Stephanie Andersen Realtor

Backpack Buddies is a community program by the Souris Valley United Way that fights childhood food insecurity by providing easy-to-prepare weekend meals and snacks to local students.
If you’d like to get involved, feel free to send me a message! https://svunitedway.com/our-programs/backpack-buddies/

🏡 WAITING FOR RATES TO DROP COULD COST YOU MORE THAN YOU THINK.

One of the biggest things I hear from buyers is:

“I’m going to wait until mortgage rates come down.”

And I completely understand that! But here’s something important to consider…

You can refinance a mortgage. You can’t refinance the price you paid for your home.

If rates eventually fall, more buyers may jump back into the market. When more buyers are competing for a limited number of homes, we could see more multiple-offer situations and upward pressure on home prices.

We’re already seeing how limited inventory can support prices. In the second quarter of 2026, home prices increased in 80% of U.S. metro areas, with the national median existing single-family home price up 1.5% from a year earlier. (National Association of REALTORS®)

And in August 2026, the U.S. had about 4.9 months of existing-home supply, while the median existing-home price was still up 1.6% year over year. (National Association of REALTORS®)

So what if you find the right home now?

✅ Buy when the home and price make sense for you
✅ Build equity as you own the home
✅ Potentially benefit from future appreciation
✅ And if mortgage rates fall enough to make it worthwhile, explore refinancing later

Refinancing can potentially lower your monthly payment and/or total interest, although it involves a new loan, lender approval, and closing costs. (Fannie Mae)

The goal isn’t to perfectly time the market.
The goal is to make a smart decision based on your finances, your plans, and the home that works for you.

And remember: there’s no guarantee rates will fall or that home prices will rise. Every market and every buyer’s situation is different.

If you’re waiting for rates to come down, let’s talk about what buying now vs. waiting could look like for your situation. Sometimes the numbers may surprise you. 🏡

📱 Stephanie Andersen, Realtor®
Brokers 12 Real Estate
850.797.2096
[email protected]
www.brokers12.com/stephanie_andersen

Thank you, Minot!

We are incredibly grateful to be voted Platinum – Real Estate Brokers in this year's CommunityVotes Minot!

This recognition means so much because it comes directly from the people in the community, we’re proud to serve every day. Whether you've trusted us to buy or sell a home, referred a friend or family member, or simply supported Brokers 12 along the way, thank you for believing in us!

To our amazing agents and staff, thank you for the dedication, professionalism, and heart you bring to every client and every transaction!

We’re honored to be part of this incredible community and look forward to serving Minot for many years to come! 💙🧡

No home is “perfect” - not even brand new ones 🏠

That’s why a professional home inspection is so important.

Even homes that look flawless can have hidden issues behind the walls, in the attic, or within major systems. A licensed home inspector acts as your safety net—helping uncover potential problems before they turn into thousands of dollars in repairs.

A home inspection can:
✔️ Identify issues you can’t see during a showing
✔️ Give you a clearer picture of the home’s condition
✔️ Help you make a confident, informed decision

Don’t skip this step. It’s one of the smartest investments you can make during the buying process.

Peace of mind today can save you big tomorrow.

📍Brokers 12 Real Estate
📞 850.797.2096
📧 [email protected]
💻https://www.brokers12.com/stephanie_andersen/

Ever notice how stores are almost always playing music? 🎶

That’s not by accident. Studies have shown that music can influence how long people stay, how they feel, and even how much they spend. Slower, relaxing music can encourage people to linger … and the longer they stay, the more likely they are to make a purchase.

So here’s a thought for home sellers 🎧

If music can shape the experience in a store, it can do the same during a home showing.

Soft, neutral background music can:
✔️ Create a welcoming atmosphere
✔️ Help buyers feel more relaxed
✔️ Make your home feel warm and inviting

It’s not about blasting your favorite playlist - it’s about setting the tone. Think light, calming, and subtle.

Selling a home is all about the experience. And sometimes, it’s the little details that leave the biggest impression.

📍Brokers 12 Real Estate
📞 850.797.2096
📧 [email protected]
💻https://www.brokers12.com/stephanie_andersen/