The local real estate market is always in motion, and Lisa Brainer of Keller Williams Preferred Realty has her finger on the pulse. With years of experience and a commitment to personalized service, Lisa offers an informed perspective on what today’s buyers and sellers need to know to succeed.
I recently chatted with Lisa to get her take on what buyers and sellers need to know today. And her insights can be quite helpful for those deciding if now is the right time. And apparently, it all starts with some advanced preparation and strategy.
“Planning ahead can take much of the stress out of moving,” Lisa says. “This means doing your research early: finding the right lender and working with an agent who understands your goals.” For buyers, this groundwork can make the search process so much easier for everybody involved.
Lisa shared how she recently counseled a renter who was considering their first home purchase. After discussing life changes and future needs, Lisa advised waiting. “It’s not just about buying a house; it’s about buying at the right time for you,” she explains. “Protecting my clients means helping them make decisions that support their long-term goals.”
On the seller's side, preparation and strategy are everything, too. Lisa works closely with clients to uncover their reasons for selling and the changes they want in their next home. From there, she helps sellers identify updates that can make their homes more attractive to buyers. “Painting, decluttering, and organizing—small changes like these can really help buyers see the home’s potential and create an emotion for the buyers as they walk into the home. First impressions are key to selling your home faster and for top dollar!" Lisa says. She also shared the importance of disclosures to avoid potential issues later. “Taking care of repairs and being upfront about the property can save sellers a lot of headaches down the road.”
A New Era for Real Estate Commissions
Recent changes to real estate commission rules are reshaping transactions. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) settlement, approved in 2024, requires agents to disclose that commissions are negotiable. Lisa explains how this affects buyers and sellers.
“In the past, sellers often paid the buyer’s agent fee as part of their own commission fee; this was paid to the Listing Brokerage who then shared with the Buyer's brokerage,” she notes. “Now, buyers can request commission assistance in their purchase agreement or opt to pay on their own, and everything is still negotiable, it's just structured differently now.” While many sellers still choose to cover these fees, the change allows for greater flexibility in structuring contracts. “It’s a good idea to have an open conversation with your agent about what’s best for your situation,” Lisa adds.
What’s Trending with Buyers
Buyers continue to value efficient use of space and functional design as homes hit the market. “Wasted space is a dealbreaker for many,” Lisa shares. Features like organized pantries, multipurpose mudrooms, and garages with built-in storage or heating are especially popular. “Great outdoor living spaces like seasonal porches and patios add value and are popular as they add usable living space to enjoy life with those we love and make those memories!”
Buyers are also showing interest in homes with personality. Accent walls with bold wallpaper or unique tile patterns remain in demand, though Lisa advises a balanced approach. “It’s great to add character, but trends can change quickly. A timeless touch can go a long way,” she says.
A Partner You Can Trust
Lisa’s approach to real estate is simple: put the client first. “Whether it’s your first home or your fifth, every situation is unique,” she says. Her advice to anyone considering a move? Start by asking questions. “There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but with the right guidance, the process becomes much clearer.”