In recent months, the real estate market has undergone several transformations that create an array of positive outcomes for both buyers and sellers. With changes throughout the industry, some buyers and sellers have been left speculating what this means for them. Consumers can rest assured that REALTORS® carry the ethical duty to put the interest of clients before their own, and the recent settlement with the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) further enhances transparency in real estate transactions and ensures that consumers are informed of the buying and selling process, solidifying the effort to make client interests the top priority.

A widely beneficial change includes clearer information for buyers and sellers about how agents will be compensated during a transaction. It’s important to note that in Utah, specifically, real estate commissions have historically been disclosed to both buyers and sellers. These disclosures are identified in the agreement with a REALTOR® as well as advertised on a local Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Both buyers and sellers continue to have the power to negotiate fees, but moving forward, agents will no longer use the MLS for advertising or making offers of compensation.

With improved transparency, these adjustments empower consumers to make informed decisions while promoting client-driven conversations as they relate to paid commissions and provided services. Both buyers and sellers are encouraged to shop around for a REALTOR® and find a professional that best aligns with their needs and goals. This opens the floor for contract and compensation negotiations for the expected services. Buyers will be asked to enter into a written agreement prior to touring a home or property. This is where the terms of service and representation are outlined, and buyers are given various options for how their representatives receive compensation. Some of those options might include 1) the buyer covering the compensation costs, 2) the listing agent and seller offering to compensate the buyer representative as part of the sale, and 3) buyers and sellers negotiating the terms of the buyer agent’s commission directly in the purchase contract.

Competition within the real estate market is robust, and recent changes encourage innovation and flexibility that allow buyers and sellers to select a business model that fits their circumstances. Some buyers and sellers might prefer traditional commission structures rather than alternative models like flat fees or discount services. They have the freedom to choose agents and fee structures that work best for them while safeguarding their interests. Diversity in options fosters healthy competition that leads to better service and lower costs, ultimately empowering buyers and sellers.

It is crucial to remember that having professional representation is essential to navigate any real estate transaction. With a market that is complex, highly competitive, and filled with nuances that are difficult to navigate, the expertise of a trusted REALTOR® helps consumers avoid costly mistakes and unnecessary complications. A REALTOR® acts as an advocate and protects the interests of their buyer or seller throughout the transaction process.

As the real estate landscape continues to evolve, staying informed and seeking expert representation ensures that both buyers and sellers are making sound investments in their future. The changes are a step forward empowering consumers and promising a fairer and more transparent marketplace for all.

For more information on the settlement, to search Southern Utah properties or connect with a local REALTOR® today!

Article published on STG News

The “American Dream” has evolved over the years to look different from person to person, but what hasn’t changed is the dream of homeownership. Owning a home—a place to call your own—is unique. A home is where you gather with family and friends, and it’s not just about creating a physical space to gather—it’s where you craft a lifetime of memories and establish traditions that will last long after you’re gone. Owning a home is about the present and the future because the memories you create become part of a legacy, and each gathering and celebration, along with little daily rituals contribute to a legacy of love and belonging.

As the seasons change and the Southern Utah climate shifts into fall and winter, residents are busy decorating for special occasions and preparing for the holidays. The turn of the calendar often marks an influx of homebuyers in the market, and a larger selection of homes can lead to more favorable conditions for potential buyers. This is especially true in the Washington and St. George areas.

Fall and winter are a great time to take advantage of the energized market and find a home where you can create lasting memories. Local REALTORS® have been helping residents navigate Southern Utah’s dynamic real estate market, and that includes guiding them to take advantage of the potential tax benefits and seller motivation that come with a home purchase around the holiday season.

Owning a home allows you to bring people closer, and personalizing your space allows you to create an environment that supports your lifestyle. Use the expertise of a REALTOR® who can help you find a home that best fits the needs of your family. This offers stability and creates a comfortable space that reduces holiday stress and becomes a place where stories are told, a family history is shared, and who you are is embedded in every corner.

If selling your home in 2025 is part of your plan, now is the time to begin prepping. Although it may feel like the new year is still a long way off, getting an early start on repairs, updates, and staging will give you a significant advantage. Preparing in advance can help you get top dollar when the time comes to list.

Why It Pays to Prepare Early
Getting a home market-ready isn’t a task you want to rush through. Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, underscores the importance of planning ahead: “Now is the time to start thinking about what you need for your next home and then taking those steps to prepare to list. . . . 47 percent of sellers are taking longer than a month to get their home ready to sell, so getting started early can mean more flexibility.” Starting your prep work now allows you to make needed improvements without the added pressure of a tight deadline. You’ll have the luxury of addressing details that might otherwise be overlooked, ensuring your home makes the best possible impression on potential buyers. And to ensure every step counts, partner with a knowledgeable Realtor® who can offer valuable insights into which repairs and upgrades will resonate most in your local market.

Strategic Upgrades for a Strong Return
To attract buyers and secure the best offer, it’s essential to have your home in peak condition. Here’s a breakdown of some impactful areas to focus on:

1. Essential Repairs and Touch-Ups: It’s often the little things that buyers notice first. Fix leaky faucets, repair chipped paint, and replace worn-out flooring or outdated fixtures. These small upgrades can go a long way in making your home feel fresh and well-maintained.
2. Decluttering and Deep Cleaning: A clutter-free, spotless home gives buyers a blank canvas to envision themselves in. Consider organizing storage spaces, removing personal items, and giving every room a deep clean.
3. Curb Appeal and Landscaping: First impressions matter. A well-kept lawn, trimmed bushes, and fresh mulch make a big difference. Consider adding a few potted plants or flowers for extra curb appeal.
4. Simple Cosmetic Updates: Fresh paint, updated light fixtures, and new kitchen hardware are cost-effective upgrades that can transform your space. Aim for neutral colors and modern touches that will appeal to a broad range of buyers.

By starting early, you can tackle each task thoughtfully, ensuring quality results and minimizing last-minute stress. Your Realtor® can help prioritize these updates, so your time and resources are invested wisely.

Focus on What Buyers Want in Your Market
Not all improvements offer the same return, which is why working with a local Realtor® is invaluable. They have their finger on the pulse of what buyers in your area are looking for and can advise on upgrades that offer the highest value. For example, if buyers in your area are drawn to updated kitchens, your Realtor® might suggest focusing on that space rather than spending on upgrades that won’t bring the same return. They can also advise on whether larger projects, such as a new roof or HVAC system, are worth the investment based on comparable homes recently sold nearby. Your Realtor® will also know which smaller details can make a big impact. Simple touches—like painting the front door, adding flowers, or staging the entryway—can create a warm and inviting atmosphere, helping your home stand out to buyers.

Bottom Line
Selling your home in 2025? Don’t wait until the last minute to get it market-ready. Starting early gives you the time to make thoughtful improvements that can maximize your home’s value and make a memorable impression on buyers. Ready to begin or need help deciding where to focus your efforts? Connect with a trusted local Realtor® for expert guidance, so you can make the most of every step in your home-selling journey!

Home design trends come and go, but some styles are so fleeting that they should never have been. From wild TikTok DIY projects to design fads packaged as “core” aesthetics, these styles may have caught on quickly—but their time is up.

Every year, design experts highlight trends that miss the mark. Last year, we saw some questionable choices like blob furniture and glaringly shiny surfaces dominate the list of trends that left homeowners scratching their heads. So, what's making us cringe in 2024?

Here are some of the worst home design trends that are haunting homes everywhere. Feel free to share your thoughts—if any of these styles are haunting your space, it might be time for an exorcism!

1. Open Shelving in the Kitchen: It seemed like a great idea to remove upper cabinets and replace them with sleek open shelves. But the constant need for pristine organization—and the added dust—have worn thin. While open shelves might work in a small kitchen to create an illusion of space, most homeowners miss the functionality of good old cabinets.
2. Black Fixtures in All-White Rooms: Matte black faucets and knobs can certainly add contrast, but when overdone, they draw too much attention. Instead of making a statement, they become an eyesore, stealing the spotlight in otherwise clean, white spaces. If black is dominating your room’s focus, it might be time to turn down the drama.
3. Cramped Garages: Homebuilders may be prioritizing large interiors over garage space, but squeezing modern, larger vehicles into shrinking garages is no fun. With smaller lots and compact garages becoming the norm, some homeowners are struggling just to get out of their car without dinging the walls.
4. Gray Overload: All-gray interiors have dominated home design in recent years, but it’s beginning to feel cold and lifeless. Gray walls, gray floors, gray furniture—it’s all blending together. Luckily, a new wave of bold color and contrasting patterns is starting to push the gloom away.
5. Oversized Showers : Huge showers may have hit the peak of their trend cycle. While “wetrooms” and multi-showerhead setups seemed luxurious, they’ve become impractical. These massive spaces are starting to feel more like car washes than calming retreats.
6. White Paint Everywhere: White trim, doors, and even painted brick are often hailed as the key to a modern look. But white can be hard to maintain and requires constant upkeep. Plus, once you've painted something white, there’s no going back. Homeowners are starting to regret painting over natural brick and wood elements in favor of this stark choice.
7. Mosaic Tile Accent Strips: Once popular in the early 2000s, colorful glass tile accent strips have overstayed their welcome. Designers are now favoring larger, seamless backsplashes that offer a more modern and clean finish.
8. Stainless Steel Kitchens: Stainless steel may look professional, but keeping those shiny surfaces smudge-free is a nightmare. While stainless steel appliances are still around, stainless shelving and countertops are being phased out in favor of warmer, easier-to-maintain materials.
9. TikTok DIY Home Projects: TikTok may inspire countless DIY trends, but some are more of a horror show than helpful. From painting countertops with epoxy to “fridgescaping” your refrigerator by decorating it with fairy lights, mirrors and picture frames, some ideas are better left on social media.
10. Design-Core Fads: “Core” aesthetics like Cottagecore, Grandpacore, and Yeehaw Core were once all the rage, but most of these overly themed styles haven’t aged well. Over-the-top design cores are more likely to leave your home feeling dated fast.

Bottom Line: Not all trends stand the test of time. Whether it's oversized showers or outdated TikTok hacks, it's important to curate your space based on what truly works for you—not what’s fleetingly popular. So, which of these trends are you ready to banish from your home? 

Source: NAR, 10 Horrifying Home Design Trends: 2024 Edition, By: Melissa Dittmann Tracey 

St. George, Utah, has been buzzing with excitement lately, thanks to three major events that brought thousands of participants and spectators to the area. The St. George Marathon, the Huntsman World Senior Games, and the PGA TOUR’s Black Desert Championship have made this October an unforgettable one for the city.

The weekend kicked off with the 48th annual St. George Marathon, drawing a record number of nearly 8,500 participants registered for the full and half marathons. Despite warmer-than-usual weather, many runners achieved personal bests, while others experienced the scenic race for the first time. The marathon, which starts in the beautiful Pine Valley mountains and descends through 2,600 feet of stunning Utah landscape, is celebrated as one of the most scenic marathons in the world. It’s also known for its fast course, making it a great choice for runners looking to set records or simply enjoy breathtaking views.

Next up is the Huntsman World Senior Games, which spans two weeks in October and is the largest international multi-sport event for athletes aged 50 and over. Now in its 37th year, the Games host more than 30 sports, from softball and swimming to square dancing and soccer. It’s an inclusive event that welcomes athletes of all skill levels. In addition to competition, the Games focus on health and wellness, offering life-saving screenings and promoting social connections through concerts, dances, and community events. Thousands of volunteers contribute to the Games, which has become a beloved celebration of active aging and international friendship.

Finally, St. George welcomed the PGA TOUR back to Utah for the first time in 60 years with the Black Desert Championship at Black Desert Resort in Ivins. The stunning Tom Weiskopf-designed course, completed in 2022, offers stunning views of Snow Canyon State Park, set against black lava fields and vermillion cliffs. Known for its challenging design, the course features two drivable par 4 holes and pays homage to classic courses like Royal Troon and Riviera Country Club. The championship event adds to the region’s growing reputation as a top destination for golf and will be followed by an LPGA tournament in 2025.

Whether it’s world-class running, senior sports, or professional golf, St. George is proving to be a hub for major events, making it a must-visit destination for athletes and spectators alike!

As the temperatures begin to drop and the vibrant fall colors emerge, it's essential for homeowners in Southern Utah to prepare their homes for the cooler months ahead. A little bit of maintenance now can save you time, money, and stress later. Here are some practical fall home maintenance tips to keep your home in great shape this season.

1. Inspect Your Heating System
Before the first chilly day hits, ensure your heating system is functioning efficiently. Schedule a professional inspection to clean and service your furnace or heat pump. Change or clean the filters to improve airflow and efficiency. If you have a wood-burning stove or fireplace, check for any obstructions in the chimney and have it cleaned to prevent chimney fires.

2. Check Insulation and Weatherstripping
Proper insulation and weatherstripping are crucial for maintaining a comfortable temperature in your home. Inspect your attic and crawl spaces for adequate insulation and replace any damaged or worn-out weatherstripping around doors and windows. This will help keep the warm air in and the cold air out, reducing your heating costs.

3. Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Fall often brings leaves and debris that can clog gutters and downspouts. Clear them out to ensure proper drainage and prevent water from pooling around your home’s foundation. This simple task can help prevent potential water damage and costly repairs in the future.

4. Prepare Your Landscaping
As the weather cools, it’s time to get your yard ready for winter. Trim back any dead or overgrown branches, and tidy up your flower beds. Fall is also an excellent time to plant perennials and shrubs, as the cooler temperatures promote root growth. Don’t forget to mulch your garden beds to protect plants from frost and retain moisture.

5. Inspect and Repair Roofs
Inspect your roof for any missing or damaged shingles that could lead to leaks during the winter months. If you spot any issues, make the necessary repairs or contact a professional. Additionally, check for any debris that might have accumulated on the roof and remove it to prevent water pooling.

6. Seal Driveways and Walkways
Cooler weather can lead to cracking and damage in your driveways and walkways. Consider sealing any cracks and applying a protective sealant to extend their lifespan. This not only improves the appearance of your property but also protects it from winter weather.

7. Stock Up on Winter Supplies
As fall transitions into winter, ensure you're prepared for the colder months ahead. Stock up on essentials like salt or sand for icy sidewalks, as well as winter emergency supplies like blankets, flashlights, and batteries.

8. Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
As you start using your heating system, it’s vital to ensure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning correctly. Replace batteries as needed and test the devices to ensure they’re operational. This small step can significantly enhance your family’s safety during the colder months.

9. Schedule Seasonal Maintenance for Appliances
Take the time to clean and service seasonal appliances such as your humidifier or air purifier. This will help them run more efficiently and improve the air quality in your home as the weather cools.

10. Embrace Cozy Decor
Lastly, as you prepare for the colder months, don’t forget to embrace the spirit of fall in your home! Swap out light summer decor for warm, cozy elements like blankets, seasonal candles, and autumn-themed accents. Creating a welcoming environment can make the transition to winter much more enjoyable.

By following these fall home maintenance tips, you can ensure your Southern Utah home remains comfortable and safe throughout the colder months. Taking these proactive steps now will help you avoid potential headaches down the road, allowing you to fully enjoy the beauty of fall in our stunning region. If you're looking to make any upgrades or find a new home, visit SouthernUtahRealEstate.com to connect with local experts who can help you navigate the real estate market!

If you’ve been thinking about buying or selling a home, now could be the perfect moment for both sides of the market. Recent changes are creating exciting opportunities for buyers and sellers alike, making it a win-win situation.

Why Buyers Are Gaining an Advantage
For buyers, the good news is that mortgage rates are starting to decline after months of being high. With the Federal Reserve recently cutting the Federal Funds Rate for the first time since early 2022, mortgage rates are expected to drop even further. While the Fed doesn’t control mortgage rates directly, these actions set the stage for lower rates, which means more affordable monthly payments for buyers.

According to Lisa Sturtevant, Chief Economist at Bright MLS: "A drop in the cost of borrowing will help fuel more homebuyer demand. Falling rates will also bring more sellers into the market."

This translates into more purchasing power for buyers and a greater selection of homes, giving you more options to find your dream home at a price you can afford.

Sellers, Get Ready for More Offers
Sellers, don’t worry—this shift benefits you, too. With mortgage rates falling, more buyers are returning to the market. In fact, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) recently reported that home sales saw an uptick in July, following four months of decline. As more buyers re-engage, you’ll see increased competition, which could lead to higher offers and faster sales for your property.

Edward Seiler, AVP of Housing Economics at the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), says: "Slower home-price appreciation, coupled with lower rates, will ease affordability constraints and lead to increased activity in the housing market."

With more buyers entering the scene, sellers have a great opportunity to sell their homes quickly and at a competitive price.

What This Means for Both Buyers and Sellers
The current market shift is creating favorable conditions for both buyers and sellers. For buyers, lower mortgage rates and an increased number of homes for sale mean more choices and better affordability. For sellers, rising buyer activity can lead to quicker sales and better offers. 

Whether you’re thinking of buying or selling, the current market offers opportunities for both sides. With mortgage rates falling and buyer demand rising, it’s the right time to act. Contact a local Realtor® today to make the most of these market conditions and achieve your real estate goals!

Luxury living is about more than just stunning views and cutting-edge smart home technology—it’s about elevating your entire lifestyle. If you’re in the market for a million-dollar home, there has never been a better time to explore the thriving luxury market. Here's why.

Luxury homes, typically in the top 5% of the market, are growing in availability across the country. According to a recent Redfin report, the median sale price for U.S. luxury homes rose 9% year-over-year, reaching a record $1.18 million during the second quarter.

This means that if you’re shopping in the luxury price range, you have more options than ever before. Whether you’re seeking modern kitchens with high-end appliances, exclusive amenities, or enhanced privacy and security, the luxury home market offers a wide variety of styles and features to fit your dream lifestyle.

Purchasing a luxury home isn’t just about owning a beautiful property; it’s also an investment in your future. Luxury home prices are rising, and the market shows no signs of slowing down. The August Luxury Market Report revealed significant growth in 2024, with single-family home sales increasing by 14.82% and attached home sales by 11.35% compared to 2023.By investing in luxury real estate, you're not just securing a place to live—you’re building long-term wealth.

If you’re ready to explore luxury living, your in the right place, SouthernUtahRealestate.com is the best place to start your search! With a wide selection of luxury homes, you'll find everything you need to make your dream lifestyle a reality. Whether you're looking for a breathtaking desert oasis, a modern masterpiece, or a private retreat, we have the resources to help you find the perfect home.

The luxury home market is booming, and it’s a great time to invest in your future with a high-end property. Start your search HERE today and connect with a local Realtor® who can help you find the home of your dreams.

With summer coming to an end, Southern Utah residents are looking forward to the cooler months ahead, engaging in fall activities, and preparing their homes and spaces for the upcoming season. While things wind down from a busy summer and life transitions to the next season, it’s important to remember to give time and attention to self-care. As we work to maintain our homes and the other physical aspects of our lives, it’s crucial that we don’t neglect ourselves and that we take time to assess and give proper attention to our mental and emotional health.

Both internal and external stressors take a toll on our health, and we tend to focus on the physical aspects of our property when we think of real estate, but we must not overlook how the process of both buying and selling a home plays a pivotal role in our emotional and psychological health.

When it comes to real estate, there are a lot of unknown, uncontrollable variables. For example, sellers often must wait for potential buyers, mortgage approvals, and offers that meet their own needs. Both buyers and sellers deal with financial concerns and market elements that are out of their control. These, combined with the stress associated with time constraints and relocation, can wreak havoc on the mental and emotional state of any individual. Big life changes, even when they are favorable, can be difficult.

A recent online survey reveals that more than three quarters of Americans say the experience of buying or selling a home was stressful for them (77%)—just below the stress of going through a relationship breakup (78%), and greater than the stress of planning a wedding (60%), getting fired (58%) or teaching a teen to drive (53%). Professional representation for buyers and sellers alike can alleviate a large portion of that stress. Licensed REALTORS® assist clients as they navigate these processes—transactions within the desired price and timeframe, packing and moving belongings, property improvements, contracts, and so much more is made easier with the assistance of a REALTOR®.

Experienced buyers and sellers offer a few simple recommendations to alleviate the stress associated with the real estate process, which include:

• Contact a Realtor® 90 days before listing or buying
• Reduce clutter for an easier move
• Refresh (don’t renovate) your space
• Communicate your preferences
• Create a plan for low-stress showings
• Be prepared for any pace of sale (slow or fast)
• Practice self-care (take time to step away from the noise)
• Keep the stress in perspective

As you transition to a new season and take on new responsibilities while putting others to rest, take time for yourself and be the healthiest version of you.

What is Asbestos?
Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, was once widely used in construction for its heat-resistant and insulating properties. However, it's now known for the serious health risks it poses when its fibers are inhaled or ingested. These tiny, almost invisible fibers can become trapped in the body, leading to inflammation, scarring, and, over time, severe illnesses such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and other asbestos-related diseases. The dangers of asbestos are not immediate; they often manifest years or even decades after exposure, making it a silent threat in many older homes.

Where Asbestos Might Be Hiding in Your Home
If your home was built before the 1980s, there’s a chance it contains asbestos in materials like insulation, floor tiles, cement siding, and textured paint. Although the use of asbestos has significantly declined, it is still legal for certain applications, and remnants of its use may still be present in older properties. The risk arises when these materials are damaged or disturbed, releasing asbestos fibers into the air, where they can be inhaled.

What to Do If You Suspect Asbestos in Your Home
If you're planning renovations or have noticed damage to materials that might contain asbestos, it's crucial to approach the situation with caution. Here are some essential dos and don'ts:

Dos:

• Hire Professionals: Always consult with a trained and accredited asbestos professional for inspections, testing, and removal. Disturbing asbestos without the proper precautions can be dangerous.
• Limit Access: If you suspect asbestos, restrict access to the area until it can be assessed by a professional.
• Be Informed: Understand where asbestos might be in your home and the condition of those materials. Keep communication open with your real estate agent or home inspector about any known asbestos risks.

Don’ts:

• Don’t Disturb Materials: Avoid drilling, sawing, sanding, or otherwise disturbing any materials that could contain asbestos. This includes sweeping or vacuuming debris that may contain asbestos fibers.
• Don’t Attempt DIY Removal: Asbestos removal should never be a DIY project. Improper handling can exacerbate the risk of exposure.
• Don’t Dispose of Asbestos with Regular Trash: Asbestos requires special disposal methods to prevent contamination and exposure.

The Bottom Line: Safety First
If you suspect asbestos in your home, the best course of action is to leave it undisturbed and seek professional advice. Understanding the risks and taking the appropriate precautions can help you protect your health and the health of others in your home. If you're planning any renovations or are simply curious about the safety of your home, consider having an asbestos assessment done to ensure peace of mind.

Stay informed, stay safe, and make sure your home remains a healthy environment for you and your family. Visit "The Guide to Asbestos in the Home" brought to your by The Mesothelioma Center ​for more detailed information on asbestos, its dangers, and how to manage it safely.