A cool house with a funny hat

I hope you had an amazing 4th of July weekend, and still have all of your fingers. 🙌

It’s crazy hot this week, and all I can think of is being by the pool or being somewhere else where it isn’t so hot. Maybe I should join every other Phoenix Realtor and spend July in San Diego…

In this newsletter:

Have a great weekend!

If you've spent any time on social media lately, you've probably seen a graphic claiming that more than 70% of real estate agents haven't closed a single transaction this year. It's certainly an attention-grabbing statistic, but there's one problem: it isn't an official National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) study.

NAR has confirmed that the widely shared graphic is not based on its data. While the numbers have been repeated thousands of times online, they shouldn't be treated as an accurate picture of today's real estate industry.

So what does the actual data show?

According to NAR's 2026 Member Profile, the typical REALTOR® completed 9 transaction sides during 2025. The report also found:

Those numbers paint a much different picture than the viral post. Most agents are active, and many are handling multiple transactions every year.

That said, there is an important takeaway.

Real estate is a business where experience matters. Markets change constantly. Interest rates shift, inventory rises and falls, buyers and sellers adjust their expectations, and negotiating strategies evolve. An agent who is actively working in today's market gains valuable firsthand experience that simply can't be replaced.

Every transaction teaches something new. It might be how to negotiate seller concessions, structure an appraisal gap, navigate inspection repairs, compete in multiple-offer situations, or find creative financing solutions that save a buyer thousands of dollars.

When you're buying a home, you're not just hiring someone to unlock doors or fill out paperwork. You're hiring someone to represent your interests, identify opportunities, and negotiate the best possible terms on your behalf.

That's why one of the best questions you can ask isn't, "How long have you been licensed?" Instead, ask:

An active agent should be able to answer those questions with confidence and provide real examples from recent transactions.

The bottom line is this: the viral statistic may not be accurate, but it does highlight something that is true. Not every real estate agent has the same level of experience or market activity. Before choosing someone to represent one of the largest financial decisions of your life, take the time to ask about their recent experience.

The right agent can help you understand your options, spot opportunities others may miss, and negotiate a deal that puts you in the strongest possible position. In today's market, that experience can make all the difference.

If you’re ready to start your home buying journey, give me a call and we can talk about what the next step is for you!

For the third week in a row, rates have gone in the wrong direction! All three main programs ticked up slightly.

Curious what your rate would be in today’s market? Reach out to my lending partner, Aaron Alvarez with West American Mortgage, at (602) 705-9835.

They say to buy the cheapest house in the best neighborhoods. And if you believe what ‘they’ say, this is a great opportunity in Phase 2 of Arrowhead Ranch. This three bed, two bath home is just $405,000, which makes it the least expensive home in its neighborhood.

See the list of homes here.

Listed by Lisa Copley with Prestige Realty

Referrals are the backbone of any realtors business, and mine is no different. Many of you have sent your friends & family my way over the years, and it is always fun to get that call ‘they said you’re the best, so I’m calling to get your help!’

If you know anyone thinking of buying or selling in 2026, I’d love the opportunity to connect with them and see how I can help.

Yes, every cool house for the foreseable future will have a bad ass pool! It is that time of year and cooling off is all I can think about until October.

This house in the McCormick Ranch area Scottsdale is definitely cool, but it is kind of strange too. First off, it looks like its wearing a weird hat.

The great room area looks like it was converted from a hangar. If I were going to spend $10+ million on a home, I don’t think this would be the feel I’d go for. But, I’m not shopping in this price point at the moment, so what do I know?!? 🧐

See all the photos here.

Property listed by Eve Treger with Vicsdale

I don’t really want to move to Connecticut, but if I got to live in a townhouse that looked like a spaceship, I’d probably consider it!!!

A rare opportunity to own one of downtown Guilford's most iconic residences, often referred to as "The Spaceship," masterfully designed by architect Wilfred Armster. This striking copper-clad building, elevated on concrete stilts, was thoughtfully positioned to capture sweeping, unobstructed views of Long Island Sound-beautifully showcased from this premier front-facing unit. Enter through the oversized two -car garage, offering additional ample space for a home gym, workshop, or endless storage. Inside, the home opens to a dramatic great room where walls of glass flood the space with natural light and frame stunning water views. The expansive room with a fireplace flows effortlessly into the dining room & open kitchen, featuring a large breakfast bar, abundant cabinetry, new appliances and generous prep space-ideal for both everyday living and entertaining. The first floor also includes a versatile private space with a full bath, perfect for guests or a home office. Upstairs, the serene primary suite offers a walk-in closet, full bath, and a private sun deck overlooking with breathtaking views-your own peaceful retreat. Located just a short walk to the train station, marina, and Guilford's charming downtown filled with shops and restaurants, this is an ideal weekend escape from NYC or year-round residence. New furnace, water heater & AC. Watch the moon rise & the sun set from your one of a kind home. This small complex with low fees seldom comes to market-don't miss it.

See all the pics & info here.

Because if we didn’t laugh…we’d cry