Fort Worth's real estate market continues to evolve in the wake of election season, interstate migration, and the lasting effects of a national emergency just five short years ago. Local experts Kate Asay, broker and founder of Asay Group Real Estate (AGRE), and Melanie Davis, her colleague and longtime friend, know what it takes to succeed, sharing over 30 years of industry insight and nine tips for success from a palatial home near Rivercrest Country Club, a listing the duo sold to Randy and Demie Angelocci a short time ago.
The two first connected in 2011, and their complementary skills made them a formidable team and fast friends. When Asay launched her brokerage after 18 years in the industry, Davis never questioned joining her.
"She definitely brings out the best in me," Asay says, warmly studying Davis from across a table in the home's expansive kitchen.
Fort Worth real estate saw growth in 2024, with a reported .5% increase in sales in 2024 compared to the previous year. Asay attributes this to a slowly growing inventory, which is edging closer to a balanced market.
"We're at 3 months of inventory now, moving toward the ideal five to six months," she explains. This gradual stabilization gives buyers more options. However, interest rates remain a concern for some prospective buyers.
"Our clients are currently seeing rates in the sevens, and I am hopeful that the rates will lower this year, but only time will tell, which may hold some people back," Asay says. She encourages clients to consider their long-term goals when assessing their situation. "If a buyer can handle the monthly mortgage payment, it may be worth it for some buyers to go ahead and buy knowing they might refinance later."
The Fort Worth market reflects broader national trends, with steady home prices and continued demand for spacious properties in areas like Tarrant and Parker counties. Asay explains how the area's depleted inventory prompted a buyer shift towards new builds, helping recalibrate the market.
"It's a good time to be a buyer," she says. "A few years ago, it was very stressful for clients. There were a small handful of houses to show them, and they had to move quickly to close. More houses mean buyers have more time to really assess which property best fits their needs."
With the market ripe for activity, Asay and Davis share battle-tested words of wisdom to save Fort Worthians time and money.
1. Start a Conversation with a Realtor Before Anything Else
Asay explains how a realtor's early entry into the buying or selling process can maximize success.
"It establishes your budget and gets you on the right foot," says Asay. Early discussions ensure clarity on affordability and, if you're a seller, a renovation or cleaning budget, making the process smoother and preventing unnecessary steps at the start. A realtor also develops a data-driven game plan for clients that includes connecting them with other experts in their network, like lenders, to explore creative financing options like rate buy-down programs.
2. Establish Your Expectations
"Realistically looking at your budget is important. Sometimes that means expecting more or less house than you thought," Asay explains. "We have many lenders in our network to help sort through financials and break down options." Understanding financial realities at the onset helps clients avoid heartbreak or gives them time to restructure their spending to align with their desired lifestyle.
3. Keep an Open Mind
Realtors often see potential in homes that buyers might overlook. "Sometimes a house feels different in person," Asay shares. Davis adds, "It's better to rule a house out than always wonder if you should have looked at it." Buyers are encouraged to stay flexible, as layouts or features may surprise them.
4. Date the Rate, Marry the Home
"If you find your dream home when rates are higher than you'd like, remember you can refinance later," Asay advises. Historically, rates fluctuate, so think long-term and collaborate with a lender.
5. Appropriately Price Your Home
Over or under-pricing can be a costly mistake.
"We're thoughtful with pricing strategies," says Asay. "It's collaborative and data-driven, ensuring sellers position their homes for success from the start."
6. Never Underestimate the Importance of First Impressions
Asay ranks cleanliness over improvements as the biggest bang for your buck, stressing the importance of decluttering and deep cleaning before your home hits the market.
"Clean homes signal to buyers that it's been well-maintained," she says. "Pre-pack your home. You can put boxes in the garage if there's still space to walk around. Otherwise, a temporary storage unit is best. And don't forget to wash the windows!"
7. Have a Thick Skin While Selling, It's Not Personal
Selling a home you've lived in for years can be emotional. Asay urges sellers to view their property as a product. "We're not giving any advice we wouldn't give to ourselves. Our goal is to maximize your offer."
8. It's a Big Decision—More Information Never Hurts
"We provide clients with monthly market reports to keep them informed," says Asay. Staying educated and patient allows buyers and sellers to adapt to changing conditions without sweating the small stuff.
Bonus Tip: Be Prepared for Anything
Life happens, and plans change.
"Who could have predicted a pandemic?" Asay says. "In those times, having a trusted professional by your side is so important. Whether you work with Melanie or me or need us to recommend someone else, our goal is for you to have a good experience."
Photoshoot Credits:
Make-up: House of Tesla
Jewelry: ECM Gems
Homeowners: Randy and Demie Angelocci