Tracey Harris - Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate Maturo

04/08/2026

MARKET UPDATE:
Real Estate, Interest Rates & Global Tensions - What It Means Right Now

Last night’s news of a ceasefire between Iran, the U.S., and Israel gave a moment of hope - especially when it comes to the economy.

But today, that hope is already fading. Reports confirm the ceasefire has been broken, and tensions remain high across the region.

So what does that mean for everyday people - and for real estate?

At the most recent Federal Reserve meeting, interest rates were held steady no increase, no decrease. That pause came after a trend where many expected eventual rate cuts.

But global conflict changes the equation.

When tensions rise in oil-producing regions, oil prices increase. And when oil goes up, the cost of transporting goods rises - impacting nearly every industry.

That leads to inflation.

And when inflation rises, the Federal Reserve often responds by raising interest rates to slow things down.

Think of it like this:
Lower rates = pressing the gas pedal (stimulating the economy)
Higher rates = easing off the gas (slowing inflation)

So where does real estate fit in?
Higher rates = higher monthly payments, even if home prices stay the same
Construction costs rise, making new housing more expensive
Affordability tightens across the board

In short: global instability can quickly translate into higher costs at home.

My advice:
If you’ve been considering buying, refinancing, or making a move—this may be the time to focus on stabilizing your housing situation before potential rate increases ripple through the market.

The situation is still evolving, but one thing is clear:
Economic pressure tends to follow uncertainty.

03/07/2026

With The Crab Trap – I just got recognized as one of their top fans! 🎉

03/07/2026

Real Estate Market Update – Mortgage Rates Dropped! March 2026
3/7/26

Today's mortgage interest rates are down!
5.375% today, down from last summer's 7% and above rates!

There’s been some quiet but meaningful movement in mortgage rates, and it’s already helping buyers.

Just last summer, a $300,000 home with typical taxes and insurance could have cost around $2,759 per month.

Today, with a 5.375% interest rate, that same home could be about $2,448 per month.

That’s a difference of over $300 every month.

For many buyers, that change alone can be the difference between qualifying or not qualifying.

Even better:
New Jersey is still offering first-time homebuyer grants up to $17,000 in Cumberland County (higher in other counties).

For buyers, this could be the moment where the numbers finally make sense.

For sellers, lower rates often mean more buyers entering the market, which can create stronger demand.

And remember — buyers can always refinance later if rates drop further, but they can’t go back and buy today’s homes at today’s prices once the market moves.

If you’ve been watching the market and wondering “Is now the right time?” — let’s talk.

📩 Message me anytime.

Tracey L. Harris
NJ Licensed Realtor since 1997
Following the economy, markets, and housing trends so my clients can make smart decisions.

03/01/2026

🏡 March 2026 Real Estate Market Assessment

What Buyers Need to Know — Before Spring Heats Up

Mortgage rates have gone down multiple times since last summer.
Prices have softened slightly during the winter cycle (as they typically do).
Spring demand is about to surge.

If you're thinking about buying, this window matters.

As a Realtor who closely follows:
• Interest rate movements
• Economic policy
• Housing inventory trends
• Seasonal pricing cycles

I help my clients move strategically — not emotionally.

The best buyers don’t wait until competition peaks in June.
They position themselves before the rush.

If you're considering buying in Southern NJ, its a great time to make a move! Let’s talk strategy.

📩 Message me for a personalized market assessment.

— Tracey L. Harris
Investor-Savvy Market Strategist
Realtor®
Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Maturo

03/01/2026

I love supporting small and local businesses 💕

☘️☘️March Contest☘️☘️

‼️‼️We will never ask for any personal or credit card information to participate in this contest‼️‼️

☘️March’s contest will be worth a $50 Gift Card to be used at The Crab Trap Restaurant or Crabby Jack’s at The Crab Trap with no expiration date☘️

‼️‼️PLEASE READ‼️
‼️the Rules of the Game:‼️

‼️ONE GUESS PER PERSON‼️‼️

1. You must LIKE this post☘️

2. You must SHARE this post☘️

3. How many gallons of milk did we use in our recipes in the month of July 2025 without going over☘️

☘️On March 31st 2026 at noon, we will pick the one person who has done all 3 tasks and guesses the closest amount of gallons of milk used in our recipes in the month of July 2025, without going over, to win (1) $50 Gift Card☘️

☘️Slainte☘️
🦀GOOD LUCK🦀

02/07/2026

Southern New Jersey Homeowners — NOW Is a Smart Time to Sell 🏡

Are you thinking about selling your home but waiting for the right moment? Here’s why 2026 could be that moment:

📊 Low Inventory = Less Competition
Many markets (including NJ) still have fewer homes for sale than normal, which means less competition for sellers and often stronger negotiating power. Buyers are actively looking, but your neighbors aren’t flooding the market.

📉 Mortgage Rates Have Come Down
Interest rates have dropped from their highs last year, bringing more qualified buyers back into the market — especially move-up buyers who paused their plans when rates were higher. Lower rates = more buyer traffic.

👨‍👩‍👧 Buyers Are Changing — and That Helps YOU
• The median age of first-time homebuyers is now about 40 years old — many with no children at home, ready to buy in suburban and family-friendly towns.
• Repeat buyers (often downsizing or relocating) have a median age near 62, right in your age group.

📈 NJ Market Data Shows Momentum
• Adult communities & neighborhoods with 55+ buyers are seeing stronger demand and price growth — up ~4–5% recently.
• South Jersey market forecasts point toward more balance and opportunity for sellers in 2026 as rates stabilize and inventory edges up.

💡 Why This Matters for You:
If you’ve been holding off because of interest rates or uncertainty, this shift means buyers are more active now than they were 6-12 months ago, and you’re not facing as much competition.

🚪 Let’s Talk Strategy
Thinking about selling? Whether it’s downsizing, relocating, or capturing the equity you’ve built, I’d love to share your options and latest local numbers.

📲 Message me to get a free market review for your home — including what it could sell for in today’s market!

02/06/2026

With Old Oar House Irish Pub – I just got recognized as one of their top fans! 🎉

02/05/2026

With Millville Chamber Of Commerce – I just got recognized as one of their top fans! 🎉

01/21/2025

10/29/2024

Update from a fellow Realtor in NC’s hard hit areas. Keep them in your heart and prayers. They are seeking donations to build tiny homes as a secure structure for the displaced people now living in tents. Please give if you can. Keep them in your prayers. ☮️💕🙏🏽

https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTFs5Xeuk/