Category: Latest Posts

Halloween falls on October 31 because the ancient Gaelic festival of Samhain, considered the earliest known root of Halloween, occurred on this day.
In the eighth century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1 as a time to praise all saints.
Soon, All Saints' Day incorporated some traditions of Samhain and the evening before was known as All Hallows Eve, and later Halloween.
Over time, Halloween evolved into a day of activities like trick-or-treating, carving jack-o-lanterns, festive gatherings, donning costumes and eating treats.
Today’s the day to eat candies and sweets to your heart’s content! Happy Halloween!

In Late-Q3, ~21% of active listings had price cuts, while inventory topped 1.16M homes and moved within ~9% of typical pre-pandemic levels.
Buyer activity stayed cautious as homes under contract ↓~4% yearly for a second straight month, showing higher mortgage costs still limited affordability.
The national median list price was ~$419K, down ~1% MoM and yearly, marking an 11 mo stretch of yearly declines; price per sq-ft ↓~2% yearly.
Sellers largely stayed in the market: ~6% of listings were delisted, roughly flat yearly, while more owners reduced prices and opened negotiation room.
The next key test is whether additional price cuts bring more signed contracts, or whether rising supply and softer demand extend this adjustment period.

Having worked with buyers in both high-profile markets and right here in Sioux Falls, I’ve seen firsthand how new construction is offering real value across the country. Builders are stepping up with price reductions and incentives you rarely see from resale sellers—making new homes even more attractive for many clients. With so many homeowners holding onto their current mortgages, existing home inventory remains tight, which means new builds are becoming a top option for those comparing costs and flexibility. In areas seeing more building activity, we’re watching affordability improve as buyers benefit from more choices and increased competition among builders. Price cuts, mortgage rate buydowns, and other perks are helping move inventory—reminding all buyers to weigh both new construction and resale homes when making their decisions. Just remember, these affordability gains hinge on continued building and supportive local policies. As always, I’m here to help you navigate the Sioux Falls market and find the best fit for your needs.

Having spent years helping clients find their perfect home in Sioux Falls, I’m always proud to see our city recognized nationally—this time, Sioux Falls ranks among the best cities in the US to buy a home in 2026. What sets Sioux Falls apart is the rare blend of big-city amenities without the overwhelming size: from our signature park that offers a peaceful escape right in the heart of the city, to an expanding downtown scene that keeps daily life interesting with new restaurants and a beautiful river greenway. With a population of 201,500, Sioux Falls delivers the services and conveniences buyers expect from a regional hub, but with a friendliness and ease of navigation you simply don’t find in larger metros. For those searching for city amenities without the hustle of a major metro, Sioux Falls truly stands out for its balance of recreation, lifestyle, and everyday manageability. After years of helping clients make this city home, I can say firsthand: there’s something special here.

Indigenous Peoples’ Day celebrates, recognizes, and honors the beautiful traditions and cultures of the Indigenous People
We take a stand for and support the indigenous people on this day.
We should also offer our support to those who invest and uplift the indigenous communities.

Having helped clients navigate every kind of market, I’ve seen how negotiation strategies evolve—and right now, we’re witnessing a notable shift. In the rolling 3-month period ending Mid-Q3, about 45% of U.S. home sales involved sellers offering concessions, the highest share at this point in the year since at least 2020. That’s up from around 43% a year ago, a sign that buyers are gaining more room to negotiate as inventory rises and competition lightens across the country. These concessions—whether for repairs, closing costs, or mortgage-rate buydowns—are adding new layers of flexibility for buyers. Sellers aren’t just lowering prices; they’re increasingly offering closing-cost credits and rate buydowns to make deals work. Nationally, about 16% of homes sold in Mid-Q3 included both a price reduction and a concession, giving buyers even more ways to reduce their total costs. Having worked in both fast-paced markets like the Hollywood Hills and right here in Sioux Falls, I know how important it is to adapt negotiation strategies to changing trends. This environment is all about finding the right balance for both sides—and knowing where the best opportunities lie.

With over 20 years of helping clients navigate their home journeys—whether in the Hollywood Hills or right here in Sioux Falls—I often see families looking to make their homes safer for aging loved ones. The good news is, you don’t have to take on a major remodel to create a safer environment. Practical upgrades, like sturdy grab bars in bathrooms, a raised toilet seat, and outward-swinging doors, can make a big difference. Smart, user-friendly tech for lighting and climate control, along with thoughtful furniture arrangements, help maintain clear pathways for comfortable movement. In the kitchen, keeping essentials between hip and shoulder height is key to avoiding unnecessary reaches. Adding a second, fully extended handrail to stairs, and lowering the bed for easier transfers, are simple changes that support independence. An entryway chair or bench, and an elbow-height spot for keys and bags, add daily convenience and safety. Having guided many through these transitions, I know every detail matters when creating a space where you can confidently age in place.