Nicole Garner

03/12/2026

The spirit of addressing the problem is in the right place.

The Senate passed a broad bill on Thursday to make U.S. housing more accessible and affordable, a rare bipartisan effort in Congress to address a growing national problem.

03/12/2026

02/27/2026

🚨Don't miss the 16th Annual Northern Virginia Housing Expo! 🏠

Browse dozens of exhibits featuring apartment rentals, government assistance programs, home-buying opportunities and professionals, mortgage information and assistance and much more! Take advantage of helpful free workshops and one-on-one consultations designed to help you get where you want to be in Northern Virginia!

We want to see you!

12/31/2025

Have you ever heard the expression "pressure makes diamonds"? I'm going to classify 2025 as the pressure part. What a year! The year was packed full of highs and lows, wins and losses, growth and lessons. My first full year as a broker/owner will be a memorable one. Business was both booming and stalled with challenges in our local market related to the economy, government layoffs, a shutdown and all-around consumer uncertainty. This year, I have developed new relationships and unexpectedly lost others. The time spent talking and belly laughing with family, friends, colleagues and even clients has helped me navigate it all.

Every moment spent connecting with others (and time in solitude) has played a part in shaping the year behind me and the vision ahead. I’m grateful for the trust, the support, and the opportunities.

As we turn the page, I’m carrying the lessons forward with clarity, purpose, and excitement for what’s next.

Thank you for being part of the journey. 🤍 Happy New Year!

~ Nicole

12/24/2025

Wishing you a season filled with peace, warmth, and moments that matter most. Whether you’re surrounded by loved ones or enjoying a quiet evening, may your night be full of joy and gratitude.

Happy Holidays. 🤍

—
Nicole Garner
Colener Realty
Licensed in DC, MD, VA & PA
Direct: (240) 283-5222
Office: (240) 438-4800
🔗 nicolegarner.co
🔗 colenerrealty.com

12/19/2025

Before the year wraps up, every agent should take a moment to reset, refocus, and prepare for a stronger year ahead. Your Year-End Realtor Reset Checklist is here to help you walk into 2026 organized, intentional, and ready to win.

🗂️ Review your 2025 transactions — the wins, the challenges, and the lessons.
📞 Reconnect with your database — because your 2026 pipeline starts now.
📊 Update your systems — clean up your CRM, refresh templates, streamline your workflow.
🎯 Set your 2026 goals — clarity now means momentum later.

A strong year doesn’t happen by accident… it starts with preparation.

—
Nicole Garner
Colener Realty
Licensed in DC, MD, VA & PA
Direct: (240) 283-5222
Office: (240) 438-4800
🔗 nicolegarner.co
🔗 colenerrealty.com

12/16/2025

Winter is coming — and your home needs a little prep to stay warm, safe, and efficient. Whether you're a first-time homeowner or just settling into a new space, these steps will help you protect your investment all season long. 🏡✨

Your Winterization Checklist:
✔️ Seal windows & doors to prevent drafts
✔️ Service your HVAC or furnace
✔️ Clean gutters to avoid ice dams
✔️ Protect outdoor faucets & hoses
✔️ Check smoke + carbon monoxide detectors
✔️ Reverse ceiling fans for better heat flow
✔️ Stock up on winter essentials (salt, shovels, filters)

A little prep now = fewer headaches later. Your home (and your wallet) will thank you. 🤍

—
Nicole Garner
Colener Realty
Licensed in DC, MD, VA & PA
Direct: (240) 283-5222
Office: (240) 438-4800
🔗 nicolegarner.co
🔗 colenerrealty.com

12/10/2025

✨ 3 Financial Things Every Buyer Should Do Before the Year Ends

If buying a home is on your 2025 vision board, the work starts now — not in January. A little year-end prep can make a huge difference in your buying power. 🏡💰

Here are the 3 financial things every buyer should do before the year ends:
1️⃣ Review & tighten your budget
Look at where your money is going and clean up any unnecessary spending so you can strengthen your financial profile.

2️⃣ Check your credit score & report
Make sure everything is accurate, dispute errors, and avoid opening new accounts — your credit plays a major role in your rate and approval.

3️⃣ Reassess your savings strategy
Whether it’s boosting your down payment fund or planning for closing costs, a clear savings plan now = more options later.

Your future home is closer than you think — you just need the right plan to get there. 💙

—
Nicole Garner
Colener Realty
Licensed in DC, MD, VA & PA
Direct: (240) 283-5222
Office: (240) 438-4800
🔗 nicolegarner.co
🔗 colenerrealty.com

12/09/2025

Looking for the best neighborhoods to see holiday lights in DC and Baltimore? I’ve got you covered!

In DC, don’t miss:
• Capitol Hill for classic holiday charm
• The Wharf for waterfront holiday magic
• CityCenter for a luxury winter glow ✨

Over in Baltimore:
• Miracle on 34th Street (Hampden) is a must — bold, bright, and full of holiday spirit
• Federal Hill is perfect for cozy neighborhood displays

Whether you’re house hunting or just cruising with hot cocoa, these spots deliver all the holiday vibes. ❄️☕️

—
Nicole Garner
Colener Realty
Licensed in DC, MD, VA & PA
Direct: (240) 283-5222
Office: (240) 438-4800
🔗 nicolegarner.co
🔗 colenerrealty.com

12/09/2025

More People Are Moving and Taking on a Higher Rate

Some more homeowners are finally making their move, even if it means giving up that 3% mortgage.

Data from the FHFA shows the share of homeowners with rates under 3% is shrinking slightly, while more are taking on rates above 6%. Sure, some of the people with rates above 6% are first-time buyers, but others are people just like you who decided to move anyways.

Why? Because life doesn’t wait for perfect timing.
Families grow, jobs change, priorities shift, and a house that once fit perfectly may not fit at all anymore.

And with mortgage rates easing from earlier highs and forecast to dip slightly more in 2026, moving is becoming a little easier again.

If you’ve been holding off, maybe it’s time to ask: Is your low rate worth staying somewhere that no longer fits your life?

DM me if you want to talk through your options or see what's out there in your price point.
—
Nicole Garner
Colener Realty
Licensed in DC, MD, VA & PA
Direct: (240) 283-5222
Office: (240) 438-4800
🔗 nicolegarner.co
🔗 colenerrealty.com

12/02/2025

“The #1 Reason Deals Fall Through Today? Inspection Issues”

If one simple step could help you avoid the number one deal killer in today’s market, would you do it?

Because here’s the thing. More deals are falling through right now, and it’s not for the reason most people think.

70% of agents say inspections are the top reason buyers back out. Not financing. Not rates. Repairs.

There’s a way you can prevent that from becoming an issue for your sale. It’s called a pre-listing inspection. While it’s not required, it can help you find (and fix) issues before you list.

But whether it’s worth it (or not) really depends on the conditions in your local market. Let’s talk about whether it makes sense for your house and market.

Nicole Garner
Colener Realty
Licensed in DC, MD, VA & PA
Direct: (240) 283-5222
Office: (240) 438-4800
🔗 nicolegarner.co
🔗 colenerrealty.com