Sulphur Springs and all of Northeast Texas.

Here's to teamwork, strong partnerships, and serving our clients at the highest level. ❤️🏡

06/16/2026

If you spend enough time online, you'd probably think home prices are crashing or they’re about too.

But the data tells a different story.

According to Realtor.com, home prices are still rising in 71% of housing markets across the country.

That's the majority of markets.

Yes, some areas are seeing slight price declines. But they're the exception, not the rule.
That's why it's important to be careful about where you're getting your housing market information.

The internet loves dramatic headlines. The data usually tells a more complete story.

Want to know what's actually happening with home prices in our area? Send over a message.

06/15/2026

🇺🇸 3 BIGGEST MYTHS ABOUT VA LOANS 🇺🇸

I hear these all the time, so let's clear them up.

❌ Myth #1: You Have to Put Money Down

One of the biggest benefits of a VA loan is that qualified veterans can purchase a home with $0 down payment.

That means you don't need a down payment like many conventional loans require.

However, "zero down" does not mean there are no upfront costs.

Here are the expenses veterans should plan for when purchasing a home:

🏡 Earnest Money
Typically around 1% of the purchase price.
This shows the seller you're serious about buying the home and is credited back to you at closing.

🔍 Home Inspection (Optional but Highly Recommended)
Usually $500-$700.
The VA does not require an inspection, but I strongly recommend one so you fully understand the condition of the home before moving forward.

📋 Appraisal
Typically $600-$800.
This is ordered by the lender and paid upfront to confirm the home's value and ensure it meets VA minimum property requirements.

💰 Closing Costs
A good rule of thumb is approximately 4% of the loan amount, but here's the good news...

In many cases, we're able to negotiate for the seller to pay some or even all of those closing costs, which can significantly reduce the amount a veteran needs to bring to closing.

Every transaction is different, but many of my VA buyers are pleasantly surprised by how little cash they actually need compared to what they expected.

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❌ Myth #2: VA Loans Are Only for Certain Types of Homes

Many people think VA loans can only be used on older homes or starter homes.

Not true.

VA loans can be used for:

🏡 Existing homes
🏡 New construction
🏡 Manufactured homes (with approved lenders and properties)
🏡 Multi-family properties (up to 4 units if owner-occupied)

The key is finding a property that meets VA guidelines and working with a lender who understands the program.

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❌ Myth #3: VA Inspections Are Harder Than Regular Inspections

Here's the truth:

The VA does NOT require a home inspection.

The VA requires an appraisal, which is completely different.

The appraisal is designed to determine value and identify any major health and safety concerns that could affect the property's eligibility for VA financing.

A home inspection, on the other hand, is for the buyer's benefit and provides a much deeper evaluation of the home's condition.

I recommend inspections on every home purchase, regardless of loan type.

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The VA loan is one of the best benefits available to those who have served our country, and unfortunately, there is still a lot of misinformation out there.

If you're a veteran and have questions about buying a home, I'd be honored to help.

🇺🇸 It's always my privilege to serve those who have served our country.

📞 509-539-7784
📧 [email protected]

The Property Shoppe Sulphur Springs Group
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06/15/2026

Moving this Summer? Whether you're buying or selling, you probably have questions.

My new Summer Buyer & Seller Guides have the answers.

Inside, you'll find out what higher inventory means for you, what’s going on with affordability right now, what strategies for buying or selling are actually working this season, and more.

Stop guessing and start moving forward with confidence. DM or drop a comment with "BUYER" or "SELLER" below to get your free digital copy.

06/14/2026

If affordability has been the biggest thing standing between you and a home, there’s a little bit of good news.

Asking prices have started to ease – the typical asking price this May came in under where it was a year ago.

And these lower prices are good news for your move – not a sign the market’s in trouble. It points to a market that’s rebalancing with more realistic seller expectations and a little more breathing room for buyers again.

So, if you’ve been waiting for an opening, let’s connect. I’ll help you see what that looks like in our area.

06/13/2026

Lower Asking Prices Are a Win for Today’s Buyers

If affordability has been your top concern, the recent dip in prices is an opening. Want to see what that looks like in our area? Let’s connect.

If affordability has been the biggest thing standing between you and a home, there's a little good news.

06/11/2026

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📍 4149 CR-4510, Commerce, TX, 75428

My latest sale on RateMyAgent.

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