Carrie Kiess - RE/MAX West Branch

06/19/2026

Carrie Kiess, REALTOR
RE/MAX WEST BRANCH

06/18/2026

How do you feel about backsplashes with bright, intricate tile? 👍 or 👎?

Carrie Kiess, REALTOR
RE/MAX WEST BRANCH

06/17/2026

Hey everyone! 🏠 Just a quick public service announcement to keep your hard-earned money right where it belongs: in your wallet.

The FTC recently announced they’re rolling out nearly $3 million in refunds to thousands of homeowners who were caught up in a massive mortgage relief scam. Because apparently, some people missed the memo that stealing from folks trying to save their homes is a terrible look.

While it's great that victims are getting some payback, it’s a solid reminder that the real estate world has its fair share of wolves in sheep's clothing. When times get tight or stressful, scammers love to swoon in with "guaranteed" quick fixes.

If you or anyone you know is ever navigating tough housing waters, remember these gold-standard rules to spot the fakes:

The "Upfront Fee" Trap: If a company wants a giant bag of cash before they’ve actually done anything for you, run. Fast.

The Silent Treatment: If they tell you to stop talking to your actual lender, that's not a strategy—it's a massive red flag.

Guarantees Don't Exist: No legitimate company can 100% guarantee a specific loan modification or halt a foreclosure permanently. Every situation is unique.

If an offer sounds too good to be true, it always is. You can check out the full breakdown on the recent FTC refunds and how to protect your peace of mind here: How To Spot Mortgage Assistance Scams.

Stay safe out there, and remember to always verify before you sign! ⚖️👇

Foreclosure relief scams are unfortunately all too common, says Ashley F. Morgan, a debt and bankruptcy lawyer in Chantilly, VA.

06/16/2026

A fantastic local restaurant scene is part of what makes our community so special. Case in point: The Sticky Elbow right here in Williamsport. 🥂

Their menu is fantastic, and it’s a favorite for great New American cuisine.

Have you been? Tell me your favorite dish! 💬

Carrie Kiess, REALTOR
RE/MAX WEST BRANCH

New American in Williamsport, PA

06/15/2026

From rugged rural workspace to high-end luxury mansion, discover how the metal-clad "barndominium" became America's favorite customizable megahome. (Just, you know, buy some good earplugs for when it rains).

The unusual design combines a barn-style building’s spacious floor plan, typically made of steel or metal, with sleek modern luxury.

06/14/2026

Does this match your scale of ambition?

Carrie Kiess, REALTOR
RE/MAX WEST BRANCH

06/13/2026

Keeping your yard from looking like a forgotten post-apocalyptic wasteland is a massive undertaking—mostly because nature actively fights back. Fortunately, managing your outdoor space doesn’t have to swallow your entire weekend.

By breaking your outdoor to-do list down into quick daily chores and a few larger annual projects, you can stay on top of the chaos without losing your mind (or your weekends). Here is how to keep your yard looking pristine through every season, one manageable task at a time.

Overwhelmed by the thought of maintaining your yard and garden all year long? Follow this easy outdoor maintenance guide.

06/12/2026

Want to learn more about real estate in our area?

Carrie Kiess, REALTOR
RE/MAX WEST BRANCH

Want to learn more about real estate in our area?

06/11/2026

🐾🏡 If you know me, you know my animals basically run my life (and my household budget). 🐱🐶✨

So when I read this article from the National Association of REALTORS®, I felt deeply validated. It turns out I’m not crazy—we are a massive trend! 📈❤️

With 71% of American households now owning a pet, our four-legged family members are officially driving the real estate market. When I’m helping clients hunt for a new home, I’m not just looking at the kitchen countertops; I’m secretly scouting the backyard fencing, checking for perfect dog-nap sunbeams, and mapping out the nearest walking trails. 🐕🌳

Check out the full NAR Pets Drive Home Buying article to see how our fur babies are shaping the way we buy houses! 👇👇

There are more households with pets than with children, and these beloved pets are a driver of economic activity, namely, home buying.

06/10/2026

Get the highest price for your home! Find out what your home could be worth now.

Carrie Kiess, REALTOR
RE/MAX WEST BRANCH

Get the highest price for your home. Find out what your home is worth now.