Lauren Bicknell, Realtor-The Michelle Cantrell Group at Murney

Q: Why do I need a pre-approval before house hunting? Because I treat my clients (and Instagram followers) like friends, I'm going to share the same advice I would share with my very own best friend asking this question! It's really and truly in your best interest to get pre approved so you can learn your overall financial requirements and what you can afford monthly.... Having a pre-approval prior to house hunting also gives the seller the assurance of knowing everyone going through their home is financially qualified. *It is even more critical to have this before touring homes when you're in a competitive market. If you have a pre-approval, you will be ready to submit an offer if you love the home (yay)! Time will be wasted if you go, love it, and then need to get your approval before writing the offer. In this competitive market there is no time to waste or you can kiss that home you loved goodbye! I want you to have a full understanding of both the market and your finances before you start the process. It will increase your confidence as a buyer and you'll be completely prepared for homeownership.

If you're anything like me, I LOVE looking at new homes hitting the market. Not only to search for my clients, but just to stay up-to-date with all the amazing new homes available! This one caught my eye right away. My favorite detail is the granite counters in the kitchen. What stands out to you? Listing provided by Brea Hunter, Realtor/ The Michelle Cantrell Group with Murney

I'm often asked what I expect will happen in the upcoming months in the real estate market. While I don't have a crystal ball, here are a few reasons you can expect 2021 to remain off the charts: 1. Limited inventory. Many areas are experiencing housing shortages. Having more buyers than sellers creates a strong market, and typically offers at or above asking. 2. Under-construction. All around the US, homes are currently being built by MILLIONS. ... 3. Record equity markets and stimulus money. Not only does it make people wealthier, but it also makes them feel richer. Moods often fuel markets as much as money does. 4. High demand! As millennials come of age to buy, demand continues to increase exponentially. 5. The optimism of spring! Spring markets fuel optimism, hope, and renewal. If you're looking to buy or sell, now is the time! Send me a message and let's get the ball rolling. See more

Congrats to my sellers & the buyer on this cute 2 bedroom, 1 bath home! My clients have given me the biggest compliment- they were repeat clients who have referred me business. Thank you again for trusting me with the sale of your investment property!

Thank you to my work family and everyone else for the love and well wishes!!!

Wishing everyone a truly wonderful Easter!

So excited for my buyers! They snagged an adorable, updated home in the heart of Springfield. I can't wait for their family to enjoy this home.

My clients went under contract on this amazing new construction home! The market is moving fast- which is why we have to be strategic in every offer. I love being able to tell my clients they got the house! Listing provided by: The Louie Michael Real Estate Page

Tomorrow is Daylight Savings Time! Personally, I love this day because it means warmer weather is on its way! I usually spend the day catching up on chores and hanging out at home as a reset for the upcoming season.

Think the highest offer on a home always wins? Think again. Here are four reasons why a seller may not choose the highest offer: 1. A buyer brings an all-cash offer: A buyer paying cash means there won’t be any financing pitfalls and sellers LOVE avoiding pitfalls. 2. A buyer can close ASAP: If a seller is antsy to get moving, an offer from a buyer who can close quickly will zoom to the top of the stack. 3. A buyer shares their story. Sometimes buyers want sellers to k...now exactly why their house is the one. And sometimes, that’s all it takes for a seller to agree especially if a seller has lived in the home for decades and their move is a sentimental one. 4. A buyer doesn’t ask for contingencies. A common contingency is that a buyer must sell his or her home before buying. Sellers love when an offer is free and clear of cumbersome contingencies totally out of their control. It’s true you want to go in with a strong offer price-wise, but that’s not the only thing sellers are looking for. Sellers want an offer that’s competitive, clean, AND close-to-asking price the closer you can get to all three, the better! See more

Stop Looking to dive into investment properties? This 2 bed, 1 bath home is ready for a new landlord to take over. With a prime location right by Evangel University, this home could easily rent for $750 a month! Call me today before it’s gone.

Happy International Women’s Day to all the incredible women in my life Don’t know what I’d do without you all!