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My Blog
Your go-to source for expert tips, market insights, and everything you need to navigate the world of buying, selling, and investing in property. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, seasoned investor, or just love keeping up with the latest trends, we've got something for you.


When Opportunity Whispers and Wisdom Confirms
Often, we miss the opportunities placed right in front of us—not because they aren’t there, but because we’re busy. Busy with kids and schedules, sports and practices, business meetings, church commitments… all the good things that fill a full life.

Michelle Underwood
5 days ago2 min read


Capital Gains Tax on Real Estate: Clearing Up the Myths... From a CPA Who Explains This All Day Long
One topic I get asked about a lot is capital gains tax on real estate. And honestly, I understand why—there’s a lot of noise out there. Between Google searches, well-meaning friends, and the guy in line at Home Depot, people end up believing rules that don’t actually exist.

Michelle Underwood
Dec 31, 20252 min read


The Quiet Gifts of This Year—and the Hope Rising in the Next
This time of year always seems to invite reflection. We glance back at the months behind us—at what was, what wasn’t, and what quietly shaped us along the way. And we look ahead, wondering what might unfold.

Michelle Underwood
Dec 18, 20251 min read


The Truth Matters: Clearing the Air About My Listing on Beaumont Drive in Mentor, Ohio
Over the past few days, I’ve received calls, messages, and even a direct call from a DoorDash driver expressing concern about activity connected to 8254 Beaumont Drive in Mentor. When questions like that surface, it’s important to pause, investigate, and share accurate information—especially when rumors begin to take on a life of their own.

Michelle Underwood
Dec 12, 20252 min read


A Loan Officer’s Guide: The Truth About Down Payments
You’re absolutely right — the “20% down” idea is one of the biggest misconceptions in home buying.

Michelle Underwood
Dec 7, 20251 min read


Stuck in the Parking Lot? What a Dead Car Battery Taught Me About Real Estate
A recent morning started like any other errand run—just a quick trip to the store for the essentials: toilet paper, bread, the usual. As I walked back to my car, still on the phone with a client discussing the next steps in her home purchase, I pressed the button to start the engine.

Michelle Underwood
Dec 2, 20252 min read


“The Fed Cut Rates — So Mortgage Rates Dropped, Right?” Well… Not Exactly
Did you hear? The Fed cut rates again!Whenever that headline hits, I always smile because I know what’s coming next — someone will say,
“Oh great. That means mortgage rates went down!”

Michelle Underwood
Nov 24, 20252 min read


5 Tips for Successfully Listing Your Home This Fall
Fall may not be the first season that comes to mind for selling a home, but it can actually be a fantastic time to list. The crisp air, cozy vibes, and beautiful colors set the stage for buyers who are serious about finding their next home before the holidays. If you’re considering putting your house on the market this fall, here are a few key tips to make your listing stand out:

Michelle Underwood
Sep 29, 20252 min read


Why Real Estate Is Never “Just Business”
There are seasons in my real estate career that are nothing but joy—when we’re popping champagne, taking pictures, and celebrating with people as they step into a brand-new chapter. Those moments are magic.

Michelle Underwood
Aug 20, 20252 min read


Is Summer Already Winding Down?
I can’t believe we’re already approaching the end of summer 2025. The temperatures are still holding strong, but the signs are all around us—school supply aisles are packed, bus routes are being practiced and kids are gearing up to meet their new teachers.

Michelle Underwood
Aug 20, 20252 min read


Building More Than Just Homes: A Weekend of Gratitude and Connection
This summer, my husband and I had the absolute joy of hosting more than 150 people at our home for our very first Client Appreciation Event. What started as a hopeful idea back in March turned into a sun-soaked afternoon filled with laughter, inflatables, ice cream, and some of the most wonderful people we’ve had the honor to work with.

Michelle Underwood
Aug 2, 20252 min read


From Sold to Sold: What It Really Looks Like to Buy and Sell at the Same Time
It probably doesn’t surprise you to hear that selling a home can be really stressful for people. Now add the pressure of needing to buy a home at the same time—especially over the past few years—and you’ve got yourself a whole new level of chaos.

Michelle Underwood
Jul 23, 20252 min read


What Seniors Really Worry About When Buying a Home After Retirement
After working with dozens of older adults making a move for their next chapter, I can tell you: buying a home in retirement isn’t just about square footage or curb appeal.

Michelle Underwood
Jul 16, 20251 min read


The Fed Pauses Again: What That Means for Your Housing Plans
The Federal Reserve just finished its June meeting and decided not to change interest rates again. This is the fourth time in a row they’ve kept rates steady, staying between 4.25% and 4.5%.
Here’s what it means for you:

Michelle Underwood
Jun 29, 20251 min read


Home Projects That Boost Value
It's the time of year for house projects! You may be wondering what improvements you can make now, enjoy for a while, and also increase the value of your home. Consider these thoughts from Keeping Current Matters regarding which projects will actually help you in the long run.

Michelle Underwood
May 14, 20253 min read


How Long Will My House Stay On The Market?
If you list your home in Lake County, Ohio tomorrow, the time it takes to sell can vary based on several factors, including location, pricing, and market conditions.

Michelle Underwood
May 7, 20252 min read


I’m Selling My Home. What Kind Of Sale Price Can I Expect To Get?
The real estate market is still moving quickly for sellers. You may be wondering how much your home is worth and how much you may be able to make from the sale of your home. The following article from Keeping Current Matters provides some insight into home equity, and the kind of sale price you can expect to get if you were to sell your house in today’s market. Let me know if you have questions, as I can do a free market analysis of your home. Let’s start the conversation tod

Michelle Underwood
Apr 30, 20253 min read


New Home Decision Fatigue?
After a long day of work, shuttling kids to and from activities, and caring for my family, I want to unwind. Take it from my sister, who recently moved into a new space after a chaotic season. She mindfully chose colors and textures to set the stage for calm. For new home owners, follow her tips below to invite calm into your new space.

Michelle Underwood
Apr 23, 20252 min read


My Real Estate Journey
When I reflect on what sets me apart from the thousands of other realtors in Northeast Ohio, I always come back to two things: integrity and genuine care for my clients.

Michelle Underwood
Apr 16, 20252 min read


Real Estate News Update: Recession Impacts the Housing Market
If you are looking to buy or sell a house right now, you may be apprehensive to do so based on the current news cycle. This past week, the volatility of the stock market has caused concern for even the most educated economists. This begs the question—are we are headed towards a recession? Of course, this question leads many of us to remember the recession and subsequent housing crash in 2008.

Michelle Underwood
Apr 12, 20252 min read
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