Lisa Li, Realtor

06/05/2026

Here's what sellers and their agents are paying attention to.

✅ Get fully pre-approved before you start touring
A pre-approval letter is not the same as a pre-qualification. Sellers want to know you can actually close, not just that you might be able to.

✅ Be responsive and organized
Quick responses, complete paperwork, and clear communication tell the seller you're reliable. In a competitive situation, that matters more than most buyers realize.

✅ Come in with a strong, well-researched offer
A competitive offer is not necessarily the highest one. It's the one that reflects what the home is actually worth in the current Central Iowa market and shows you've done your homework.

✅ Keep it clean
The fewer contingencies, the less risk for the seller. You don't have to waive everything, but a tight, straightforward offer is always going to be more attractive than one loaded with conditions.

If you're getting ready to buy and want to put together the strongest offer possible, send me a message and let's talk through your situation before you find the one. 🔑🏡

Lisa Li, Realtor®
515-771-3005 | [email protected]
Licensed to sell in IA.
Realty One Group Impact

06/03/2026

Looking to buy a home this season? Here's what you should know.

05/29/2026

Here are six things worth focusing on right now.

✅ Build your credit score: Aim for at least 620, but 700 or above gets you meaningfully better rates. Pay down credit cards, avoid new debt, and stay consistent with on-time payments.

✅ Save for your down payment and closing costs: Plan for 3 to 20 percent down depending on your loan type, plus another 2 to 5 percent for closing costs. Automating your savings makes this easier than it sounds.

✅ Show stable income history: Lenders want to see two years of consistent employment. This is not the time to change jobs or take on large income gaps if you can avoid it.

✅ Keep your debt-to-income ratio in check: Try to stay below 43 percent DTI. Paying down credit card balances, car loans, or personal loans all help move that number in the right direction.

✅ Hold off on large purchases or new credit: No new car loans, no furniture financing, no new credit cards. Big credit pulls raise red flags with lenders and can affect your rate.

✅ Get pre-approved: Know your numbers before you start touring. A pre-approval tells you what you can actually afford, strengthens your offers, and shows Central Iowa sellers you're serious.

Want to be in a new home by the end of summer? The time to start is now. DM me and I'll send you a simple mortgage prep checklist. 📩

Lisa Li, Realtor®
515-771-3005 | [email protected]
Licensed to sell in IA.
Realty One Group Impact

05/27/2026

Does your family shun the dining room, preferring the couch instead? It might be the uncomfortable chairs or uninviting lighting!

To deter people from wanting to sit and linger, get the lighting right, remove uncomfortable furniture, and create a functional layout.

05/25/2026

Have a beautiful Memorial Day. 🖤💛

05/22/2026

🌟 SOLD! 🌟

8114 Northview Drive, Urbandale, IA

If you’re thinking about selling your home or have any questions regarding real estate, I’m here to help. Let’s chat about your next steps!

Lisa Li, Realtor®
515-771-3005 | [email protected]
Licensed to sell in IA.
Realty One Group Impactli.lisa.realtor

05/20/2026

Consider investing in high ROI projects (like an outdoor kitchen) that you'll enjoy until you're ready to sell.

Real estate experts share the best outdoor upgrades that can quickly increase a home's value, focusing on curb appeal, livability, and features that attract buyers.

05/17/2026

🌟 SALE PENDING! 🌟

160 SE Dillon Drive, Waukee, IA

If you're considering selling your home or have any real estate questions, we're here for you. Let's discuss your next move!

Lisa Li, Realtor®
515-771-3005 | [email protected]
Licensed to sell in IA.
Realty One Group Impact