Nancy Stevenson - Bozeman Real Estate Group

11/04/2026

Buyers may have more negotiating power today than they realize. The opportunity isn't limited to offering less than the asking price; closing cost assistance, rate buydowns, repairs, credits, and favorable terms can sometimes be worth even more. The key is knowing the seller's motivation and deciding what matters most to you before making an offer. If you're thinking about buying, contact me and let's develop a negotiating strategy before you find the home you want.

(406) 580-1450 [email protected]

Today's changing market is giving many buyers more negotiating power, but getting the best deal requires knowing what to ask for and which terms may provide the greatest benefit.

11/03/2026

Retirement often changes more than your work schedule; it can change what you need from your home. Should you move before retiring while employment income may make financing easier, or wait until you better understand your retirement lifestyle? The answer depends on your equity, expenses, future income, location, and long-term housing needs. If retirement is approaching, this is a good time to explore your options before you have to make a decision. I'd be happy to help you evaluate what your current home is worth and discuss the housing choices that could fit your next chapter.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/NancyStevenson/2026/11/03/I-m-Retiring-Soon-Should-I-Move-Before-or-After-Retirement

11/02/2026

A price reduction isn't always the best way to make your home more attractive. Offering a buyer closing-cost assistance may provide a bigger immediate benefit because it reduces the cash they need at closing. Depending on the loan and transaction, those funds might also be used for an interest-rate buydown, making the monthly payment more affordable. Meanwhile, a modest price reduction may only lower the payment by a relatively small amount.The best strategy depends on your price, market conditions, buyer demand, and financing rules. Before automatically reducing your price, let's compare the alternatives. I can help you evaluate which incentive could attract buyers while protecting as much of your proceeds as possible.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/NancyStevenson/2026/11/02/Which-Incentive-Helps-Buyers-More

(406) 580-1450 [email protected]

10/30/2026

Cash-on-cash return answers a practical investment question: "How hard is the cash I put into this property working for me?" It compares your annual pre-tax cash flow with the actual cash you invested.For example, if you invested $50,000 for the down payment, closing costs, and initial improvements, and the property produces $5,000 in annual cash flow, your cash-on-cash return is 10%.It is useful for comparing properties because it focuses on your invested cash rather than the property's total value. However, it does not include appreciation, mortgage principal reduction, tax benefits, or future selling costs.If you are considering an investment property, I can help you look beyond the purchase price and evaluate the numbers that may affect your return

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/NancyStevenson/2026/10/30/Cash-on-Cash-Return-helps-make-decisions-on-investments

(406) 580-1450 [email protected]

10/29/2026

Many buyers plan to wait for lower interest rates, but that strategy can backfire. Rising inflation, increasing home prices, and climbing rents can easily outweigh any potential savings from a future rate drop. And if rates do fall, competition is likely to surge as more buyers flood the market—making it harder to find the right home.If you're considering a move, now is the time to explore your options. Let's talk about your best path forward.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/NancyStevenson/2026/10/29/Waiting-for-rates-to-drop-could-cost-you-more-in-the-long-run

(406) 580-1450 [email protected]

10/28/2026

Many homeowners have built significant equity over the past several years but aren't sure of the best way to access it when needed. A HELOC and a cash-out refinance each have advantages depending on your goals, current mortgage rate, and financial situation. Before making a decision, it's worth understanding how each option works and the long-term impact it could have on your finances. If you'd like to discuss your home's current value and available equity, I'd be happy to help.

(406) 580-1450 [email protected]

A HELOC and a cash-out refinance can both unlock home equity, but understanding how each works can help homeowners choose the option that best fits their financial goals.

10/27/2026

Helping an adult child buy their first home doesn't necessarily mean writing a huge check. Parents may be able to help with a down payment, closing costs, a gift of equity, co-signing, or simply helping their child understand financing and make better decisions. The right approach depends on both generations' financial situations, and protecting the parents' financial security should remain a priority. If homeownership is a goal for someone in your family, let's talk about the different ways you may be able to help and which options are worth exploring.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/NancyStevenson/2026/10/27/Helping-Your-Adult-Children-Become-Homeowners

10/26/2026

Homeownership comes with expenses beyond the mortgage payment. A common rule of thumb is to budget about 1% to 2% of your home's value each year for maintenance and repairs, although the right amount depends on the home's age, condition, climate, and major systems.You may not spend that amount every year, but setting money aside creates a reserve for things like HVAC repairs, plumbing problems, appliances, roofing, and routine upkeep.Regular maintenance can also prevent small problems from becoming expensive ones. If you'd like a list of maintenance items homeowners should keep on their radar, contact me. I'm always happy to be a real estate resource.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/NancyStevenson/2026/10/26/Plan-for-Repairs-Before-They-Become-Surprises

(406) 580-1450 [email protected]

10/23/2026

When buyers have more choices, your home needs a reason to make their short list.Start with a competitive price, strong curb appeal, clean and uncluttered rooms, and repairs or updates that remove obvious objections. Professional photos and compelling online marketing can help earn the showing, but the home still needs to deliver when buyers walk through the door.You might also consider strategic incentives, such as closing cost assistance or an interest rate buydown, when appropriate.The goal isn't simply to be for sale. It's to be one of the homes buyers remember and seriously consider.If you're thinking about selling, contact me. I can help you evaluate the competition and develop a strategy to make your home stand out.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/NancyStevenson/2026/10/23/Give-Buyers-a-Reason-to-Choose-Your-Home-Over-Others

(406) 580-1450 [email protected]

10/22/2026

Most of us want to remain independent and comfortable in our homes as long as possible. Fortunately, aging in place doesn't always require major renovations. Better lighting, grab bars, lever-style handles, safer showers, fewer thresholds, improved stairways, and smart-home technology are just a few changes that can make everyday living safer and easier.The best time to think about these improvements is before you need them. And sometimes, it makes more sense to find a home that already offers the features you'll want in the years ahead.Wondering whether your current home fits your future needs? Contact me and let's talk about your options.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/NancyStevenson/2026/10/22/17-Ways-to-Make-Your-Home-Safer-As-You-Get-Older

(406) 580-1450 [email protected]