As Realtors we understand that strong communities start with strong policies. That’s why nearly 40 Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® joined over 400 Realtors from across Tennessee in Nashville for Realtor Day on the Hill. This annual event provides a powerful platform for meeting with state legislators and advocating for homeownership, private property rights, and a strong real estate market.

While we advocate at the state level, our efforts don’t stop there. Locally, our Governmental Affairs Committee plays an active role in monitoring policies that impact property rights, development, housing affordability, and economic growth. Realtors and our Governmental Affairs Director, Josh Branum, regularly attend City Council, County Commission, and Regional Planning Agency meetings to ensure that decisions affecting our industry and our clients are made with homeownership and private property rights in mind. Whether at the local, state, or national level, Realtors remain committed to protecting the interests of homeowners and ensuring a fair, accessible real estate market.

Legislative advocacy doesn’t end in Nashville. Early voting for the 2025 Chattanooga Municipal Election is happening now! The outcome of this election will shape zoning, development, and economic policies that directly impact our industry and the communities we serve. We encourage all REALTORS® to make their voices heard and participate in this important local election. For polling locations and details, visit www.chatt2.org/vote.

Events like Day on the Hill prove that when REALTORS® come together, we make a real difference. Thank you to everyone who participated and to all those who continue to advocate for homeownership and property rights throughout the year. Your voice matters, and together, we help shape the future of real estate in Tennessee. #ThatsWhoWeR

Congratulations to …

Participants
Robert Backer
Kadi Brown
Diane Burke
Jeff Nixon

Subscriber
Chris Trainor

on their election to the 2025-2026 MLS Committee. They will serve alongside Chair Steven LaMar, Vice Chair Travis Close, Bev Boss, Jennifer Grayson, Mollie Majors, and Ryan May. 

The real estate market is showing strong momentum as we move further into 2025. Nationally, existing-home sales have continued their upward trend for the third consecutive month, with notable increases in higher-priced home purchases. Locally, Chattanooga’s housing market remains active, with a rise in new listings, pending sales, and inventory, creating more opportunities for both buyers and sellers.

U.S. existing-home sales advanced for the third straight month, climbing 2.2% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.24 million units, a 10-month high, according to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). Sales were up 9.3% year-over-year, driven largely by purchases of homes priced $500,000 and above. Month-over-month, sales rose in the South,
Northeast, and the West but fell in the Midwest, with all four regions reporting year-over-year gains.

New Listings in the Chattanooga region increased 18.8 percent to 1,214. Pending Sales increased 2.5 percent to 788. Inventory increased 34.5 percent to 2,743.

Median Sales Price increased 3.1 percent from $319,950 to $330,000. Days on Market increased 24.4 percent to 56. Months Supply of Inventory increased 33.3 percent to 3.2.

According to NAR, total housing inventory was 1.15 million units heading into January, a 13.5% decrease from the previous month but a 16.2% increase from the same period one year earlier, for a 3.3-month supply at the current sales pace. Housing supply remains down compared to pre-pandemic levels, and the limited number of homes on the market continues to push sales prices higher nationwide, with the median existing-home price rising 6% year-over-year to $404,400.

As inventory improves, the market is showing signs of stabilization, but home prices continue to rise due to ongoing demand. Whether buying or selling, it’s crucial to stay informed and work with a REALTOR® who understands current trends. Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® remains committed to providing up-to-date insights to help our community navigate the evolving market. #ThatsWhoWeR

With recent devastating fires in California, homeowners across the country are reminded of the importance of understanding their insurance coverage. The National Association of Realtors has released a timely Consumer Guide on Fire Damage & Policy Coverage, helping homeowners navigate their insurance options and ensure they are adequately protected in case of a fire.

Most homeowners insurance policies cover fire and smoke damage, but some insurers may limit or not offer coverage if your risk is higher. You should contact an insurance agent or broker if you need separate fire insurance or have questions. An agent who is a REALTOR® can help connect you. Depending on where you live, your property may have varying degrees of risk of sustaining damage from a wildfire. Even if you aren’t in a high-risk area, you should fully understand your insurance coverage in the event of a fire. Here’s what you need to know:

Does my homeowners insurance cover wildfire damage? Standard homeowners insurance typically covers the structure of your home, other structures on your property (like a detached garage or shed), and your personal belongings in the event of fire damage. This includes fires caused by candles, grease, electrical malfunctions (e.g., faulty wiring), wildfires, and lightning. However, a standard policy may not cover all fire damage, including damage caused by nuclear hazards, arson, poor maintenance, or regular wear and tear. Please contact your insurance agent if you have questions.

What if my policy doesn’t cover fire damage, or I cannot obtain coverage due to wildfires? Similar to flood insurance, some private insurance companies may exclude or not provide insurance coverage in high-risk areas. It is important to shop around as some insurers may have more risk tolerance than others. For example, some insurers may be “non-admitted,” meaning it is not licensed by the state but can still legally provide coverage, including for “difference in conditions” to help address any coverage gaps. These “surplus lines” brokers specialize in risks that admitted carriers will not cover. However, while offering specialized coverage, these companies are subject to different regulations and don't participate in state insurance guaranty funds which protect against insolvency, so it’s important to ask questions and read the fine print.

To find a surplus lines broker, you may contact your state insurance department or your current insurance agent who may be able to refer you to a surplus lines broker who specializes in your specific needs.

What do I do if my home is deemed ineligible for fire damage coverage? Some insurance companies may not cover damage caused by a fire if they consider your area to be too high-risk based on fire maps or risk scores. If your insurance company deems your home to be in a high-risk area, there are some things you can do to help manage the costs. This includes contacting an insurance professional to discuss your insurance cost and needs, gathering and comparing quotes from multiple insurers, including surplus lines, and obtaining a wildfire-prepared certification from an organization like the Institute for Building & Home Safety. You may also contact your state insurance commissioner who regulates the insurance companies in your state and may have additional information about fire insurance and risk maps.

What is a “FAIR” plan? If fire insurance is not covered in your policy, you may consider purchasing a Fair Access to Insurance Requirements (“FAIR”) insurance policy. FAIR insurance plans are available in many states and are intended to protect high-risk homes that don’t qualify for certain types of insurance on the private market. While FAIR plans are typically more expensive and have limited protections compared to private insurance, they can serve as a crucial safety net for those who can't find insurance elsewhere.
 
The Realtors Relief Foundation is accepting support for victims of the devastating January 2025 California wildfires. Text RRFCAStrong to 71777 or visit rrf.realtor to make a donation by 1/31/25 to ensure 100% of your donation is earmarked for wildfire victims.#ThatsWhoWeR

Practices may vary based on state and local law. Consult your real estate professional and/or an attorney for details about state law where you are purchasing a home. Please visit facts.realtor for more information and resources.

Founded in 1912, Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Greater Chattanooga. A regional organization with more than 2,700 members, Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® serves Hamilton and Sequatchie counties in southeast Tennessee and Catoosa, Dade, and Walker counties in northwest Georgia. The Association is one of approximately 1,100 local associations/board of REALTORS® nationwide that comprise the National Association of REALTORS®. Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® owns and operates a Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which is one of approximately 600 MLSs in the country and services more than 3,000 MLS users. Local Association membership is comprised of REALTORS® servicing the Greater Chattanooga area and specializing in a variety of disciplines – appraisal, commercial, industrial, land, multi-family, property management and residential. Working alongside REALTORS® are our Affiliate members, who represent related industries in sympathy with the objectives of the Association. Our Affiliate members include mortgage lenders, home inspectors, title and closing services, pest inspection and control and insurance.

As tax season approaches, homeowners should be mindful of potential home-related tax mistakes that could cost them money or even lead to unwanted IRS attention. From deductions on property taxes and mortgage interest to home office expenses and capital gains, it’s important to understand the rules to maximize benefits and avoid errors. G.M. Filisko of HouseLogic shares key insights on common home-related tax pitfalls and how to navigate them effectively.

We know all too well that taxes are unavoidable. But you can avoid expenses that stem from your own home-related tax mistakes. In fact, those oversights can not only cost you money but also lead to a contact from the IRS, say the tax pros. And no one wants either of those outcomes, right?

As you prepare your tax returns in 2025 for 2024 income and deductions, be careful not to make any of these eight common tax mistakes, especially when it comes to the property tax deduction or the mortgage interest deduction.

#1 Deducting the Wrong Year for Property Taxes. Unless you're one of the relatively few taxpayers who are on the accrual instead of the cash basis, you take a tax deduction for property taxes in the year you (or the holder of your escrow account) actually paid them. Some taxing authorities work a year behind. That is, you’re not billed for this year's property taxes until next year. But that’s irrelevant to the feds
.
Enter on your federal forms whatever amount you actually paid in that tax year, no matter what the date is on your tax bill. Dave Hampton, CPA, a tax manager with HG CPA, LLC, in Cincinnati, says he has seen homeowners confuse payments for different years and claim the incorrect amount.
Tip: Taking this deduction requires you to itemize.

#2 Confusing Escrow Amount for Actual Taxes Paid. Here's another property tax issue that produces common tax mistakes. If your lender escrows funds to pay your property taxes, don’t just deduct the amount escrowed. The regular amount you pay into your escrow account each month to cover property taxes is probably a little more or a little less than your actual property tax bill. Your lender will adjust the amount every year or so to realign the two.

For example, your tax bill might be $1,200, but your lender may have collected $1,100 or $1,300 in escrow over the year. Deduct only $1,200 or the actual amount of property taxes paid that is noted on the Form1098 that your lender sends. If you don’t receive the Form1098, contact the escrow agent tax to find out how much actual property tax they paid from your account.

#3 Deducting Points Paid to Refinance. In many cases, you can deduct in full the points you paid your lender to secure your mortgage for the year you bought your home, if you itemize. However, if you pay points in connection with a refinance, you must deduct the proportional amount of the points over the life of your new loan.

For example, if you paid $2,000 in points to refinance a 15-year mortgage, your tax deduction is $2,000 divided by 15 years, or $133 per year.
 
#4 Misjudging the Home Office Tax Deduction.  There are two ways to calculate the home office deduction. One is more complicated, has to be partially recaptured if you turn a profit when you sell your home, and can pique the IRS’ interest in your return. But it can also give you a larger deduction than the simpler method.

If you don't want to go through the extra work and potential IRS challenge of claiming your actual cost, which you do under the more complicated method, you can use the simplified home office deduction.  If you’re eligible, you can deduct $5 per square foot for up to 300 feet of office space, or up to $1,500 per year. With either method, however, you must use the space regularly and exclusively for your business.

#5 Failing to Repay the First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit.  If you used the original homebuyer tax credit in 2008, you must repay 1/15th of the credit over 15 years.

If you used the tax credit in 2009 or 2010 and then within 36 months you sold your house or stopped using it as your primary residence, you also have to pay back the credit.

The IRS has a tool you can use to help figure out what you owe.

#6 Failing to Track Home-Related Expenditures. Taxpayers often make common tax mistakes by omission: not keeping records. If the IRS comes a-knockin’, don’t be scrambling to compile your records. File or scan and store home office and home improvement receipts and other home-related documents as you go.

#7 Forgetting to Report Trackable Capital Gains. If you sold your main home last year, don’t forget to report capital gains on any profit above the excluded amounts. You can typically exclude up to $250,000 of any profits from your income (or up to $500,000 if you’re married filing jointly).

So, if the cost basis for your home is $100,000 (what you paid for it plus any improvements) and you sold it for $400,000 (net of selling expenses), your capital gain is $300,000. If you’re single, you owe taxes on $50,000 of gains.

However, there are minimum time limits for holding property to take advantage of the exclusions, and other details. Consult IRS Publication 523. And some higher-income earners could get hit with an additional tax if the gain exceeds the exclusion.

#8 Claiming Too Much for the Mortgage Interest Deduction. If you're eligible to itemize, the MID loan limit is $750,000. For loans taken out before Dec. 16, 2017, the limit was $1 million.  Make sure your loan is grandfathered before claiming the old limit.

Interest paid on home equity loans and second mortgages is deductible, but only if the proceeds of such loans were used to buy, build, or substantially improve the home that secures the loan. You can’t deduct interest on home equity loans that were used for things like student loans or cars. 

For all the interest to be deductible, the amount of all mortgage loans (first, second, home equity, and loans for a second home) can’t exceed the $750,000 or $1 million limits. 

Navigating tax season can be complex, but being aware of these common home-related tax mistakes can help homeowners avoid costly errors. Staying organized, keeping thorough records, and consulting with a tax professional can ensure you make the most of your deductions while staying compliant with IRS regulations. By taking a proactive approach, you can safeguard your financial well-being and avoid unnecessary headaches this tax season. #ThatsWhoWeR

This article provides general information about tax laws and consequences but shouldn't be relied upon as tax or legal advice applicable to particular transactions or circumstances. Consult a tax professional for such advice.

Founded in 1912, Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Greater Chattanooga. A regional organization with more than 2,700 members, Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® serves Hamilton and Sequatchie counties in southeast Tennessee and Catoosa, Dade, and Walker counties in northwest Georgia. The Association is one of approximately 1,100 local associations/board of REALTORS® nationwide that comprise the National Association of REALTORS®. Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® owns and operates a Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which is one of approximately 600 MLSs in the country and services more than 3,000 MLS users. Local Association membership is comprised of REALTORS® servicing the Greater Chattanooga area and specializing in a variety of disciplines – appraisal, commercial, industrial, land, multi-family, property management and residential. Working alongside REALTORS® are our Affiliate members, who represent related industries in sympathy with the objectives of the Association. Our Affiliate members include mortgage lenders, home inspectors, title and closing services, pest inspection and control and insurance.

New Officers and Directors Sworn in During January 16th Installation & Awards Reception

CHATTANOOGA, TN. (Jan. 23, 2025) – Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® celebrated the installation of its 2025 officers and directors on January 16th during the Installation & Awards Reception. This annual event marks a significant moment for the association as members join to honor incoming leadership and reflect on the collective mission of REALTORS® in serving the Chattanooga community.

Fourteen REALTORS® were sworn installed, including President Ellis Gardner, President-Elect Connie Brewer, Secretary-Treasurer Jeff Nixon, MLS Chair Steven LaMar, and Immediate Past President Kadi Brown. Also installed were Directors Robert Baker, Paige Batten, Teresa Clegg, Rolanda Daniel, Brian Erwin, Natalie Hostetler, Denise Murphy, Karen Parris, and Mike Purcell.

President Ellis Gardner, a REALTOR® for nearly 24 years, was elected by his peers to serve in the highest office of the association. Upon taking the oath of office, Gardner shared his vision for the coming year, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and strategic planning.

"This is not an honorary title," Gardner said. "We each have a role to play. Do your job and trust your teammates to do theirs." Gardner outlined three key focus areas for 2025:
1. Vision: Honoring the past while planning for the future.
2. Strategic Plan: Building a common cause to unify the membership and advance the association.
3. Execution: Ensuring the association’s budget reflects its priorities, with careful consideration of both financial and time costs.

To achieve these goals, Gardner stressed the importance of collaboration and engagement among members, likening the board chairs and committees to a team working together on the football field. "Our chairs are the first string, but we need a team," Gardner said. "I need your help to get the rest of our members out of the stands and onto the field." Gardner also expressed the importance of cooperation with neighboring associations, citing the proverb, "To go fast, go alone. To go far, go together."

In closing, Gardner called on members to help recruit and inspire others to get involved, drawing from his own leadership journey. This year, Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® looks forward to fostering growth, advocating for the real estate industry, and making a meaningful impact on the community. With a united team and strong leadership, 2025 is poised to be a year of progress and collaboration. #ThatsWhoWeR

Former REALTOR® John Thomas (Tom) Webster (BHHS Realty Center), passed away on January 14. Visitation is scheduled for January 22, 11m-12:30p at Abba's House, with the service immediately following and a graveside service at 2p at Chattanooga National Cemetery. 

The start of a new year brings fresh insights into the evolving real estate market, which continues to show signs of resilience and growth. Recent data from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) highlights positive trends, including an eight-month high in U.S. existing-home sales. While inventory challenges persist, the activity in the market—both nationally and locally—offers an optimistic outlook. Here's a closer look at the latest market trends and their impact on the Chattanooga region.

U.S. existing-home sales improved for the second consecutive month, rising 4.8% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.15 million units, an eight-month high, according to the NAR. Sales were up 6.1% compared to the same time last year, marking the largest year-over-year increase since June 2021. Economists had forecast existing-home sales would come in at an annual rate of 4.07 million units for the month.

New Listings in the Chattanooga region increased 1.8 percent to 784. Pending Sales increased 7.7 percent to 643. Inventory increased 29.2 percent to 2,634.

Median Sales Price increased 12.5 percent from $300,000 to $337,500. Days on Market increased 22.0 percent to 50. Months Supply of Inventory increased 25.0 percent to 3.0.

Total housing inventory stood at 1.33 million units heading into December, a 2.9% decrease from the previous month but a 17.7% increase year-over year, for a 3.8-month supply at the current sales pace. Inventory remains below the 5 – 6 months’ supply of a balanced market, and the limited number of homes for sale continues to put upward pressure on sales prices nationwide, with NAR reporting a median existing-home price of $406,100, a 4.7% increase from one year earlier.

While inventory challenges persist both nationally and locally, the recent uptick in sales and steady price growth is a promising sign for the housing market as we move further into 2025. For buyers and sellers navigating this dynamic landscape, working with a Realtor remains key to making informed decisions. Realtor bring essential expertise to every transaction, helping clients understand the nuances of today’s market while advocating for their best interests. As we continue monitoring the trends, one thing remains clear: Greater Chattanooga’s real estate market is poised for continued opportunity and growth. #ThatsWhoWeR

Founded in 1912, Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Greater Chattanooga. A regional organization with more than 2,700 members, Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® serves Hamilton and Sequatchie counties in southeast Tennessee and Catoosa, Dade, and Walker counties in northwest Georgia. The Association is one of approximately 1,100 local associations/board of REALTORS® nationwide that comprise the National Association of REALTORS®. Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® owns and operates a Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which is one of approximately 600 MLSs in the country and services more than 3,000 MLS users. Local Association membership is comprised of REALTORS® servicing the Greater Chattanooga area and specializing in a variety of disciplines – appraisal, commercial, industrial, land, multi-family, property management and residential. Working alongside REALTORS® are our Affiliate members, who represent related industries in sympathy with the objectives of the Association. Our Affiliate members include mortgage lenders, home inspectors, title and closing services, pest inspection and control and insurance.

As we step into 2025, I am honored and excited to serve as your President of Greater Chattanooga REALTORS®. Having been part of this vibrant real estate community for 24 years, I’ve come to appreciate the unique role REALTORS® play—as trusted advisors in real estate transactions and ambassadors for our Scenic City. My goal is to continue building on the strong foundation of leadership that my predecessors have established and to help our members navigate what promises to be an interesting and evolving market.

Reflecting on the past year, 2024 presented its challenges, but it also set the stage for new opportunities in 2025. According to the National Association of REALTORS® there are several key homebuyer trends we should be prepared for in the year ahead. With rising equity gains, a significant portion of buyers may opt for all-cash transactions, expanding the trend of all-cash purchases that accounted for 26% of home sales last year. Additionally, the average first-time buyers are getting older, with the median age reaching 38 in 2024. This delay is often due to rising home prices and the need to save longer for a down payment, sometimes with assistance from family or personal investments. Also, many first-time buyers need increased wages to balance student debt payments.

Another trend shaping the market is the increase in multigenerational households, which reached an all-time high of 17% last year. Buyers are pooling resources for cost savings and supporting aging parents or accommodating young adults returning home. And we’re seeing more single women entering the housing market, representing 24% of home purchases in 2024, double the share of single men. These shifts reflect the ever-changing dynamics of the real estate landscape and the need for REALTORS® to adapt and provide exceptional service to meet diverse client needs.

Here At Greater Chattanooga REALTORS®, we are committed to helping our members stay ahead and respond to these trends. Whether through cutting edge continuing education, leadership development opportunities, or advocating for policies that benefit property owners, our Association provides the tools and resources needed to thrive in this dynamic industry. From designations like the Accredited Buyer Representative and Commitment to Excellence to community initiatives like Snack Packs and Habitat for Humanity, we are here to support both our REALTORS® and our community.

I am deeply grateful for the trust you’ve placed in me to lead our Association this year. Together, we can navigate the evolving real estate market and ensure that Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® continues to shine as a beacon of professionalism, advocacy, and community service. Let’s make 2025 a year to remember. #ThatsWhoWeR

Founded in 1912, Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Greater Chattanooga. A regional organization with more than 2,700 members, Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® serves Hamilton and Sequatchie counties in southeast Tennessee and Catoosa, Dade, and Walker counties in northwest Georgia. The Association is one of approximately 1,100 local associations/board of REALTORS® nationwide that comprise the National Association of REALTORS®. Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® owns and operates a Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which is one of approximately 600 MLSs in the country and services more than 3,000 MLS users. Local Association membership is comprised of REALTORS® servicing the Greater Chattanooga area and specializing in a variety of disciplines – appraisal, commercial, industrial, land, multi-family, property management and residential. Working alongside REALTORS® are our Affiliate members, who represent related industries in sympathy with the objectives of the Association. Our Affiliate members include mortgage lenders, home inspectors, title and closing services, pest inspection and control and insurance.

The new year is here, bringing with it a chance for fresh starts and new opportunities. It's the perfect time to tackle those untouched corners of your home, reorganize, and set the tone for a more peaceful and productive year. Highlighting insights from HouseLogic.com about the impact of clutter on our lives and how we can begin to make meaningful changes. Melissa Dittman Tracey’s article, “How Clutter Creates Stress and Anxiety: Strategies for Decluttering,” sheds light on how our living spaces affect our mental health and offers practical strategies to take back control of our homes—and our minds.
Stacks of unopened mail, cluttered countertops, overstuffed closets, and those I’ll-get-to-it-later piles aren’t just household annoyances. A growing body of research links clutter at home to increased stress and anxiety — sometimes even linking clutter and depression
“Our culture teaches us that the more you own, the happier you’ll be,” says Joseph Ferrari, professor of psychology at DePaul University in Chicago, who has long studied the impact of clutter on the psyche. “But it’s actually the opposite: The more you have, the less happy you tend to be.”

The Connection Between Clutter and Mental Health: Key Research Findings. Indeed, cluttered homes could be hampering your mental – and physical – health in a number of ways, but you may not realize it. See if these findings from four studies sound like what you’ve experienced:
1. Women who perceived their homes as cluttered were more likely to say they constantly felt tired and even displayed symptoms of depression.
2. Cluttered kitchens are more likely to lead to eating too much unhealthy food.
3. Household clutter can link to feelings of guilt, anxiousness, and an inability to focus.
4. Cluttered work spaces at home could be making workers less satisfied with their job and leading to increased tension and even burnout.
Clean up your ways and you’ll feel better? It’s a start. “Tidying, sorting, storing, and organizing one’s things restores people’s sense of control over their environment,” notes Ferrari and co-author Catherine Roster, a professor of marketing and consumer psychology at the University of Mexico, in their study on decluttering personality traits. “Having fewer possessions to manage and take care of also frees up people’s time and energy to focus on what really matters in their lives.”

How to Know if You Have a Household Clutter Problem. The tipping point for problematic clutter emerges when it affects the livability of a space, causes emotional distress, and impacts your relationships and financial well-being – for instance, by contributing to overspending, Ferrari says. In severe cases, clutter can cross over into hoarding behavior, a serious psychiatric disorder. (According to Ferrari, hoarding is the accumulation of “vertical” piles of the same thing, like stacks of toilet paper packages, whereas clutter is “horizontal,” with an overabundance of many different items.)
Take a Self-Test for 'Chronic Disorganization'. The Institute for Challenging Disorganization offers criteria to identify whether you may have signs of what they call “chronic disorganization,” including:
• Filling storage areas to capacity
• Having difficulty parting with items
• Needing to rent out additional storage space
• Beginning multiple projects that go unfinished
• Struggling constantly to find things                                                                                     
Realize that Decluttering Is a Learned Skill. If you identify with some of the behaviors listed, there’s good news, “Decluttering is a skill and can be learned,” assures a study in the International Journal of Environment Research and Public Health. Also, “decluttering doesn’t mean taking away everything that is important to you,” says Linda Samuels, a professional organizer and author of “The Other Side of Organized.”
Which Decluttering Type Are You and How Can You Manage Stress? In tackling disorganization, Ferrari and Roster’s research identifies three main types of declutterers:
1. The disengaged: They feel compelled to declutter but are reluctant to, often blaming a lack of resources or time.
2. The enthusiastic: They enjoy organizing and feel intrinsically motivated to declutter. They experience the highest levels of happiness after decluttering.
3. The challenged: They find decluttering meaningful, but express difficulty and stress while doing it. Like the disengaged, they’re motivated more from outside sources, like demands from others, rather than having a strong desire to declutter.
Disengaged and challenged types report higher levels of worry, anxiety, and fear when decluttering, but they do find relief and happiness afterwards. To help, researchers suggest doing some soul-searching to find motivation, like identifying a meaningful purpose from decluttering. For instance, it might create more time to spend with your family or make you more productive in your home workspace.

Researchers also suggest taking frequent breaks and alternating between low and high stress tasks to better manage any stress from decluttering.
10 Ways to Declutter Your Home — and Boost Your Mood. Organizing a space may not rid you completely of stressful or depressive feelings, but researchers say it may help you dig out of a rut. Research and organization experts offer these 10 tips on how to declutter your home and manage stress in the process:
Ask Yourself 'Let Go' Questions About the Clutter. “It’s not enough to just ask, 'do I need it?' or ‘do I want it?'” Samuels says. “Your answers will be ‘yes and yes.’ You have to dig deeper.” She suggests reflective questions like:
• Has this item overstayed its welcome?
• Does it fit?
• Do I still like it?
• Is it damaged beyond repair or even repair-worthy?
• Do I use or wear it anymore?
• Is it expired?
• Is it taking up space and no longer worth the real estate?
• Has it served its purpose?
• Is it necessary?
Watch for Emotional Chokeholds. Ferrari believes people get too attached to their "stuff" because it holds memories or may view it as an extension of their identity. However, "overabundance will not make you happy,” he says. “Hold onto relationships, not relics.”
Samuels agrees. “When someone forms deep attachments to their things, it can be hard for them to do the task of decluttering on their own.” Get an organization buddy (family, friend, or professional organizer) to help, Samuels suggests. Set parameters around what to keep or not. For example, if you're dealing with a pile of greeting cards from loved ones over the years, set a parameter to get rid of anything that doesn't include special handwritten messages. Or, in trimming the mementos from a past work experience or time in your life, take photos of the items or journal about them or limit yourself to only a few, she says.
Don’t Touch the Clutter. In the popular Netflix series, “Tidying Up with Marie Kondo,” the organization guru told viewers who are deciding whether to keep or toss items to touch them and ask if each one sparks joy.
But Ferrari says consumer psychology research shows otherwise. He cites studies that show that when people touch products in stores, they are more likely to buy them. “It’s why retailers place items at eye level, hoping you’ll touch it,” he says. “So, when decluttering, don’t touch it. Because if you pick up that pair of blue pants in your closet, you’ll be more likely to keep them.” Instead, have someone else hold onto the item while making the decision, Samuels adds. “Create distance from the object to make it easier to let go and so you’ll feel less attached to it.”
Create a Safe Passage for the Clutter. “It’s easier to let go when you have a meaningful place for an item to go,” Samuels says. Giving it to someone else, like a family member or a friend or donating it to charity “provides a safe passage,” she adds. “You can have comfort knowing it’s getting a second life someplace else and can still be enjoyed.”
Stop Making Excuses to Keep Stuff. “It’s not clutter! It’s my stuff!” or “You never know, I might need it again!” “We’re great excuse makers” when it comes to decluttering, Ferrari says. “We may say ‘It’ll come back in style in time,’” like when deciding to keep a 1982 T-shirt tucked away in a closet. But if something does come back in style, “we all know [the new version] will be different." And the old one? “It will still look like a 1982 T-shirt.”
Nip Procrastination Tendencies. The Institute for Challenging Disorganization offers some strategies for taming procrastination tendencies: Resolve to get started by putting your goals in writing and write a plan with a realistic schedule. Break up your projects into smaller pieces (referred to as “chunking,” with the smaller chunks representing steps needed to accomplish larger goals). The ICD also warns to avoid “all or nothing” or perfectionistic tendencies. “Some progress is better than none,” they note.
Set a Deadline for Clutter Removal. Arrange for a specific date to have items removed, like scheduling a donation pick-up through organizations like Goodwill, Habitat ReStores, or GreenDrop. However, Samuels says that approach isn’t helpful for everyone. “For some who struggle with forced deadlines, they may need a gentler road for decluttering rather than a firm deadline.”
Don’t 'Doom Pile' Away the Clutter. Popularized on social media, DOOM piles — which stands for “Didn’t Organize, Only Moved” — is a cleaning tactic of stashing random items in one place to deal with it later. While it’s an effective way to clear a space quickly, it’s not organizing, Samuels says. “You end up with boxes of scooped up items tucked away in a closet,” she says. “Your place may look great, but it’s still cluttered and nothing got organized.”
Remove the Clutter ASAP. “Once you’ve made a decision to get rid of something, get it out of the house as soon as possible,” Samuels says. Too often, the items will be left in a pile in a corner or the garage. But “the mental weight is still there because it hasn’t left the premises. Decluttering can’t really help with the psychological until it’s actually gone.”
Find Help. The Institute for Challenging Disorganization and the National Association of Productivity & Organizing Professionals offer professionals nationwide who can help you sort, purge unwanted items, and create storage solutions and routines in maintaining organization. “Often times with clutter, you’re not honoring what’s really most important to you,” Samuels says. “A professional organizer can help you figure that out. They can help you determine your true treasures.”
As you embark on your decluttering journey, remember that the goal isn’t perfection but progress. Clearing out your space can make way for new possibilities in the months ahead. Start small, take your time, and enjoy the feeling of renewal that comes with simplifying your surroundings. Here's to a fresh start in 2025! #ThatsWhoWeR
Founded in 1912, Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Greater Chattanooga. A regional organization with more than 2,700 members, Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® serves Hamilton and Sequatchie counties in southeast Tennessee and Catoosa, Dade, and Walker counties in northwest Georgia. The Association is one of approximately 1,100 local associations/board of REALTORS® nationwide that comprise the National Association of REALTORS®. Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® owns and operates a Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which is one of approximately 600 MLSs in the country and services more than 3,000 MLS users. Local Association membership is comprised of REALTORS® servicing the Greater Chattanooga area and specializing in a variety of disciplines – appraisal, commercial, industrial, land, multi-family, property management and residential. Working alongside REALTORS® are our Affiliate members, who represent related industries in sympathy with the objectives of the Association. Our Affiliate members include mortgage lenders, home inspectors, title and closing services, pest inspection and control and insurance.

We are excited to expand our partnership with FBS to provide you with a new dashboard - one that gives you easy and simple one-click access to all the MLS and Association-provided applications you need to help do your job faster and easier!

Once you’ve signed on to the dashboard, you won’t have to reenter a password for each individual application.

Simply click on the app’s tile to launch that product and continue with your work!

Through this clean, mobile-responsive user interface, you can customize the display of your dashboard by rearranging application tiles, and learn more about individual products offered (you can watch videos, access support information, and more).

The new one-click access dashboard will be available to you on January 8.

We are thrilled to be able to provide this for our members!

Questions? Reach out to FBS Support: 888.525.4747 OR support@flexmls.com.

As 2024 draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on a year filled with growth, challenges, and incredible accomplishments. When I stepped into the role of President for Greater Chattanooga Realtors, I was inspired by the idea of “Igniting Others,” as championed by the National Association of Realtors. This concept of sparking action and making a meaningful impact has guided not only my leadership but also the collective efforts of our association. Together, we’ve faced an evolving real estate landscape, embraced change, and strengthened our commitment to supporting our community and each other. It’s been an honor to serve as your president.

This year was a testament to the power of collaboration and the strength of our Realtor family. At the heart of our mission was a focus on education and engagement, with innovative opportunities for professional growth and meaningful conversations.

Our “Coffee and Conversations” events became a cornerstone of connection, offering members a chance to share ideas and best practices while staying informed on industry trends.

As change swept through the real estate profession, we were proud to lead the way in preparing our members. We were the first association in the state to offer the Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR) designation, equipping Realtors to navigate new practices.

We also took a hands-on approach to connecting with Realtors by conducting nearly 30 office visits to brokerages throughout the region. These visits allowed us to address questions, clarify industry changes, and ensure our members felt supported during a transitional time.

Giving back to our community has always been a priority for Greater Chattanooga Realtors, and this year was no exception. This spring, our Community Partnership Committee raised an incredible $13,700 for Snack Packs, providing food-insecure children with the nutrition they need to thrive. Then, this fall, they organized and hosted the Tee Up & Wine Down fundraiser and were able to raise $45,000 for Habitat for Humanity of Greater Chattanooga to support safe, affordable housing in our area.

Our Placemaking Projects Committee is focused on turning underutilized spaces into vibrant community assets. We partnered with the Hill City Neighborhood Association this year to construct the Hill City Educational Pollinator Garden.

Scholarship and service remained integral to our mission. The establishment of the Community Scholarship Fund was a highlight of the year, awarding scholarships to incoming first-year college students and trade school students on behalf of our 2,500 members.

Our participation in Hurricane Helene disaster relief and partnerships with organizations like the Chattanooga Area Food Bank further demonstrated Realtors’ commitment to making a difference where it’s needed most.

In the spirit of collaboration, we welcomed members to the elev8 Realtor Tech Conference, partnered with the Huntsville Area Association of Realtors. We provided cutting-edge tools to help members succeed in an ever-evolving market. These events and efforts showcased our dedication to empowering Realtors through education and innovation.

Finally, we teamed up with the Home Builders Association for a successful Economic Outlook Luncheon, offering invaluable insights into the housing market and Chattanooga’s growth.

Looking back on 2024, I’m filled with pride and gratitude for everything we’ve accomplished together. From fundraising efforts to meaningful placemaking projects and innovative educational opportunities, we’ve proven the strength of collaboration and the heart of our Realtor community. As I prepare to pass the torch to Ellis Gardner, I know Greater Chattanooga Realtors will continue to rise to every challenge, fueled by a shared passion for excellence and service. Thank you for allowing me the privilege of leading such an extraordinary organization. Here’s to even greater success in the year ahead #ThatsWhoWeR

Imagine a world where Realtors never existed. The buying and selling of homes would look very different—complicated, expensive, and downright overwhelming. The Utah Central Association of Realtors recently released a creative and thought-provoking video, reimagining the classic 1946 film It’s a Wonderful Life with a real estate twist. Their version follows a seller named George, who believes he can save time and money by going through the selling process without a Realtor.

In the video, George is confident as he heads to closing without representation, only to find himself in a chaotic alternate reality where Realtors never existed. Instead of a smooth process, George is greeted by lawyers, city officials, and representatives from federal and state government offices, all ensuring compliance with complex regulations. Confused and overwhelmed, George asks who will pay for all of this and is shocked to learn that he is responsible for the costs—hidden in the fine print of documents he never read.

The video highlights the overwhelming number of people, processes, and paperwork involved in a real estate transaction when left without the expertise of a Realtor. Testing, inspections, and mandatory fees pile up to an astronomical $60,000—far more than George expected to “save.” Frustrated and desperate, George calls out for Clarence, his friend, to take him back to reality. When he is reunited with his Realtor, Mary, George is relieved and ready to close, now fully understanding the value Realtors bring.

This video parody shines a spotlight on a simple truth: Realtors make buying and selling homes possible. Realtors act as advocates, advisors, and facilitators, ensuring that the entire process—from listing to closing—is streamlined, compliant, and cost-effective. They navigate the complexities of transactions, so buyers and sellers don’t have to face the mountain of paperwork, regulations, and unexpected costs on their own.

Realtors don’t just simplify real estate; they protect buyers and sellers, advocate for housing affordability, and contribute to keeping regulations and fees in check. This video serves as a reminder that Realtors are not just helpful—they are essential to a healthy, accessible housing industry.
Take a few minutes to watch the seven-minute video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wRCBNZ5ihxY. As you enjoy time at home for the holidays or consider buying or selling, remember the countless ways Realtors work behind the scenes to make your experience smooth, affordable, and stress-free. We are all better off because Realtors do exist. #ThatsWhoWeR

As the seasons shift, so does the housing market, with recent trends revealing encouraging signs of growth and stability. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reports gains in home sales and inventory levels, marking a significant shift after a challenging period for the market. Locally, Chattanooga continues to reflect these positive trends, showcasing a dynamic and resilient real estate landscape.

U.S. existing-home sales rose 3.4% month-over-month and 2.9% year- over- year to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 3.96 million units, exceeding economists’ expectations for the month and marking the first annual gain since July 2021, according to the (NAR). Lower mortgage rates in late summer and early fall helped sales increase across all four regions.

New Listings in the Chattanooga region increased 4.2 percent to 1,001. Pending Sales increased 16.4 percent to 781. Inventory increased 35.1 percent to 2,909.

Median Sales Price increased 9.5 percent from $306,000 to $335,000. Days on Market increased 10.0 percent to 44.

The number of homes for sale continues to improve nationwide, climbing 0.7% month-over-month and 19.1% year-over-year to 1.37 million units heading into November, for a 4.2-month supply at the current sales pace, according to NAR. Despite a wider selection of properties on the market, sales prices have remained strong at the national level, with a median existing-home price of $407,200 as of last measure, a 4% increase from the same time last year.

As we move toward the end of the year, the Chattanooga housing market remains vibrant, with opportunities for both buyers and sellers. Whether you’re considering purchasing a home or selling your current one, the local market trends indicate a solid foundation for real estate activity. Staying informed about these trends is key to making the most of the current market conditions. For more insights or guidance, be sure to reach out to a trusted Realtor. #ThatsWhoWeR

Founded in 1912, Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Greater Chattanooga. A regional organization with more than 2,700 members, Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® serves Hamilton and Sequatchie counties in southeast Tennessee and Catoosa, Dade, and Walker counties in northwest Georgia. The Association is one of approximately 1,100 local associations/board of REALTORS® nationwide that comprise the National Association of REALTORS®. Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® owns and operates a Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which is one of approximately 600 MLSs in the country and services more than 3,000 MLS users. Local Association membership is comprised of REALTORS® servicing the Greater Chattanooga area and specializing in a variety of disciplines – appraisal, commercial, industrial, land, multi-family, property management and residential. Working alongside REALTORS® are our Affiliate members, who represent related industries in sympathy with the objectives of the Association. Our Affiliate members include mortgage lenders, home inspectors, title and closing services, pest inspection and control and insurance.

With 459 members casting a ballot, the 2024 Proposed Bylaws Amendments passed.

GOVERNANCE: Expand the pool of those persons eligible to serve as MLS Vice Chair or Chair. APPROVED by 75%

OPERATIONAL: Waive the Transfer Fee in the specific circumstances. APPROVED by 94%.

Teresa Clegg’s journey to real estate is a testament to her dedication, versatility, and passion for helping others. From her early days with BellSouth to raising a family and assisting her husband in his home-building career, Teresa has consistently embraced every phase of her life with purpose. As a respected Realtor and member of the Board of Directors, she brings her rich experience, strong leadership, and commitment to serving her peers and community with unwavering enthusiasm.

What did you do before transitioning into this profession? Before moving to Tennessee 34 years ago, I worked for BellSouth as an Administrative Assistant for one of the State VPs.  After moving to TN, I was a full-time mom to our daughter and son for several years.   With a degree in Construction, my husband became a licensed builder in the 1990s, and early on in his career, I assisted him with interior selections and colors for his spec homes.   I was very involved with their school PTAs and activities when my children reached school age.  Once my children graduated high school and college, I decided it was time for my career.  I worked in a real estate office for two years before studying and getting my real estate license.

You serve on the BOD - why did you choose to serve in a leadership position? After being a realtor for several years, I wanted to become more involved and serve in various ways to grow as a leader and give back to the real estate community.  I became a Women’s Council of Realtors member and served as Secretary for one year and then twice served as Events Director.  Also, one year, I was in charge of fundraising for the Women’s Council.  We organized an event that year and raised $ 10,000.  I have also served several years on the RPAC committee.  Last year, I decided I would love to serve at a higher level, be more involved, and help represent the best interests of our real estate community.  Serving on the Board of Directors has been an honor and privilege.

What would you like your peers to know about what our Association offers to its members? We have a wonderful Association. The entire staff works tirelessly to provide all members with quality education. A lot of the education is free of charge to our members.  There are many opportunities to attend educational classes that will help you secure designations.  Our Association constantly works with and through the committees to provide our membership with the most up-to-date operation possible.

What is your favorite part of being a Realtor? Over the years, I have worked with many buyers and sellers.  Selling new construction homes for my husband has always been so much fun.  Meeting the buyers and watching their excitement through the selection process is exciting.  In many cases, I have worked with buyers relocating to Chattanooga and helped them navigate the city and find the right location to call home.  I have worked with sellers who needed to sell and move in many different life stages or situations.  Being there for the buyers and sellers and helping them navigate their life situation and either sell their home or buy a home is so rewarding—knowing that I have helped them move on to the next phase of their lives.

Many of my fellow realtors give back in so many ways to our community and make a difference in the lives of others daily.  One of these is the Snack Pack Ministry, started and run by our very own Janice Robertson.  This ministry helps so many children in our community.  I encourage you to participate one Wednesday morning or Wednesday evening and help pack these snack bags.  Each year, my brokerage firm raises money for Wreaths Across Chattanooga.  With the funds raised, we purchase wreaths and place them on the graves at the Chattanooga National Cemetery.

Through her work as a Realtor, leader, and community advocate, Teresa embodies the values of dedication and service. Whether she’s guiding clients through life-changing transitions or giving back through impactful initiatives like Snack Pack Ministry and Wreaths Across Chattanooga, Teresa’s influence is felt far and wide. Her story serves as an inspiration, reminding us of the power of passion, collaboration, and making a difference in the lives of others. #ThatsWhoWeR

Founded in 1912, Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Greater Chattanooga. A regional organization with more than 2,700 members, Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® serves Hamilton and Sequatchie counties in southeast Tennessee and Catoosa, Dade, and Walker counties in northwest Georgia. The Association is one of approximately 1,100 local associations/board of REALTORS® nationwide that comprise the National Association of REALTORS®. Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® owns and operates a Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which is one of approximately 600 MLSs in the country and services more than 3,000 MLS users. Local Association membership is comprised of REALTORS® servicing the Greater Chattanooga area and specializing in a variety of disciplines – appraisal, commercial, industrial, land, multi-family, property management and residential. Working alongside REALTORS® are our Affiliate members, who represent related industries in sympathy with the objectives of the Association. Our Affiliate members include mortgage lenders, home inspectors, title and closing services, pest inspection and control and insurance.

Maxfield Parris, father of Karen Parris (Coldwell Banker Pryor), passed away on November 28, 2024. The family will have a graveside service on Tuesday December 17, 2024 at 1:00 pm at Chattanooga National Cemetery.

A few weeks ago, we introduced the “Consumer Guide: Ten Questions to Ask a Seller’s Agent” from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), helping sellers understand the key questions to ask when selecting an agent. This time, we’re diving into NAR’s Consumer Guide to Buyer’s Agents to help those ready to find their dream home.

With expert advice and ten essential questions to ask, this guide will empower you to choose a buyer’s agent who is the best fit for your unique needs. Whether it’s understanding their market expertise, services, or approach, these tips will ensure you have the right professional by your side. Learn more about how to make an informed decision with this invaluable resource from NAR!

Are you a REALTOR®? When you work with an agent who is a REALTOR®, you are working with a professional guided by ethical duties under the REALTOR® Code of Ethics, including the pledge to protect and promote the interests of their clients.

What types of services can you provide me? Agents may offer many types of services such as finding you homes that meet your criteria, accompanying you to showings, sharing their analysis of the market and available properties, negotiating on your behalf, and more. For more information about why you should work with a REALTOR®, read about the 179 Ways Agents Who Are REALTORS® Are Worth Every Penny.

How well do you know the markets where I am searching for a home? Your agent must be licensed where you are buying a home. But they should also have the market knowledge to help you successfully find a home where you are searching.

Do you have experience working with buyers in my situation? Many agents specialize in working with certain types of buyers, such as first-time buyers and veterans. Some also earn the Accredited Buyer’s Representative designation to gain specialized skills in working with buyers. Ask your prospective agent about their experience and any designations or certifications they have earned related to working with buyers like you.

Can you tell me about your approach to scouting properties? Agents and brokerages across the country have different business models and use and provide various technology, tools, and resources to inform their search process. Discuss with your prospective agent how their unique approach will help you find the right home.

What will be included in our written buyer agreement? Once you are working with your agent and before you tour a home together, your agent may be required to enter into a written buyer agreement with you that outlines the services the agent will provide you, and what they will be paid for those services. These agreements are fully negotiable.

How long will we work together? Talk with your prospective agent about how long you would like to work together and ensure you feel comfortable with that arrangement. This term could be set out in your written buyer agreement.

What are my options for paying you? Agent compensation is fully negotiable and can take many forms, such as a flat fee, a percentage of the purchase price, or an hourly fee. The written buyer agreement will contain the amount of compensation you agree on. You can also ask the seller to pay your broker’s compensation as part of your purchase offer or, in cases where a seller offers a concession, you may be able to use the funds to pay your broker for the value and services they provided you.

Can you recommend service providers who can help me obtain a mortgage, make home repairs, or support other closing tasks? Your prospective agent may have prior experience or trusted relationships with providers in the area where you are purchasing a home and can be a great resource for facilitating these introductions.

Do you have references I can speak with? Many agents will be happy to connect you with satisfied clients they have worked with in the past who can speak to their experience.

Finding the right buyer’s agent can make all the difference in your homebuying journey. By asking the right questions and partnering with a knowledgeable REALTOR®, you’ll gain a trusted guide to help you navigate the market with confidence. #ThatsWhoWeR

Every Realtor has a unique journey that shapes their passion for the industry, and this one is no exception. From a career rooted in healthcare and a love for animals to serving in multiple leadership roles at Greater Chattanooga Realtors, Karen Parris has embraced every opportunity to grow, give back, and support her community. With a strong focus on education, professionalism, and making a difference, her story reflects the dedication and drive that Realtors bring to their work every day.

What did you do before transitioning into this profession? I worked in the healthcare industry, handling customer service and collections, and scheduled and processed claims for insurance companies, hospitals, and medical centers in the Chattanooga area. Also, I handled collections and administrative work for an engineering company. In my earlier years, I worked in the pet care industry. My parents started a boarding, training & grooming kennel, and my dad was once ranked second in the nation for obedience training. Growing up, I helped in the kennel with upkeep and caring for the cats and dogs and other assorted animals. There was never a dull day. I also worked for a veterinarian as well. I've always loved animals and being out in nature, and I still do today. My fur babies always make me smile, love unconditionally, and are always happy to see you come home.

You ran and prevailed for a second term on the Board of Directors (BOD). Why did you choose to continue serving in a leadership capacity? Serving a second term on the Board of Directors has allowed me to deepen my understanding of the vital work that happens behind the scenes at the Greater Chattanooga Realtors. I've gained a greater appreciation for the dedicated volunteers on the Board and various committees who work tirelessly, using their resources and skills to make decisions that benefit all Realtors in our Association.

It has been a privilege to serve on the Placemaking and Diversity & Inclusion committees and to act as the board liaison for the Community Partnerships committee, which organizes fundraisers for Snack Packs for kids and the Tee Up & Wine Down in support of Habitat for Humanity. Additionally, serving on the Grievance and Professional Standards committees has highlighted the importance of the Realtor Code of Ethics in maintaining high industry standards for both Realtor and their clients. My time on the MLS committee gave me valuable insight into the ongoing efforts required to update our MLS system and adapt to the ever-changing real estate landscape.

With 16 years in real estate, my volunteer roles have broadened my knowledge, strengthened my passion for the industry, and allowed me to give back to a profession I truly love.

What would you like your peers to know about what our Association offers its members? The Association offers many free educational classes. The instructors are top-notch and provide real-life insight into the courses they offer. Complimentary refreshments are available, and the learning environment is very nice. The staff is very accommodating.

Another perk is the designation classes the Association offers. November is Designation Awareness Month, and I obtained a few designations, which gave me a wider scope of expertise in those areas. My designations are currently "GREEN," which taught me more about energy efficiency and sustainability in real estate. C2EX - "Commitment to Excellence" is designed to elevate every aspect of your skills, strengths, and standards. AHWD - At Home With Diversity - This certification program prepares Realtors to work effectively with and within today's increasingly diverse pool of homebuyers and sellers. ABR - Accredited Buyer's Representative - The focus is on working directly with buyer-clients at every stage of the home-buying process. SRS - Seller Representative Specialist - This is the premier credential in seller representation. It is designed to elevate professional standards and enhance personal performance.

What is your favorite part of being a Realtor? I enjoy buyers' excitement while searching for homes and sellers that have just listed their house and showings have quickly begun. I like the adventure of traveling on new roads I have never been on, even though I am a Chattanooga native & have been in the industry as long as I have. You never know what you may see or what situation you may run into each day. I like my clients to experience a little fun along the way to keep stress at a minimum. I want my clients to know "I've got their back" in real estate, and they can focus on working & taking care of their loved ones. I strive to guide buyers & sellers smoothly through the process of buying or selling a home.

What do your fellow Realtors do in the community that you love and want others to know about? Many agents within my office at Coldwell Banker Pryor Realty help prepare lunches at the Ronald McDonald house each month. The Ronald McDonald House provides families with the care and resources they need when their child is sick and supports programs and services that directly improve the health and well-being of children. This facility offers comfortable, convenient, free lodging accommodations that guarantee a hot meal every night and a community environment for families going through a difficult journey. There is so much that is offered within this faculty, such as the mindful room for mental wellness, where families can engage in mindfulness activities during their stay while their child is in the hospital. They also offer a House to Home program that supports families throughout their child's wellness journey after they are discharged from the hospital.

Have you read any recent books you want to share with others? I recently read "The Power of Positive Thinking" by Norman Vincent Peale. This book focuses on faith & inspiration by using the power of prayer for all aspects of your daily life. The author wrote this book with the sole objective of helping the reader achieve a happy, satisfying, and worthwhile life. I found guidance toward achieving my hopes & dreams.

From helping clients find their dream homes to supporting impactful community programs like the Ronald McDonald House and Habitat for Humanity, Karen embodies the spirit of service and leadership that defines the profession. Her commitment to excellence, continued education, and giving back highlights the value Realtors bring to the community and each other. Whether guiding clients or volunteering, they are passionate about making a positive impact every step of the way. #ThatsWhoWeR

Click here for a PDF detailing each proposed amendment.

As we move into the final quarter of the year, housing market trends continue to evolve on both national and local levels. Recent data from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) shows a shift in buyer activity. In the Chattanooga region, however, the market is experiencing steady growth in new listings and inventory, creating both opportunities and challenges for buyers and sellers alike.

U.S. existing-home sales unexpectedly slipped 1.0% month-over-month and 3.5% year-over-year to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 3.84 million, the lowest level in more than a decade, according to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). Prospective buyers have pulled back in recent months, despite lower mortgage rates and more home choices compared to the same time last year.

New Listings in the Chattanooga region saw a healthy increase of 12.3 percent, reaching 1,292 homes. This boost in new listings provides more options for prospective buyers and reflects growing activity within the local market. Additionally, Pending Sales rose by an impressive 15.5 percent to 893, indicating a strong buyer interest and demand for homes in the region. Perhaps most notable is the significant rise in Inventory, which jumped 43.6 percent to 3,006 homes. This expanded inventory offers a broader selection for buyers while also suggesting a shift toward a more balanced market, giving both buyers and sellers more flexibility as we move forward.

The housing market continues to demonstrate robust growth, with the Median Sales Price rising by 11.1 percent, from $314,900 to $350,000. This notable increase reflects both the ongoing demand for housing and the value appreciation within the area, making it a promising market for sellers. The Days on Market metric increased by 31.4 percent to an average of 46 days, suggesting that homes are taking a bit longer to sell as inventory rises, providing buyers with more time to explore their options. Furthermore, the Months Supply of Inventory saw a substantial increase of 40.0 percent to 3.5 months, a positive sign toward a more balanced market that could ease some of the competition for buyers while still benefiting sellers.

There were 1.39 million homes for sale heading into October, a 1.5% increase from the previous month and a 23% increase from the same period last year, for a 4.3-month supply at the current sales pace, according to NAR. Even with improving supply and the slower sales pace, home prices have continued to rise nationwide, with NAR reporting a median existing-home price of $404,500 as of last measure, a 3% increase from one year ago.

These latest trends highlight the dynamic nature of the Chattanooga housing market as we approach the year’s end. With increased inventory and a steady rise in median prices, both buyers and sellers can find opportunities to meet their real estate goals. Whether you're looking to buy, sell, or simply stay informed, working with a trusted Realtor can help you navigate these changing market conditions and make the most of your real estate journey. #ThatsWhoWeR

If you’re anything like me, the holiday season adds a whole new level of to-dos to your already busy schedule! Between holiday gatherings, family visits, and festive events, getting your home “guest-ready” can feel a bit overwhelming. Thankfully, Melissa Dittmann Tracey from Houselogic.com offers some great insights on how your personal hosting style can actually guide your cleaning routine.

Your hosting style shapes how you do your home cleaning for holiday entertaining — and the challenges you might have along the way. Whether your approach is perfectionist, relaxed, or balanced, you can use related cleaning tips to focus on what's most natural and productive for you. That way, you'll simplify your holiday cleaning, de-stress — and max your enjoyment. Which Style Is Most Like You?

Style 1: Everything has to be sparkling clean and in place.

Cleaning personality: Strives for perfection, wants the home dressed to impress
If there was an award for the most effort and the highest standards in home cleaning for a holiday gathering, this personality would win hands down. These hosts pay attention to every detail in every area: intensive house wide cleaning, extensive color-coordinated decorating, and anticipation of everyone’s preferences. Kind of like running a five-star boutique hotel with no housekeeping staff.

Watch out for this: “With a perfectionist, there can be a lot of frustration, because you never feel finished or satisfied, even after all the fabulous cleaning you’ve done,” says Debbie Sardone, owner of SpeedCleaning.com and former owner of Buckets & Bows Maid Service in the Dallas area.

Tips for a less-stressed holiday:

Block and chunk up tasks. Set a timer for 20 minutes and focus on one room at a time. “When the timer goes off, be OK with how much you did in that room and move on,” Sardone says. “This can be so important for a perfectionist, because it sets boundaries and forces them to not lose time by, say, dusting the knobs off a blender. When you’re on a timer, you’ll be more productive rather than obsessive. Perfectionists need to give themselves permission to move forward and say 'good enough.'”

Clean as you go. As guests arrive, a perfectionist may get sidetracked cleaning instead of enjoying. Prep beforehand as much as you can and embrace a clean as-you-go strategy, Sardone suggests. For example, if you made a giant pot of spaghetti, scrub out the pot, dry it, and put it away before sitting down for dinner. Don’t clean when it’s time to be visiting or entertaining, she adds.

Limit yourself to a few extra touches. To be happy, perfectionists need to first soothe that inner desire to impress. Add a few special touches, but don’t go overboard. For overnight guests, have a tray or basketful of toiletries, such as hand soaps, shampoos, and toothbrushes. They’ll appreciate the extra thought, but it's not a heavy lift for you.

Or, try an origami tissue design on the edges of tissues or the dinner napkins (search for “origami tissue designs” to learn how). “This is a great hack to set yourself apart from other perfectly clean homes,” says Obi Ukwu, founder of Maidattendants, based in Nashville. Plus, once you master the technique, it won’t zap your time.
Style 2: ‘Focus on the key areas, but let’s not go overboard.’

Cleaning personality: Aims for balance in home prep, seeks shortcuts
The hard part of balance is maintaining it. It’s so easy to lean too far in either direction — cleaning too much or too little or being distracted by things that aren’t that important. And before these hosts know it, a shortcut or miscalculation results in something like a fridge with a funky odor. They overlooked it, but their guests looking for milk for their morning coffee got a noseful. Eww.

Watch out for this: "Because people with this style aren’t obsessed with every detail, they tend to do surface cleaning only,” Sardone says. “They may have tidied up the home and put items away, but the floors may still be dirty and tables dusty.”

Try a one-a-day approach to deep cleaning. Leading up to the holidays, “plan on tackling something dirtier than you normally would, just one per day,” Sardone says. “By the time the holidays get here, you’ll be all ready.” One day, you might focus on wiping down all the kitchen cabinet fronts; the next day, concentrate on cleaning the baseboards. That way, besides just tidying up, you’ll be squeezing in deeper cleaning chores.

Prioritize. Identify where and what needs most of your attention. Often, it’s only about three rooms. “When you have guests over, zero in on the rooms your guests are sure to use, like the entryways, living areas, bathrooms, and for overnight guests, bedrooms,” says Alicia Sokolowski, president and co-CEO of AspenClean, a chemical-free cleaning service based in Canada. Don’t get bogged down cleaning areas like the laundry rooms that they’ll never see.

Get creative in simplifying tasks. If pressed for time, try squeezing in cleaning while waiting on everyday tasks — like for your morning coffee to brew. “Use those five minutes to unload the dishwasher from the night before or to tidy up the living room,” Sardone says.

Find help and a shortcut or two. Enlist other family members to pitch in and assign everyone a cleaning task. Be specific — like “vacuum the living room” — to maximize participation, Sardone recommends. Look for other shortcuts, like adding a cleaning disc inside the toilet tank to help it self-clean day to day, suggests Johnny Pallares, owner of De La Rosa House Cleaning in Phoenix. Or, call in the pros to prepare your dinner table. Companies are popping up that allow you to rent picture-perfect table settings for a dinner party, from the linens to the dishware and glasses. Bonus: You don't have to store the items later.
Style 3: ‘A relaxed vibe is just right to make everyone feel at home.’

Cleaning personality: Seeks to do the bare minimum, embraces casual hosting
It’s great to make your guests feel at home. These hosts are relaxed and casual, which can put everyone at ease. But an extreme hands-off approach spells trouble. Super-laid-backed hosts may not do enough activities like decluttering — and that can invite stress. Now that's a holiday guest you don't want.

Watch out for this: Relaxed hosts may not have the most clean houses, but they aren’t about being pretentious. “Work smart, not hard” is their motto, Sokolowski says. They want guests to feel welcome and right at home, even if a little clutter comes with the territory.

Tips for a less-stressed holiday: Preclean. Arm yourself with an empty laundry basket and and collect all loose items throughout the house. “This isn’t cleaning; it’s precleaning,” Sardone says. “This is pick up, tidy, and then organize.” Put everything (like dirty towels, shoes, kids' toys, clothes on the floor) in the basket. Sort directly from it, returning each item to its rightful place. Better yet, if others live with you, give them each a laundry basket of their items to put away. “It’s amazing how a space can look like an absolute disaster. Then you start this process, and within 10 minutes, it doesn’t look as bad. All you did was pick up and tidy,” she adds.

Address the eyesores. Identify the key areas that need to be deep-cleaned, usually the bathroom and kitchen, several days before guests arrive, Sardone says. Wipe down the countertops and appliances, and run a vacuum or mop to remove dirt and crumbs. Ask family members to help.

Ask for pro help. If cleaning isn’t your thing, it’s OK to call in the pros. A housekeeping service can deep-clean your house so you can focus on entertaining your guests. A professional cleaning company may charge between $200 and $400 for a deep clean, according to Fixr. You don’t have to commit to weekly service either. But book in advance; they tend to fill up fast before the holidays.

Make your holiday cleaning style work for you. Once you know your problem areas and plan some workarounds, you’ll accomplish more with your home cleaning time and be happier with the results — and the holidays. #ThatsWhoWeR

When it comes to selling your home, finding the right real estate agent is essential to ensuring a smooth and successful process. The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) has compiled a helpful guide for sellers to better understand what questions to ask when selecting an agent. This guide offers valuable insights to help you feel confident in your decision and find a professional who will work in your best interests. Here are some key points from NAR's “Consumer Guide: Ten Questions to Ask a Seller's Agent.”

Are you a Realtor? When you work with an agent who is a REALTOR®, you are working with a professional guided by ethical duties under the REALTOR® Code of Ethics, including the pledge to protect and promote the interests of their clients.

What types of services can you provide me? Your agent can help you with marketing your property, interfacing with buyer’s agents, handling showings and open houses, negotiating the purchase agreement on your behalf, assisting throughout the closing process, and more.

Are you familiar with the market where I am selling my home? Your agent must be licensed where you are selling your home. But they should also have the market knowledge to facilitate a successful transaction. While prior experience with the market where your property is located is not a requirement, local knowledge could help your agent develop a strategy that resonates with local buyers.

What will be included in our listing contract? At the outset of your relationship, you and your agent will sign a listing agreement that says the agent can represent you and market your property to potential buyers and their agents and establishes the sale price for your home. It will also lay out the type of professional representation your agent will provide and what they will be paid for those services. Remember that agent compensation is fully negotiable and not set by law.

How did you arrive at your suggested list price for my home? Setting a strong initial asking price based on your agent’s knowledge of the market is important for capturing buyer interest and securing the best possible offer. Your agent should conduct market research to determine an appropriate price that both attracts prospective buyers and ensures you receive a fair market value for your home.

How will you market my home? Agents may use a variety of marketing methods to reach potential buyers, and they should walk you through the pros and cons of each option. For example, one tool agents use to market properties is a Multiple Listing Service (MLS), an online platform that compiles home listings from brokerages in a given market, to reach the largest possible pool of buyers and potentially attract the best offer.

How do I attract potential buyers? There are many strategies that may help attract potential buyers. For example, offers of compensation—when you or your agent compensate another agent for bringing a buyer to successfully close the transaction—and seller concessions—when you cover certain costs associated with purchasing a home for the buyer—may lead to a better or faster offer by reducing out-of-pocket and upfront expenses for prospective buyers.

What do I need to do to get my house ready? To prepare your home for listing, your agent may suggest investing in necessary repairs or other upgrades that may help enhance buyer interest for the property.

How will you vet potential buyers? An important part of selling your home is ensuring that prospective buyers are financially prepared to follow through with their offer. Discuss with your agent how they plan to evaluate prospective buyers, which may include requiring a pre-approval letter to be submitted alongside the offer.

Do you have references I can speak with? Many agents will be happy to connect you with satisfied clients they have worked with in the past who can speak to their experience.
Choosing the right agent can make all the difference in your home-selling experience. By asking the right questions and understanding what to expect, you can confidently navigate the process and achieve your real estate goals. #ThatsWhoWeR

Founded in 1912, Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Greater Chattanooga. A regional organization with more than 2,700 members, Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® serves Hamilton and Sequatchie counties in southeast Tennessee and Catoosa, Dade, and Walker counties in northwest Georgia. The Association is one of approximately 1,100 local associations/board of REALTORS® nationwide that comprise the National Association of REALTORS®. Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® owns and operates a Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which is one of approximately 600 MLSs in the country and services more than 3,000 MLS users. Local Association membership is comprised of REALTORS® servicing the Greater Chattanooga area and specializing in a variety of disciplines – appraisal, commercial, industrial, land, multi-family, property management and residential. Working alongside REALTORS® are our Affiliate members, who represent related industries in sympathy with the objectives of the Association. Our Affiliate members include mortgage lenders, home inspectors, title and closing services, pest inspection and control and insurance.

In every successful journey, there is a passion for making a difference, and this holds true for one dedicated member of our Greater Chattanooga Realtors community. With a background rooted in education and mentorship, their transition into real estate has been driven by a commitment to helping others and a deep sense of purpose. Denise Murphy’s story is of growth, service, and a steadfast dedication to building relationships and uplifting the community.

What did you do before transitioning into this profession? My first career was as a Physical Education teacher.  I also taught part-time French and Health. I taught all ages between 4 and 18 and some adjunct classes at the University level. I have coached soccer, track, and cross country in different capacities
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You ran and prevailed for a second term on the Board of Directors. Why did you choose to continue serving in a leadership capacity?  When I first became a Realtor, I was fortunate to receive support and encouragement from some great mentors who encouraged me to become involved early in my career in the Greater Chattanooga Association of Realtors. Tom Cannon, Steve Champion, and Pam Duffy were those people. Becoming involved allowed me to build a rapport with many good people and have great role models surrounding me. It has afforded me a great opportunity to gain more education about real estate, to give back to the community and the profession, to grow as a person, and to learn leadership skills.  I have been fortunate to serve several two-year terms on the Board. Realtors work hard for change, advocate for property rights, and are good mentors and role models for others.

What would you like your peers to know about that our Association offers its members?  We have so many opportunities for self-development and gaining leadership skills.  A lot of great education is provided. The staff works tirelessly behind the scenes, with outstanding leadership from our CEO, Carol Seal, for the Realtors, Board Members, Committee members, and the public. The Forewarn app, for instance, has been helpful as a safety tool for the members to use.

What is your favorite part of being a Realtor? I love helping lots of different people and being part of changing their future and often changing their legacy. I enjoy getting to know people and working with them without pressuring them. With an educational background, I want to continue sharpening my knowledge and keep up with the changes to serve my clients better. I have worked with so many good people over the years, and I have enjoyed working with my former students, former colleagues in teaching and coaching, and parents of those students.  I enjoy getting to know and build relationships with title companies, mortgage companies, home inspectors, other Brokers, etc.

What do your fellow Realtors do in the community that you love and want others to know about? As a member of the Greater Chattanooga Realtors, I am surrounded by so many people doing such great things for our community and further beyond. I have had the opportunity to participate in quite a few causes myself. My favorites include Snack Packs, Habitat for Humanity, 100+ Women Who Care, and Chambliss Center for Children. We have been able to help people in significant ways and lots of smaller ways. There are some wonderful Realtors out there who have huge hearts, and I am so proud and grateful to be in business with them.

Have you read any recent books you want to share with others? The Banker’s Code is what every real estate investor should know about cash flow and the 12-week year.      
Denise’s journey is a testament to the powerful impact of mentorship, dedication, and community involvement on personal and professional growth. Their drive to serve and uplift others shines through from coaching students to guiding clients. In a profession that thrives on relationships and integrity, her story embodies Greater Chattanooga Realtors' spirit. #ThatsWhoWeR

Mary Britten Hill Lynch, mother of Holly Harwell (Real Estate Partners), passed away on October 14. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, October 24, at 3 pm in the Caldwell Memorial Garden at the Church of the Good Shepherd (211 Franklin Road, Lookout Mountain, TN), with a reception immediately following. 

The Chattanooga housing market continues to experience significant changes as homebuyers navigate changing priorities and a growing inventory of available homes. With a noticeable rise in new listings and steady buyer demand, the latest trends highlight how local factors align with national real estate patterns.

According to the National Association of REALTORS® 2023 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, buyers moved a median distance of 20 miles to their new home last year, down from 50 miles the year before and closer to the previous norm of 15 miles. Among those buyers surveyed, 60% said the quality of the neighborhood was the most important factor in deciding where to move, while proximity to friends and family and housing affordability came in at 45% and 39%, respectively.

Zooming in on the Chattanooga region, the real estate market reflects its own unique shifts. For the week ending October 5, the region saw a 16.7% increase in New Listings, bringing more homes to the market, with a total of 342 new properties available. In addition, Pending Sales saw a modest increase of 2.7%, signaling steady buyer activity, while Inventory levels surged by an impressive 53.0%, reaching 2,979 homes.

The month of September also brought some interesting insights:
• Median Sales Price remained stable at $319,950, unchanged from previous months.
• Days on Market increased by 17.1% to an average of 41 days, reflecting slightly longer selling times as buyers take more time to weigh their options.
• Sellers saw a slight dip in the Percent of Original List Price Received, decreasing 1.4% to 95.4%.
• The Months Supply of Inventory grew significantly by 52.2% to 3.5 months, indicating a more balanced market that is slowly shifting towards favoring buyers.

What Does This Mean for Buyers and Sellers?

For buyers, the increased inventory and more time on the market suggest there may be more options and less pressure when choosing the right home. However, housing affordability remains a critical factor, and buyers will likely continue to focus on neighborhoods that offer both quality of life and proximity to loved ones.
Sellers may need to adjust their expectations slightly, as homes are taking longer to sell, and the percentage of the asking price received is dipping. Pricing homes correctly and ensuring properties are in great condition will be key in the current market environment.
Overall, the Chattanooga real estate market continues to experience growth, with more homes available for potential buyers while maintaining steady demand. As we move further into the year, it will be interesting to see how these trends evolve and what they will mean for the housing market in the region. #ThatsWhoWeR

In the wake of Hurricane Helene's devastating impact on Upper East Tennessee and Western North Carolina, communities are rallying together to support relief efforts. Here at the Greater Chattanooga Realtors, members have been donating crucial supplies to help support this mission.

Another way you can make a significant difference is by contributing to the Realtors Relief Foundation (RRF), which provides housing-related assistance directly to those affected by disasters like Hurricane Helene. RRF ensures that 100% of all donations go directly to victims, as they absorb all administrative costs. Donations can be made easily by texting HeleneRelief24 to 71777 or by visiting the RRF website at the provided link: https://bit.ly/HeleneRelief.

REALTORS® from all over the United States have also joined the efforts. Melissa Dittman Tracey from REALTOR® Magazine reports that NAR members and REALTOR® associations are raising funds, organizing donation drives, and helping cleanup efforts in the wake of Hurricane Helene—all as a new storm threatens Florida.

As Florida braces for Hurricane Milton, the second major storm in a week to put the Sunshine State in its crosshairs, communities across six states are still recovering from Hurricane Helene. Real estate professionals have rushed to help storm victims by organizing donation drives, helping displaced residents salvage their belongings and even taking part in helicopter rescue missions.

Donations for the victims have poured in nationwide: The REALTORS® Relief Foundation has raised $526,000 as of Wednesday morning for housing-related assistance for those impacted by Hurricane Helene.

“From the moment Hurricane Helene made landfall, REALTORS® were taking action to help,” says RRF President Mike McGew. “The response to the RRF Hurricane Helene Relief Fund has been heartwarming and impactful, as more than 1,200 donors provided help to families for recovery and rebuilding. REALTORS® not only help families find a home, but they also help them return home.”

Real estate professionals are “deeply connected to the communities they serve,” says Tennessee REALTORS® President Regina Hubbard. Communities in East Tennessee were among those ravaged by massive flooding and storm damage. “For many of our members, this devastation and damage is in their own backyards—the neighborhoods they grew up in, the churches they attend, the roadways they travel on. These are their communities that need help,” Hubbard says. “As REALTORS®, we see our communities, and especially other REALTORS®, as family. So, helping out and giving back is something we’re very passionate about, and I’m proud to see the overwhelming support from throughout our state.”

For those looking to provide immediate support through tangible items, we are accepting supply donations at 2963 Amnicola Highway from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm daily. A list of suggested items can be found pinned on our Facebook page, making it easy to gather what is most needed. We would also like to thank all those that have donated and have delivered those supplies to those in need. By coming together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of those struggling to recover from this disaster. #ThatsWhoWeR

The Nominating Committee presents the following candidates for the 2025-2026 Board of Directors:

While the safety conversation in real estate often focuses on residential agents, it’s crucial to remember that commercial real estate agents face unique risks. From entering unoccupied buildings, large space, to handling complex client relationships, commercial agents must remain vigilant to protect themselves and their clients.

Scout the Property in Advance. Commercial properties, particularly vacant buildings and large parcels of land can pose significant risks. Before showing any property, consider visiting it beforehand to familiarize yourself with the layout. If possible, tour the property with another agent to ensure you understand potential hazards like unlit areas, multiple exits, or hidden spaces where someone could lurk.

Always Know Your Exits. When entering any building, particularly large commercial properties, make sure you are aware of all exit points. Like in residential showings, avoid letting a client or prospect get between you and the door. This simple strategy allows you to stay close to an exit in case you need to make a quick escape.

Use the Buddy System. Just as in residential real estate, commercial agents can benefit from the buddy system. Whenever possible, bring another agent along when visiting a property, especially in isolated areas or vacant buildings. Having someone with you not only provides an extra layer of security but also ensures you have support if something unexpected occurs.

Be Aware of the Environment. Vacant land listings and large, isolated commercial properties can harbor unexpected dangers. For instance, obstructions such as tree stumps or abandoned materials can pose physical risks. In addition, vacant buildings may attract squatters or animals, which could lead to dangerous encounters. Wear appropriate gear like sturdy shoes and avoid entering properties where conditions seem hazardous.

Leverage Technology for Safety. Several tools can help ensure your safety when dealing with clients and properties. Member benefit FOREWARN app, allows you to verify a prospect’s identity before meeting them in person. This location-sharing app can provide real-time updates to colleagues or family members. Ensure someone always knows where you are, whom you’re meeting, and when to expect you back.

Insurance and Liability Concerns. Commercial properties carry a higher risk due to larger property values and potential liabilities. Slips and falls or other accidents can result in large lawsuits that affect not only the property owner but also the agent and brokerage. Ensure that proper insurance, both liability and property, is in place, and make it part of your routine to discuss these concerns with property owners.

Stay Cautious in Remote Areas. Some commercial properties, such as vacant land or isolated industrial sites, are in remote areas with little to no cell service. This makes it even more important to share your location with someone who can track your whereabouts. If possible, avoid going alone, and ensure that someone is always aware of your location.

Preventing Fraud in Commercial Transactions. Commercial real estate transactions are not immune to scams, especially with online listings. Ensure your clients are informed about the potential risks of fraudulent listings or transactions and guide them to verified and trusted sources for property searches. As a commercial agent, you should always be on alert for signs of fraud, especially when dealing with unfamiliar entities.

Don’t Rush: Plan and Stay Prepared. In commercial real estate, nothing should be treated as an emergency if you’ve prepared thoroughly. Taking the time to assess the property, verify client information, and ensure your personal safety is paramount. By following these safety practices, you can protect yourself while continuing to deliver excellent service to your clients.

Commercial REALTORS® face unique risks, but with the right strategies in place, you can minimize these dangers and stay safe. Remember, your safety is just as important as the deal you’re working on. Stay alert, stay informed, and always trust your instincts. #ThatsWhoWeR

Rebecca “Becky” Annette Raines-Birchfield, age 60, passed away peacefully on September 15, 2024. 
A funeral service to honor Becky's life was held on Thursday, September 19, 2024, at 1:00 PM in the Trenton Chapel of Moore Funeral Home with Pastor Reece Fauscett officiating.  Following the service, she was laid to rest at New Home Cemetery.

Visitation was held on Wednesday, September 18, 2024 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM and again on Thursday from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM.

We have witnessed firsthand how technology has revolutionized how we conduct real estate transactions. While these advancements have made the buying and selling process more efficient, they’ve also created new opportunities for cybercriminals to exploit. Phishing scams have become a major threat, putting both REALTORS® and their clients at risk.
As real estate professionals, we hold the responsibility to safeguard our own information and ensure our clients are protected throughout the transaction process. Here are some practical steps real estate professionals and clients can take to avoid falling victim to phishing scams and other cyber threats.
Take Precautions with Unsolicited Emails. Whether you’re an agent or a buyer, always be wary of emails that request personal or financial information. Phishing emails often include links or attachments that appear legitimate but are designed to steal your data. If something doesn’t look right, verify the sender’s identity by contacting them directly, and never use the contact information provided in the suspicious email.
Use Strong Passwords. Both REALTORS® and clients should be diligent about creating strong, unique passwords. A strong passphrase, like “RedMountainSky,” is far more secure than easily guessed passwords. Additionally, avoid using the same password for multiple accounts to limit vulnerability.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication. Make it a habit to enable two-factor authentication on any account that involves sensitive information. This extra layer of security ensures that even if someone gains access to your password, they won’t be able to get into your accounts without a second form of verification, like a text code.
Encrypt Your Communications. When sharing sensitive documents or personal information during a real estate transaction, it’s critical to use encrypted communications. As agents, we often deal with confidential information like financial details or personal identification, and encryption ensures that if data is intercepted, it cannot be accessed by unauthorized parties.
Stay Informed. For my fellow REALTORS®, it’s essential to stay informed about the latest phishing tactics and to recognize them. The more aware we are, the less likely we are to fall victim to these scams. Make sure your clients are aware of potential threats, especially when it comes to handling sensitive information like wiring instructions.
Report Suspicious Activity Immediately. If you or your client suspects an email is part of a phishing scam, don’t hesitate to report it. Whether it’s to your broker or office manager, reporting this incident as soon as possible can help stop these criminals in their tracks or prevent someone else from becoming a victim. The faster you act, the better your chances of recovering essential data and preventing further damage.
By staying informed and implementing these cybersecurity best practices, we can reduce the risk of falling victim to these scams. It’s not just about protecting our business—it’s about protecting our clients’ financial well-being and securing their trust. We are all in this together. #ThatsWhoWeR

U.S. existing home sales increased for the first time in 5 months, as lower mortgage rates and rising supply helped boost market activity. According to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), sales of previously owned homes rose 1.3% month-over-month to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 3.95 million units, exceeding economists’ expectations and ending the downward trend of recent months.

New Listings in the Chattanooga region are also experiencing encouraging growth, with a significant increase of 22.9 percent from 1,207 to 1,483. Pending Sales were up 10.3 percent to 978. Most notable is the increase in inventory levels, which grew 62.2 percent to 2,880 units.

The Chattanooga region has continued to see prices gain traction. The Median Sales Price increased 3.0 percent to $339,900. Days on Market were up 6.5 percent to 33 days. Buyers felt empowered to explore their options as Months Supply of Inventory was up 61.9 percent to 3.4 months.

NAR’s national data shows total housing inventory edged up 0.8% from the previous month to 1.33 million units heading into August, for a 4.0-month supply at the current sales pace. Although inventory is up nearly 20% compared to the same time last year, demand continues to outpace supply, putting upward pressure on sales prices. According to NAR, the nationwide median existing home price rose 4.2% year-over-year to $422,600 at last measure, marking the 13th consecutive month of annual price increases.
For both buyers and sellers, these changes present new opportunities and challenges. Buyers are benefiting from the increased inventory and slightly longer market times, giving them more flexibility in their decisions. Meanwhile, sellers continue to see strong demand and rising prices, making it an attractive time to list properties
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As the housing market continues to evolve, it’s important to stay informed about these shifts. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, now is a great time to explore your options and work with a trusted REALTOR® to navigate this dynamic market. #ThatsWhoWeR

Founded in 1912, Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Greater Chattanooga. A regional organization with more than 2,700 members, Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® serves Hamilton and Sequatchie counties in southeast Tennessee and Catoosa, Dade, and Walker counties in northwest Georgia. The Association is one of approximately 1,100 local associations/board of REALTORS® nationwide that comprise the National Association of REALTORS®. Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® owns and operates a Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which is one of approximately 600 MLSs in the country and services more than 3,000 MLS users. Local Association membership is comprised of REALTORS® servicing the Greater Chattanooga area and specializing in a variety of disciplines – appraisal, commercial, industrial, land, multi-family, property management and residential. Working alongside REALTORS® are our Affiliate members, who represent related industries in sympathy with the objectives of the Association. Our Affiliate members include mortgage lenders, home inspectors, title and closing services, pest inspection and control and insurance.

As we dive into Realtor Safety Month this September, it’s a good time to reflect on the importance of safety for Realtors and their clients. While the nature of real estate transactions involves meeting new people and visiting unfamiliar properties, there are several safety protocols that can help protect everyone involved.

At Greater Chattanooga Realtors®, we are committed to ensuring the safety of our members and the public all year round—not just in September. To help keep our community informed, here are some crucial safety tips and best practices that Realtors and clients should be aware of during real estate transactions.

Schedule Showings During Daylight Hours. Whenever possible, schedule showings during daylight. Viewing homes in broad daylight ensures better visibility and allows you to be more aware of your surroundings. If a property must be shown after dark, arrive early to turn on lights and ensure the property is well-lit. Let a colleague or family member know where you will be and what time you expect to finish.

Limit Sharing of Personal Information. In an age of digital exposure, guarding your personal details is essential. Realtors should be mindful of how much personal information they share with clients, use business addresses, and keep home addresses private. Clients should also be careful about sharing personal details and documents when visiting homes.

Meet Clients at the Office or Public Space. Before heading out to view properties, meet clients for the first time in the office or a public place like a coffee shop. This adds a layer of professionalism and provides an opportunity to verify identification and gather necessary documentation. This is also an excellent time to chat, get to know your clients, and listen to their needs. Realtors can ensure their safety while also building rapport with clients in a controlled environment.

Check for Cell Service. Before venturing into remote locations, make sure your cell phone has reception, and your eKey app is up to date and working correctly. This step is essential for accessing the home’s lockbox. Being disconnected can present a safety risk in case of emergencies. Always ensure you have access to communication wherever you go.

Arrive Early for Showings. Arriving at the property early allows Realtors to scope out the area, turn on lights, and map out an escape route in case of an emergency. Getting there ahead of clients gives you the upper hand in assessing the property for safety concerns.

Practice Open House Safety. Never host an open house alone. Having another Realtor with you ensures additional support, and they can also help monitor the property. Before locking up, check every room and ensure all visitors have left. If something feels off, don’t hesitate to call for help.

Walk Behind Clients. When showing properties, let your clients take the lead. By walking behind them, you maintain better control of the situation while allowing them to explore the home comfortably. This simple practice can prevent potential safety issues and create a professional yet cautious environment.

Secure Seller Information. Realtors should remind sellers to lock away valuables and sensitive documents before any showing. Personal items like jewelry, electronics, and important papers should be out of sight to avoid potential theft or misuse.

Trust Your Instincts. Finally, trust your gut. Don’t hesitate to leave or change plans if a situation feels unsafe or uncomfortable. Realtors should have code words or signals to communicate with colleagues and always use the Buddy System when necessary. Personal safety should always come before a sale.

As we continue to navigate the ever-evolving real estate landscape, safety remains a top priority for Greater Chattanooga Realtors®. These protocols are designed to ensure that both Realtors and their clients feel safe and secure during real estate transactions. For more resources and safety tips, be sure to visit our website at https://www.gcar.net/realtor-safety-month-2024. Let’s stay safe together. That’s Who We R®

When we talk about the members of our Board of Directors, it’s impossible not to notice the breadth of experience and passion each brings. These individuals are more than just leaders – they are the driving force behind our Association’s success. One such leader is Natalie Hostetler, whose journey from the pharmaceutical industry to a thriving commercial real estate career showcases the unique blend of expertise and dedication that defines our board. As someone who has always been driven by a desire to help, Natalie has taken on a leadership role that not only influences the direction of our Association but also shapes the skyline of Chattanooga itself.

What did you do before transitioning into this profession? I have been in commercial real estate for 12 years, and before that I worked in the pharmaceutical industry.2 Spending all that time in hospitals led me to my passion in real estate, which is Medical Office Building sales and leasing.

You’re currently serving in the first year of a two-year Director term. Why did you choose to serve the Association? I love serving in this capacity because I like to help. I have always been a helper, and whether it is being a voice for all commercial agents in the Greater Chattanooga area, collaborating with other board members while governing the BOD, or making a new agent feel comfortable at a networking event, I am here to help. I am so lucky to serve with this group, and I feel honored to represent my commercial colleagues in this way.

What would you like your fellow Realtors to know about what our association offers to its members? The benefits of supporting and being engaged with the National Association of Realtors. Being a Major Investor in the Realtor Political Action Committee (PAC) has provided me with the most benefits and resources regarding all the wonderful things our PAC does for us.

What is your favorite part of being a Realtor? I get the opportunity to influence the built environment in the city that means the most to me. It’s so cool to impact literally what our Chattanooga skyline looks like. Also, I love that no day is the same and the true joy I derive from interacting with other Realtors. I would rather be in a room with ten different real estate agents than ten other people of any profession!

What is something Greater Chattanooga Realtors does in the community that you love and want others to know about? Our association does so many things for our community. I love and support Habitat for Humanity and am excited about this year’s Tee Up and Wine Down fundraiser that our Community Partnership committee is organizing.

Have you read any recent books you want to share with others? Never Split the Difference: Negotiating as Your Life Depended On It by Chris Voss is the best negotiation book ever. Anyone in sales should read this book.

Natalie's story is a testament to the impact that passion and a commitment to service can have on our industry and community. From advocating for fellow commercial agents to playing a role in developing Chattanooga’s built environment, Natalie exemplifies the qualities that make our Board of Directors so vital to our success. As we continue to grow and evolve, leaders like Natalie inspire us to reach new heights, ensuring that our Association remains a beacon of excellence in the real estate industry. That’s Who We R®.

As Realtors, we understand that buying a home is one of the largest financial transactions most people will ever undertake, and you deserve to have all the information you need to navigate it with confidence. We are prepared to be a trusted source of advice and stand ready to help you navigate your homebuying journey and make the choices that work best for you.

Earlier this year, the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) reached a settlement agreement that would end litigation of claims brought on behalf of home sellers related to broker commissions. While the settlement terms confirm transparency and choices, they also introduce some changes that benefit homebuyers. So, we wanted to clearly lay them out for you.

You will sign a written agreement with your agent before touring a home. Before signing this agreement, you should ensure it reflects the terms you have negotiated with your agent and that you understand exactly what services and value will be provided, and for how much. The buyer agreement must include four components concerning compensation:
1. A specific and conspicuous disclosure of the amount or rate of compensation the real estate agent will receive or how this amount will be determined.
2. Compensation that is objective (e.g., $0, X flat fee, X percent, X hourly rate)—and not open-ended (e.g., cannot be “buyer broker compensation shall be whatever the amount the seller is offering to the buyer”).
3. A term that prohibits the agent from receiving compensation for brokerage services from any source that exceeds the amount or rate agreed to in the agreement with the buyer; and,
4. A conspicuous statement that broker fees and commissions are fully negotiable and not set by law.

Written agreements apply to both in-person and live virtual home tours. You do not need a written agreement if you are just speaking to an agent at an open house or asking them about their services.

The seller may agree to offer compensation to your agent. This practice is permitted but the offer cannot be shared on a Multiple Listing Service (MLS)— MLSs are local marketplaces used by both buyer brokers and listing brokers to share information about properties for sale.

You can still accept concessions from the seller, such as offers to pay your closing costs.

The above-described settlement practice changes go into effect on August 17. And to reiterate, many aspects of buying a home do not change moving forward. Agents who are REALTORS® are here to help you navigate the home buying process and are ethically obligated to work in your best interest.

Compensation for your agent remains fully negotiable, and if your agent is a REALTOR®, they must abide by the REALTOR® Code of Ethics and have clear and transparent discussions with you about compensation. When finding an agent to work with, ask questions about compensation and understand what services you are receiving.

You have choices. Work with your agent to understand the full range of these choices when buying a home, which will help you make the best possible decision for your needs.

As we move forward with these changes, rest assured that Realtors will continue to provide the trusted advice and support you need to achieve a successful home purchase. More details about these changes and what they mean can be found at www.facts.realtor. If you have any questions about these new practices or how they might impact your home buying experience, don't hesitate to reach out to your local Realtor. We are here for you every step of the way. #ThatsWhoWeR

As REALTORS®, we understand that selling your home can be both an exciting and daunting process. It's a significant financial decision, and you deserve to have all the information you need to navigate it with confidence. Earlier this year, the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) reached a settlement agreement that would end litigation of claims brought on behalf of home sellers related to broker commissions. Not only do the settlement terms confirm transparency and the ability to negotiate, they also introduce some changes related to broker commissions. These changes are designed to benefit you, the home seller, by increasing transparency and ensuring you have more control over your home sale. These changes are scheduled to take effect on August 17, 2024, and here is a breakdown from NAR of what these updates mean for you.

You still have the choice of offering compensation to buyer brokers. You may consider doing this as a way of marketing your home or making your listing more attractive to buyers.

Your agent must conspicuously disclose to you and obtain your approval for any payment or offer of payment that a listing broker will make to another broker acting for buyers. This disclosure must be made to you in writing in advance of any payment or agreement to pay another broker acting for buyers, and must specify the amount or rate of such payment.

If you choose to approve an offer of compensation, there are changes to how this can happen. You as the seller can still make an offer compensation, but your agent cannot include it on a Multiple Listing Service (MLS)—MLSs are local marketplaces used by both buyer brokers and listing brokers to share information about properties for sale. Your agent can advertise your listing via off-MLS platforms such as social media, flyers and websites. You as the seller can still offer buyer concessions on an MLS (for example, concessions for buyer closing costs).

The above-described settlement practice changes go into effect on August 17. And to reiterate, many aspects of selling your home do not change moving forward. Agents who are REALTORS® are here to help you navigate the process of selling your home and are ethically obligated to work in your best interest.

Compensation for your agent remains fully negotiable, and if your agent is a REALTOR®, they must abide by the REALTOR® Code of Ethics and have clear and transparent discussions with you about compensation. When finding an agent to work with, ask questions about compensation and discuss what you would like to offer buyers.

You have choices. Work with your agent to understand the full range of these choices when selling your home, which will help you make the best possible decision for your needs.

As we move forward with these changes, rest assured that Realtors will continue to provide the trusted advice and support you need to achieve a successful home sale. More details about these changes and what they mean can be found at www.facts.realtor. If you have any questions about these new practices or how they might impact your selling experience, don't hesitate to reach out to your local Realtor. We are here for you every step of the way. #ThatsWhoWeR

In recent months, we’ve been spreading the word to our members about the changes coming to the real estate industry on August 17. These changes will reshape how REALTORS® conduct business, not only with each other but also with consumers.

These adjustments are part of a broader initiative to enhance transparency and fairness in real estate transactions, stemming from a national settlement agreement related to broker commissions. Here is what’s changing and what consumers need to know.

Beginning August 17, two significant changes will be implemented across all Multiple Listing Services (MLS) systems that are critical for every real estate professional and consumer to understand – prohibition of offers of compensation on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and mandatory written buyer agreements.

While offers of compensation will be prohibited on the MLS, offers of compensation will continue to be an option consumers can pursue off-MLS through negotiation and consultation with real estate professionals. Offers of compensation help make homeownership and the benefits of professional representation more accessible to buyers, including first-time homebuyers, increase homeownership opportunities for historically underserved groups, and benefit sellers by expanding the potential buyer pool and ensuring they receive the best offer possible for their property.

Agents working with a buyer will enter into a written buyer agreement before touring a home. The practice changes do not require an agency agreement or dictate any type of relationship. Resources are available to assist with implementation of the settlement terms—such as tips on clarity and emphasizing consumer choice and a “Written Buyer Agreements 101” resource are available at nar.realtor/the-facts/written-buyer-agreements-101.

These new practices emphasize transparency and consumer choice. These changes are designed to comply with regulatory requirements and empower consumers and ensure that real estate professionals can continue to provide high-quality, ethical service. Written buyer agreements, for instance, will help cultivate transparent relationships between agents and consumers, allowing for clear negotiations and agreed-upon services and compensation.

Consumers can find additional information on what these changes mean for their homebuying and selling experiences in NAR’s buyers and sellers guides, found at nar.realtor/the-facts/homebuyers-what-the-nar-settlement-means and nar.realtor/the-facts/home-sellers-what-the-nar-settlement-means. Please visit facts.realtor for the latest updates on the settlement and practice changes.

Despite these changes, the core mission of Realtors remains unchanged – to guide clients through the complex and often emotional journey of buying or selling a home with expertise and integrity. Realtors are more than just facilitators; they are trusted advisors who play a critical role in one of life's most significant transactions.

Being a Realtor has always been about more than just closing deals. It’s about stewardship, guiding our clients through one of the biggest decisions of their lives with care and expertise. These changes? They're just new ways for us to demonstrate our unwavering dedication to that mission. #ThatsWhoWeR

When diving into the inspiring stories of our Board of Directors, it becomes evident that each member brings a unique and rich background to our Association. This diversity fuels our strength and fosters an environment of continuous growth and innovation. One such remarkable member is Paige Batten whose journey from a dedicated stay-at-home mom to a Realtor and influential volunteer leader exemplifies the dynamic spirit that propels us forward.

What did you do before real estate? Being a mom was one of my life dreams. I have four amazing kids: Chase (28), an EMT and soon-to-be Realtor; Chad (27), an Aerospace Engineer; Somer (25), an ER Nurse; and Sydney (23), who works for Pine Cove, a nonprofit Christian Camp ministry. Before becoming a Realtor, I was a domestic engineer, AKA stay-at-home mom, to those four amazing kids. I honestly had never thought about having a career other than raising my children. Through various circumstances, the opportunity presented itself, and, in December of 2015, I obtained my real estate license. What started out as a hobby turned into a full-fledged career and full-time job, and I have never looked back!

You serve on the BOD. Why did you choose to serve in a leadership capacity? When I first obtained my license, I realized there was so much to learn in this business. I set out to become the best I could be and gain all the knowledge available. Little did I know that this industry is an ever-changing one, and every day is a new learning experience. I hired a mentor, Robert Morris, right off the bat who encouraged me to take as many classes as possible and to get into any leadership role that I could. In 2019, I graduated from Greater Chattanooga Realtors’ leadership academy. It was during that time then my eyes were open to all the leadership opportunities that were right here on the local level. I began rubbing shoulders with others who had been on the Board, and it was soon very clear to me that this was something that I wanted to pursue. The Association does so much for our members and community, and I wanted to be a part of it. I wanted to be a part of changes that would make our industry better, especially on the local level. Being on the board has given me the opportunity to have a voice, to see what the inner workings look like, and to give back not only to the Association, but also to my fellow realtors. A big "thank you" to past president Derek English for initially asking me to be on a committee years ago. He and our CEO Carol Seal were instrumental in my decisions to pursue this volunteer leadership path.
 
What would you like your fellow Realtors to know that our Association offers its members?  This is a loaded question for sure. Our Association does so much for our members! If you look at our calendar for any given month, there are many classes that are offered, most of which are complimentary for members. Education is very dear to my heart, so this is what I am most proud of for what the Association does for our members. Greater Chattanooga Realtors gets some of the best instructors in the nation to come and teach classes here. Also, Greater Chattanooga Realtors are very involved with the community. They provide the members with service projects and volunteering opportunities all the time. They also provide tons of networking opportunities and social events for members as well.  

What is your favorite part of being a Realtor? There are so many things that I love about being a Realtor. One of my top things would have to be seeing the faces of people when you hand them the keys to their home that they never thought was a possibility of owning. Helping someone own a home and achieve the American dream is so rewarding.  Also, helping people navigate the home buying/selling process. I am a problem solver and do not mind taking on the stress of the process and making it as smooth as possible for my clients. My motto has been, "Once a client, always a friend" and having your clients become dear friends after the transaction has been so rewarding for me.
  
What is something your fellow Realtors/Members/Association do in the community that you love and want others to know about? As a member of the board of directors, we are given the opportunity to be a liaison for some of the committees at the Association. This year I have the privilege of being on the Consumer Education & Scholarship Committee. Each year this committee hands out scholarships to graduating seniors to help with their college education. This was such a fun thing to be a part of, and I had the opportunity to present one of the scholarships to a very deserving senior from East Hamilton high school and their Senior Class Night. This committee has been a highlight of my year.

Have you read any recent books you want to share with others? If you had asked me this question two years ago, I'm not sure I could have even given you the name of any book. But this year, as life would have it, I have become quite an audible book listener. First and foremost, my favorite book to read is the Bible. This book keeps me grounded and is my guide to life. Other books that I have read this year that have been life-changing are, Change Your Paradigm, Change Your Life by Bob Proctor, Fanatical Prospecting by Mike Weinberg and Forgiving What You Can't Forget by Lysa TerKeurst.  She has become one of my favorite authors. 

Paige’s journey from being a dedicated mother to becoming a proactive leader in our Association illustrates the transformative power of passion and commitment. Her story, filled with continuous learning, community service, and personal growth, embodies the spirit of our Board of Directors. As we celebrate the diverse backgrounds and experiences of our board members, we are reminded of the collective strength and vision that drives our Association forward. That’s Who We R®.

Founded in 1912, Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Greater Chattanooga. A regional organization with more than 2,700 members, Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® serves Hamilton and Sequatchie counties in southeast Tennessee and Catoosa, Dade, and Walker counties in northwest Georgia. The Association is one of approximately 1,100 local associations/board of REALTORS® nationwide that comprise the National Association of REALTORS®. Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® owns and operates a Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which is one of approximately 600 MLSs in the country and services more than 3,000 MLS users. Local Association membership is comprised of REALTORS® servicing the Greater Chattanooga area and specializing in a variety of disciplines – appraisal, commercial, industrial, land, multi-family, property management and residential. Working alongside REALTORS® are our Affiliate members, who represent related industries in sympathy with the objectives of the Association. Our Affiliate members include mortgage lenders, home inspectors, title and closing services, pest inspection and control and insurance.

When embarking on the journey to purchase a home, having a knowledgeable and dedicated professional by your side can make all the difference. This week, I am focusing on the buyer’s side of negotiating offers in a real estate transaction. The National Association of Realtors’ “179 Ways Agents Who are Realtors Are Worth Every Penny of Their Compensation.”  demonstrates why Realtors play a pivotal role in ensuring buyers navigate the complexities of the real estate market smoothly and successfully. From initial market analysis to finalizing the purchase offer, here’s how a Realtor can assist buyers at every stage of the process.

Assist the buyer in getting the best property at the best price. A Realtor’s primary goal is to help buyers find the perfect property at the most favorable price. They achieve this by conducting thorough market research in the local Multiple Listing Service (MLS) platform and leveraging their extensive knowledge of local real estate trends.

Prepare a comparative market analysis (CMA) in advance of making an offer. Before making an offer, Realtors prepare a detailed Comparative Market Analysis (CMA). This report compares the target property with similar recently sold homes in the area, providing a realistic estimate of its market value. This crucial step ensures that buyers make informed decisions and avoid overpaying.

Prepare the buyer to have the most attractive offer in the current marketplace. In a competitive market, presenting an offer that stands out is essential. Realtors guide buyers in crafting the most appealing offer, considering factors such as pricing, contingencies, and financing options. Their expertise helps buyers strike the right balance between competitiveness and affordability.

Prepare the buyer for a multiple offer situation and develop negotiation strategies.
Navigating a multiple offer situation requires strategic planning and quick decision-making. Realtors prepare buyers for these scenarios by discussing potential outcomes and developing robust negotiation strategies. This preparation helps buyers stay calm and make competitive offers even in high-pressure situations.
Explain common contract contingencies and include approved protective clauses in the purchase offer. Understanding the various contingencies in a real estate contract is vital for protecting the buyer’s interests. Realtors explain common contingencies, such as financing, inspection, and appraisal clauses, ensuring buyers include necessary protective measures in their offers.

Use strategies such as an escalation clause to maintain a competitive offer. To enhance an offer's competitiveness, Realtors might suggest including strategic clauses, like an escalation clause. This clause allows the buyer’s offer to automatically increase if a higher bid is received, up to a specified limit, helping maintain a competitive edge.

Ensure that the buyer receives and understands all state and federally-required disclosure forms.
Realtors ensure that buyers not only receive these forms but also review and confirm that they comprehend them. These documents are critical for understanding the property’s condition and any potential legal or environmental issues, enabling buyers to make well-informed decisions.

Write an offer that has a reasonable chance of being accepted. Finally, Realtors assist in drafting an offer with a reasonable chance of acceptance. They consider all aspects of the transaction, from market conditions to seller motivations, to create an offer that aligns with the buyer’s and seller’s needs.

Partnering with a Realtor offers buyers a significant advantage in the complex world of real estate. Their expertise, market knowledge, and strategic approach help buyers secure the best possible property at the best price while ensuring the entire process is smooth and stress-free. Trust the professionals who dedicate themselves to turning your homeownership dreams into reality. That's Who We R®.

Former member and REALTOR Paulette Kellerher with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices passed away on July 21, 2024. No serivce or burial details availble at this time.  

The real estate market in the Chattanooga region is displaying a dynamic shift as we analyze the latest data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) for June 2024. Understanding these trends is crucial for navigating the current landscape. Traditionally, the summer months witness a surge in housing activity, and this year, it looks to be staying on this trend. From increased inventory levels to median sales prices, the data reveals significant activity impacting buyers and sellers.

U.S. existing-home sales declined for the third consecutive month, as higher mortgage rates and rising sales prices hindered market activity during what has traditionally been one of the busiest months of the year. According to the NAR, sales of previously owned homes dipped 0.7% month-over-month and 2.8% year-over-year, to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.11 million units.

New Listings in the Chattanooga region increased 5.6 percent to 1,322. Pending Sales were down 1.8 percent to 906. Inventory levels grew 24.5 percent to 2,545 units
.
Prices continued to gain traction. The Median Sales Price increased 3.5 percent to $346,625. Days on Market was up 16.7 percent to 35 days. Buyers felt empowered as Months Supply of Inventory was up 30.4 percent to 3.0 months.

Nationally, total housing inventory grew 6.7% month-over-month to 1.28 million units heading into June, for a 3.7 months’ supply at the current sales pace, according to NAR. However, the increase in supply has yet to temper home prices, which have continued to rise nationwide. At last measure, the median existing-home price climbed to $419,300, a 5.8% increase from the same period last year and a record high for the month.

As we look ahead, the Chattanooga housing market continues to evolve with significant changes in inventory, pricing, and sales activity. Staying informed and reaching out to a Realtor about these trends is essential for making strategic decisions. The increase in inventory and longer days on the market may offer some relief for buyers. At the same time, rising prices and slightly reduced sales activity indicate a market that is adjusting to current economic conditions. By working with a Realtor who is keeping a close eye on these developments, both buyers and sellers can feel confident about navigating the complexities of the real estate market in the months to come. That's Who We R®.

Janine Garland ( Berkshire Hathaway HomeService) passed away on Thursday, July 11, 2024. Funeral services will be held at 3:00 pm, Sunday, July 14, 2024, in the Valley View Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home. The family would like to invite those attending to wear something orange.

As a follow-up to last week’s column about ways to beat the heat, I share with you these tips from Houselogic.com on how smart homeowners focus their energies inside. Contributing writer Kelly Walters shares these four tasks that include taking advantage of your nice, cool basement.

Organize the Basement. The two most common types of clutter? Old clothes and seasonal items. Just the kind of stuff that winds up in the basement. So this month, face your messy basement head on. Not only will you regain space, but you'll also save time and could even knock back clutter-related depression. (Yeah, that's a thing.) Now that you've got it organized, maybe it's a good time to consider this next project – finish the basement.

Finish the Basement.The solution to a cramped house could be right under your feet. Transforming an unfinished basement into a media room, home office — or even a rentable space — builds equity, upping your home's resale value. Start this project now, and you can kick back and enjoy your new space all winter long.

Buy Paint on Sale. Although paint savings can be the steepest during the off-peak painting seasons of fall and winter, you can still find savings in July. Experts disagree over the best time of year to paint. Some recommend painting in the summer as long as the weather is warm, not hot, and the humidity is low. A bonus: You can work indoors and stay comfortable. You can always stock up now and be ready for that painting project later. (P.S. Latex and acrylic paint can last up to 10 years; oil-based, up to 15.)

Hit Up Recycling Centers. Summer is home improvement season. That also makes it the savvy buyer's time to seek out deals at recycling centers and home improvement resale stores. Since this is project time — not to mention moving season — lots of folks are ditching their old stuff. Take advantage and grab it up at super-low prices.

If you don’t have a basement or already have it finished and usable, you can use these tips for other rooms. Stay cool inside and organize other spaces—the proverbial kitchen junk drawer, linen closet, or bathroom cabinets. Ask yourself when the last time you used certain items. Or perhaps you have medicine and sunscreen that is expired. Toss them. If you’re holding on to items that you “might use one day,” yet they’re always in the way of items you use now, consider donating those items.

Anytime I tidy up a space or pay it forward by donating unused items, I have a more appreciated outlook on what remains. And there’s nothing better than alleviating ourselves of the emotional weight clutter brings and prevents us from feeling comfortable in our own home. As I encouraged last week, spend time indoors to make your home a sanctuary from the summer heat. Stay hydrated, cool, and enjoy a breezy, comfortable summer indoors! That's Who We R®.

If you have been on any social media channels, you have probably seen a post or two that says, “I went outside today and saw two Hobbits throw a ring in my backyard.” Or “This summer, don’t forget to hydrate and don’t go back outside until November.”

In addition to humor, most of us try to escape this heat by heading indoors to our air-conditioned homes. But after a while, we begin to notice that our house is not as cool as it should be.

Our first instinct is to adjust the thermostat, but that might not be the wisest decision. Here are some valuable tips from Houselogic.com on how to “Beat the Heat Inside Your Home” this summer.

Know your household’s habits and goals. So, even though some people turn their AC way down at night to save money, you may have a hard time sleeping when it’s hot. “So, having a lower temperature at night might actually make sense,” Richardson says.

Wait to lower the AC after the first time. If you’re uncomfortably warm after lowering the AC, wait a while before going into panic mode and turning the setting down a few more times. An HVAC system takes a long time to respond to changes in a thermostat. The temperature in the house has to adjust to not just the air, but also heat from the sun, the leakiness of the home, and the temperature of the walls and objects like furniture and rugs.

Limit your activities to areas of your house that tend to be the coolest. Those could be rooms with fewer windows or downstairs, where it’s typically cooler. That will help you avoid the uneven temperatures that are almost inevitable in a house. “The thermostat is reading one temperature in one part of the house, and it’s tough to get that temperature evenly distributed across the entire building,” he says.

Consider mini-splits. These heating and cooling systems allow you to control the temperatures in individual rooms or spaces without ductwork. “It’s sort of twice the size of a breadbox and sticks on a wall,” Richardson says. “It provides airflow in just that room. It’s like zoning, only way better.” You need a box in each room, but you can set the temperature in one room at, say, 68 degrees and in another room at 78.

Set your thermostat so the fan runs more frequently. If you have an Ecobee or a Nest, you can set the fan to run continuously. “When you have a forced air system, oftentimes the hot air rises. so you get a really warm second floor. But if you run the fan, you can be cycling the air throughout the entire house, which creates a much more even temperature.

With all these tips in mind, I hope you can beat the heat this summer, no matter how hot it gets outside. Remember, a few smart adjustments can go a long way in improving your comfort and potentially saving on energy costs. So, keep your cool and make your home a sanctuary from the summer heat. Stay hydrated, cool, and enjoy a breezy, comfortable summer indoors! That's Who We R®.

When I decided to showcase our Board of Directors (Board), I discovered that many of our leaders come from diverse backgrounds and careers. Our leadership team includes those with backgrounds in the NFL, electrical engineering, accounting, mechanical engineering, political campaign finance, and medical insurance. This range provides a diverse perspectives and experiences that help grow and shape our association.

James Streeter is yet another on our team who’s made quite the transition when leaping into real estate in 2017. With his clients and in his volunteer roles, James has demonstrated a deep commitment to community service and professional development. And he brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the Board.

What did you do before transitioning into this profession? I spent the majority of my adult life in the print and promotional products industry. With ownership in a local magazine and publishing company, we offered a variety of printing services and later purchased a sign and vinyl graphics company serving local businesses as well as regional and national accounts.

Why did you choose to serve in a leadership capacity? For me, being selected to serve on the board of directors was a natural progression. I have a heart for serving others, and after years of volunteering in different capacities within our association, I wanted to go further. It has been a privilege, and I am thankful for the opportunity I have been given.

What would you like your fellow Realtors to know that the association offers our members? The association is committed to providing continued training and education in our ever-evolving industry. They understand the importance of access to information and resources necessary in our profession and strive to empower our members with these tools.

What is your favorite part of being a Realtor? Helping clients navigate the purchase and sales process can be very rewarding. I get to be a part of what, in many cases, is an exciting new adventure in their lives. I have made new friends along the way and established lifelong relationships with clients who previously were strangers I otherwise would have never known.

What is something your fellow Realtors do in the community that you love and want others to know about? We give back to our community in a variety of ways. We sponsor sports teams, events, and other programs for our schools and youth. We hold fundraisers and make charitable donations where there are unmet needs. We advocate for private property rights and work with city and county officials to find ways to better our neighborhoods and community as a whole.  

Have you read any recent books you want to share with others? Relentless by Tim S. Grover and Secrets of the Millionaire Mind by T. Harv Eker are the top of my list right now. But for reasons that are very personal to me I must mention The Power of One More by Ed Mylett, as well as Achieve Your Apex and Flip the Coin both written by my friend Chad Hyams.

James Streeter's journey from the print and promotional products industry to a leadership role in the association exemplifies the diverse and dynamic nature of our Board of Directors. His dedication to community service, professional development, and continuous learning underscores the values that drive our association forward. James's story, along with the varied backgrounds of our other board members, highlights the strength and depth of experience that fuels our collective success. As we continue to grow and evolve, we are grateful for leaders like James, who inspire and contribute to our vibrant community. That's Who We R®.

Realtors strive to make your home-buying journey seamless, well-informed, and ultimately successful. The complexities of the real estate market can be challenging to navigate, but having a professional guide can significantly ease the process. This week, let’s focus on the buyer's perspective and draw from the National Association of Realtors’ “179 Ways Agents Who are Realtors Are Worth Every Penny of Their Compensation.” Here are several reasons why partnering with a Realtor is essential and how they can support you throughout every stage of the buying process.

Explain the local market and how it impacts the buyer. Navigating the real estate market can be complex, especially for buyers looking to make a smart investment. The local market conditions play a pivotal role in shaping the buying process. Supply and demand, economic conditions, and seasonal trends can significantly impact home prices and availability. For instance, in a seller's market, buyers may face more competition and higher prices, while a buyer's market may offer more choices and potentially lower costs. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for making informed decisions.

Show statistics on the percentage of list price sellers in the area are receiving. One critical metric for buyers is the percentage of the list price sellers receive. This figure provides insight into how competitive the market is. For example, if homes are selling at 98% of their list price, it suggests a balanced market. Conversely, if properties consistently sell above their list price, it indicates high demand and potentially fierce competition. Staying updated with these statistics can help buyers set realistic expectations and formulate effective negotiation strategies.

Examine the days on market trends for the current listing inventory. The months of market inventory is another essential indicator. This metric reflects how long it would take to sell all current listings at the current sales pace. A higher inventory level suggests more choices for buyers and potentially less competition, while a lower inventory indicates fewer options and possibly a more competitive environment. Monitoring these trends allows buyers to time their purchases strategically.

Review the sample sales contract so the buyer is prepared when it comes time to make an offer. Before making an offer, it's crucial for buyers to familiarize themselves with the sample sales contract. This document outlines the terms and conditions of the purchase, including price, contingencies, and closing dates. By understanding the contract beforehand, buyers can confidently negotiate and ensure all their requirements are met. Reviewing the contract with their Realtor can also help address any questions or concerns.

Collaborate with the buyer on properties they may have learned about through their contacts. Buyers often hear about properties through their personal networks. Collaborating with a Realtor to explore these leads can be beneficial. Realtors can provide professional insights and arrange viewings, ensuring buyers take advantage of potential opportunities. This collaborative approach can expand the buyer's options and increase the chances of finding the perfect property.

Research and assist on all unlisted properties the buyer wishes to see. Some properties may not be listed on the open market, such as “For Sale By Owners”. Realtors can assist buyers in researching and accessing these unlisted properties, providing an edge in a competitive market. This involves leveraging professional networks, contacting property owners directly, and utilizing specialized tools to uncover hidden gems. By exploring all available options, buyers can make more informed choices.

Help the buyer decipher public property and tax information. Understanding public property records and tax information is essential for making a sound investment. Realtors can help buyers decipher these documents, clarifying property history, tax obligations, and any potential red flags. This information is crucial for assessing the true value of a property and planning for future financial commitments.

Collect and share pertinent data on values, taxes, utility costs, etc. Realtors can collect and share data on property values, taxes, utility costs, and other essential expenses. This information helps buyers evaluate the affordability and long-term financial implications of owning a home. Buyers can budget effectively and avoid unexpected financial burdens by having a comprehensive understanding of all costs involved.

Compare each property shown to the buyer’s wants and needs list and remind them what they seek. Every buyer has a unique list of wants and needs for their future home. Realtors play a crucial role in comparing each property shown to this list, reminding buyers of their priorities. This process ensures that buyers stay focused on their goals and do not get sidetracked by properties that do not meet their criteria.

Help the buyer narrow the search and identify their top choices. As buyers view various properties, their Realtor helps them narrow the search until they identify their top choices. This involves revisiting priorities, assessing pros and cons, and weighing each property's merits. Buyers can make a confident and well-informed decision when selecting their new home by systematically narrowing the options.

Buying a home is a significant investment that requires careful consideration and expert guidance. By understanding the local market, leveraging professional support, and staying focused on their priorities, buyers can navigate the process successfully and find a home that meets their needs and desires. That’s Who We R®

The Greater Chattanooga area is experiencing a thriving real estate market this May, showcasing significant growth and dynamic changes. According to the latest data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the local market continues to be influenced by the interplay of supply and demand, with an increase in home sales despite rising prices. This robust performance highlights this area's resilience and attractiveness, even as broader national trends show a slight cooling in existing home sales due to higher interest rates and escalating prices.

According to NAR, U.S. existing-home sales fell for the second month in a row, sliding 1.9% month over month and 1.9% year over year. Sales were down in all four regions of the country. Higher borrowing costs and accelerating home prices continue to weigh on demand, pushing some prospective buyers to the sidelines and causing market activity to slump ahead of summer.

New Listings in the Chattanooga region increased 25.0 percent to 1,466. Pending Sales were up 13.1 percent to 986. Inventory levels grew 28.4 percent to 2,398 units.

Prices continued to gain traction. The Median Sales Price increased 7.2 percent to $344,000. Days on Market were down 17.1 percent to 29 days. Buyers felt empowered as Months Supply of Inventory was up 33.3 percent to 2.8 months.

Home prices have continued to climb nationwide, despite an uptick in inventory this year. Nationally, the median existing-home price reached $407,600 as of last measure, a 5.7% increase from the same period last year and a record high for the month, according to NAR. Meanwhile, total inventory heading into May stood at 1.21 million units, a 9% increase month-over-month, and a 16.3% increase year-over-year, for a 3.5 month’s supply at the current sales pace.

As we move further into the year, the real estate landscape in the Greater Chattanooga area is expected to remain dynamic. Buyers should stay prepared for competitive conditions, while sellers can take advantage of the strong market demand. It’s essential for both buyers and sellers to stay informed and work closely with a knowledgeable Realtor who can provide expert guidance tailored to their specific circumstances. Whether you're looking to buy your dream home or sell your current property, understanding the latest market trends and conditions will be crucial for making informed decisions in the months ahead. That’s Who We R®.

June is National Homeownership Month, a time dedicated to celebrating the many benefits of homeownership and emphasizing the importance of making it accessible for all Americans. Homeownership is more than just a financial investment; it is a cornerstone of building stable, thriving communities.
Owning a home is one of the most significant steps individuals can take toward building generational wealth. It’s not merely about financial gain; it’s about creating a stable environment where families can grow, thrive, and make lasting memories. Homeownership offers a sense of security and belonging that renting cannot match.
By investing in their home, individuals are investing in their communities. Homeowners are more likely to engage in local activities, support neighborhood improvements, and contribute to the overall well-being of their communities. This sense of community pride and responsibility is a critical aspect of what makes homeownership so valuable.
The National Association of Realtors® (NAR) plays an essential role in guiding consumers through the complex homeownership journey. Realtors® are more than just real estate professionals; they are trusted advisors committed to helping individuals make informed decisions about one of their most significant financial commitments.
Locally, the Greater Chattanooga Realtor’s partnerships with organizations like Habitat for Humanity of Greater Chattanooga Area exemplify their commitment to enhancing homeownership opportunities and community support. Habitat for Humanity builds affordable homes, allowing families to own their residences.
Whether locally or nationally, advocating for homeownership is top of mind for Realtors. This past year, Realtors have supported bi-partisan legislation that addresses housing affordability by adding to the housing supply, and last month, we succeeded in getting lawmakers to allow veterans to utilize the services of a real estate professional when using a VA loan.
The economic benefits of homeownership extend far beyond the individual homeowner. In Tennessee, the NAR reports that the real estate industry contributed $82.5 billion, or 15.8.5% of the gross state product in 2023. This equates to approximately $118,500 per home, demonstrating the extensive economic ripple effect of home purchases. Every home sold supports jobs and generates economic activity across numerous sectors, underscoring the critical role of homeownership in the state’s economy.
One of the most common misconceptions about homeownership is that it requires an exorbitantly sizeable down payment. In reality, the initial costs can be comparable to the deposit for a rental property. Moreover, owning a home allows individuals to build equity—a financial asset that can grow over time and provide a stable foundation for future financial endeavors.
While current interest rates are 6.94%, it’s crucial to recognize that renters effectively pay 100% interest with no return on their monthly payments. Homeownership offers a way to hedge against inflation, as mortgage payments remain stable and other costs rise. Furthermore, the long-term financial benefits of owning a home typically outweigh the initial investment, especially as home values appreciate.
Everyone is encouraged to consider the profound benefits of homeownership, not only as an investment in their future but also as a means to contribute positively to their community. Those ready to embark on this journey should contact a Realtor. Realtors possess the expertise and resources to guide homebuyers through the process, ensuring they make the best decisions for their circumstances.
As National Homeownership Month is celebrated, it is a time to reflect on the importance of homeownership in fostering personal and community growth. Homeownership is more than owning property; it’s about building a future filled with security, stability, and prosperity. Contacting a Realtor is the first step towards realizing the American Dream of homeownership. Together, stronger, more vibrant communities can be created for future generations. That’s Who We R®.

​​Founded in 1912, Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® is the voice for real estate in Greater Chattanooga. A regional organization with more than 2,700 members, Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® serves Hamilton and Sequatchie counties in southeast Tennessee and Catoosa, Dade, and Walker counties in northwest Georgia. The Association is one of approximately 1,100 local associations/board of REALTORS® nationwide that comprise the National Association of REALTORS®. Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® owns and operates a Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which is one of approximately 600 MLSs in the country and services more than 3,000 MLS users. Local Association membership is comprised of REALTORS® servicing the Greater Chattanooga area and specializing in a variety of disciplines – appraisal, commercial, industrial, land, multi-family, property management and residential. Working alongside REALTORS® are our Affiliate members, who represent related industries in sympathy with the objectives of the Association. Our Affiliate members include mortgage lenders, home inspectors, title and closing services, pest inspection and control and insurance.

Cynthia Lou Williams Byous, mother of Tracy Lee (Elite Realtors), passed away on May 26, 2024. Serevices were held on May 30. 

One of the benefits of doing these interviews is discovering new insights from those I have the privilege of working with as a board president. Holly Harwell is one of those board members who, as a seasoned Realtor, has not only built a successful 21-year career in real estate but also actively contributes to the community and local association leadership. With a rich background in sales, marketing, and political campaign finance, she brings a unique perspective to the industry and the board.

What did you do before transitioning into this profession? I started my career working in sales and marketing for several companies. I then got into political campaign finance/fundraising for a national congressional race and a local mayoral race. After completing the mayoral campaign, I was ready to transition into a business of my own. I decided to take the real estate licensing course and enjoyed it. This is my 21st year as a Realtor, and I have loved running my own business.

Why did you choose to serve the Association in a leadership capacity? I wanted to get more involved in our local association. With 20 years of experience as a Realtor and having served on numerous boards in our community, my experience could be helpful as we face many challenges in the ever-changing marketplace.

What would you like your fellow Realtors to know that our Association offers to its members? The opportunity to get free education to assist in becoming a better Realtor is priceless. Especially now as we face changes to our business, education is of utmost importance. We also make efforts on several fronts to engage in our community with participation in the Snack Pack Ministry, Habitat for Humanity, our Placemaking committee which identifies opportunities to transform an unused space in our community, and the Scholarship fund that helps first-year college students.

What is your favorite part of being a Realtor? I absolutely love assisting both buyers and sellers maneuver through one of the biggest decisions of their lives. Our homes are the place where we feel grounded and make so many wonderful memories; it just brings me great joy to be a part of their journey.

What is something your fellow Realtors/Members/Association do in the community that you love and want others to know about? So many of our members are involved in our community in various ways. I think part of our culture is that we are giving association and feel called to make Chattanooga the best place to live. I have especially loved the Snack Pack Ministry. It provides more than 5,000 students with additional meals that they would otherwise not have access to.

Have you read any recent books you want to share with others and why? I had the opportunity to take the Ninja Selling course last year. The Ninja Selling book by Larry Kendall is one that I keep reading over and over. It provides a clear road map to being a successful Realtor and helps you develop daily habits that will lead to being a better communicator and a more well-rounded professional.

As a dedicated and passionate advocate for community involvement, Holly shares her value of continued education, and the joy of helping clients navigate one of life's most significant decisions. It has been a pleasure to explore her experiences, inspirations, and the impactful work she champions both in and out of the real estate realm. That’s Who We R®.

As Realtors, our primary goal is to ensure that your home-buying experience is smooth, informed, and successful. Navigating the real estate market can be complex, and having a professional by your side can make all the difference. This week I wanted to focus on the buyer’s side of the real estate transaction and choose a few points from the 179 Ways Agents Who are Realtors Are Worth Every Penny of Their Compensation from The National Association of Realtors. Here are just a few reasons why working with a Realtor is crucial, and how they can help you at every step of the process.

Communicate the working relationship based on state law, the Realtor Code of Ethics, and the broker’s business policies. One of the first steps that Realtors and their buyers take on their journey together is to communicate the working relationship based on state law, the Realtors Code of Ethics, and the broker’s business policies. This transparency ensures that buyers understand their rights, the agents’ obligations, and the ethical standards that guide every decision and action. It's about building trust and ensuring clients feel confident and informed throughout the process.

Explain the local market and how it impacts the buyer. The real estate market varies significantly from one area to another. Explaining the local market and how it impacts the buyers is a critical part of a Realtor’s job. They provide insights into market trends, current inventory levels, and pricing strategies, helping buyers make informed decisions. Knowing whether it’s a buyer’s or seller’s market can influence their approach and expectations.

Understand the buyer’s budget and what will be needed financially. Understanding a buyer’s budget and what will be needed financially is fundamental. Realtors work with buyers to get a clear picture of their financial situation, including pre-approval for a mortgage, and help them set a realistic budget. This step is crucial to avoid any surprises down the road and ensures the agents that they are looking at homes within their client’s financial reach.

Help the buyer understand what property their chosen budget will buy. Many buyers have an idea of their dream home but may not know what their budget can realistically buy. An agent helps the buyer understand what property their chosen budget will buy, aligning their expectations with the market reality. This ensures that the client focuses on properties that meet their needs and financial parameters.

Share estimated potential out-of-pocket costs to complete the transaction. Beyond the purchase price, there are various out-of-pocket costs associated with buying a home. Realtors will explain these estimated potential out-of-pocket costs, such as closing costs, inspections, and moving expenses. This comprehensive financial overview helps the buyers plan effectively and avoid any last-minute financial stress

Explain the timeline for house hunting, mortgage approval, and closing. The home buying process involves several stages, each with its timeline. A Realtor will review the timeline for house hunting, mortgage approval, and closing, so buyers know what to expect at each phase. Understanding these timelines helps buyers plan their moves and make informed decisions promptly.

Educate the buyer on the immediacy of new listings appearing in their local MLS broker marketplaces and the lag time for them to appear on some websites. New listings can appear quickly, and timing is often crucial. Educating the buyer on the immediacy of new listings appearing in their local MLS broker marketplaces and the lag time for them to appear on some websites ensures the buyers that they don’t miss out on opportunities. A Realtor will ensure the buyers are among the first to know about new properties that match your criteria.

Schedule showings and provide access to all listed properties as soon as they become available in their local MLS broker marketplaces. Scheduling showings and providing access to all listed properties as soon as they become available in their local MLS broker marketplaces is another key service Realtors provide. This prompt access is essential in a competitive market where desirable homes can sell quickly.

Constantly re-evaluate buyers’ needs and refocus property showings to fit those needs. Buyers' needs and preferences may evolve as they view different properties. Constantly re-evaluating buyers’ needs and refocusing property showings to fit those needs is a dynamic part of a Realtor’s service. By staying attuned to their feedback, an agent can adjust strategies, so that they can better find a home that truly fits the buyer's lifestyle and desires.

Choosing to work with a Realtor offers buyers a wealth of knowledge, experience, and ethical guidance throughout the home-buying process. From understanding the market and financial planning to accessing new listings and adapting to their buyer’s evolving needs, Realtors are committed to making their home-buying journey as seamless and successful as possible. Trusting in a professional who prioritizes their client’s best interests and is dedicated to helping them find their dream home. Who We R®.

The Greater Chattanooga area has shown a robust performance in April’s real estate market. The National Association (NAR) reports that supply and demand are still affecting our local market with an increase in homes sold in April despite increased home sales prices.
Overall, the U.S. existing-home sales recently fell from a one-year high, dropping 4.3% month-over-month to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.19 million, according to the NAR, as higher interest rates and rising sales prices continue to keep some prospective buyers on the sidelines. Average 30-year mortgage rates have topped 7% in recent weeks, while the median existing-home sales price hit $393,500 as of last measure, a 4.8% increase from the previous month, according to NAR.
New Listings in the Chattanooga region increased 25.5 percent to 1,354. Pending Sales were up 13.0 percent to 1,067. Inventory levels grew 22.6 percent to 2,149 units.
Prices continued to gain traction. The Median Sales Price increased 7.5 percent to $322,500. Days on Market was up 2.8 percent to 37 days. Buyers felt empowered as Months Supply of Inventory was up 31.6 percent to 2.5 months.
Warmer temperatures appear to have helped bring some sellers back to the market, providing additional options to home shoppers during the spring buying season. Total inventory was up 4.7% month-over-month and 14.4% year-over-year, for a 3.2 months’ supply at the current sales pace, according to NAR. Nevertheless, demand continues to outpace supply and properties are selling quickly, with the typical home spending 33 days on the market nationwide, down from 38 days the month before.
With demand still high, and home prices rising, the time to sell in the Chattanooga area is still favorable for those looking to put their home on the market. I urge those who are on the fence to contact a local Realtor to discuss the pros and cons that best fit you or your family’s needs.
Who We R®.

In the bustling world of real estate, where transactions fly as fast as the ever-changing market dynamics, it's refreshing to work with such an amazing group of people from the Greater Chattanooga Realtors Board of Directors. As you will read below, Connie Powell Brewer is one of these wonderful people who brings a genuine passion for community and personal service to the table.
What did you do before transitioning into this profession? I spent several years working in various positions with a major insurance company. I ended my insurance career by traveling to different offices and developing policy documents and procedure manuals based on regulatory compliance and medical product benefits. The documents would serve as evidence in court proceedings. Also, I was elected to pilot the first work-at-home program before COVID.
You serve on the BOD or You serve as a Committee Chair to MLS__, why did you choose to serve in a leadership capacity? I have always been a "get involved" type of person and help to find solutions when needed. I like to learn and gain a better understanding, hoping to make a difference and contribute to the future. I want to be a conduit for my colleagues to assist in making changes and continuing to improve our industry. I knew nothing about real estate when I began my real estate career, and I am still learning.
What would you like your fellow Realtor/members to know that our Association offers to its members? The Association provides a security app, FOREWARN, that enables us to gain some insight into prospective clients; otherwise, we may not be able to gain insight from social media. Another handy service the Association provides is a Notary Service to members at no charge. I also can’t forget the amazing SUPPORT provided to us by the staff!
What is your favorite part of being a Realtor? Helping my clients obtain the next chapter in their lives by selling or purchasing their homes. I listen and get to know their stories and lives. Every one of us has a story. And I can't forget about the friendships that are made in this industry through clients and real estate partners—also networking with other Realtors throughout the states. There is so much to learn as a Realtor. I do enjoy attending educational classes.
What is something your fellow Realtors/Members/Association do in the community that you love and want others to know about? I have learned that Realtors are generous in both heart and spirit. They give back to our community not only financial support but also their time. There is a Realtor Relief Fund Committee that Realtors donate money to this fund. It helps people (non-realtors, too) when disaster strikes any time throughout the year, and 100% of all funds collected go to disaster relief causes. Last year, RRF provided aid to almost 4000 families when the disaster occurred. There were a lot of tornadoes and floods last year. Also, there is another excellent committee called Placemaking, and this is my first year serving on it. I'm already loving this committee because Realtors, through NAR, can provide a grant to help beautify a specific area in our community.
Have you read any recent books you want to share with others and why? I have read EntreLeadership twice and continue to find more nuggets. This book offers entrepreneurial insight and leadership principles. I like to think this read has helped me be a better leader by building my leadership skills and striving to be a better person overall. Currently, I'm reading The 12-Week Year. This book focuses on the importance of accountability partners. It helps you achieve greater productivity, focus, and results by setting short goals more frequently instead of lumping them all together at the end of the year.
With these articles, I want to demonstrate that our leadership is not only dedicated to shaping the future of the association but also deeply invested in their communities. Connie’s journey illustrates the profound impact of combining professional expertise with a heart for service, creating not just sales, but lasting societal contributions.
Who We R®.

As the saying goes, "April showers bring May flowers," and with the arrival of May, it's the perfect time to ensure your home is prepped and primed to welcome the warmer months ahead. Houselogic.com has numerous checklists and tips , from sprucing up the garden to deep cleaning overlooked areas. Here are seven of my favorite must-do home maintenance tips for this spring.
Inspect and Clean Air Conditioning Units. Before the heat of summer sets in, ensure your air conditioning units are in tip-top shape. “Tune up your AC in April, before the mercury and service rates rise,” suggests Kelley Walters. Replace or clean air filters, check for any debris obstructing airflow and consider scheduling a professional inspection if your system hasn't been checked in a while. This not only enhances efficiency but also extends the life of your units.
Check the Roof and Gutters. Spring rains and storms can leave a lot of residue in your gutters, especially here in the south surrounded by trees. Remove any leaves, twigs, or debris to prevent water buildup and potential damage. Also, take a moment to inspect your roof for any damage like missing, loose, or cracked shingles. Early repairs can prevent costly fixes later down the road.
Revitalize Your Lawn. May is ideal for getting outside and giving your lawn a little TLC. Aerate to allow nutrients to reach deep into the roots. Overseed bear patches and begin a regular mowing and trimming routine. Nancy Mann Jackson recommends “leaving at least one to three inches of grass above the root so the grass can absorb enough water to combat the heat.” Don’t forget, if you need to water your grass, the best time is early morning before the temperature rises.
Prepare Your Garden. Prepare your garden for the planting season by clearing out dead plants or weeds, turning the soil to refresh the nutrients, and adding any needed fertilizer. Plant your seeds or starter plants after the last frost. Research which plants do well in what zones and types of sun they grow best in. Also, consider adding mulch to help retain moisture during those upcoming hot southern months.
Deep Clean Windows and Screens. Take advantage of the longer and brighter days by cleaning your windows and screens. Remove and wash the screens with soapy water and inspect them for any tears to repair.  A mixture of vinegar and water works well for a streak-free shine for windows. Don’t forget to clean the window tracks and sills, which can accumulate a lot of dirt. This would also be a great time to check for any issues when opening and closing your windows and repair or replace them.
Service Your Lawn Equipment. Your lawn mower, trimmer, and other gardening equipment will likely see a lot of use in the coming months. Kelley Walters from Houselogic.com advises you to replace spark plugs and the air filter, change the oil and sharpen the blades, and fill the tank with fresh gasoline. Before you slip on those gardening gloves and get deep into gardening, check that all equipment is clean, the blades are sharp, tools are lubricated, and the oil is changed. Proper maintenance ensures safer and longer use.
Declutter and Donate. We refer to it as “spring cleaning” for a reason. Take a day to go through your house and declutter. Separate items to keep, donate, or throw away. A clutter-free home feels more spacious and welcoming. This is also the time to tackle that garage or lawn shed before it gets too hot.  Donating items you no longer use can also be a great way to help out those in need.
By following these tips, you'll not only enhance your living space but also potentially avoid any major repairs during the summer. May is a month of renewal and getting these tasks done can provide a fresh start to the season! That’s Who We R®.

Peter Duffy, husband of Past President Pam Duffy (Real Estate Partners) passed away on May 2, 2024. Visitation will be May 10, 11 am, with the services immediately following, at Lane Funeral Home (601 Ashland Terrace).

For our third Director spotlight, I am thrilled to highlight our MLS Chairman, Jeff Nixon. Jeff’s commitment and enthusiasm for the association and our members are evident in the initiatives he champions, mirroring the thoughtful consideration he gives to his sales associates and clients' needs.

What did you do before transitioning into this profession? Prior to entering the real estate industry, I worked for a homebuilder in Huntsville that specialized in remodels, custom homes, and swimming pools. While in college, I started with the company cleaning pools and managed their accounting department for several years after graduating. A top-producing Huntsville agent who listed the builder's homes hired me in 1996 to join his newly formed team. 

You serve as an Officer in your role as the MLS Chair. Why did you choose to serve in a leadership capacity? I had previously served on the MLS board of directors in Huntsville and have always been very interested in all the workings and technology surrounding MLS systems. It's one of the most important functions of our association and vital to our members' need for timely, reliable real estate data.

What would you like your fellow Realtors to know that the Association offers our members? In addition to our residential and commercial listing platforms, Flexmls and Crexi PRO, our association provides many great options for education and advanced designations at little or no cost to members. Also provided at no additional cost are Supra’s Broker Bay showing service, the Forewarn safety app, Supra e-key Pro, and CRS Tax Data, to name a few. Membership

What is your favorite part of being a Realtor? From a management perspective, I certainly want to make sure the consumer has a great experience, and I truly enjoy working with our sales associates in all aspects of the business. From helping agents embrace new technology to the fine details of a transaction, I especially love seeing agents succeed after they put in the time and effort to implement all that they have learned.

What is something your fellow Realtors do in the community that you love and want others to know about? While the fundraising and volunteer work for Habitat for Humanity and Snack Packs is much more visible, I don't think many of our association members realize the amount of work put forth by our volunteer leadership and staff in advocating to protect private property rights. This work is completed at the local, state, and national levels and made possible by all of us who invest in RPAC. Our advocacy work positively impacts members and consumers to help build strong communities.

Have you read any recent books you want to share with others? The 80% Approach by Dan Sullivan. It’s a very short, quick read and very helpful for those of us who will delay progress on a task while in search of perfection.

It's clear that Jeff’s diverse background and leadership within the association have significantly enriched our local real estate community. His journey to leading innovative MLS initiatives illustrates a commitment to professional growth and member service. Jeff's proactive approach in offering valuable resources and fostering community involvement highlights his dedication to not only advancing the industry but also ensuring that every member has the tools and support to thrive. We hope that his story inspires others within our association to seek out leadership roles and contribute to our collective success. That’s Who We R®.

It's exciting to see that the U.S. housing market is on a solid upward trend. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reports that existing home sales increased for the second month. This increase is the largest in the past year and well above what experts had forecasted.

For March, U.S. existing-home sales jumped 9.5 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.38 million units. The rebound comes amid fluctuating mortgage rates and elevated sales prices, indicating there is plenty of buyer demand heading into the spring selling season.

This surge is reflected locally in Chattanooga, where new property listings have slightly risen, and pending sales have grown. Additionally, the housing inventory has expanded by 15%. This could indicate that buyers are active and willing to tolerate longer wait times and higher prices.

New Listings in the Chattanooga region increased 1.2 percent to 1,207. Pending Sales were up 1.9 percent to 1,020. Inventory levels grew 15.0 percent to 2,054 units.

Prices continued to gain traction. The Median Sales Price increased by 4.4 percent to $329,000. Days on Market were up 22.2 percent to 44 days. Buyers felt empowered, as the Months' Supply of Inventory was up 26.3 percent to 2.4 months.

The recent surge in home sales was likely due to a dip in mortgage rates in December and an increase in housing supply nationwide. According to NAR, total inventory grew 5.9 percent month-over-month and 10.3 percent year-over-year to 1.07 million units, for a 2.9 months’ supply at the current sales pace. Buyer demand remains robust, and the limited supply of inventory helped push the median existing-home sales price up 5.7% year-over-year to $384,500, the eighth consecutive month of annual price increases.

With the Chattanooga real estate market showing signs of robust activity, buyers might find more opportunities due to increased inventory, while sellers benefit from price appreciation. Both buyers and sellers should stay informed and consider current market trends when making decisions. The real estate landscape in Chattanooga remains favorable, with potential for further developments as we move deeper into 2024. That’s Who We R®.

This week, we are diving back into the National Association of REALTORS®’s 179 Ways Agents Who Are REALTORS® Are Worth Every Penny of Their Compensation. Specifically, I want to review the buyer’s right to make inspections, including but not limited to the home, wood infestation, septic, and well water tests and inspections. From there, we will examine the remedies available to all parties to get to a successful closing.

When binding a purchase and sale agreement, the seller and buyer agree to the timeline for the inspection period, beginning with the buyer causing any inspections to be conducted. Upon such inspections, the buyer has options as defined in the contract to remedy any items of concern. This process is pivotal for the buyer and seller. For sellers, understanding the process and efficiently navigating it can mean the difference between a smooth sale and potential hiccups down the road. It's that big moment for a seller when the REALTOR® gets to show how dedicated they are to making things smooth and straightforward for both parties. So what’s involved?

Coordinate with the seller for the buyer’s professional home inspection. This is when agents become the bridge that connects the buyer to their home inspection dreams. By teaming up with the buyer's agent to get that inspection on the books quickly, you're not just checking a box; you're showing you're all about transparency and building trust.

Discuss the home inspector’s report with the Buyer. It is the buyer’s responsibility to review the details of the home inspection report and decide what matters to them. Not every item will be of concern to the buyer or part of the repair negotiations. Despite a common misconception, the Realtor does not dictate what should be fixed. Rather, the Realtor is a resource to help the buyer understand the report and what the inspector flagged, so the buyer can best determine which items to pursue with the seller.

Ensure seller’s compliance with inspection clause requirements. Now, let's talk about the Home Inspection Clause. This section in the contract is a big deal. It lays out what's expected from the homeowner and the buyer regarding the inspection's nitty-gritty details. Keeping on the right side of this clause is crucial, and failure to do so could jeopardize the sale or lead to a legal matter.

Assist the seller with identifying contractors to perform any required repairs. The inspection report comes back, and now there are items that need repairing. This is when a REALTOR® 's expertise can step in and help find or recommend a professional to get the job done. Quick, quality fixes can ease the buyer's mind and pave the way to a smooth closing.

Negotiate payment and oversee all required repairs on the seller’s behalf, if needed. In some cases, negotiations may arise regarding who will cover the costs of necessary repairs. Sellers need to be prepared to negotiate payment terms with the buyer. Additionally, consider offering to oversee the repairs on the seller's behalf, ensuring that the work is completed to their satisfaction and in a timely manner.

REALTORS guided the seller and buyer through the home inspection journey. And it’s all about keeping the conversation flowing and ensuring any items of concern to the buyer are addressed as part of the inspection negotiations with the seller. A REALTOR® is like an orchestra conductor, ensuring each part of the inspection process hits the right note, smoothing out any bumps along the way, and steering the whole transaction toward a happy closing.  That’s Who We R®

Continuing with our monthly Director spotlight, this year I have the privilege of serving alongside Secretary-Treasurer Mike Purcell. Mike’s dedication and passion for the association and our members are shown through the same actions he puts in place for his clients - always having their best interests at heart. You’ll see what I mean in his answers below.

What did you do before transitioning into this profession? I spent 37 years with TVA, initially as a Mechanical Engineer.  Then, I held various leadership roles in nuclear and fossil power production, including engineering, business, and training.  In 2015, I retired from Sequoyah Nuclear Plant and after working with a consulting firm and traveling the northeast, I decided to settle down and began my real estate career in 2016 working with my wife Brenda, who has been a broker for 23 years.  Interesting note, as a young married couple, Brenda and I always loved real estate and going to open houses.  So very early in our marriage, we both took real estate classes at UTC.  Al Cannon was our instructor.  I didn’t get my license then, but Brenda did and put hers in retirement until a number of years later

Your currently serving a second two-tear term on the Board and this year we’re elected as Secretary-Treasurer. Why did you choose to serve in a leadership capacity? Since I was young, I’ve always leaned towards opportunities to lead. Some of it comes from a desire to be in a position where others trust your abilities and your decision-making, and sometimes it’s just being in a position to say “yes.” As I’ve gained more experience, it has become more about service and a desire to give back to things I’m passionate about, like Greater Chattanooga Realtors. I want to serve my fellow Realtors, and be part of the decision regarding what program and services we offer as member benefits.
What would you like your fellow Realtor/members to know that our Association offers to its members? Through committee work and now in an Officer position,  I see firsthand how much our Staff, Officers, and Directors are looking out for our members and are such great advocates for our membership and the community. We work to ensure a seat at the table to help guide the conversation through education and information to keep community leaders involved and up to date with our ever-evolving market and industry.

What is your favorite part of being a Realtor? My clients. Although by nature I am an introvert, I really enjoy being accessible and helping my clients. I think k it’s the engineer in me - I enjoy solving problems and connecting them with my network of friends, business partners and other service providers to achieve their goals. I’m also a bit of a process nerd, so I’m always striving for excellence in my business approach, which results in increased satisfaction by me and my clients.

What is something your fellow Realtors do in the community that you love and want others to know about? They give back of their time, talents, and resources. Some notable examples include Snack Packs, where teams of Realtors work with other volunteers to provide weekly snack bags for children who are food insecure. Also, Realtors support Habitat for Humanity through various fundraisers and participating in builds and neighborhood revitalization projects. Another is our Placemaking Committee that identifies and recommends partnerships to improve an existing space in our community. In the last few years, Realtors have provided shade structures for the City’s pickleball courts, created a community flower garden, and cleaned up a hiking trailhead in St. Elmo.

Have you read any recent books you want to share with others? Good to Great, by Jim Collins.  While not a new book, this is a fantastic read and it delves into one of the biggest challenges we all get bogged down with - complacency.  Collins explains how Good is the enemy of Great and how being good can keep us from achieving our full potential of greatness.  

With each of these monthly spotlights, my goal is to inspire other Realtors to take up the torch as Mike has and become more involved in the inner workings of the Association. Mike has shown amazing attributes that sets him apart as a leader and as a Realtor. That’s Who We R®.

Every April, the Greater Chattanooga real estate community joins hands with Realtors across the country to celebrate Fair Housing Month. This time of the year is more than just a calendar event; it's a heartfelt reaffirmation of our collective commitment to ensuring everyone has equal access to housing. We take this month to honor the pivotal Fair Housing Act of 1968, engaging in events and educational activities that shine a light on the critical issues of housing discrimination and segregation.

Our dedication to fair housing principles isn't just an April occurrence. It's a year-long journey, passionately led by our Diversity Inclusion Committee. This group tirelessly works to promote equality and cultural diversity within our industry, striving to create an inclusive Association culture that cherishes the diverse fabric of our community.

This year, on April 23rd, we're thrilled to welcome Richard Rothstein and his daughter Leah Rothstein, the co-authors of "The Color of Law" sequel, "Just Action: How to Challenge the Segregation Enacted Under the Color of Law," at the Bessie Smith Cultural Museum. While their first book explored the history of segregated housing policies, "Just Action" aims to empower citizens with strategies to combat segregation in their communities.

Moreover, we're offering a unique opportunity for Realtors to participate in the "Bias Override: Overcoming Barriers to Fair Housing" workshop. This free online course, created by the National Association of Realtors and the Perception Institute, is designed to help Realtors recognize and reduce implicit biases in their professional interactions. It's an essential tool for fostering fair and equitable treatment in all our dealings.

We're also excited to provide the At Home With Diversity® (AHWD) certification for free to our Realtors on April 5th. This program enhances cultural sensitivity and provides a deeper understanding of fair housing laws, equipping Realtors to excel in a diverse market.

Last year, in a pioneering move, our Association and the Diversity Inclusion Committee challenged brokerages to encourage their agents to complete the "Fairhaven: A Fair Housing Simulation." This innovative training uses storytelling to confront and address discriminatory practices, offering an immersive experience that reflects real-life scenarios.

As we engage in these meaningful activities and initiatives, our aim is not just to observe a month but to weave the principles of fairness, equality, and diversity into the very fabric of our professional lives. We're not just Realtors; we're community builders, dedicated to creating a more inclusive world, one home at a time. Let's carry this spirit of Fair Housing Month throughout the year, making every interaction an opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute to the rich mosaic of our community.That’s Who We R®.

Last Friday, our members and consumers awoke to news that the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) reached a proposed agreement to resolve nationwide claims brought by home sellers related to broker commissions. This proposed settlement is a culmination of NAR’s efforts to strengthen the Association and continue to take steps to lead our industry forward.

Since that news broke, the majority of national media headlines and social posts have been false and misleading, at best. In a March 19^th press release, NAR addressed these inaccuracies stating, “NAR does not set commissions – they are negotiable. The rule that has been the subject of litigation requires only that listing brokers communicate an offer of compensation. That offer can be any amount, including zero.”

Overall, NAR’s proposed agreement is positive and provides a path forward for consumers and REALTORS®. It reinforces the importance of representation agreements to help consumers understand exactly what services and value will be provided by their REALTOR® and for how much. Also, the proposed agreement retains consumers’ rights to continue to have cooperative compensation as an option.

Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® has been preparing for how to best support our members based on the possible outcomes of the ongoing litigation. It’s important for members to focus and prepare now, in anticipation of the proposed settlement being approved. We strive to offer our members training to help them navigate the ever-changing industry, and this year is no exception.

In the recent and coming months, our focus is on buyer consultation and representation agreements, communication with and education of sellers on their options for paying buyers’ agents or offering concessions to buyers, and ways to embrace these new opportunities. To help members in these areas, our 2024 course schedule includes numerous national designations, such as the Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR), Seller Representative Specialist (SRS), and Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE) designations. Each course is designed to elevate the REALTOR®’s professionalism and personal performance in serving the consumer.

I encourage our members to learn the facts and discuss them with their buyer and seller clients to help dispel the untruths circulating. REALTORS® should review the resources available at facts.realtor, using their membership login. Also, I encourage REALTORS® to access all the many resources at competition.realtor to use in listing presentations and buyer consultations.

I am confident our leadership team and staff are prepared to support our members in continuing to be successful in providing their clients with choices and service options that bring value to each transaction.

The housing market is showing signs of healthy activity, according to the latest report for February 2024. Existing home sales have seen a notable increase, marking the most energetic pace since the previous August. The National Association of Realtors attributes this surge to dropping interest rates and a boost in inventory.

Chattanooga's real estate market, in particular, has witnessed a substantial rise in new listings indicating an influx of properties available for sale. Pending sales have also increased, a sign that more transactions are in the pipeline.
U.S. existing-home sales grew 3.1% month-over-month to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.00 million, exceeding economists’ expectations and marking the strongest sales pace since August 2023, according to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). Falling interest rates late last year, coupled with a recent uptick in inventory, helped existing-home sales to climb following last month’s decline, with monthly gains reported in the Midwest, South, and West regions.

New Listings in the Chattanooga region increased 27.0 percent to 1,201. Pending Sales were up 7.5 percent to 935. Inventory levels grew 15.7 percent to 2,053 units.
Prices continued to gain traction. The Median Sales Price increased by 3.3 percent to $306,000. Days on Market was up 5.0 percent to 42 days. Buyers felt empowered as Months Supply of Inventory was up 26.3 percent to 2.4 months.

Total inventory heading into February stood at 1.01 million units, a 2% increase from the previous month and a 3.1% increase from the same time last year, for a 3 months’ supply at the current sales pace, according to NAR. Although buyers may find additional options in their home search, inventory remains below the 5-6 months’ supply of a balanced market, and demand is exceeding supply. As a result, existing-home sales prices have continued to rise, climbing 5.1% year-over-year to $379,100.

While the market is not yet balanced, the trends suggest buyers feel empowered and have more options, even as prices continue to climb. This is a critical time for buyers and sellers to engage with the market, as the dynamics continue to evolve. With the local housing market moving in a positive direction, we are keeping our eyes on the horizon for a successful 2024. That’s Who We R®.

Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® is governed by an elected Board of Directors, and I am enjoying the cohesiveness and passion among the entire team to serve our members. So, each month, I plan to feature another Officer or Director to help our community and my fellow REALTORS® know who else is showing up to serve them.

I am honored to start these monthly features with President-Elect Ellis Gardner, whose diverse background from the NFL to electrical engineering and his profound commitment to the real estate community truly sets him apart. His leadership within the Greater Chattanooga Realtors is driven by a passion for education, mentorship, and community service, making him a pivotal figure in shaping the future of real estate in Chattanooga. So, I’ve asked him a few questions to get to know him better – his why for serving and his interests.

What did you do before transitioning into this profession? As a young man, I played three years in the NFL for the Kansas City Chiefs, Houston Oilers (now Tennessee Titans), and the Indianapolis Colts. A graduate of Georgia Tech, I am trained as an electrical engineer and still hold a professional engineer’s license. For 12 years before real estate, I was an account manager for Scientific-Atlanta, traveling 8-12 states and selling electronics to power and telephone/cable companies.

Why did you choose to serve in a leadership capacity for Greater Chattanooga REALTORS®?  Before being elected as President-Elect, I served on various committees, chaired the Member Service Committee, and served a two-year term on the Board. From my early days as the youngest of four brothers and as a freshman college football player, I benefited from the elders who mentored and shepherded the younger ones.  As I progressed, I was a three-year starter at left offensive tackle and took my place as one of the team elders, helping the incoming first-year students on the field and the campus.  Likewise, my experience with Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® was shaped by mentors like Dot Heggie, Jason Farmer, and Steve Champion. Now, it’s my turn to step forward to lead my fellow members.

What would you like your fellow REALTORS® to know that our Association offers our members?  Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® provides timely education at a subsidized rate, often complementary to members. Most of the courses advance the individual agent’s career with designations and certifications recognized by the National Association of REALTORS® and distinguish our members as REALTORS® with extra training specific to buyer representation, seller representation, negotiating, and diversity.

What is your favorite part of being a REALTOR®? In a word, negotiations. I work primarily with residential buyers and sellers. Selling a home and buying another one is a monumental task, and a home is usually the family's largest asset. Landing the buyer for a seller or finding the right home at a fair price for a buyer never gets old. I think of it as a problem to be solved and draw on my engineering background, where closing provides the satisfaction of getting the answer right.

What is something your fellow REALTORS® do in the community that you love and want others to know about?   REALTORS® are frequently the first people incoming buyers meet when moving to Chattanooga. Our new neighbors might be coming here for a job, to be close to a relative, or to retire into our Scenic City. But they do not know much about the area, so REALTORS® serve as Chattanooga’s ambassadors. I frequently provide a local history tour as I drive them around town, whether that’s Civil War historical landmarks, the development of our waterfront, or, my favorite, the style evolution of the Hunter Museum from classic old mansion to blocky 60’s contemporary to modern metal – It’s art!

Have you read any recent books you want to share with others? “Start with Why” by Simon Sinek. The book resonated with me because it gives you permission to rethink a career and make impactful changes without giving up what you have so far.

Clearly, Ellis embodies the spirit of leadership, dedication, and community engagement essential to the real estate industry. His journey from the football field to the boardroom, coupled with his commitment to education and mentorship, inspires us all. His role as a community ambassador and his passion for negotiation highlight the multifaceted nature of real estate professionals and their impact on the communities they serve. In my conversation with Ellis, I am reminded of the profound influence that dedicated individuals can have on shaping the future of real estate and the communities they help build. Ellis’s story is a testament to the power of leadership, expertise, and community service in driving positive change and fostering growth within the real estate sector. That’s Who We R®.

Real estate transactions are an intricate dance, and every step is critical. Letting your Realtor lead and relying on their expertise ensures a seamless and fruitful journey. As we continue focusing on the National Association of Realtors’ 179 Ways Agents Who Are Realtors Are Worth Every Penny of Their Compensation, here are six dance moves showcasing how a Realtor’s role extends beyond crafting and presenting offers.

Receive and review all offers to purchase. The first position in this dance begins when the agent receives and meticulously reviews the offer. This move is fundamental, as it sets the stage for the subsequent negotiations and decisions. The agent’s expertise in understanding the nuances of these offers is paramount in advising their client effectively.

Evaluate offers and prepare a net sheet for the owner. With all offers in hand, the Realtor performs a delicate balancing act, evaluating each one and preparing a detailed net sheet for the owner. This breakdown and comparison of costs and revenue associated with each offer is invaluable for owners to understand the financial outcomes of accepting each offer, providing a clear picture beyond the surface numbers.

Explain the merits and weaknesses of each offer to sellers. With the net sheet as a reference, the agent takes the seller on a deep dive into each offer’s terms, conditions, and contingencies. This conversation highlights how each offer aligns with the seller’s objectives and concerns and provides a transparent and detailed explanation so the seller can make an informed decision.

Negotiate all offers per the seller’s direction and set a time limit for loan approval and closing. Poised with the seller’s directives, the agent enters the negotiation stage, which goes far beyond the offered price. This step involves every term and condition of the offer – any financial contingencies, whether there is another property to sell, timelines for earnest money deposits, and completing the home inspection. Setting these timelines is crucial for ensuring all parties act in good faith to get from contract to closing smoothly and efficiently, avoiding unnecessary delays.

Prepare and convey counteroffers, acceptance, or amendments to the buyer’s agent. The negotiation phase often involves a sequence of back-and-forth communication between the buyer’s and seller’s agents. The seller’s agent prepares and conveys counteroffers, acceptances, or amendments as necessary. This process continues until both parties reach a mutual agreement.

Upon the parties’ acceptance of all terms, bind the Purchase & Sale Agreement. Once an “Offer to Purchase” contract is accepted, the seller’s agent is responsible for ensuring that the contract, along with any agreed-upon amendments, is delivered to the buyer’s agent in a timely manner. This final step is pivotal in moving the transaction forward to the closing phase, where the deal is officially sealed.

The role of a Realtor is multilayered and involves a combination of negotiation skills, financial insight, and a deep understanding of real estate laws and practices. Their ability to guide sellers through this complex process is invaluable in achieving a successful closing for all parties involved. That’s Who We R®.

Congratulations to …

Participants
Jenniger Grayson
Mollie Majors
Ryan May

Subscriber
Bev Boss

on their election to the 2024-2025 MLS Committee. They will serve alongside Chair Jeff Nixon, Vice Chair Sabrena Smedley, Christian Chacon, Travis Close, Jennifer Cooper, Rich Downing, and Brian Kelly.

In the shifting sands of the U.S. housing market, the latest figures sketch a tale of cautious optimism. The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) January market report breaks down the contrast between the decline in existing home sales and the significant increase in pending sales and what that might mean for the housing market's health and future trends.
U.S. existing-home sales slipped 1.0% month-over-month and were down 6.2% year-over-year as of last measure, while pending sales jumped 8.3% from the previous month, marking the largest gain since June 2020, according to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). Mortgage rates have dropped significantly from their peak last fall, and homebuyers are beginning to come out of the woodwork, with NAR forecasting a 13% increase in existing-home sales this year compared to 2023.
New Listings in the Chattanooga region increased 3.9 percent to 1,005. Pending Sales were down 11.0 percent to 805. Inventory levels grew 7.8 percent to 2,020 units.
Prices continued to gain traction. The Median Sales Price increased 10.4 percent to $320,000. Days on Market was up 11.1 percent to 40 days. Buyers felt empowered as Months Supply of Inventory was up 20.0 percent to 2.4 months.
Despite tepid sales activity, the persistent shortage of housing supply has helped prop up home values nationwide, with the median existing-home price rising 4.4% year-over-year to $382,600, according to NAR. Total unsold inventory was at 1 million units heading into January, an 11.5% decline from the
previous month, for a 3.2 months’ supply at the current sales pace. Nationally, listing activity has started to pick up, and with mortgage rates stabilizing and housing completions on the rise, inventory is expected to improve in the coming months.
The months ahead hold the key to whether these early indicators of recovery and resilience will develop into a sustained upward trend or if the market will continue to be characterized by its current patchwork of gains and losses. What remains clear is that the market is, for now, a checkerboard of contrasting dynamics, demanding a keen eye from buyers, sellers, and investors alike. That’s Who We R®.

As Cupid takes aim at the real estate market this Valentine's Day, homeowners looking to sell can make the most of the romantic spirit to attract potential buyers. With deliberate staging, you can transform your home so that buyers will fall head over heels. G.M. Filisko at Houselogic.com proposed seven inspiring tips to ensure your home steals hearts and seals deals this Valentine's season.

Start with a Clean Slate. Before you can worry about where to place furniture and which wall hanging should go where, each room in your home must be spotless. Do a thorough cleaning right down to the nitpicky details like wiping down light switch covers. Deep clean and deodorize carpets and window coverings.

Stow Away Your Clutter. It’s harder for buyers to picture themselves in your home when they’re looking at your family photos, collectibles, and knickknacks. Pack up all your personal decorations. However, don’t make spaces like mantles and coffee and end tables barren. Leave three items of varying heights on each surface, suggests Barb Schwarz of Staged Homes in Concord, Pa. For example, place a lamp, a small plant, and a book on an end table.

Scale Back on Your Furniture. When a room is packed with furniture, it looks smaller, which will make buyers think your home is less valuable than it is. Make sure buyers appreciate the size of each room by removing one or two pieces of furniture. If you have an eat-in dining area, using a small table and chair set makes the area seem bigger.

Rethink Your Furniture Placement. Highlight the flow of your rooms by arranging the furniture to guide buyers from one room to another. In each room, create a focal point on the farthest wall from the doorway and arrange the other pieces of furniture in a triangle around the focal point, advises Schwarz. In the bedroom, the bed should be the focal point. In the living room, it may be the fireplace, and your couch and sofa can form the triangle in front of it.

Add Color to Brighten Your Rooms. Brush on a fresh coat of warm, neutral-color paint in each room. Ask your real estate agent for help choosing the right shade. Then accessorize. Adding a vibrant Afghan, throw, or accent pillows for the couch will jazz up a muted living room, as will a healthy plant or a bright vase on your mantle. High-wattage bulbs in your light fixtures will also brighten up rooms and basements.

Set the Scene. Lay logs in the fireplace and set your dining room table with dishes and a centerpiece of fresh fruit or flowers. Create other vignettes throughout the home — such as a chess game in progress — to help buyers envision living there. Replace heavy curtains with sheer ones that let in more light.
Make your bathrooms feel luxurious by adding a new shower curtain, towels, and fancy guest soaps (after you put all your personal toiletry items out of sight). Judiciously add subtle potpourri, scented candles, or boil water with a bit of vanilla mixed in. If you have pets, clean bedding frequently and spray an odor remover before each showing.

Make the Entrance Grand. Mow your lawn and trim your hedges and turn on the sprinklers for 30 minutes before showings to make your lawn sparkle. If flowers or plants don’t surround your home’s entrance, add a pot of bright flowers. Top it all off by buying a new doormat and adding a seasonal wreath to your front door.

Here are some additional suggestions to compliment the ones provided by G.M. Filisko at Houselogic.com.

Design a Welcoming Ambiance. Infuse your home with a comfortable and inviting atmosphere by incorporating loving touches throughout. Soft, dim lighting can create a warm, relaxed ambiance, while scented candles or fragrant flowers add a delightful sensory experience. Consider playing soft music in the background to enhance those warm fuzzy feelings further.

Curate Cozy and Inviting Spaces. Create inviting nooks and cozy corners where prospective buyers can envision themselves cuddling up with a loved one. Arrange plush throws and cushions on sofas or armchairs and set the scene with a tray of gourmet chocolates or sweets for an added touch of luxury.

Appeal to the Senses. Incense the home with fragrances that stimulate the senses by incorporating indulgent elements throughout your home. Freshly baked cookies or a pot of fresh herbs on the stove can create a welcoming aroma, while plush textures and luxurious fabrics appeal to the sense of touch. Consider offering sweet treats or beverages during open houses to leave a lasting impression on potential buyers.

Embracing these tips, homeowners have an opportunity to leave a lasting impression on buyers that is designed to evoke warm, fuzzy feelings and create an atmosphere that sparks love at first sight. So, as love fills the air this Valentine's season, let your home draw buyers in with its irresistible charm and leave them eager to make it their own. That’s Who We R®.

Bobby C. Brackett, father-in-law to Marie Brackett (Greater Chattanooga REALTORS®), passed away on February 6, 2024. Services were held on February 8, 2024.

I get asked regularly, “Why should I use a REALTOR® when I can save money doing it on my own?”  I know this question can be frustrating at times, and I understand that a REALTOR®'s role is often underestimated. Some may wonder whether REALTORS®’ services are truly worth the compensation they’re paid. The National Association of REALTORS® compiled 179 Ways Agents Who Are REALTORS® Are Worth Every Penny of Their Compensation. So, throughout this year, I plan to delve a little deeper into the 179 Ways to spotlight the complexity of buying or selling a property and why the REALTORS®' role is essential. So here goes …

Make an appointment with the seller for a listing presentation. This first step may seem simple enough, but it’s more complicated than it seems. This crucial first step is challenging with everyone's busy schedules in today's world. It's not only about finding a convenient time but also about initiating a professional and personal connection. Unless it’s a referral, these relationships are built over time. By setting up this meeting that meets the client's needs, you begin the journey toward understanding the seller's goals, expectations, and unique circumstances. This initial appointment also allows the Realtor to demonstrate their dedication and expertise, reassuring the seller that they are in capable hands.

Send the seller written confirmation of the listing appointment and call to confirm. Once a REALTOR® confirms the appointment with their seller, sending a follow-up email or text quickly is essential. This written confirmation showcases their professionalism and ensures that all parties are on the same page regarding the appointment details. However, the communication doesn't end with an email or text. A follow-up call to reconfirm the appointment adds a personal touch and demonstrates their commitment to the seller. It also allows for any last-minute appointment changes or questions to be addressed, reassuring the seller that their needs are top priority. This proactive approach sets the stage for a successful listing presentation and instills confidence in their Realtor abilities.

Review pre-appointment questions. This step is more than a checklist; it’s the key to unlocking valuable insights about the seller and their property. This review of questions enables the REALTOR® to tailor the listing presentation precisely to the seller’s needs and anticipate potential challenges to address them proactively during the meeting. Reviewing these questions demonstrates the REALTOR®' commitment to providing a personalized and effective service, setting a solid foundation for a successful collaboration with the seller.

Research all comparable currently listed properties. REALTORS® can thoroughly research all comparable properties listed in their seller’s area. This meticulous investigation goes beyond simple data collection; it involves an in-depth analysis of similar properties on the market. REALTORS® can gain valuable insights into the competition, pricing trends, and unique selling points of each property by analyzing these other listings. This research equips them with the knowledge needed to effectively position their seller's property and stand out in the market. It's not just about gathering facts and figures; it's about creating a compelling strategy highlighting their client's property among the competition, ultimately leading to a successful sale.

Research sales activity from the local broker marketplaces and public records databases. For a REALTOR® to complete the comparable analysis, it is essential they subscribe and cover the associated fees for access to the local broker marketplace, commonly known as the multiple listing service (MLS). The MLS serves as a central hub, aggregating property listings from various REALTORS® and brokerage firms into a unified database. This comprehensive platform equips REALTORS® with up-to-date information on local sales activity and access to public records databases. Utilizing the MLS is instrumental in furnishing REALTORS® with the essential data required to make well-informed decisions regarding property pricing and negotiations and to keep abreast of prevailing market trends.

We’re only getting started on the 179 Ways, yet the multifaceted roles of REALTORS® are already evident, emphasizing that their value extends far beyond what meets the eye. Throughout this year, I will highlight more of the 179 Ways. In the meantime, be assured that REALTORS® are dedicated professionals committed to navigating the complexities of real estate transactions with expertise, ensuring their clients' success in buying or selling their properties. That’s Who We R®.

Hite & Sharpe Announced as Award Recipient During January 25th Installation & Awards Reception

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (Jan. 29, 2024) – Mark Hite & Steven Sharpe were named 2023 Realtors of the Year by fellow real estate professionals with Greater Chattanooga Realtors. The award was presented at the Association’s recent Installment & Awards Reception.

The Realtor of the Year award is given to a Realtor in recognition of their contributions to the real estate industry, the community, and the local and state Associations. Mark Hite and Steven Sharpe not only were active members of the Association but continuously and consistently participated in civic activities to better causes in Greater Chattanooga while encouraging and inspiring others to do the same.

Mark Hite served on nearly every local committee and twice served as President for Greater Chattanooga Realtors®. Mark was involved in several charitable organizations, including Cempa, Chambliss Center, Habitat, Rotary, Pink, CHI Memorial, Launch Pad, American Heart Association, and American Cancer Society. He was quick to jump in and help with his time, his experience, and his checkbook, contributing more than $200,000 annually to local nonprofits and did so with a kind heart and a mindset of community stewardship giving a hand up, not a handout.  

Steven Sharpe served on nearly every local committee and was the 2023 Greater Chattanooga Realtors® President. Steven served as a state Director and also served on five state committees. In 2023, Steven was awarded Good Neighbor by TN Realtors, which propelled him to be in the top 10 finalists for the National Association of Realtors Good Neighbor Award for co-founding with his wife, Lindsey, Camp Horizon, a camp for kids with special needs. Steven was a Realtor Party Major Investor and was involved at the national level, serving as a Director and on the Leadership Edge Advisory Board.

“We will forever cherish the time we had with Mark and Steven and will value the impact they had on our association, our members, and our community,” said Kadi Brown, 2024 Greater Chattanooga Realtors® President. “Their void is felt by so many, but their memories and legacies will not disappear,” said Brown.

Smedley Announced as Award Recipient During January 25th Installation & Awards Reception

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (Jan. 29, 2024) – During the annual Installation & Awards Reception, Greater Chattanooga Realtors® presented the George Kangles Community Citizenship Award to local Realtor® Sabrena Smedley. The award was established in 2011 to remember the efforts of the late George Kangles and his dedication to serving the community and the Association. Mr. Kangles’ governmental and political affairs work on behalf of the Association at the local, state, and national level was unprecedented. George’s commitment to governmental and political affairs should be an example to all of us that we, too, can make a difference in not only our industry but our community as well.

The award honors a Realtor who has a demonstrated positive and discernible impact on the governmental affairs activities of the Association affecting the real estate industry and our community at state and local levels. Unlike many others, this award is presented only to signal a distinct recognition of the worthiest recipients who meet the ideals embodied in the award. Since 2011, the Award has only been presented six times exemplifying the very select few who have personified such an achievement.

Sabrena Smedley, the 2023 George Kangles Community Citizenship Award Recipient, was elected to the Hamilton County Commission in 2014 and served through 2022. Smedley has a passion for local governance and has been an advocate for local property issues.

Smedley served her community as an elected official, while also being a wife, mother of three and full-time Realtor. Her dedication and passion for governmental and political advocacy is exemplary. Smedley’s impact on the Association has been essential to the role Realtors continue to play in local government and politics.

“It means so much to be honored with this prestigious award by my peers,” said Smedley. “It is truly an honor to receive this award. George Kangles left a tremendous legacy in our community,” said Smedley

Brown Announced as Award Recipient During January 25th Installation & Awards Reception

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (Jan. 29, 2024) – During the annual Installation & Awards Reception, Greater Chattanooga Realtors® presented the Good Neighbor Award to Realtor® Darlene Brown. The award was established to honor a Realtor for their exceptional contributions to their community through volunteer work within the year, or consecutive years, preceding the presentation of the award.

Brown and her brokerage (Real Estate Partners) support various charities in our community, including Habitat for Humanity, Snack Packs, Mckamey Animal Center, and the Back to School Bash for Hamilton County.  Brown was instrumental in achieving something never done until this past December – ensuring that every veteran’s grave at Chattanooga National Cemetery had a wreath on it.

Darlene has a love for local community service. She has a father and brother buried at the National Cemetery. This past year, Darlene challenged her company, her friends, her peers, her clients, her loved ones, and our local Association to participate in Wreaths Across Chattanooga. Through a deep respect for her they all came together and raised $35,330. And that’s just last year. Since 2021, Darlene has helped raise a total of nearly $100,000 for Wreaths Across Chattanooga.

“What an honor it is to receive this award from my peers,” said Darlene Brown.  “Wreaths Across Chattanooga is an organization near and dear to my heart, and giving back to those who have given so much to us is a small thing that we all can do. Thank you all so much,” said Brown

New Officers and Directors Sworn in During January 25th Installation & Awards Reception

CHATTANOOGA, TN. (Jan 26, 2024) – Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® joined together on January 25, 2024, to install this year’s officers and directors. A total of 12 REALTORS® were sworn into office, including President Kadi Brown, President-Elect Ellis Gardner, Secretary-Treasurer Mike Purcell, and MLS Chair Jeff Nixon.

Sworn in as Directors were Paige Batten, Connie Brewer, Teresa Clegg, Holly Harwell, Natalie Hostetler, Denise Murphy, Karen Parris, and James Streeter.

President Kadi Brown has been a Realtor for nearly 18 years and was elected by her peers to serve the highest office of the Association.

Upon being sworn in, President Brown gave the following remarks: “To the group of leaders who came before us, thank you. Thank you for raising your hand to lead, for being passionate, for showing up and giving it your all. You have laid an incredible path for us to continue down.”

Brown added, “To the returning board members ready to continue leaning in and pushing forward and to the new board members eager to embark on a new journey, I say let’s do it. And let's lean all the way in and give it our all for not only our members but for our profession overall. . Let us focus on what we can do instead of what we can’t do.”

Also, Brown thanked her business partner and past president Jason Farmer saying, “I would not be here without you. I can never say thank you enough for pushing me, challenging me and encouraging me to step outside my comfort level and igniting a passion within me to lean in.”

Brown shared her thematic goal for the year to ignite others and closed with a Maya Angelou quote – Let nothing dim the light that singes from within – and challenged all those in attendance, “ That, my friends, is what we need to remember. We each have the power to ignite change and empower others to do the same.”

In this fast-paced world of real estate, technology has become an indispensable ally for Realtors. According to the National Association of Realtors’ Realtor Technology Survey, technology tools are not just a convenience but a vital asset, with Realtors finding them incredibly useful in streamlining their business processes and enhancing their services.

As the industry continues to embrace digital solutions, this insight from Realtors themselves offers a compelling narrative of how technology is reshaping the way they operate and engage with clients. Looking back over the last 12 months, Realtors responding to the Survey ranked these three tools as the most impactful on their business: eSignature (79%), lockbox/showing tech (66%), and Cloud storage (48%).

eSignature allows Realtors to meet consumers where they are, literally, and the convenience of signing agency agreements, contracts, and disclosures without having to meet in-person every step of the way. Also, the Realtor can immediately send those fully executed documents to keep all parties in the loop with each step, from listing presentation offer, contract, inspection, and closing.

Electronic lockboxes allow Realtors to secure and access keys to listed properties, and access data about each time a lockbox is opened. Related to the lockboxes are the ease of booking showings online. In Greater Chattanooga, Realtors can set up the showing service to notify sellers via call, text, or email, if they wish to be part of the showing confirmation process. Also, the showing service provides data about who showed the property and any feedback provided.

Cloud storage has redefined the way real estate professionals store, access, and share crucial information. By leveraging the power of the cloud, Realtors can bid farewell to the limitations of traditional storage methods such as physical servers or hard drives. Instead, they can securely store their data on remote servers, accessible from anywhere with an internet connection. This accessibility is a game-changer, allowing Realtors to retrieve essential documents or property information on the go, whether they are in the office, at a client meeting, or even traveling.

To highlight another tool that was covered in this study is Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI is rapidly transforming the real estate industry, and Realtors are recognizing its potential to revolutionize the way they work and interact with clients. As AI continues to evolve, Realtors are proactively seeking to understand its impact on their business and the service they provide to their clients.

One of the ways Realtors are learning about AI is through educational programs and training sessions. Many real estate organizations and associations offer workshops, webinars, and courses focused on AI in real estate. Greater Chattanooga Realtors will be teaming up with the Huntsville Area Association of Realtors to host the 2nd annual Elev8 Realtor Tech Conference (April 11-12). This tech conference event is designed for real estate professionals looking to stay ahead of the curve in this ever-changing world of real estate technology. Be on the lookout for more details and registration in the future.

These surveys offer a glimpse into the current connection of technology and real estate professionals, revealing the tools they currently use and hinting at future trends. As technology continues to advance, these insights provide an exciting preview of what the future holds. By watching the development of tools over time, Realtors can gain valuable insights into their potential advantages, making them indispensable assets for real estate professionals aiming to stay ahead and deliver top-notch service to their clients. That’s Who We R®.

As the real estate landscape continues to evolve in the Greater Chattanooga area, the recent drop in mortgage rates presents a potentially transformative scenario for the housing market. This rate decrease could catalyze a resurgence in existing home sales in the coming months.

U.S. existing-home sales rose from a 13-year low, climbing 0.8% from the previous month and breaking a five-month streak in which sales declined, according to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). Despite the increase, sales were down 7.3% compared to last year, as affordability challenges continue to hinder prospective buyers. Most of this period’s closed sales went under contract in October when mortgage rates were at a two-decade high. With rates having dropped more than a full percentage point since then, existing home sales may continue to pick up in the months ahead.

New Listings in the Chattanooga region increased 6.6 percent to 754. Pending Sales were down 3.2 percent to 613. Inventory levels grew 0.8 percent to 2,044 units.

Prices continued to gain traction. The Median Sales Price increased 1.1 percent to $303,275. Days on Market was up 9.4 percent to 35 days. Buyers felt empowered as Months Supply of Inventory was up 9.1 percent to 2.4 months.

Low levels of inventory continue to impact U.S. home sales, offering few options for aspiring buyers. Going into December, there were 1.13 million units for sale, down 1.7% from the previous month but up 0.9% from the same period last year, for a 3.5 months’ supply at the current sales pace. As a result, sales prices remain high nationwide, with NAR reporting the median existing-home price rose 4% annually to $387,600 as of last measure, the fifth consecutive month of year-over-year price gains. Homebuyer demand is picking up, and without a significant increase in supply, experts believe home prices will likely remain elevated for some time to come.

The coming months will be crucial in determining whether this trend will solidify, leading to a more robust and dynamic housing market. Employing a Realtor is the most effective strategy for maneuvering through the present housing market. Our possession of cutting-edge tools and access to the most recent market data positions us ideally to cater to the home purchasing requirements of our community. That’s Who We R®.

2024 is officially underway, and as 2024 President of Greater Chattanooga REALTORS, I want to take this opportunity to tell you a bit about myself, what I hope we can take from our past, where we find ourselves currently, and what I hope we bring into the future; 2024 and beyond.

I became a REALTOR in 2006, but my path to get here certainly had many twists and turns. I grew up here in Chattanooga and graduated from Auburn University. After living in California for a bit, a need to be closer to my family brought me back home. I have always had a passion for helping others, and with my background in sociology and psychology, I accepted a position in social services with the State of TN Department of Children’s Services. As I followed my heart in the social services sector for some time, an unpromoted opportunity presented itself to work in the newly launched Outdoor Chattanooga department for the City of Chattanooga. It was during this time that I witnessed how partnerships between the public and private sectors, such as the 21st Century Waterfront Plan, could drastically improve our community and make it a better place. During this time, I also began taking real estate classes at night. I started my real estate career assisting with large land transactions and soon found a calling to shift my focus to the residential side of real estate.

I know what you’re thinking. “Wow, that’s a pretty diverse work history.” It is, but after reflecting on these experiences, I see that no matter where you find yourself, positive things can happen if you’re open to an opportunity, willing to make a change and trust the people you surround yourself with.

Late last year, The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) unveiled Ignite Others. This program spoke to me. It promotes REALTORS “igniting others” by getting involved in different areas to inspire action, make a lasting impact, and shine a light on our community. I especially love this line from NAR: “Together, we shine brighter.”

It’s well-known that we’ve been dealt some heavy blows in the real estate world here in the past few weeks. We recently lost two Greater Chattanooga Realtors® Presidents – Mark Hite (2012 and 2017) and Steven Sharpe (2023). So many in our industry and entire community feel the absence of these dear friends. Putting the two of them next to each other might seem like they didn’t have much in common. But these two giants of our industry were the embodiment of “Igniting Others.” Just ask around. You don’t have to search hard to see that these two leaders served others and gave back in many ways.

If you stop and think about it, real estate is pretty funny. Realtors tend to be competitive by nature, and it can be tempting to focus on yourself and your own business, especially if you’re just starting out.  But over my years in real estate, I’ve learned that giving yourself and your energy to others is much more rewarding.

And so this is my focus in the new year and my challenge to others, whether you’re in real estate or not. Take the time to speak a kind word and serve others. Some sayings become cliches, but that doesn’t make them any less true. Just like throwing a rock into a pond, toss some kindness and positivity into your world, and I promise you’ll be delighted at what you see in the ripples.

REALTORS and my colleagues, let’s do our best to serve our community because That’s Who We R®.

Former member Stephen “Steve” DeWayne Hixson (Hixson & Company RE, LLC.), son of Bill Hixson (Hixson & Company RE, LLC), passed away on January 7. Visitation is scheduled for January 10, 5-6pm at Lane Funeral Hoome, with a memorial service immeidately following. https://www.lanefh.com/tributes/Stephen-Hixson

Charles "Beau" Christy (father to Jill Christy (Keller Williams), and grandfather to Jerica Bell (Keller Williams) and Jerica's husband, Jason Durham (Keller Williams)) passed away on January 1. Visitation will be at Ridout’s Funeral Home (Trussville, AL) on January 4, 5-7pm, with the service on January 5 at 1pm.

Past President Mark Hite (Real Estate Partners) passed away on January 2. From Real Estate Partners: There will be a Celebration of Life honoring Mark at Christ UMC on E Brainerd Rd on Saturday, January 13th at 11:00 am. Please come wearing your boldest and brightest colors to represent the happiness, joy and promise that Mark so dearly believed in and passed on to everyone he knew.

As the holiday glitter gets swept up, it's time to get our homes back in order. But aside from putting away decorations, where do you start? Gabriela Barkho at Houselogic.com has five tips that will save time, money, and hassles all year long:

Organize Your Seasonal Storage Space. Packing away holiday decor presents a big opportunity. It's the best time to sort, declutter, and reorganize that space where you store your seasonal stuff. So before simply stuffing your holiday things back in there somewhere, take inventory; then sort, filter, donate, trash, and re-home as many of your things as possible. It'll help keep you more organized all year long, and make it easier to find all your holiday stuff next year.

Deep-Clean the Kitchen. All of that holiday merriment-making is rough on a kitchen. Give it a good deep cleaning now that the glittery dust has settled. Purge your pantry and frisk your fridge, passing what you can on to local food banks. Scrub the walls and kickboards, and even pull those appliances right out from the walls for a thorough vacuuming to prevent gunk (and stinks!) from accumulating.

Plan Summertime Projects Now (Especially if You Need a Pro). Finalize plans for any landscaping, decks, patios, or other outdoor projects that need warm weather. Two good reasons: If you're DIYing, you'll be ready to roll at the first hint of nice weather. That way, you'll be less affected by any supply chain shortages and have your improved yard ready to enjoy by summer.

Or if you're hiring a contractor or other professional, getting your bids and contracts in place now will save you from competing with the spring rush. If you wait too long, you may not be able to book anyone.

Create a Schedule to Clean ALL Your Home's Filters. It's not just your HVAC. The filters in your fridge, your vacuum cleaner, your dryer, your air filter, and other household items need to be changed or cleaned at least once a year to be effective, usually more often, especially your dehumidifier. Yucky mold grows easily there. Check manufacturer instructions for all the filters in your home, and create a master schedule; then add them to your calendar app to remind you.

Save Some Green at White Sales. Linens and towels go on sale in January. It's a long-standing retail tradition that started back when linens only came in white (hence the name), and it still has a solid rep as a money-saver. Cut your threadbare bath towels into rags and restock your supply, plus fill in any gaps in your bed linens you may have noticed if you had a house full of holiday guests.

Thanks for those tips, Gabriela. Regardless of the time of year, one constant is expertise of a REALTOR®. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell property, REALTORS have the knowledge and tools to make sure you get the most out of your investment. That’s Who We R®.

There’s a saying that the only consistent thing in life is change. This saying is true in any line of work, but if you’re involved in real estate, this is especially true. No one could have seen the ripple effects that a global pandemic would have in 2020 or the frenzy in real estate that was a direct effect of it. In the wake of COVID, people all over the country took a look at where they lived, and many chose to make a change.

As a result of inflation, mortgage rates rose to their highest levels in 20+ years, nearly 8%. Because of these increased rates, home sales dropped from their dizzying levels just months prior. The housing market has been somewhat stagnant, but the recent drop in mortgage rates has caused some housing experts to say that 2024 might be a return to a more predictable homebuying cycle.

Dr. Jessica Lautz, Deputy Chief Economist & Vice President of NAR Research, recently wrote that first-time homebuyers, who have been on the sideline in recent months, might be poised to enter the market: “Mortgage interest rates continued to incrementally decline, dropping to 6.67% from 6.95% last week. For a $400,000 home, this is a monthly mortgage payment of $2,059-a monthly savings of $242 from when rates were at 7.79% in October. Mortgage interest rates for the 30-year fixed are also nearly a full percentage below the historical average since 1971 of 7.74%.

Dr. Lautz continues. “First-time buyers traditionally fare better in the winter, as there is less competition from families in the homebuying market. November’s REALTORS Confidence Index shows first-time buyers up at 31% from 28% the past month. This represents a buying period when mortgage rates were still high. Home buyers who have been priced out in the last year should find optimism in 2024.”

As Dr. Lautz pointed out, these dropping rates mean real money in homebuyer’s pockets. But if these rates keep falling, first-time homebuyers might find themselves in a similar spot to what homebuyers faced in 2020 and 2021: a fast market where multiple offers and cash offers are the norm. The solution to these issues is increased housing inventory, and there might not be enough properties to satisfy the demand. The National Association of REALTORS® Research Group, releasing a study of the markets with the most pent-up housing demand commented, “The current housing shortfall has been accumulating over decades. After the mid-2000s housing boom, the U.S. has consistently underbuilt compared to the historical average. Furthermore, with mortgage rates hovering around 7 percent for most of the year, fewer homeowners opted to list their homes in 2023. This rate is nearly 1.7 percentage points higher than the average rate in 2022. Consequently, this long-standing underbuilding issue and the rate lock-in effect continued to keep housing inventory low throughout the year.”

So, what does this mean to those looking to buy or sell a home in 2024? No one has a crystal ball, but signs are pointing toward a possible return to normal for mortgage rates, meaning more people are looking to buy. This increased activity might benefit those looking to sell since housing inventory remains lower than the historical average. In short, these factors need to be considered when looking to purchase and consulting a REALTOR® to help guide you through the process. A REALTOR will be your trusted guide throughout what could be a fast and frantic process. REALTORS work for their clients and communities every day. That’s Who We R®.

REALTORS absolutely love data. If you don’t believe me,  just ask us. Neighborhood reports, comparative market analysis, market statistics; we can produce those in the blink of an eye. Data is how we measure where we’ve been, and helps us look forward to where we might be heading. Looking at the recent past, people with even a basic understanding of the real estate market are aware that the last 12-18 months have been a challenge at times. Inflation, and as a result rising mortgage interest rates, have thrown a curve ball for people looking to purchase and sell property, not to mention those of us who assist in real estate transactions.

A few weeks ago, the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) released one of their most anticipated reports of the year, the 2023 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers. This report covers real estate transactions over the past year (July 2022 through  June 2023) and really gathers some interesting data points.

Here are some key takeaways I found from this report:

• The median household income for home buyers jumped to $107,000 from $88,000 from the previous year. This shows how the entry into homeownership has increased this past year.
• First-time homebuyers made up 32% of all home buyers, up from last year’s historic low of 26%, but still below the average of 38% since 1981.
• The typical down payments for first-time buyers (8%) and repeat buyers (19%) were the highest since 1997 and 2005, respectively.
• 70% of recent buyers did not have a child under the age of 18 in their home, the highest share recorded. By comparison, in 1985, 42% of households did not have a child under the age of 18.

This report clearly has a lot of data, but what does it mean? What’s something that the general public can use in their lives? I think this data point is most crucial: This report shows that 89% of both buyers and sellers used a REALTOR®, up from 86% and 87% in the last two years. This statistic shows that even in times when the market is shifting, the need for a trusted expert is absolutely crucial. Our knowledge can help guide clients through the ups and downs of our housing market, and help get the most out of your investment. That’s Who We R®.

Arthur Purcell, father an dfather-in-law to Mike and Brenda Purcell (RE/MAX Renaissance), passed away on December 13. 

Visitation will be at Chattanooga Funeral Home North Chapel in Hixson on Tueday, December 19, 10:30am-12pm with the service immediately following. Burial with military honors will be at National Cemetery Tuesday at 1:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Senior Ministries at Ridgedale Baptist Church.

The real estate community is devastated to have lost President Steven Sharpe to cancer this past week. He leaves behind his wife Lindsey, and twin daughters Molly and McKenzie, who cherished him as a loving husband and father.

Steven has exemplified what it means to be a true servant leader. Those of us on Staff had a front-row seat to Steven’s leadership abilities. With every decision, Steven had the members and the good of the Association at the top of mind. His loss is felt by all of us in the REALTOR community.

In each of our roles with Greater Chattanooga Realtors®, Staff works closely with our volunteer leadership, and we are fortunate to have known and learned from him. Whether the task at hand was planning a member event, promoting an educational class, supporting our community partners, or crafting messages about current market conditions, Steven’s passion for teaching and helping others succeed shone through at all times.

I know if he were to read this message, Steven would roll his eyes and laugh uncomfortably at being on the receiving end of all this attention. Yet, we felt it best to use this space to convey some of the reasons Steven was special to so many.

Steven was not to be overlooked or ignored. Well over six feet, Steven’s presence was unmistakable. Several of his friends have said that upon first meeting him, his stature would often be intimidating. However, once you spoke with Steven, it quickly became apparent that you were dealing with someone thoughtful and measured. And once you got to know Steven, you’d experience how hilarious he could be. Steven was known for having a fantastically dry and sarcastic sense of humor. Derek English, 2023 Immediate Past President, recounts the time they spent together, “Over the past three years, we traveled to local, state, and national events together. Our time was not just about advocacy for our industry but was also full of laughter and friendship. Steven had the most genuine wit of anyone I have known, and his humor was only outweighed by his compassion and understanding of our industry.”

Steven was undoubtedly a real estate expert. His knowledge and expertise were legendary by those who worked with him in real estate matters. Steven took teachable moments and used them to help make everyone better. If there was an issue, you could be sure that Steven would find a solution.
Steven was never one to stand on the sidelines and not be in on the action, and he went out of his way to get different perspectives and personalities involved in association leadership. Although soft-spoken, Steven could be very persuasive. He was not shy in his efforts to get others involved in serving their fellow REALTORS in leadership roles. Winnie Paris, 2023 Chair of the Diversity Inclusion Committee knows this very well, “One day, I was telling Steven of some of the challenges I faced being a woman of color in real estate, and he asked me if I was going to complain or do something about it. He said to get involved in the association and make a difference because no one wanted to hear me complain.”

Steven certainly walked the walk when it came to being a leader. Over his years in real estate, Steven led in many capacities, both locally and statewide. At Greater Chattanooga Realtors, Steven served on multiple committees, including Budget & Finance, Bylaws, Grievance, Member Services, Professional Standards, and Strategic Planning. He served as 2019-2020 Director, 2021 Secretary-Treasurer, 2022 President-Elect, and as President in 2023. On the state level for Tennessee Realtors®, he served on Professional Standards, Residential Forms, and Risk Management Committee, and was also a 2021-2023 Director. For the National Association of Realtors®, Steven was on the 2023 Leading Edge Advisory Board, and served as a 2023 Director.

With this much experience, you might expect such a person to be boisterous and brash, but this was never the case. Kadi Brown, 2023 President-Elect of Greater Chattanooga Realtors®, witnessed his leadership style firsthand. “I had such respect and admiration for Steven. He had such an impact and always carried himself as a quiet leader with a humble heart for serving others.”

Steven’s dedication to service wasn’t confined just to serving clients’ real estate needs. In 2005, Steven and his wife Lindsey founded Camp Horizon, a camp designed for children with special needs. Earlier this year, Steven was recognized for his work with Camp Horizon by being awarded the Tennessee REALTORS’ 2023 Good Neighbor Award. This recognition led to his being named by the National Association of REALTORS® as a top 10 finalist to receive the National Good Neighbor Award. To say Camp Horizon was a passion of Steven’s would be a massive understatement. Camp Horizon has helped nearly 500 kids have the time of their life.

One of the campers is Grayson, son of Laura Ledbetter, who is a REALTOR and worked with Steven. Laura says that once Steven learned of her son Grayson, he was insistent on Grayson attending Camp Horizon. “Steven ran to my desk and handed me a pamphlet for Camp Horizon. He said that Grayson would have the absolute time of his life, and he was right. I literally wept at the closing ceremony. I was blown away at all the hard work Steven, his wife Lindsey, and all the volunteers had done to give my sweet boy and his friends a camp experience.”

As dedicated as Steven was to his profession and helping others, it was obvious to everyone that Steven was most proud of his family. Everyone I’ve spoken with mentioned that Steven would immediately light up when you asked about his daughters. If you asked Steven about McKenzie’s soccer tournament or Molly’s tennis match, you would see Steven beam with pride. Steven was also well aware that his wife Lindsey was the glue that held their family together. In all things, Steven loved “doing life” with Lindsey and cherished her above all else.

I’ll echo what others have said – Steven was selfless in his time and energy. Steven gave his all. Steven ALWAYS showed up and was truly present. And in his tragically abbreviated time here with us, he gave us all something to aspire to: truly selfless service of others.

And now we miss him, and it hurts terribly. All I can say is that I know that I, and the others who were lucky enough to call him a friend will remember him and hold his memory close as we strive to be better humans… all thanks to his example.

Steven was a longtime member of Hixson United Methodist Church, so I believe it’s fitting to close this tribute with some scripture that has comforted me in sad and trying times:

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalms 34:18.

Peace and rest to Steven, and love and comfort to his friends and family.

President Steven Sharpe (Keller Williams) passed away on December 2, 2023. 

Some of you may know Steven was diagnosed in 2018 with neuroendocrine cancer. He has been stable without much impact on his family’s lives until recently, where they have seen significant progression of the cancer over the last few months.

They were at a stage with limited options in recent weeks but still had options. Due to complications with a recent procedure, Steven has been in ICU since mid-week. The news of his paasing is unexpected and devastating.

Steven has been a true servant leader this year and in the years leading up to his presidency. With every decision, Steven has had the members and the betterment of the Association at the top of mind. His loss will be felt by all of us.

The family has provided this information on visitation and memorial service, https://www.chattanoogan.com/2023/12/3/479127/Steven-Nicholas-Sharpe.aspx

I’ve always looked forward to the National Association of REALTORS® Fall Conference, and this year was certainly no exception. Earlier in November, thousands of REALTORS® gathered to “Own the Moment” at NAR NXT, The REALTOR® Experience in Anaheim. It was a great opportunity to network, hear engaging speakers, and look ahead to what might impact the real estate industry and homeownership across the country.

I believe that we all should continue to make ourselves better, and that’s part of the reason I love these meetings so much; there’s always something to learn. For example, in one of our meetings, NAR’s Chief Advocacy Officer Shannon McGahn outlined the current challenges that Congress faces in an era of unprecedented division. "NAR is built for moments like this," said McGahn. "With friends and respect on both sides of the aisle, it has proven time and again to be effective in a divided government. Our mission is to support the policies and the policymakers who support Realtors® and consumers."

Whether you’re in real estate or not, it’s clear that there’s an issue with housing affordability and inventory. Joe Harris, NAR's Vice President of Government Advocacy focused on what is being done to help consumers. "The More Homes on the Market Act is an example; that's something that has gotten tremendous support and response from legislators because the issue is becoming more and more real as time goes on," said Harris. "You can't help but be affected by it. It underscores the importance of our work in terms of empowering the middle of the governing wings of both parties. The More Homes on the Market, the Neighborhood Homes Investment Act, tax credits and incentives to give private investment, and converting some of these underutilized office spaces - what we're doing with legislation like this is keeping the economy going.”

Hearing what’s being done with housing legislation was certainly enlightening, but there was another hot topic at our conference; Artificial Intelligence. AI has been on everyone’s mind, and thankfully NAR had a multitude of experts address the evolving role of technology in the real estate landscape. Speakers spoke of how AI is helping their business; whether it’s creating marketing materials, creating real-time driving directions for showing properties, or even building relationships with consumers.

Regardless of your occupation, I urge everyone to seek out these opportunities to learn from their peers and other experts in their respective fields. Continuing education rewards curiosity, and helps us adapt when the need arises, which has been crucial in navigating the real estate industry these past few years. But whether you’re looking to buy or sell real estate, it’s important to utilize the expertise of a REALTOR®. REALTORS have the tools and knowledge necessary to adapt to your needs when the market requires it. That’s Who We R®.

With guest season and the holidays coming fast and furious, you want to be sure your home is cozy.
Here are some tips from Stacey Freed at Houselogic.com on how to make that happen, along with a few other timely tips.

Wash Bed Pillows. You love your trusty, old, perfectly-snugged-to-your-head pillow. But guess what's also snug against your head? Fungus, 4 to 16 species to be precise. Not very welcoming! With fall being the height of guest season, you'll want your guest pillows fresh, too. Pop them in the washing machine and dryer for an all-over clean feeling. But be sure to check the manufacturer’s advice, too. Some pillows shouldn't be washed – replace them instead.

Clean the Mattress. Sleeping soundly gets even better when you know you're lying on a clean and fresh mattress. Over time, skin cells and sweat get into the mattress, then dust mites show up for a dinner party featuring those tasty skin cell morsels.

You'll want your guest mattress to be at its freshest. It's easy to do: Vacuum it and then wipe it down with a cloth dampened with an upholstery shampoo. But be sure to let it dry; otherwise, you're inviting mold. Also, be sure to rotate it 180 degrees to help keep it lump-free. If you've got a flippable mattress, go ahead and flip it. That, too, can help kill the yucky mites.

Insulate Windows. Bone-chilling drafts seriously detract from the cozy vibe you want. Keep it cozy by hanging drapes as close to your windows as possible to help you keep the heat inside. You can even add clear Velcro strips or dots to the back of the drape and attach to fasteners on the wall to help insulate. Be sure to cross one drape over the other when you close up for the night. Insulating shades can do the trick, too.

Trim Tree Branches. The last thing you need is a winter storm knocking down a mighty tree whose branches are angling over your roof. Long limbs invite pests to explore your roof for excess water to seep into cracks in the roof or siding. Homeowners should keep limbs and branches at least 3 feet from the house. Plus, it's easier to trim branches after leaves have fallen. And if it’s an evergreen, you'll have greenery for the holidays!

Get a Chimney Sweep to Inspect the Fireplace. It's time to dust off and sweep the chimney! Best to hire someone who knows wood-burning fireplaces. A professional chimney sweep will ensure your wood-burning fireplace burns more efficiently and will help prevent chimney fires and carbon monoxide poisoning during the winter. Also, if you don't already have a chimney cap, this is also the time to add one to stop wild outdoor critters from crawling down it and into your house.

Every day, and throughout every season, Realtors® help their clients and community get the most out of their property investment all year long. That’s Who We R®.

The Nominating Committee presents the following candidates for the 2024-2025 Board of Directors:

2024-24 COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR

FRAZIER DEVANEY (NAI Charter)

I am a third-generation commercial member of Greater Chattanooga REALTORS®. While serving on the Commercial Services Advisory Group, I felt the need to further my involvement with the Association. I believe it is important to have representation by an involved Commercial REALTOR®, who can understand and represent commercial members. I want to further contribute to the Association by advocating for the needs of our commercial members. I can bring a level of community involvement, professionalism, and experience that can represent the commercial agents in Chattanooga. 

LOCAL: Commercial Services Advisory Group (2023)

CHAPTERS & COUNCILS: Building Owners & Managers Association (BOMA) (2023 President); Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM) (2019-present, Executive Council)

COMMUNITY: Metropolitan Ministries - King Oehmig Memorial Classic (2023 Chairman); Rotaract (2023)

BUSINESS ACCOMPLISHMENTS: CityScope “The Gold Club” Identifying 30 Influence Business Leaders (2023); NAI Global Young Professional Council (2019-present); NAI Global Elite Corporate Services: Office Group (2022-present); Masters in Commercial Properties, Lipsey School of Real Estate (2020)

NATALIE HOSTETLER (CBRE)

As a lifelong Chattanoogan and daughter of a REALTOR®, I feel that giving my time and talent to further support the Association by serving as Commercial Director is not only an honor, it's my duty! Training and development as a strong foundation for success is my mantra, and I look forward to sharing knowledge about governance and Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® role as a voice for real estate in Greater Chattanooga in a fun, inclusive, and inspiring way.

CHAPTERS & COUNCILS: CBRE Women's Council (2023); ICSC Retail Council (2019); SIOR Candidate (2023); SVN Healthcare Real Estate Council (2022 National Director)

COMMUNITY: Member, Tennessee Medical Group Management Association-Chattanooga Chapter;  Heart Association Fundraising Board; American Cancer Society Fundraising Board; Lookout Mountain School Annual Fund Chair; Junior League of Chattanooga (2008-2011 Executive Board Member)

BUSINESS ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Wharton School of Business ICSC University Graduate (2012); Chattanooga Times Free Press “Best of the Best” Award, Commercial Real Estate (2021-2022); CoStar Power Broker “Top Transaction Volume, Office Leasing” (2018-21); CoStar Power Broker “Top Transaction Volume, Industrial Leasing” (2019); SVN|Second Story Real Estate Core Value Award (2022)

Across the U.S., sales of existing homes recently fell to a 13-year low, dropping 2.0% month-over-month and 15.4% year-over-year as of last measure, according to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), as surging interest rates and elevated sales prices continue to make homeownership unaffordable for many prospective buyers. Purchase activity is down significantly compared to this time last year, but rising interest rates are also keeping many current homeowners from selling, causing inventory to remain at historically low levels nationwide.

Total national housing inventory going into October was at 1.13 million units, up 2.7% from the previous month but down 8.1% compared to the same time last year, for a 3.4 months’ supply at the current sales pace, according to NAR. The shortage of homes for sale is making it harder for buyers to find a home to
purchase while at the same time pushing sales prices higher nationwide, with the median existing-home sales price rising 2.8% annually to $394,300, the third consecutive month of year-over-year price increases.

Looking locally, New Listings in the Chattanooga region increased 7.2% over October 2022 (1,066) to 1,143. Pending Sales were up 2.4% over October 2022 (778) to 797. Inventory levels shrank 8.3% from October 2022 (2,314) to 2,122 units. Prices continued to gain traction. The Median Sales Price increased 4.1% over October 2022 ($302,500) to $315,000. Days on Market was up 15.4% from October 2022 (26 days) to 30 days. Buyers felt empowered as Months Supply of Inventory was up 4.2% from October 2022 (2.4 months) to 2.5 months.

Regardless of what’s happening around the corner, or around the country, your best bet is utilizing the services of a Realtor®. Realtors work with their clients every day to help ensure that they get the most from their most valuable investment. That’s Who We R®.

“You’re a REALTOR®? All you do is drive around in big cars and put signs in people’s front yards, right?” I’ll admit, over the past couple of years, I’ve heard variations of this notion more than a few times. After all, everyone knew that the real estate market was hotter than it had been in recent memory. It wasn’t out of the question for a newly listed property to have multiple offers above the asking price just hours after hitting the local broker marketplace place, otherwise known as the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). It was the norm. And honestly, these favorable market conditions led some to enter the real estate profession thinking that real estate was an easy gig, a great way to make a quick buck.

And then what happened? To fight inflation, the Fed raised interest rates to their highest point in 20 years. Interest rates rose to more than 7%, and suddenly, real estate wasn’t so “easy.”  Having been a REALTOR® since 2007, I have experienced fast and not-so-fast markets, which is what most of the country is experiencing now. Sure, folks are still purchasing homes and securing business space, but these recent months have been a real “back to basics” for those who practice residential and commercial real estate.

For REALTORS®, “Back to Basics” means fully educating our clients and the public on what is involved in a successful real estate transaction. The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) recently compiled a list of the different services provided by REALTORS®. This list of 179 items spans all aspects of the transaction, from preparing the preliminary Comparable Market Analysis (CMA) and establishing fair market value to entering property data in the MLS and negotiating from offer to closing.

So yes, there’s much more involved than just putting a sign in the front yard. And like any working person, we don’t work for free.

You might have seen a recent court ruling involving NAR where the plaintiffs claimed real estate commission rates were too high, buyer brokers were paid too much, and NAR’s rules and industry practices led to set pricing.  Those of us in the real estate industry disagree strongly with this ruling, and NAR has begun the appeal process.

The reality is that NAR rules prioritize consumers, support market-driven pricing, and promote business competition. We stand by the fact that NAR’s guidance for local broker marketplaces ensures that consumers get comprehensive, equitable, transparent, and reliable home information and that brokerages of any size, service, or pricing model get a fair opportunity to compete.

So, how does real estate compensation work exactly? Simply put, the seller and that person’s listing broker agree on the amount the listing broker will receive for the services they provide to the seller. The listing broker and seller also discuss and agree upon an amount the listing broker will pay a broker who successfully closes the transaction with a ready, willing, and able buyer.  But sometimes, details in these types of matters can get confused. Let’s look at some key facts:

Commissions are always negotiable. Commissions can be negotiated at any point throughout the transaction, including at the outset, after the results of a home inspection and after an offer has been made. Sellers negotiate with their broker what fee they are willing to pay for their broker’s services and what fee they are willing to pay a buyer broker for finding someone who wants to buy their home.

There are different commission models to choose from. Buyers have many different choices about which broker they want to work with in terms of everything from the commission model to a real estate agent’s particular expertise to the agents’ customer service approach. In the full-service approach, commissions are negotiable at any point during the homebuying process. The reduced service/discounted fee model allows for flexible offerings and pricing. The flat fee approach allows buyers to negotiate a set price per service.

Commission rates are set by the market. The free market organically establishes commission costs within local real estate markets based on service, consumer preference and what the market can bear, among other things. NAR’s guidelines ensure that the listing broker advises all other participants in their local broker marketplace what the amount of compensation to the buyer’s broker will be for closing the sale. That amount is determined by the seller and the seller’s broker. Commissions fluctuate over time, including having decreased steadily in recent years and having fallen to a new low of 4.94% in 2020.

Commissions cannot be included as part of a mortgage. Unlike mortgage broker fees, closing costs, and appraisals, real estate sales commissions are not directly linked to the mortgage loan production and, therefore cannot be financed. By definition, a mortgage is a lien against a property, which means the property itself serves as the asset that the lender can take back to recoup value if the borrower defaults. Commissions, on the other hand, are based on a service provided and there is no way for the lender to recover the value of the service in the event of a default on the mortgage. Further, lenders rely on investors to purchase mortgages to help fund these loans. Since mortgages do not include personal services today, if that changed and mortgages started to cover costs that are not secured by the property, lenders and investors may be less willing to lend and invest, and mortgages could be more costly.

REALTORS® are bound by a strict code of ethics in the homebuying process. REALTORS® are bound by NAR’s Code of Ethics to always further clients’ best interests, including showing homes that meet buyers’ needs regardless of compensation offered. Additionally, in November 2020, NAR introduced its Fair House Action Plan, abbreviated “ACT,” which emphasizes (A)ccountability, (C)ulture Change, and (T)raining in order to ensure America’s 1.5 million REALTORS® are doing everything possible to protect housing rights in America.

Broker cooperation keeps local broker marketplaces from fracturing. Because of broker cooperation, buyer and seller brokers are incentivized to share their information in their local, independent broker data hub. Without it, lack of complete, transparent and accessible data for all would mean smaller brokerages and new entrants have to piecemeal information and couldn’t offer as many options to sellers and buyers, and larger brokerages would dominate local markets, creating emerging behemoths that would drive up costs.

Listing and buyer brokers contributing to local broker marketplaces sets the U.S. real estate industry apart from the rest of the world. The U.S. model has long been – and is still – viewed as the best option for consumers around the world. Buyers abroad are forced to wade through a complex and fragmented market where they have to work with multiple brokerages and where there is no exclusivity so sales can fall through. Generally, the homebuying process abroad is similar to buying a car in the United States where you have to go dealer to dealer, it’s very time-consuming and impersonal. It’s also common for brokers to charge fees and taxes in other countries that add up to the equivalent or greater of costs associated with buying and selling property in the U.S., yet only provide a fraction of the services consumers receive here.

Still have questions? I would recommend people visit the website Competition.Realtor to get a more complete view as to how NAR and REALTORS® help consumers with their most valuable investment.

REALTORS® are everyday working Americans who are experts at helping consumers navigate the complexities of home purchases and advocates for fair housing and wealth building for all. Real estate transactions are no walk in the park, but as REALTORS® we are compensated to provide the best service to our clients and their homebuying and selling needs, and we will continue to serve our clients and communities to the best of our abilities. Because That’s Who We R®.

Whether you’ve been looking to buy a house or car or even finance a large home appliance, it’s no secret that interest rates have gone up sharply in the past few years.

Anat Nusinovich, an Economist for the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), recently summarized the drastic difference in interest rates in such a short period. “Between 2018 and 2022, most mortgage applicants (around 5 and a half million people) received a mortgage rate below 3%. However, the average U.S. rate between those years was 4.22%, and only 3.8 million applicants received a rate close to the average. The lowest number of applicants (52,000) received a rate between 9% - 9.5%, and only 88,000 applicants received a rate of 10% and above.”

Nusinovich continues. “In contrast, in 2022, only 282,302 applicants received a rate below 3%. That year, most applicants (914,682) secured a rate between 5.5% and 6% on their loans, a substantially higher rate than the previous years because of the Federal Reserve’s rate hikes. In addition, 846,996 applicants received a rate between 4.5% and 5%, and only 20,934 applicants received a rate above 10%.”

Ok, so that’s a lot of numbers, but it boils down to this: From 2018-2022, most people who were approved for a mortgage were able to secure a rate below 3%, and currently, most applicants since 2022 are sitting around 5.5% and 6%. Since home prices have not fallen substantially, these higher rates can significantly limit the type and size of home one can afford.

Where do we go from here? Dr. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at NAR, forecasts that the 30-year fixed mortgage rate will average 6.9% for 2023 and decrease to an average of 6.3% in 2024, while the unemployment rate will lower to 3.7% in 2023 before increasing to 4.1% in 2024.

NAR also predicts existing home sales will decrease 17.5% in 2023, settling at 4.15 million, before rising 13.5% to 4.71 million in 2024. Compared to last year, national median existing-home prices are projected to remain stable in 2023 – edging higher by 0.1% to $386,700, before increasing by 0.7% next year to $389,500. Housing starts will drop 10.4% from 2022 to 2023, to 1.39 million, before rising to 1.48 million, or 6.5%, in 2024.

“Because of homebuilders’ ability to create more inventory, new-home sales could be higher this year despite increasing mortgage rates. This underscores the importance of increased inventory in helping to get the overall housing market moving,” said Yun.

NAR expects newly constructed home sales will grow from last year by 4.5% in 2023 to 670,000 – because of additional inventory in this market segment – and increase by another 19.4% in 2024, to 800,000. The national median new home price will drop by 5.9% this year to $430,800, and improve by 3.5% next year to $445,800.

Taken all at once, this data shows the importance of being able to “move” quickly if market conditions become favorable to your specific economic circumstance. But this data also shows that it might be more beneficial to wait before entering the market if that’s a possibility. One constant is the need to consult a REALTOR® for your homebuying needs. With their advanced tools and expertise, utilizing the services of a REALTOR® is the best way to protect your most valuable investment. REALTORS® work for their clients and communities every day. That’s Who We R®.

Imagine watching your favorite college team. If you’re like me, it certainly isn’t hard to imagine. As your favorite team snaps the ball, it’s clear that they’re running like a finely oiled machine. The offensive line makes the correct blocks, the running backs leave the other team staggering, and your quarterback is making plays that look like they’re out of a comic book. You think your favorite team has it all together, but then you see your team’s defense – sloppy tackles and undisciplined plays.

When watching your team, you didn’t have the complete picture of what was happening. The real estate market can be similar. Real estate isn’t just houses. A comprehensive view of the real estate market looks at the residential and commercial sectors.

Commercial real estate refers to properties specifically intended for business purposes. This category includes many property types, such as office buildings, retail spaces like malls and storefronts, industrial sites like warehouses and manufacturing facilities, hotels and motels, and multifamily complexes. While residential real estate is focused on where people live, commercial real estate is geared towards property that generates a profit, whether by rental income or business operations.

So, how does the commercial market look in our area? Thankfully, NAR Research frequently examines their Commercial Real Estate Metro Market Report, which provides insight into the nation’s largest metropolitan commercial real estate markets. Each report evaluates many factors affecting the market, including indicators on a metro area's economic and demographic conditions and commercial market indicators on net absorption, vacancy rates, rent, deliveries, inventory, total sales volume, and cap rates based on CoStar® market data.

The Commercial Real Estate Metro Market Report for Q2 of 2023 revealed some interesting data. For example, in Greater Chattanooga, wage growth was up 4.5% from June 2022 to June 2023. The national wage growth percentage was 3.7%, so our area is outperforming the national average. For retail space, demand for retail space is stronger than nationwide as this area has a faster absorption of retail space. As a result, rent prices rose faster here than nationally, and the vacancy rate is lower in this area.

As far as multifamily housing goes, demand for multifamily space is stronger than nationwide, as this area has a faster absorption of multifamily space. As a result, rent prices rose faster than nationwide in this area.

All this data shows that whether you’re looking to find a place for your business, or finding a place to call home, utilizing the expertise of a REALTOR® is the best place to start. REALTORS have the know-how to help guide you in your property purchasing or selling needs. That’s Who We R®.

September means cooling temperatures, and with it, a somewhat cooling housing market. Nationally,  sales of existing homes recently fell to a 7-month low, as surging borrowing costs, rising sales prices, and limited inventory continue to keep many would-be buyers out of the market. Borrowers have become increasingly sensitive to fluctuations in mortgage rates, which have remained above 7% since mid-August. With fewer buyers able to afford the costs of homeownership, existing-home sales declined 0.7% month-over-month and were down 15.3% year-over-year, according to the National Association of REALTORS®(NAR).

Across the country, prices have continued to increase this fall despite softening home sales as a lack of inventory has kept the market competitive for prospective buyers, sparking bidding wars and causing homes to sell for above asking price in some areas. Heading into September there were only 1.1 million units available for sale, 0.9% fewer than a month ago and 14.1% fewer than the same period last year, according to NAR. As a result, the U.S. median existing-home sales price rose 3.9% year-over-year to $407,100, marking the third consecutive month that the median sales price topped $400,000.

Looking locally, New Listings in the Chattanooga region decreased 6.4% from September 2022 (1,204) to 1,127. Pending Sales were down 9.3% from September 2022 (903) to 819. Inventory levels shrank 11.5%  from September 2022 (2,244) to 1,986 units. Prices continued to gain traction. The Median Sales Price increased 5.0% from September 2022 ($306,500) to $321,900. Days on Market was up 29.2%  from September 2022 (24 days) to 31 days. Buyers felt empowered as Months Supply of Inventory was up 4.5% from September 2022 (2.2 months) to 2.3 months.

Whether you’re looking across the state or the country, real estate markets can vary greatly. This is why the expertise of a REALTOR® is so crucial. REALTORS® not only have a deep understanding of the current market conditions but also possess insights into potential future trends. REALTORS®, with our extensive training, experience, and adherence to a strict code of ethics demonstrate we can help guide through the complexities of real estate transactions. By leveraging a REALTOR®'s expertise, homebuyers and sellers can make informed decisions, helping to optimize your most valuable investment and minimize potential risks. That’s Who We R®.

I often joke real estate has as many acronyms as the military. Whether we’re talking about designations and certifications or industry lingo such as FHA (Federal Housing Administration) loans, FMV (fair market value), or ARV (after repair value), it seems like Realtors have an abbreviation for everything.

After a while, many of these letters can blend, and we can forget their meaning. One of those that gets thrown around is for our National Association of Realtors or NAR. Occasionally, folks in my office ask, “What does NAR do for me?” If Realtors have questions about our national organization, I know the general public does, too. I admit when considering the scope of a national organization, we often overlook how it functions and or impacts Realtors, including our clients and customers.

First, let’s explore how Realtors fit into the hierarchy of our different organizations. To become a Realtor, one must hold a real estate license and belong to a local association. Realtors in the greater Chattanooga area belong to Greater Chattanooga Realtors, and depending on which state their office is located, they belong to a state association, either the Georgia Association of Realtors or Tennessee Realtors. Above the various state associations is, you guessed it, the National Association of Realtors.

Realtors often have a better grasp of the functions of their local and state associations. After all, these organizations provide continuing education and serve as “boots on the ground” for our local area. But what about NAR? How can an organization this large impact its nearly 1.5 million members nationwide?

While serving a diverse group of members working in various real estate disciplines – residential real estate brokerage, property management, commercial and industrial real estate brokerage, land brokerage, real estate appraisal, real estate counseling, real estate syndication, real estate auction, and international real estate – NAR serves many functions to support its members all across the country. Some of NAR’s key roles include:

Advocacy and Representation: NAR represents Realtors at the local, state, and national level on issues relevant to the real estate industry, including public policy matters and legislation. They actively lobby on behalf of their members to promote and protect the interests of real estate professionals and property owners. For example, a few weeks ago a potential government shutdown was looming, and with it, a possible lapse of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which would impact 20,000 communities nationwide. NAR launched a massive advocacy blitz, which included a rare nationwide call for action, and Congress passed a last-minute spending deal on September 30 to avert a government shutdown and extend the NFIP. Other advocacy efforts in recent years include federal solutions to expand affordable housing options, enabling the redevelopment of under-utilized shopping centers, and expanding access to broadband in underserved areas.

Education: Complimenting the continuing education classes hosted by local associations, NAR and its affiliated institutes, societies, and councils empower Realtors to increase their professionalism, expertise, and ethical standards in specific disciplines. Through NAR, members can achieve 17 designations and 15 certifications. These training opportunities help Realtors better serve the public in an ever-changing market. Designation and certification courses focus on specific topics, including smart homes, short sales, investing, resorts and second homes, military relocation, and industrial and office space, to name a few.

Code of Ethics: Realtors pledge to uphold a strict Code of Ethics, which ensures they operate with integrity and fairness. NAR oversees the code enforcement process through policies and procedures for formal ethics complaints and arbitration requests, as well as mediation and ombudsman services provided by the Realtor’s local or state association. NAR’s dispute resolution options provide consistency as to how the Code of Ethics is enforced and helps ensure a high level of professionalism the public should expect.

Research and Data: NAR conducts and publishes research on various aspects of the real estate industry, providing valuable insights, statistics, and trends that help Realtors make informed decisions and understand the market. Why is this data important? From the Commercial Lending Survey and Analysis on Office-To-Housing Conversion to the Home Buyer & Seller Generational Trends and Migration Trends, NAR’s this trove of information helps REALTORS, and the clients they serve, get a more complete picture of the housing market in a local, regional, and national context.

Legal Support: NAR provides legal assistance and resources to help members navigate the complex regulations and potential liabilities they might face in their profession. This includes clarifications on emerging legal issues like drone usage or data privacy.

In short, the National Association of Realtors acts as a comprehensive support system for real estate professionals, aiming to promote the success, professionalism, and ethical behavior of all its members, regardless of where they’re located. Realtors have a network of organizations that help provide expert service in real estate to all those who are looking to be involved in real estate transactions. Regardless of where a Realtor may hang their hat, one constant is that they serve their clients and communities every day. That’s Who We R®.

Being a REALTOR®, clients and friends often ask me, “When is the best time of year to buy a home?” Obviously, there are many factors at play, but it seems like a new study from realtor.com might have a specific answer to that question, and the time to buy seems to be now.

The Best Time To Buy report from realtor.com shows that historically the week of Oct. 1–7 brings the strongest balance of market conditions, with greater home listings, less buyer competition, and lower prices compared to other times of the year.

Melissa Dittmann Tracey, contributing editor for REALTOR® Magazine, breaks down why this time is more advantageous for buyers:

“Realtor.com® predicts 17% more active listings this week than at the beginning of the year. Home buyers this fall could save more than $15,000 compared to this summer’s peak home price of $445,000, realtor.com® says. Buyers also may have more time to make a decision, with homes in many markets taking a week longer to sell than during the peak buying season earlier this year. The study also notes that homes tend to have price reductions Oct. 1–7, typically falling 3.3% compared to the typical season high.”

Tracey continues. “Home buyers likely will have more options to choose from this fall than in the summer, but they will continue to face limited inventory. The National Association of REALTORS® has reported ongoing housing shortages plaguing many markets. Still, realtor.com® projects about 12% more active listings for this week than the average week of the year based on seasonal inventory trends.

Home buyers also can expect less competition. This summer, many markets saw a return to multiple-offer situations. NAR data shows that homes listed in August received an average of three offers. While there may still be more competition than pre-pandemic, buyers can expect demand to be 18.7% lower than peak buying periods in 2023 and 13.5% lower than the average week.”

Thanks for this insight, Melissa. so what if you aren’t able to purchase a new home during this time? No need to fret, because when you utilize the expertise of a REALTOR®, you are sure to be in good hands with your most valuable investment. REALTORS work for their clients and communities all year round. That’s Who We R®.

Click here for the Revised 2023 Proposed Amendments.

Following the September 5, 2023, notice to the members of the 2023 Proposed Amendments, members posed questions and requested additional clarifications. In response, the Board of Directors postponed the membership vote and at their September 28th meeting:

•  Reaffirmed their recommendation and support of the proposed amendments.

•  Approved revisions to two of the proposed amendments as outlined below:

-  Removal of Officers & Directors. The Board of Directors amended the proposed amendment with new language provided and recommended by the Association’s legal counsel to set a more reasonable standard and comply with state law. (See page 5 of the Revised 2023 Proposed Amendments)

-  Date by which a President-Elect will be Elected: Due to the delay in voting on the 2023 Proposed Amendments, the Board of Directors amended the date for 2023 to December 15, and retained the November 15 date for future years. (See page 22 of the Revised 2023 Proposed Amendments)

-  Added clarifications and denoted the dates on which each proposed amendment was approved/recommended/reaffirmed by the Bylaws Committee, Governance Presidential Advisory Group, Board of Directors, or Legal Counsel. (See gray highlights throughout the Revised 2023 Proposed Amendments.)

Any changes from the September 5 notice of the 2023 Proposed Amendments are denoted within the Revised 2023 Proposed Amendments via gray highlights.

Timeline for Voting on 2023 Proposed Bylaws Amendments:

•  September 29: Notice to all Members of the revised 2023 Proposed Bylaws Amendments.

•  October 6-12: Voting via AssociationVoting.com.

-  On Friday, October 6, each REALTOR® member eligible* to vote will receive an email with their unique voting credentials link to the online voting platform.

-  Voting will remain open until 5 pm on Thursday, October 12.

-  *Eligibility is determined by the REALTOR^® member being current with all financial and disciplinary obligations to the Association and MLS and having completed any new member requirements.

•  October 13: Announce results.

BACKGROUND: Early this year, President Steven Sharpe appointed a Presidential Advisory Group* (PAG) to:

• Review the nominations and elections process for the Board of Directors; and
• Consider any improvements to ensure continuity and succession planning for elected leadership.

In addition to approving the PAG recommendations, the Bylaws Committee** identified various housekeeping and operational items to streamline within the Bylaws. After thorough consideration and vetting by the PAG and Bylaws Committee, the Board of Directors*** puts forth the 2023 Proposed Amendments to the Bylaws.

The 2023 Proposed Amendments are organized into three categories – Governance, Operational, and Housekeeping – as outlined below.

GOVERNANCE

• To allow for more diversity, eliminate the automatic appointments to the Nominating Committee, which would be comprised of seven (7) REALTOR® members appointed from among the past presidents, current or past Directors, and current or past committee chairs.
• Provide REALTOR® members more opportunities to vote and serve on the Board of Directors by replacing automatic Director appointments with two (2) Director positions voted on by the members.
• Mirror the state and national process for electing the Officers, meaning the members vote on the Directors, who in turn elect the Officers.

OPERATIONAL

• Clarify the steps taken for member accounts with outstanding balances.
• For the annual dues billing/collection, reduce the time frame, eliminate the reinstatement and late fees, and provide for the suspension of a delinquent member and member firms prior to termination.

HOUSEKEEPING

• Clarify the dues exemption for REALTOR® Emeritus members (40+ consecutive years)
• Remove the longstanding harassment provision, which has since been replaced with a more comprehensive Code of Conduct and Anti-Harassment policy
• Provide a more reasonable process for suspending or removing an Officer or Director
• Clarify the exceptions to Robert’s Rules of Order due to the existence of policies and procedures that exist outside of the Bylaws.
• Allow for more nimble governance by removing the list of standing committees, except for the minimum recommended by the National Association of REALTORS®
• Clarify the President’s role regarding committees.
• Clarify a breach of confidentiality by a committee member could result in removal from a committee.
• Clarify that remote participation of Officers and Directors in meetings is not limited to participation by telephone.
• Resolve the inconsistency between the timeframe for completing New Member Orientation and MLS Orientation.
• Clarify the CEO’s role in providing assistance to the Secretary-Treasurer regarding record keeping.
• Clarify the definition of firms caps for the Officers and Directors
• Remove the outdated and unnecessary language related to the 2017 reorganization of the MLS as a Committee of the Association.
• Clarify the distinction between the Annual Election and Annual Meeting.
• Correct numbering inconsistencies throughout the Bylaws due to various changes in recent years.

*The PAG is comprised of: Robert Backer, Robert Baker, Steven Champion, Travis Close, Randy Durham, Jennifer Grayson, Dan Griess, Jeff Nixon, Mike Purcell, and Kathy Tucker.

**The Bylaws Committee is comprised of: Chair Robert Baker, Director Liaison Mike Purcell, Susan Barnette, Teresa Clegg, Garrett Cox, Rolanda Daniel, Ken Fryar, Jennifer Grayson, Steven LaMar, Todd Maynor, Amy Mullins, Kristin Porter, and VIcki Trapp

***The 2023 Board of Directors is comprised of: President Steven Sharpe, President-Elect Kadi Brown, Secretary-Treasurer Bev Boss, MLS Chair Jeff Nixon, Immediate Past President Derek English, Connie Brewer, Brian Erwin, Robert Fisher, Holly Harwell, Ryan May, Karen Parris, Rolanda Pullen, Mike Purcell, and James Streeter.

In light of emails and texts circulating to encourage members to vote against the 2023 Proposed Bylaws Amendments, we paused the voting on the proposed amendments. We do not intend our comments below to tell you how to vote on any of the proposed amendments but to clarify inaccuracies and address speculations included in those unofficial Association communications.

Request to delay the Bylaws vote until clarifications are provided. This request to postpone the initial vote is unusual in that the Bylaws currently provide for a week’s notice to the membership prior to any voting.

Proposed Amendments were not discussed/reviewed by the Board of Directors. These allegations are false and insinuate that elected leadership or Staff have not followed proper protocols. The compilation of proposed amendments stemmed from a multi-year process. Before being put forth to a vote by the membership, each proposed amendment was vetted by a current or past Bylaws Committee, Board of Directors, or, in some cases, a Presidential Advisory Group (PAG) appointed to focus on a specific issue. Also, the Association’s legal counsel reviewed and provided guidance on every proposed amendment. The revised PDF of the 2023 Proposed Amendments contain the dates of each review.

Misconception that the Bylaws Vote is “All” or “None.” The original and revised PDF of the 2023 Proposed Amendments outlines 11 proposed amendments, for which members can vote “yes” or “no” on each of the 11 proposals.

Lack of Reference to Specific Articles or Sections/Request for a Redlined Version of the Entire Bylaws/Providing Clarity to the Members Missed the Mark

• The intent of the brief video in the September 5^th and 11^th e-newsletters was to highlight but not detail every single item being put forth.
• The weekly e-newsletter directed members to gcar.net for a detailed PDF detailing every Article or Section of the Bylaws that would be impacted. The revised PDF of the 2023 Proposed Amendments includes clarifications referenced throughout this document.
• Proposed amendments have never included a redlined version of the entire Bylaws. Each proposed amendment provided what would be accomplished, the rationale, and any changes denoted with strikethroughs (deletions) and underlines (additions) to the impacted Articles and Sections.
• There was a typo in the rationale for the proposed amendment regarding Secretary-Treasurer, which has since been corrected and denoted in the revised PDF of the 2023 Proposed Amendments.

Restructuring of Nominating Committee. While the size of the Nominating Committee would remain the same (7 REALTORS®the Governance PAG recommended a change in how the committee is comprised/appointed. The PAG was concerned that the automatic appointment of the four most recent past presidents limits the opportunity for balance and diversity. Also, the PAG wanted to ensure all those appointed to the Nominating Committee are currently engaged with the Association and from a larger pool of members (past presidents or current/past officers, directors, or committee chairs) with a check-and-balance of requiring said appointments to be affirmed by the Board of Directors. Also, by expanding the pool of who can serve on the Nominating Committee, more members would have more voice in the election process.

How are REALTOR^® members gaining more opportunities to vote for and serve on the Board of Directors?

• Historically, the Commercial Council President had an automatic seat on the Board of Directors. Since the Board of Directors replaced the Commercial Council with the Commercial Services Advisory Board, there is no Council President. In 2022, the Board of Directors approved a new process for filling this former automatic seat – the Commercial Services Advisory Board will provide the Nominating Committee with up to two names for the ballot, to be voted on by all REALTOR® members.
• Due to the inactivity of the Northwest Georgia Council, the Council President’s automatic seat on the Board of Directors would no longer exist. Instead of reducing the size of the Board of Directors, it was determined to keep this Director position and have it be a regular Director position voted on by all REALTOR® members.
• While unrelated and since some have questioned it, the MLS Chair is an automatic appointment by the President (with restrictions on firms). This provision would not change.

Mirror the state and national process for electing the Officers, meaning the members vote on the Directors, who elect the Officers. Some members are mistakenly saying only the current Board of Directors would vote on the President-Elect. To clarify, the current and incoming/newly-elected Directors would vote on the President-Elect and Secretary-Treasurer. While this proposed amendment does shift the Officer elections away from the membership, the new process puts more importance on the membership’s election of Directors. Also, it ensures those electing the Association’s highest offices are those members most engaged with the Association’s current programs and initiatives.

Clarify the steps taken for member accounts with outstanding balances.

• This action in the proposed amendment regarding financial obligations is for fees outside of annual dues renewal and MLS renewal (e.g., REALTOR® Store purchase, class/event no-show fees). Staff already performs these steps, and this proposed amendment simply reaffirms to all members their financial obligations.
• Some members have mistakenly stated this amendment would create a new process for annual membership dues and MLS fees by making these dues and fees the responsibility of the Designated REALTOR^® or MLS Participant. However, this process already is in place and prescribed by the National Association of REALTORS® that (1) the Designated REALTOR®’s annual dues are the dues amount times the number of licensees affiliated with his firm, and (2) the MLS Participant’s annual fees are the fee amount times the number of licensees affiliated with his firm unless a licensee provides a waiver that they already subscribe to another MLS and waive their right to have access to our MLS.
• NOTE: The Association has directly invoiced members individually for annual membership dues and MLS fees for many years. This direct invoicing is a courtesy to the Designated REALTORS^® and MLS Participants. It does not negate the ultimate responsibility of the Designated REALTOR® or MLS Participant for the dues/fees times the number of licensees affiliated with their firm.

Why are we requiring a REALTOR^® Emeritus to have service at the national level? This service requirement is from the National Association of REALTORS®. The only intent of this proposed amendment is to affirm that process and reaffirm that any Designated REALTOR^® who is also a REALTOR^® Emeritus whose membership dues are waived remains responsible for the membership dues of his affiliated licensees.

Why are we making it easier to remove an Officer or Director? Our Bylaws have a nearly impossible requirement of a unanimous vote of all other Directors for removing an Officer or Director for cause. And while our Bylaws are silent on removal without cause, TN law requires only a 2/3 vote for removal without cause. The Association’s Legal Counsel recommends adoption of the revised proposed amendment.

Why are certain committees being phased out? Why are certain committees left in the Bylaws that no longer are in place?

• This proposed amendment significantly reduces the number of Standing Committees from the Bylaws. However, removing them only eliminates the requirement (not the committees) that they must be appointed yearly so that we are always in compliance with our Bylaws. For example, we went several years without a Diversity Inclusion Committee. And we have some committees (RPAC, Placemaking, Scholarship) that were never added to the Bylaws. So the thinking is to list only the ones that are the bare minimum per NAR and not keep changing the Bylaws every time we add or remove one (or change the name of one.)
• Grievance and Professional Standards were left in because if we ever opted out of the statewide program (or the state discontinued the service), we wouldn’t have to change the Bylaws again. And it’s OK to leave them in as we have those committees by opting into the statewide program and our members serving on them at the state level.

Clarifying the Chief Staff Executive’s/CEO’s role in providing assistance to the Secretary-Treasurer. This proposed amendment resulted from a conversation about removing “Secretary” from “Secretary-Treasurer,” which ended up not being put forth as a proposed amendment. However, based on advice from legal counsel, it was agreed to clarify the CEO assists the Secretary-Treasurer with administrative tasks. After discussing whether “chief staff executive” should be changed to “CEO,” the Board of Directors determined “chief staff executive” was sufficient as in some cases, the CEO might delegate the responsibility to another staff member.

Timeline for Voting on 2023 Proposed Bylaws Amendments

September 29: Notice to all Members of the revised 2023 Proposed Bylaws Amendments.

 October 6-12: Voting via AssociationVoting.com.

• On Friday, October 6, each REALTOR® member eligible* to vote will receive an email with their unique voting credentials link to the online voting platform.
• Voting will remain open until 5 pm on Thursday, October 12.
• *Eligibility is determined by the REALTOR® member being current with all financial and disciplinary obligations to the Association and MLS and having completed any new member requirements.

October 13: Announce results.

Now that the oppressive heat of summer is (hopefully) behind us, it’s time to focus on some other important things coming this fall. No, I’m not talking about football or tailgating, I’m referring to tasks that may have been overlooked because of the heat of summer. Fall is a great time to give your house a little extra love and maintenance.

So where are some places to begin? Kelley Walters, in a recent article on the National Association of REALTORS®’ Houselogic.com, gave some very helpful tips on how to stay ahead of some home maintenance projects this fall:

Stain the Deck. Help your deck field what winter throws at it by re-staining it this month. September's cooler temps and lower humidity make it the ideal time for this project.

Check Fire Extinguishers. According to the Red Cross, fires increase in the fall and winter. Keep your home fire safe by getting your fire extinguishers checked by a certified professional. Fire extinguishers do break down and malfunction. In fact, after six years they need to be emptied and reloaded. If you haven't already, buy one for each floor, and don’t forget the garage.

Spruce Up the Yard. Aerate your lawn, reseed or fertilize it if needed, and plant perennials and shrubs, which might even be on sale now. Your lawn will green up faster after winter, and the shrubs and perennials will have a chance to establish roots before the first freeze.

Inspect Your Home's Exterior. Spending money on roof repairs is no party, but neither is handing out buckets to the family to catch leaks in a winter storm. Inspect your roof and other big-ticket items, like siding, grading, and gutters before you've got problems. You'll cut costs by fixing them now and staying dry and warm all winter long.

Thanks to Kelley for these helpful starting points. Preventative maintenance in the fall is an investment that ensures safety, saves money, and secures the comfort and well-being of individuals throughout the winter months. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell real estate, be sure to consult your REALTOR® for ways to maximize your most valuable investment. REALTORS work for their clients and communities all year long. That’s Who We R®.

As I’ve mentioned over the past few weeks, September is REALTOR® Safety Month. At this point each year, REALTORS look at their safety protocols to help them remain vigilant against all types of threats throughout the year. But why is it important to focus specifically on REALTOR safety? It’s because the very nature of our business puts REALTORS at increased risk.

For example, REALTORS often work independently and meet with clients whom they may be meeting for the first time. REALTORS show homes, host open houses, and often work during evenings and weekends when potential buyers are available. A dodgy cell signal or an isolated property can make a REALTOR even more vulnerable.

But how prevalent are safety concerns for REALTORS? To get the bigger picture, each year, the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) conducts a safety survey, and they just released the results in their 2023 REALTORS® and Member Safety Residential Report. Here are some highlights:

• The typical respondent meets prospective clients whom they’ve never met before, either at their office or in a neutral location 65% of the time. This step helps the Realtor understand what a client is looking for and not to meet for the first time at a potentially empty property.
   
• 71% of Realtors said that they have personal safety protocols in place that they follow with every client. This routine is more likely among females (73%) than among males (59%). This area is clearly one for improvement, since attacks can happen to men and women.
   
• 42% of Realtors said that they have participated in a self-defense class. At Greater Chattanooga REALTORS®, we offer complimentary Realtor Safety classes all throughout the year to help prepare our members for potential threats.
   
• 47% of men and 58% of women carry a self-defense weapon or tool.
   
• Among those Realtors who participated in a safety course, 66% said they feel more prepared for unknown situations after taking the course.

Knowing that preparedness and safety don’t just magically happen is essential. Realtors need to be proactive in ensuring their safety and the safety of their clients. REALTORS might be more at risk for safety concerns, but that doesn’t mean we must be unprepared. Realtor safety, and the safety of our clients and their information remains front of mind the entire year. That’s Who We R®.