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Articles by Luke Babich
What to do when seller timeline doesn’t match market reality
Many sellers want to close by a certain date, at a certain price and with a certain amount of confidence, but the market often has other plans. When there are fewer qualified buyers than sellers expect, it can cause difficult conversations. The typical U.S. home costs around $403,000, but 63 percent of buyers say they can’t spend that much. Sellers wanting a high price and a quick sale are working with a smaller pool of buyers. The key is addressing that mismatch early before the listing stalls.
How to adjust your approach for different buyer personalities
No two buyers move through a home purchase the same way. A buyer who has to win a bidding war in a matter of days needs a very different approach than a buyer who has a month to weigh the options. The way buyers gather information, make decisions and handle stress shapes everything about how you should communicate, how hard you should push and how often you should check in. The agents who close consistently aren’t always the ones with the smoothest pitch.
How to use local inventory data to motivate buyers
Buying a home can feel intimidating in today’s market. Some buyers hesitate because of high mortgage rates, especially the 35 percent of homeowners who locked in rates below 6 percent during the historic lows of the pandemic. In the years since then, those homeowners may have outgrown their homes or want to downsize, but the dramatic market shifts make moving feel impractical.
8 tips for working with homesellers who have sub-4% mortgages
Stubbornly high interest rates have complicated the real estate market, but they haven’t brought it to a halt. When people need a house, they buy a house — regardless of price, mortgage rates, or market conditions. In many cases, there’s no option to wait for a better deal. This state of affairs has had a number of consequences. For example, 56 percent of first-time homebuyers said they felt pressured to buy sooner than they wanted to because of fears of an imminent economic downturn.
11 tips for pricing homes in a low-turnover market
Pricing a home is always a unique challenge for real estate agents, but it can be especially daunting in a low-turnover market. The current real estate turnover rate, or the rate at which homes change hands, is at its lowest rate in 30 years, according to a Redfin analysis. One of the main reasons is that many people are unwilling to give up their relatively low mortgage interest rates, locked in during or before the COVID-19 pandemic.
How Inflation Is Changing Buyer Behavior - And What Agents Can Do
Stubborn inflation, high interest rates and other negative economic indicators have cooled many real estate markets. It’s a confusing landscape for prospective home buyers, many of whom have no idea if home prices and interest rates are heading up or down. To complicate matters, many potential sellers who have locked into low-rate mortgage rates lean toward staying put, especially when selling a home costs tens of thousands of dollars between commissions, repairs and moving expenses.
How to help sellers price their homes strategically
As 2025 comes to a close, sellers who are considering listing their home have some tough decisions to make. Home sales typically slow during the winter, and adding to this seasonal pressure is the rising drumbeat of the 18-year housing cycle, which predicts a crash about every 18 years, with the next one possibly occurring in 2026. This creates the perfect storm of uncertainty for sellers who want to close quickly.
How to Spot Investment Properties Likely to Appreciate Over Time
Spotting an investment property that will ensure an appreciating real estate portfolio can take some savvy, but a few key tips can set you up for success. Keeping a close eye on potential trends, finding motivated sellers, and doing the work to crunch the numbers can make all the difference when spotting an investment property. In a time of high interest rates and narrow margins, appreciation is more important than ever.
7 low-inventory market strategies every agent should adopt
Loading the Elevenlabs Text to Speech AudioNative Player... In many ways, the U.S. housing market in 2025 is a market of contradictions. Although housing inventory has been steadily rising, buyers’ purchasing power has eroded even faster because of high mortgage rates and rising home prices. Meanwhile, home builders are slowing work, even though the U.S. still has a housing supply gap of around 4 million units, according to Realtor.com data.
Mastering the home price drop conversation with sellers
One of the most challenging conversations to have as a real estate agent is when you need to tell your client that it’s time for a price reduction. It’s crucial to handle this type of discussion carefully so you maintain client trust and still make them feel valued and respected for their opinions. Here are some tips to ensure the conversation goes smoothly and sets both you and the client up for success going forward.
A Real Estate Investor’s Guide to Tax-Smart Property Management
Investing in real estate requires more than a great deal to achieve the best ROI. Understanding smart tax tips is crucial for making informed decisions about your investment property and achieving your personal financial goals. From standard tips like separating your funds to more complex tax concepts like 1031 exchanges, there is a lot to learn to take advantage of the available deductions and tax planning options.
How Real Estate Agents Can Prevent Title Issues From Derailing A Deal
Your client has found the home of their dreams, or the property you’ve listed for a seller is finally getting an offer. Now that the goal is in sight, don’t let title issues derail the sale. TAKE THE INMAN INTEL SURVEY FOR AUGUST Here’s what you can do before listing, in escrow and at the closing table to prevent any title complications.
16 Savings Every Real Estate Investor Should Take Advantage of
Analyzing a good real estate deal is a key skill for your ROI as a real estate investor, but the savvy choices don’t end there if you want to find financial success. Savings can be found through thoughtful tax choices, property upgrades, and general planning. If you are hoping to boost your financial gains through your investments, don’t miss these helpful savings options.
How to guide real estate buyers through mortgage rate changes
Mortgage rates are a crucial factor in any real estate purchase, particularly given the significant rise in rates over the past few years. With the Fed meeting coming up in September, there is anticipation that they will drop, but rates are constantly shifting, presenting some potential difficulties for clients shopping near the top end of their budget.
How to help buyers understand interest-only mortgages
Of all the pain points in the homebuying process, choosing a mortgage can be one of the most challenging. Many buyers, intimidated by the cost of the purchase and confused by the sheer number of mortgage options, choose the safe, predictable standard 30-year mortgage. However, they may not realize that more novel types of mortgages can offer significant financial flexibility, potentially even allowing them to get more house for their money.
15 ways real estate pros and brokers can cut costs
Housing market slowdowns are not new or rare, but every time sales dip, commission-based real estate agents are often affected. Real estate agents aren’t the only ones feeling a pinch. Their clients are concerned, too. A Clever Real Estate study found that 80% of Americans believe the U.S. is facing an affordable housing market crisis. When clients tighten their budgets, this can seriously affect your bottom line.
Five reasons real estate agents should care about tariff news
It’s nearly impossible to ignore news about tariffs and burgeoning trade wars these days. Discussion of these import taxes is suddenly everywhere, causing a frenzy of speculation about their effects on everything from the price of avocados to the future of manufacturing in the United States. As a real estate agent, it’s critical that you stay informed and up to date. Here are five reasons why real estate agents need to keep up-to-date on tariff news. What are tariffs?
7 ways remote work has shaped homebuyer preferences
Real estate is changing fast, and so must you. Inman Connect San Diego is where you turn uncertainty into strategy — with real talk, real tools and the connections that matter. If you’re serious about staying ahead of the game, this is where you need to be. Register now! It’s impossible to deny the many ways the increase in the number of remote workers since the pandemic has changed the housing landscape.
8 tips for maximizing a listing's square footage as an agent
Bigger. Better. Bolder. Inman Connect is heading to San Diego. Join thousands of real estate pros, connect with the Inman Community, and gain insights from hundreds of leading minds shaping the industry. If you’re ready to grow your business and invest in yourself, this is where you need to be. Go BIG in San Diego! As mortgage rates remain high, many markets are slowing as buyers become more picky amid expensive borrowing costs.
8 tips for maximizing a listing's square footage as an agent
Bigger. Better. Bolder. Inman Connect is heading to San Diego. Join thousands of real estate pros, connect with the Inman Community, and gain insights from hundreds of leading minds shaping the industry. If you’re ready to grow your business and invest in yourself, this is where you need to be. Go BIG in San Diego! As mortgage rates remain high, many markets are slowing as buyers become more picky amid expensive borrowing costs.
Signs You Bought the Wrong Investment Property (and How to Fix It)
Buying an investment property can set you up for financial freedom and success, but the wrong investment can do just the opposite, which can cause headaches. If you feel uncertainty surrounding your investment, there are some common problems (and solutions) that you may need to examine. Buying an investment property in a hot market can be a whirlwind of an experience.
When should you share your own opinion of a house with a buyer?
What the law says Real estate agents are obligated by professional ethical standards and the law to preserve confidential information about a client or property (or a seller’s motivation for selling). On the other hand, the National Association of Realtors also requires its certified REALTORS® to disclose information provided by professionals or available to the public via databases (i.e., flood zones or any large planning projects in the works).
6 time management hacks to sell more homes in 2025
Although agents are split on whether it’s going to be a buyer’s market or a seller’s market, 87% of agents predict that demand will remain very strong over the next year. That will likely make it a busy year for real estate agents. Time will be your most valuable resource.
How to end a buyer-agent relationship while protecting your reputation
Agents know the downstream effects of these slow markets; with little competition to contend with, buyers are often indecisive and pickier than usual. Some may even conduct an exhaustive, months-long home search, only to decide to wait until rates fall or for a more ideal property to hit the market. As an agent, this can be hugely frustrating, especially if you feel that the client has carelessly wasted your time or hasn’t been entirely honest about their plans.
Seven Ways Agents Can Seize Opportunities During Market Shifts
Bigger. Better. Bolder. Inman Connect is heading to San Diego. Join thousands of real estate pros, connect with the power of the Inman Community, and gain insights from hundreds of leading minds shaping the industry. If you’re ready to grow your business and invest in yourself, this is where you need to be. Go BIG in San Diego! When the housing market changes, agents must adjust their strategies to take advantage of new opportunities and serve evolving client needs.
5 smart tips for future-proofing your real estate business
March is Marketing and Branding Month here at Inman. As we enter spring selling season, let’s explore which tried-and-true tactics and cutting-edge innovations are getting deals done in today’s market. We’ll also recognize the industry’s marketing and branding leaders with Inman’s Marketing All-Star Awards. Despite high prices, low inventory, and elevated interest rates, the housing market remains strong.
How To Navigate A Buyer's Cold Feet Without Derailing The Deal
Turn up the volume on your real estate success at Inman On Tour: Nashville! Connect with industry trailblazers and top-tier speakers to gain powerful insights, cutting-edge strategies, and invaluable connections. Elevate your business and achieve your boldest goals — all with Music City magic. Register now. One frequent side effect of a more uncertain market is an increasing number of buyers getting cold feet.
Mortgage Assistance Programs: A Lifeline for Affordable Homebuying
Use these resources to make property investments more accessible and profitable. Although many experts spent the last few years predicting an economic downturn, the past two years have been good for residential real estate investors. A recent survey of real estate investors found that three-quarters of them were making at least as much in 2024 as they made in 2023 from their investments, and more than 40% were making more than they did a year ago.
8 Things Investors Often Forget When Winterizing Rental Properties
Savvy investors know that winterizing your rental property is key to the property’s longevity and habitability for your tenants. Unfortunately, there are some winter maintenance checks that many overlook this time of year; don’t forget these eight things to look for at your rental this winter.
Year-end pricing strategies: How to position your listings for maximum appeal
At any time of year, an effective pricing strategy can be the difference between a home that sells quickly at a desired price and one that languishes on the market for months. There’s no time when this is more apparent than at the end of the year, as holidays and family gatherings overtake the urgency of finding and moving into a new home.
What Does Vacancy Insurance Cover and Do You Need It?
Vacancy insurance covers a home with no one living in it that your regular insurance might not cover. If you are an investor or landlord with a vacancy, be sure to check your landlord insurance to find out if you need additional vacancy insurance if your rental property is unoccupied. Vacancy insurance covers a home with no one living in it from certain kinds of damage, and the need for it is more common than you might think.
9 ways agents should be using AI to drive real estate sales
Whether it’s refining your business model, mastering new technologies, or discovering strategies to capitalize on the next market surge, Inman Connect New York will prepare you to take bold steps forward. The Next Chapter is about to begin. Be part of it. Join us and thousands of real estate leaders Jan. 22-24, 2025. Artificial intelligence may be a relatively new technology for many people.
Navigating the Uncertainty of Interest Rates and Market Volatility
High Interest Rates And Market Volatility Offer Challenges And Unique Opportunities. Investing in real estate in today’s volatile market can be challenging. Add in high interest rates, and the challenge only increases. Still, prime investment opportunities exist even in this uncertain market. Let’s look at how you can find them amid all the noise. With real estate investments, it’s not just what you buy outs also when you buy.
How To Use Down Payment Assistance Programs To Close More Deals
Whether it’s refining your business model, mastering new technologies, or discovering strategies to capitalize on the next market surge, Inman Connect New York will prepare you to take bold steps forward. The Next Chapter is about to begin. Be part of it. Join us and thousands of real estate leaders Jan. 22-24, 2025. For many homebuyers, one of the most challenging parts of buying a home is saving for a down payment.
New construction vs. resale homes: How agents can guide buyers in today's market
With high prices and still stiff competition, those looking to buy a home in today’s real estate market need to consider every opportunity, including the choice between new construction or a resale home. Both options have their advantages and drawbacks. Although the decision is ultimately highly personal and based on a buyer’s budget, needs, and preferences, there are a few things agents need to consider to help them make the best decisions.
13 Things to Know About Investing in Eco-Friendly Properties
Investing in eco-friendly properties is one real estate trend that is here to stay, and will offer ROI long-term. If you’re interested in eco-friendly investing, understanding the ins-and-outs can ensure you make the best choices for your market and environmental impact. Trends in real estate come and go — remember harvest gold kitchen appliances? However, one trend that is here to stay is eco-friendly investing.
7 Tips For Guiding Your Real Estate Clients Through The VA Loan Process
September means Back to Basics here at Inman. As real estate navigates the post-settlement era with new commission rules, real estate professionals from across the country will share what’s working for them, how they’ve evolved their systems and tools, and where they’re investing personally.
Selling your home to a family member in 5 easy steps Original
If handled correctly, selling your home to a family member can be a good way to help a loved one save money on a home and build wealth. However, an off-market transaction between family members requires careful planning and transparent communication to avoid misunderstandings and ensure a seamless process. Selling your home to a family member is called a controlled transaction, while selling your home on the open market is referred to as an arm’s length transaction.
Tiny Homes, Big Returns
Here’s what you need to know about investing in the micro-living trend. If you’re one of the 52% of Americans who think the economy is poised for a big rebound next year, you’re probably already looking for investment opportunities. One of the safest places to put your money is in real estate, whether that means flipping a fixer-upper or buying a short-term rental. A promising real estate investment that’s often overlooked is tiny homes.
Seller Financing vs. Traditional Financing: Comparing Options for Real Estate Investors
Understanding the ins-and-outs of seller financing (aka owner financing) can be helpful as you grow your portfolio. While there are advantages to seller financing, as with any form of financing, there are downsides. Here is what you should know as an investor looking to purchase real estate. Whether you’re an experienced real estate investor or just getting into the market, understanding the money side of the equation before making an offer is critical.
How To Break Down The Pros And Cons Of Buying Down Interest Rates
At Inman Connect Las Vegas, July 30-Aug. 1, 2024, the noise and misinformation will be banished, all your big questions will be answered, and new business opportunities will be revealed. Join us. Buying down interest rates (also known as buying points) may seem counterintuitive to many people. After all, why would a homebuyer willingly commit to bringing more cash to the table at closing or sign on for a larger loan?
12 Ways To Build Strong Lender Partnerships For Happier Clients
At Inman Connect Las Vegas, July 30-Aug. 1, 2024, the noise and misinformation will be banished, all your big questions will be answered, and new business opportunities will be revealed. Join us. There are few certainties in real estate. Whether it’s a buyer’s or seller’s market, no matter where prices are sitting, one thing is true: lenders are a key part of the process, and your relationship with them can have a big influence on your clients’ overall satisfaction.
Demystifying home appraisals Original
Home appraisals are critical to the home buying and selling process. While they’re one of the best opportunities for an objective party outside the deal to assess a home’s true value, they can also torpedo an asking price or cause a lender to rescind its financing offer. But that’s not all a home appraisal can do. Let’s take a closer look at appraisals, what they mean for a sale, and how to leverage the results to get your clients the best price possible.
Real Estate Investor Tips to Capitalize on Spring and Summer Demand
As a real estate investor, capitalizing on spring and warmer months is key. When looking into real estate deals, understanding when “spring” and the market peaks in your area is crucial, Being prepared to act on a good deal quickly, and being flexible in your search are also helpful tips to maximize the market potential when looking to buy. For investors looking to sell, capitalizing on homebuyers looking to move in spring and summer is vital.
5 Expert Tips on Securing Investment for Your Next Vacation Home or Rental Property
Whether it’s a vacation rental property that you’ll only book half the year or a cabin in the mountains for weekend getaways, financing seasonal investments can be challenging. Lenders know you’re heavily invested — financially and psychologically — in your primary residence, so they typically don’t have a problem giving you a mortgage for a home.
Inclusive Design: How to Create Spaces for Everyone
As a real estate investor, it’s important to design your home for different types of buyers. Making sure your property is versatile to all homeowners goes beyond paint colors and tile choice. It also means thinking about buyers of all ages, including those with disabilities or physical impairments. Whether you renovate vacant properties or build new homes from scratch, here’s how to ensure your investment property is one any buyer can call home. 1.
Pros and Cons of Adjustable-Rate Mortgages (ARMs) for Real Estate Investors
Understanding an ARM as a real estate investor is key to evaluating your options to grow your portfolio and long-term wealth. If you are thinking of seeking unconventional financing to build your portfolio, it’s vital to grasp the pros and cons of adjustable-rate mortgages before you take the leap. Real estate investors don’t look at financing in the same way that homeowners do. Juggling loan options for multiple properties is much different than getting a single loan for the family home.
The impact of student loans on buying a home
Most Americans still view homeownership as a key to building wealth, but for many, that piece of the American dream is on hold or out of reach thanks to the heavy burden of student debt. In fact, according to a recent study, millennials currently struggle with so much debt that 25% worry they won’t qualify for a mortgage. Nearly 1 in 5 millennials (19%) think their credit card debt will be a stumbling block when applying for a mortgage, while 1 in 7 (14%) think the same about their student loans.
9 tips for home buyers in non-disclosure states
For many, buying a home is a complex process, and navigating the real estate market’s rules and regulations can be tricky, especially in states where property sale prices remain a secret. Buying a home in a non-disclosure state, where sale prices are not available to the general public, presents a unique set of challenges and requires home buyers to be more proactive in gathering information.
Is Now The Time To Become A Flat-Fee Or Limited-Service Broker?
May is Commission and Compensation Month here at Inman. We’ll sort through the noise and misinformation and provide you with the most up-to-date facts and strategies about how to prosper in the wake of the commission settlements. And look for straight-to-your inbox updates with Inman’s new weekly digest, Commission Chronicles. Flat-fee brokerages aren’t new, but they’ve grown more popular in recent years.
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