Kathy Elias

What’s Ahead for 2025

by Kathy Elias

What’s Ahead for the 2025 Housing Market?

With 2025 officially underway, the housing market is already showing signs of exciting opportunities and challenges for buyers and sellers alike. Here’s a closer look at the trends and what they could mean for you.

Home Prices: Steady Growth

Experts predict home prices will grow by a steady 2.6% in 2025, maintaining the pace we’ve seen in 2024. This consistent growth can provide a sense of stability for buyers and sellers alike, making it easier to plan ahead.

Inventory: More Choices for Buyers

An increase in inventory could give buyers more options, potentially shifting the balance of power in their favor. If you’ve been holding out for the perfect home, this might be your year to find it. For sellers, this means a more competitive market, making it essential to stand out.

Smaller Homes in Demand

Smaller homes are expected to be a hot commodity as buyers adjust their wish lists to align with changing needs and budgets. Whether it’s a downsizing trend or a move toward affordability, this shift could redefine the market landscape.

Mortgage Rates: Seeking Stability

Mortgage rates remain a wildcard, but stability in rates could bring some much-needed predictability to the market. For buyers, stable rates may make jumping into the market less daunting. For sellers, it could mean more confident buyers ready to make decisions.

What Does This Mean for You?

For Buyers:

2025 could be your year to find a home that meets your needs and fits your budget. With more inventory and potentially stable mortgage rates, now is the time to:

Get Approved for a mortgage
Work with a trusted real estate agent to develop a game plan
Keen an eye on the market for opportunities that align with your goals

For Sellers:

With increased competition, standing out in the market will be more critical than ever. To make your property shine:

Price your home smartly based on market trends
invest in professional staging to highlight your homes best features
Partner with an experienced agent who can craft a tailored marketing strategy

Making 2025 Your Year

The housing market is always evolving, but with the right strategy, you can navigate the changes and make confident decisions. Whether you’re buying your first home, upgrading, or selling, preparation is key.

Let’s discuss your goals and how to make the most of the opportunities 2025 has to offer! Reach out today to start planning your next move in the housing market.

Source: HousingWire.com

Spice up your meal rotation

by Kathy Elias

Want to bring legendary crab cakes right to your dinner table?? This recipe is sure to delight, and will spice up your weeknight dinner menu. Don’t just take my word for it. Try it for yourself!!!

https://cajunculinaryco.com/blogs/news/savor-the-flavor-old-ebbitt-grills-legendary-crab-cakes-recipe

Old Ebbitt Grill Crab Cakes

Ingredients:
– 1 lb lump crab meat, picked over for shells
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs, plus extra for coating
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Lemon wedges, for serving
– Tartar sauce, for serving (optional)

Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the lump crab meat, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, pepper, and Panko breadcrumbs. Gently fold the mixture together until well combined, being careful not to break up the crab meat too much.
2. Using your hands, shape the crab mixture into 6 equal-sized patties, about 3 inches in diameter. Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill the crab cakes for at least 30 minutes. This will help them hold their shape while cooking.
4. In a large skillet, melt the butter together with the olive oil over medium-high heat.
5. Coat each crab cake lightly with additional Panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Carefully place the crab cakes in the skillet, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove the crab cakes from the skillet and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
8. Serve the crab cakes hot, garnished with lemon wedges and accompanied by tartar sauce if desired.

Enjoy the exquisite flavors of Old Ebbitt Grill’s Crab Cakes, a culinary masterpiece that pays homage to the rich seafood traditions of the Chesapeake Bay. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or main course, these crab cakes are sure to delight your taste buds and transport you to the historic charm of Washington D.C.’s beloved Old Ebbitt Grill.

It’s Time!!! IF YOU BOUGHT A HOME IN 2023, PLEASE DON’T FORGET TO FILE HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION AT THE TAX COLLECTOR’S OFFICE.

Homestead Exemption Makes a Difference in the Property Taxes You Pay!!

You can file your exemption at your local tax office between Janrurary 3rd-April 1st.

You will need:

Your Recorded Warranty Deed
Social Security number of applicant, spouse, & all joint owners
Sales Price of Property
Drivers License
License Tag Numbers of ALL Vehicles in your possession
Birth dates of applicants, spouse, & all joint owners

Please reach out with any questions or assistance. I’m happy to help guide you through the process.

“Kathy can help anyone buy or sell property all over the world!”

Call me anytime with questions or to schedule a showing!

Take me with you on your home search, download my mobile app: http://kathyelias.com/mobileapp

What’s Ahead for 2025

Spice up your meal rotation

What You Should Know When Filing Your Home Stead Exemption

File your homestead exemption

2024 Mardi Gras Schedule of Events