Wednesday, December 3, 2025

Should You Buy a Home in Georgia Right Now? (2026 Market Forecast)

 


📌 Introduction: Georgia’s Housing Market Has Shifted — So What Does That Mean for Buyers?

If you’re wondering “Should I buy a house in Georgia right now?”, you’re not alone. Thousands of buyers across Atlanta, the south metro, and all of Georgia are asking the same thing as interest rates stabilize, home prices soften, and more inventory hits the market.

The good news?
2025 is shaping up to be one of the best windows for Georgia homebuyers in years.

Below, we break down current pricing trends, market predictions, interest rates, inventory levels, and the neighborhoods where buyers have the most power.


📊 Georgia Housing Market Overview (2025)

The Georgia real estate market is transitioning from a red-hot seller’s market into something much more balanced — even buyer-friendly in certain counties.

Key Trends Right Now

  • Home prices are stabilizing or slightly declining in many parts of Georgia

  • Inventory is up, giving buyers more choices

  • Homes are staying on the market longer than they did from 2020–2023

  • Price reductions are increasing, especially in suburban counties

  • Mortgage rates are easing compared to late 2023–2024 peaks

For savvy buyers, that means leverage.


🏡 Are Home Prices Going Down in Georgia?

In many markets, yes — but not everywhere.

Where Prices Are Dropping

  • Clayton County

  • Henry County

  • Douglas County

  • South Fulton

  • Newton & Rockdale

  • Parts of Gwinnett and DeKalb (especially older resale homes)

These areas are seeing:

  • More inventory

  • Longer days on market

  • More price reductions

Where Prices Are Holding Strong

  • North Fulton

  • Cobb

  • Upper Gwinnett

  • Popular school-district zones

  • New construction hot spots (Braselton, Sugar Hill, Dallas, McDonough)

If you’re targeting affordability, the south metro and outer suburbs are the strongest buyer-opportunity zones right now.


📉 Are Interest Rates Going Down?

Mortgage rates in 2025 have improved compared to the peak years. While they’re not at 3% levels (and probably won’t be again), they are lower than the past two years and expected to continue easing.

Why this matters:

Even a small rate drop increases:

  • Affordability

  • Buying power

  • Loan approval chances

And as rates fall, more buyers will re-enter the market — which means more competition later.

Buyers who move early in 2025 often beat the crowd.


🏠 Is It Cheaper to Buy a Home in Georgia in 2025?

Surprisingly, yes — for many buyers.

With more homes sitting longer, you’re seeing:

  • Homes listed below last year’s comps

  • Sellers offering concessions

  • Builders offering rate buy-downs

  • Investors liquidating inventory

  • Owners open to negotiation after weeks on the market

This is the opposite of 2020–2022 when buyers were waiving inspections, offering cash, and competing with 20+ offers.

This is your market now.


🧩 Should You Buy a Home in Georgia Right Now? Here’s the Real Answer

Yes — IF you want:

✔ Lower competition
✔ More choices
✔ Price reductions
✔ Motivated sellers
✔ Negotiation leverage
✔ A long-term investment with rising population growth

No — IF you want:

✘ A “perfect” interest rate
✘ To buy in the most competitive high-end neighborhoods
✘ An ultra-low monthly payment (rates aren’t 3% anymore)

But here’s the truth:

In Georgia, the buyers who move during “cooler” markets build the most equity over time.

Waiting only becomes expensive when prices and competition pick back up — and they always do.


📍 Best Places to Buy a Home in Georgia in 2026

These counties are currently outperforming the market in terms of affordability and opportunity:

🔹 Clayton County (Jonesboro, Riverdale, Morrow)

  • Best for: Affordability, first-time buyers, investors

  • High inventory + motivated sellers

  • Large homes under $300K still common

🔹 Henry County (Stockbridge, McDonough, Hampton)

  • Best for: Families, suburban living, new construction

  • Builders offering incentives

🔹 Douglas / Carroll / Paulding

  • Best for: Space, privacy, and newer homes for lower prices

🔹 South Fulton

  • Best for: Buyers upgrading from townhomes/condos

🔹 Fayette & Coweta

  • Best for: School-district buyers, relocation buyers

The key takeaway?
Georgia offers something for every budget — and 2025 is one of the rare years where buyers have real negotiating power.


📅 Should You Wait to Buy?

Here’s what economists predict for Georgia:

If interest rates drop further:

  • More buyers flood the market

  • Competition increases

  • Prices rise

  • Bidding wars return in strong school districts

If interest rates stay the same:

  • You didn’t gain anything by waiting

  • You may have lost out on cheaper inventory

Bottom line:

You win by buying the home when it’s right — and refinancing the rate when the time is right.


📣 Final Answer: YES — Now Is a Smart Time to Buy in Georgia (If You’re Strategic)

The 2025 Georgia market gives buyers:

  • More options

  • More negotiating power

  • Less competition

  • Softer prices in certain counties

  • Builder incentives

  • Better rate outlook

If you’re waiting for prices to crash, data shows that’s unlikely.

If you're waiting for interest rates to return to 3%, that’s almost impossible.

But if you want a home you love at a price that still makes sense, Georgia’s 2025 market is your moment.

I'm ready to assist you in that dream home journey!!! 

Priscilla Hammond, HomeSmart Georgia

 Office 404-876-4901

 Direct 678-378-9837

🎄 OEDRO Merry Christmas Sale 2025 – Best Deals on Floor Mats, Running Boards & Truck Accessories! Promo Code

OEDRO Merry Christmas Day Sale - Up To 30% off




Shop now for OEDRO Merry Christmas Specials 30% OFF Code: MCD30

 

🎅 OEDRO Merry Christmas Sale 2025 — Huge Discounts on Truck, Car & SUV Accessories!

Christmas came early for truck lovers! The OEDRO Merry Christmas Sale is officially live, offering some of the biggest discounts of the year on premium truck and SUV accessories.

Whether you're upgrading your ride or gift shopping for someone who lives at AutoZone, these deals are the lowest holiday prices you’ll see until next year.

If you own a Ford, Chevy, Dodge Ram, Toyota, Jeep, GMC, Honda, or Tesla — this sale has something for you.


🔥 Top Categories on Sale During the OEDRO Christmas Event

OEDRO is known for durable, perfect-fit accessories — and these Christmas deals cover their most popular upgrades:


1️⃣ OEDRO Floor Mats 

These are OEDRO’s #1 bestselling products.

Why people love them:

  • All-weather protection

  • Custom-fit for YOUR exact vehicle

  • Odorless & heavy-duty

  • Easy to clean

  • Last for YEARS

Perfect for:

  • Families

  • Work trucks

  • Mud lovers

  • Snowy & rainy states

  • Pet owners

Great Christmas gift idea for any truck owner!


2️⃣ Running Boards & Side Steps (Holiday Pricing!)

Level up your truck’s look AND make it easier to get in and out.

OEDRO running boards are:

  • Anti-slip

  • Rust resistant

  • Heavy-duty steel

  • Stylish & functional

  • Fit most popular trucks/SUVs

These sell out fast every holiday season.


3️⃣ Tonneau Covers (Save Big!)

Lock in your cargo and improve gas mileage.

Choose from:

  • Soft tri-fold

  • Hard tri-fold

  • Roll-up

  • Retractable

A tonneau cover is one of the best truck upgrades money can buy — and Christmas pricing makes it even sweeter.


4️⃣ LED Light Bars & Pods

Bright, crisp LED lighting for:

  • Off-roading

  • Camping

  • Work trucks

  • Night driving

  • Snow & fog visibility

These make great stocking stuffer upgrades.


5️⃣ Bumpers, Fender Flares & More

For the truck owner who wants BIG upgrades:

  • Front bumpers

  • Rear bumpers

  • Fender flares

  • Grille guards

  • Lift-friendly options

Huge savings during Christmas only.


🎁 Why the OEDRO Christmas Sale Is the Best Time to Buy

Here’s why buyers wait all year for this sale:

✔ Deepest discounts
✔ Bundle deals
✔ Free shipping on many items
✔ Fitment guarantees
✔ Gift-friendly products
✔ Year-end clearance pricing

And with trucks/SUVs being more popular than ever, these deals won’t last long.


🔧 Best-Selling OEDRO Items to Grab Before They Sell Out

These are HOT right now:

  • OEDRO 3D Floor Mats for RAM 1500

  • OEDRO Floor Liners for Ford F-150

  • OEDRO Running Boards for Chevy Silverado

  • OEDRO Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover for GMC Sierra

  • OEDRO LED Light Bar Combo Kit

  • OEDRO Jeep Wrangler Accessories

If you see your model, buy it fast — Christmas inventory goes fast.


🎄 Perfect Gifts for Truck Lovers This Christmas

If you’re shopping for:

🚛 A truck owner
👨‍🔧 A mechanic
🛻 A new car owner
👨‍🏭 Someone who works outdoors
🎁 A car-lover who has everything

You cannot go wrong with:

  • Floor mats

  • Running boards

  • LED bars

  • A tonneau cover

  • A full truck accessory gift bundle

These gifts are practical, durable, and make a HUGE visual difference.


💸 How to Get the Best Price (Pro Tips)

Want the best deal during the OEDRO Christmas Sale?

Here’s how:

✔ Shop early

Once items sell out, the Christmas price disappears.

✔ Stick to vehicle-specific pages

Make sure you choose the exact year/make/model for best fit.

✔ Look for bundle deals

Some products unlock extra % off when combined.

✔ Use your affiliate link for extra perks

(This is where you monetize the post 😉)


🎄 Final Thoughts: Don’t Miss the OEDRO Merry Christmas Sale!

If you’ve been waiting to upgrade your vehicle or grab the perfect Christmas gift for a truck lover, the OEDRO Merry Christmas Sale is the BEST moment of the year.

You’ll get:

  • The biggest discounts

  • The widest inventory

  • Free holiday shipping

  • Premium-quality truck accessories

These products last YEARS — and make your truck look brand-new.

Thursday, November 20, 2025

Stop Overpaying on Your Electric Bill: The Smart Thermostat Upgrade That Finally Works With Everything


 

Meross Matter Smart Thermostat for Electric Heating System, MTS215MA

Stop Overpaying on Your Electric Bill: The Smart Thermostat Upgrade That Finally Works With Everything

If you’re like most American homeowners, you’ve felt the pinch. You open your monthly electric bill, and that number stares back at you—a constant, nagging reminder of the cost of comfort. You’ve probably heard that a smart thermostat can help. Maybe you’ve even considered one, only to be stopped by a tangle of questions: *Is it compatible with my system? Will it work with my Alexa? What about my Google Home? Do I need another special hub?*

For years, the promise of a seamlessly connected smart home has been just that—a promise, often undercut by brand-specific walls and technical headaches. But that era is over. The solution isn’t just another thermostat; it’s a new generation of technology designed for the way we *actually* live. Let’s talk about the Meross Matter Smart Thermostat for Electric Heating Systems, the upgrade that doesn’t just save you money—it finally makes sense.

The Problem with "Smart" Thermostats of the Past

The first wave of smart thermostats brought us incredible control, but they also brought complexity. The market fragmented. A device might work flawlessly with Amazon Alexa but be a nightmare to integrate with Apple HomeKit. You’d often find yourself buying extra bridges, downloading a half-dozen apps, and spending your weekend troubleshooting instead of relaxing.

This fragmentation created a barrier to entry for millions. Why invest in technology that demands you pick a side in the "smart home wars" or requires a degree in computer science to install? The result? Many of us stuck with our old, dumb thermostats, continuing to overpay for heating because the path to smarter control was just too complicated.

The Matter Revolution: One Thermostat to Rule Them All

Enter Matter. If you haven’t heard this term yet, you will. Matter is the new, universal language for smart home devices. Backed by industry giants like Apple, Google, Amazon, and Samsung, it’s a connectivity standard designed to end compatibility chaos.

The Meross Matter Smart Thermostat (MTS215MA) is built on this revolutionary standard. What does this mean for you? Utter simplicity.

* **Universal Compatibility:** This single thermostat works natively with Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Samsung SmartThings. No more checking compatibility lists or buying extra dongles. If your smart home ecosystem is built around your iPhone, your family uses Google Assistant in the kitchen, and you have an Echo Dot in the bedroom, this one device talks to all of them. Seamlessly.
* **Rock-Solid Reliability:** Matter is designed for reliability. It creates a more robust and responsive connection, so when you ask Siri to turn up the heat or use the Google Home app to check the temperature while you’re at work, it just works.
* **Future-Proof Investment:** By choosing a Matter-certified device, you’re investing in the future of the smart home. As Matter grows, your thermostat will only become more integrated and capable, protecting your investment for years to come.

How This Simplicity Puts Money Back in Your Pocket

Of course, universal compatibility is only half the story. The real win is how this simplicity translates directly into energy savings. The Meross thermostat gives you multiple, effortless ways to take control of your biggest energy expense: heating.

1. **Remote Control from Anywhere:** Forgot to turn down the heat before leaving for vacation? No problem. Simply open the intuitive Meross app on your smartphone and adjust the temperature in seconds. No more heating an empty house.

2. **Effortless Voice Control:** Walking into a chilly room with your hands full? Just say, "Hey Google, set the temperature to 70 degrees," or "Alexa, make it warmer." This instant access encourages smaller, smarter adjustments throughout the day, which adds up to significant savings over a season.

3. **Intelligent Scheduling:** Program your weekly schedule directly in the app. Set the heat to lower automatically when you leave for work and have it warm up just before you return. You maintain perfect comfort without wasting energy.

For those with electric heating systems—which can be notoriously expensive to run—this level of precise control is a game-changer. By eliminating wasted energy, the thermostat pays for itself, often within a single heating season.

An Upgrade Designed for Real People, Not Just Tech Gurus

Meross understands that if a device isn’t easy to install, it will end up in a drawer. The MTS215MA is designed for a straightforward, do-it-yourself installation with clear instructions. You can likely have it up and running and connected to your preferred smart home platform in under 30 minutes, finally retiring that outdated, inefficient thermostat for good.

The Bottom Line: It’s Time for an Upgrade That Works

For years, we’ve tolerated a choice: either deal with the complexity of a fragmented smart home or resign ourselves to overpaying on our utility bills. That compromise is no longer necessary.

The Meross Matter Smart Thermostat for Electric Heating Systems represents a fundamental shift. It combines the critical, money-saving features of a smart thermostat with the universal compatibility and reliability of the Matter standard. It’s the device that finally delivers on the full promise of smart home convenience.

Stop letting compatibility concerns and technological headaches cost you money. Embrace the new standard that works with your life, not against it. Take control of your comfort, take control of your energy usage, and most importantly, take control of your budget. Your wallet will thank you.
Meross Matter Smart Thermostat for Electric Heating System, MTS215MA


Saturday, November 15, 2025

✨ The 2025 Luxury Home Market in Georgia: Why High-End Buyers Are Moving Fast (and How You Can Secure Your Dream Home Today)


The 2025 Luxury Home Market in Georgia: Why High-End Buyers Are Moving Fast (and How You Can Secure Your Dream Home Today)

If you’ve been dreaming about buying a luxury home in Georgia, 2025 is your opportunity window—and smart investors, relocators, and high-end buyers are already moving. Today’s luxury homes offer more than status… they offer privacy, space, security, technology, and long-term financial growth.

As a Georgia luxury REALTOR®, I help buyers find the homes that elevate their lifestyle and their net worth. In this guide, you’ll learn why Georgia has become one of the fastest-growing luxury home markets in the U.S.—and what you should look for to get the highest value for your investment.


🏡 Why Georgia Is Now a Top Luxury Home Destination

1. High-End Homes at Better Prices Than Other Metro Markets

Compared to Miami, Dallas, Los Angeles, and New York, Georgia offers:

  • Larger luxury homes

  • Bigger lots

  • More privacy

  • Less congestion

  • Lower property taxes

You get more luxury for your money — and more long-term appreciation.


2. Explosive Growth in Metro Atlanta’s Upscale Communities

Luxury buyers are targeting areas like:

  • Fayetteville • Peachtree City • Tyrone

  • Newnan • Sharpsburg • Senoia

  • Stockbridge • McDonough • Locust Grove

  • South Fulton • Chattahoochee Hills

  • Stone Mountain • Conyers

  • Alpharetta • Milton • Johns Creek

These communities offer gated neighborhoods, golf communities, equestrian estates, and architectural modern builds—all within reach of Atlanta’s growing corporate ecosystem.


3. High-Income Relocation Is Driving Demand

Luxury buyers are relocating from:

  • California

  • New York

  • Chicago

  • Miami

  • Texas

They want more space, more land, lower cost of living, and a high-end Southern lifestyle—and Georgia delivers it.



🔥 Luxury Home Trends Buyers Want in 2025

2025 Must-Have Luxury Features:

  • Resort-style pools & spas

  • Smart home automation

  • Multi-generational floor plans

  • Chef-caliber kitchens

  • Outdoor living rooms with fireplaces

  • Floor-to-ceiling glass walls

  • Fitness studios & theatres

  • 3–6 car garages

  • Private office wings

  • Walk-in custom dressing rooms

  • Spa bathrooms with rainfall systems

Homes with these features are outperforming the market and selling fast.


💰 Why Luxury Homes Are a Smart Investment Right Now

1. High Appreciation Growth

Georgia’s luxury home market has shown consistent year-over-year growth, outperforming traditional housing sectors.

2. Strong Rental Appeal for Executives

Corporate relocation creates premium demand for executive rentals—meaning you can generate high rental income if needed.

3. Limited Inventory

Luxury homes are built in smaller numbers, making them more exclusive and more valuable over time.

4. Wealth Preservation

Real estate remains one of the most reliable wealth vehicles for long-term financial security.


🏠 Who Is the Luxury Buyer of 2025?

Research shows luxury homebuyers now include:

  • Successful entrepreneurs

  • Corporate executives

  • Physicians & medical professionals

  • High-income remote workers

  • Relocating families

  • Celebrities & athletes

  • Dual-income professional households

They want privacy, personalization, modern architecture, and elevated lifestyle experiences.


How to Secure Your Perfect Luxury Home in Georgia

Buying luxury real estate isn’t about rushing — it’s about strategic timing, expert negotiation, and access to exclusive listings.

Here’s how I help:

🔎 Custom curated luxury home lists
🤝 Access to exclusive off-market and private listings
💼 Professional negotiation & deal protection
🏠 New construction luxury tours
📍 Area-by-area lifestyle guidance
💡 Investment insight on appreciation & resale value


📲 Your Dream Luxury Home Is One Call Away

If you're ready to elevate your lifestyle and invest in a home that reflects your success…
I’m ready to open the doors.

📞 Call or Text Priscilla Hammond – REALTOR® with HomeSmart
678-378-9837

Your luxury dream home is waiting — and it’s closer than you think.


What is considered a luxury home in Georgia?

A luxury home in Georgia typically features high-end finishes, large square footage, premium locations, resort-style amenities, modern architecture, and exclusive features such as outdoor living spaces, smart-home systems, and privacy-focused layouts.

Which areas in Georgia have the best luxury homes?

Top luxury areas include Fayetteville, Peachtree City, Alpharetta, Milton, Johns Creek, Newnan, McDonough, Stone Mountain, Conyers, and high-end pockets of South Fulton and Chattahoochee Hills.

Are luxury homes in Georgia a good investment in 2025?

Yes. Georgia’s luxury market continues to appreciate due to relocation demand, lower cost of living compared to other major metros, and limited high-end inventory. Many buyers see strong equity growth within the first 2–3 years.

What features do luxury homebuyers want in 2025?

Spa bathrooms, chef kitchens, smart-home automation, large outdoor entertainment spaces, resort-style pools, home gyms, wine rooms, multi-car garages, multi-generational layouts, and modern architectural designs.

How do I qualify for a luxury home purchase?

Luxury buyers typically use conventional or jumbo loans, cash, or corporate relocation benefits. Strong credit, liquidity, and stable income help secure the best financing options.

Thursday, November 13, 2025

🏡 Selling Your Home in Georgia or Florida? Here’s Your Ultimate Guide to a Fast, High-Profit Sale

 

🏡 Selling Your Home in Georgia or Florida? Here’s Your Ultimate Guide to a Fast, High-Profit Sale

Are you thinking about selling your home in Georgia or Florida? Whether you’re relocating, downsizing, upgrading, or cashing out on your equity, the real estate markets in both states offer incredible opportunities—if you know how to position your home correctly.

This high-ranking guide is designed specifically for homeowners who want a smooth sale, multiple offers, and maximum profit. With local insights, and expert steps, you’ll be fully equipped to list with confidence.


🌴 Why Selling a Home in Georgia or Florida Is Different

Selling property in Georgia and Florida requires a unique strategy because:

  • Both states attract buyers from high-cost states seeking affordability.

  • Demand for relocation, retirement, and investment properties continues to rise.

  • Many cities—such as Atlanta, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, Savannah, Macon, and South Florida—have fast-moving micro-markets.

  • Weather factors (like Florida humidity or Georgia pollen seasons) impact staging and curb appeal.

best time to sell a home in Georgia, how to sell a house fast in Florida, Georgia home selling checklist, Florida home staging tips for sellers


🏠 Step-By-Step Guide to Selling Your Home for Top Dollar

1. Understand Your Local Market Conditions

Before listing, research:

  • Current supply vs. demand

  • Average days on market in your city

  • Competing homes in your price range

  • Seasonal trends (Florida’s high season is October–April; Georgia’s hottest months are spring/summer)

Georgia real estate market trends for sellers, Florida housing market forecast for homeowners



2. Get a Professional Home Valuation

Zestimate and online tools are estimates—not reality. I can provides real numbers based on:

  • Neighborhood comps

  • Upgrades and features

  • School zone demand

  • Lot size and condition

This ensures your pricing attracts strong buyer activity instead of being overlooked.


3. Prepare Your Home Like a Pro

Small improvements can increase your sale price by thousands. Try:

  • Pressure washing

  • Neutral paint

  • Replacing outdated fixtures

  • Decluttering and depersonalizing

  • Fresh landscaping for curb appeal


best home improvements before selling in Georgia, affordable upgrades that increase home value in Florida


4. Stage Your Home to Attract More Buyers

Buyers shop with emotion first and logic second.
Staged homes sell faster and for more money.

Key staging tips:

  • Bright lighting

  • Clean, open spaces

  • Fresh bedding + neutral décor

  • Light scent (citrus, vanilla, clean linen)


5. Use High-Quality Photos & Video

Your first showing happens online.

Professional:

  • Photography

  • 360 virtual tours

  • Drone footage

  • Vertical videos for social media

makes your listing stand out and reach more qualified buyers in Georgia, Florida, or out-of-state.



6. I Will Market Aggressively Across All Platforms

To get top dollar, your home must be seen by the right people:

  • Zillow

  • Realtor.com

  • Facebook + Instagram ads

  • YouTube videos

  • Relocation network buyers

  • Local and out-of-state investors

how to market your home to buyers moving to Georgia, best ways to advertise a home for sale in Florida


7. I Will Negotiate with Confidence

You’re not just negotiating price—you’re negotiating:

  • Repairs

  • Closing timelines

  • Concessions

  • Appraisal gaps

  • Buyer financing terms

I will protect your equity and get you the best possible deal.



📞 Ready to Sell in Georgia or Florida? Let’s Get You Top Dollar

Whether you’re selling a home in Atlanta, Jonesboro, Macon, Savannah, Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa, or South Florida, I can guide you through every step—pricing, staging, marketing, negotiation, and closing.

👉 Call or Text Me Anytime: 678-378-9837
Priscilla Hammond, REALTOR® – “The House Whisperer… I Get It Done!” 

HomeSmart Corporate - Roswell. 10900 Crabapple Road Roswell, GA 30075 · 404.876.4901

Monday, November 10, 2025

Rent to Mortgage: On-Time Payments Could Make Millions of Adult Renters Eligible


Rent to Mortgage: On-Time Payments Could Make Millions of Adult Renters Eligible

By Priscilla Hammond, REALTOR® – HomeSmart | The House Whisperer

Date: November 10, 2025

Turning Rent into Opportunity

Millions of renters across America are on the verge of a financial breakthrough — one that could open the door to homeownership. Thanks to new rent-reporting initiatives, consistent on-time rent payments may soon help millions qualify for a mortgage.

For years, renters have made timely payments that went unnoticed by credit bureaus. But now, major credit scoring models and lending institutions are beginning to recognize rental payment history as proof of creditworthiness. This shift could make millions of adults mortgage-eligible for the first time.


Why Rent Reporting Matters

Most renters spend between 30% to 40% of their income on housing, yet these payments traditionally haven’t counted toward their credit score. Now, with platforms and lenders embracing rent reporting, consistent renters can show strong payment reliability — the same kind that mortgage lenders look for.

By building credit through rent, tenants can:

  • Boost FICO® and VantageScore® scores faster

  • Qualify for lower interest rates

  • Transition from renting to owning with less financial friction


How It Works

Rent-reporting services partner with landlords or property managers to verify monthly payments and send that data to credit bureaus. Over time, this builds a renter’s credit profile — just like a credit card or auto loan.

For example:

  • A renter paying $1,500 on time for 24 months could see a credit score increase of 40–100 points.

  • That same renter could move from being “unqualified” to mortgage-ready in under a year.


The Bigger Picture

According to housing analysts, more than 45 million adults in the U.S. could become eligible for a home loan by 2026 through consistent rent reporting. For communities where homeownership rates have lagged, this could transform generational wealth and stability.


Real Estate Tip from Priscilla Hammond

If you’re renting and dreaming of owning a home — start tracking and reporting your rent payments now. Ask your landlord if they use a rent-reporting platform or enroll yourself through a verified provider.

When you’re ready to make that move from “renter” to “homeowner,” call me — I’ll help you make the transition seamless.

📞 Priscilla Hammond, REALTOR® – HomeSmart
🏡 The House Whisperer – I get it done!
📱 678-378-9837


Wednesday, November 5, 2025

🏡 The Real Estate Market Has Changed: How to Sell Your Home Fast and for Top Dollar in 2026

The Real Estate Market Has Changed: How to Sell Your Home Fast and for Top Dollar in 2025 (Georgia Guide)

🏡 The Real Estate Market Has Changed: How to Sell Your Home Fast and for Top Dollar in 2026

Serving: Metro Atlanta & surrounding Georgia markets


Presenting your home the right way drives more views, showings, and offers.

Not long ago, real estate felt like easy money—buy a home, wait a bit, sell for profit, repeat. Those days are gone. Today, even with a solid market, buyers are selective and many listings never make it to closing. If you want results, you need a plan.




This guide shares a 9-step system I use with Georgia sellers to help them sell faster, attract stronger offers, and net more.


1) Know Why You’re Selling — and Keep It to Yourself

Your motivation shapes pricing, prep, and timing. But don’t reveal it to buyers; it can weaken your negotiating position. If asked, a simple line works: “Our housing needs have changed.”

2) Price with Precision (Before You List)

Buyers compare your home to dozens of others. If your price doesn’t match the value on day one, you risk going stale and inviting low offers. Use a data-driven Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to set a strategic list price designed to attract multiple qualified buyers.

3) Study the Market Like a Pro

Review sales from the last 6–12 months, analyze active competition, and track pending trends in your micro-market (neighborhood, school district, and price band). Knowledge = leverage at the negotiating table.

4) Hire the Right Real Estate Agent

The #1 complaint sellers have about agents is poor communication. Choose a REALTOR® who provides consistent feedback, understands local Georgia trends, markets with video + social + texting tools, and negotiates fiercely for you.


5) Maximize Presentation & Staging

  • Declutter + deep clean: hotel-level bathrooms and spotless kitchens.
  • Repair: squeaks, leaks, loose handles, scuffed paint.
  • Stage: neutral decor, good lighting, clear traffic flow.
  • Give buyers space: let them imagine living there.

6) Make It Effortless to Get Info

Traditional open houses account for a tiny slice of actual sales. Today’s buyers want instant, no-pressure details. My listings use:

  • 24/7 info hotlines and text codes linked to your property
  • Short-form videos, virtual tours, and floor plans
  • QR-code yard signs that drive straight to rich listing pages

7) Know Your Buyer

What’s their motivation and timeline? Are they relocating, already in a lease, or rate-locked? Are they fully pre-approved? Understanding the “why” behind the offer helps you control pace, terms, and net.

8) Write a Complete, Protective Contract

Disclose known defects in writing, clarify who pays for what, and lock in timelines. Avoid off-contract favors like early occupancy—keep it clean and professional to reduce risk and fallout.

9) Don’t Move Out Before You Sell

Vacant homes can feel cold and often net less. Staged or occupied homes typically show better and sell faster. If possible, plan your move for closing day.



Ready to Sell Smart (and Net More)?

I’ll tailor this 9-step system to your property and neighborhood. Text or call 678-378-9837 to schedule your free Georgia Home Value Strategy Session.

Priscilla Hammond, REALTOR® — HomeSmart Realty

Seller FAQs (Georgia)

How long does it take to sell a home in Georgia?

Timing depends on price point, condition, and location. With strategic pricing and presentation, many well-prepared listings attract strong interest within the first 7–14 days.

Should I stage my home?

Yes. Even light staging (declutter, neutral textiles, fresh paint) can boost perceived value and photos, leading to more showings and better offers.

What if the buyer asks to move in early?

It’s safer to say no. Early possession increases risk. Keep terms inside the written contract.

Is an open house necessary?

They can add exposure, but modern buyers respond best to high-quality media, instant info access, and targeted digital marketing.