Susan Severson, Realtor - Essence Home Team

10/14/2026

Why There are More Homes for Sale Right Now (and What It Means for You)

In many places right now, inventory is growing and homes are taking a bit longer to sell. And that’s information that should shape the strategy you use going in.

Whether you're buying or selling, let's look at how long homes are taking to sell in your neighborhood, so your offer, or your price, fits today's market.

Need more info?
Reach me at www.EssenceHomeTeam.com

Mortgage rates being back above 7% isn't exactly the news most people wanted. But it’s changing the market in ways that matter whether you’re buying or selling.

10/13/2026

📍 Reduced Price 📍 This recently reduced home at 1818 Elm Street in Jacksonville won't last long, so, don't wait to set up a showing! Reach out here or at (904) 382-6802 for more information!

The sunrises from the deck of a new home, manufactured home, or whatever you desire will be a thrill every morning. This 1.186 acre lot is located at the end of a dead end street and enjoys close proximity to major retail and thoroughfares. Imagine building a dock so you can drop a kayak or small...

10/13/2026

When multiple buyers are interested in a home, standing out matters. Here’s what can make the difference:
✅ Strong Pre-Approval — Shows you’re financially ready.
✅ Flexible Terms — Willingness to work with the seller’s timeline.
✅ Clean Offer — Fewer contingencies can give you an edge.
✅ Personal Touch — Sometimes, a thoughtful note can connect with sellers on a personal level.

It’s not always just about the highest price — terms and preparation can be just as important.

10/13/2026

Do You Know How Much Equity You Have?

The low mortgage rate you locked in a few years ago might make moving feel off the table. But your equity could put it back on.Homeowners with a mortgage have an average of $310K in equity right now. That could go toward a bigger down payment, so you borrow less at today's rates. Or, you may be able to buy your next place in cash – without needing a mortgage at all. So, don’t write off a move just yet. Let's find out how much equity you have and what it could do for you.

Need more info?
Reach me at www.EssenceHomeTeam.com

10/12/2026

Why Most People Are Still Glad They Bought a Home

Don’t let today’s uncertainty make you lose sight of what homeownership can do over time. Most homeowners say they’d make the same choice again. And decades of home-price growth help explain why.
If you’re wondering whether buying makes sense for you right now, let’s look at the numbers together – and what owning a home could mean for you in the years ahead.

Need more info?
Reach me at www.EssenceHomeTeam.com

With everything going on, it’s understandable if you’re wondering if you’d regret buying right now.

10/11/2026

Do you really need a reason to update your kitchen? 😃

10/09/2026

This metric tells us about the middle of the market in terms of price per square foot. It makes it easy to compare homes of different sizes.

10/08/2026

Renovate or Relocate? What To Know Before You Decide To Age in Place

Staying and moving can both be good choices. What matters most is finding the place where you'll feel comfortable and at home for years to come.

If you'd like help weighing the two, let's connect. We can look at what your house could sell for and what 55+ communities in our area have to offer, so you can decide what feels right for you.

Need more info?
Reach me at www.EssenceHomeTeam.com

You've spent years making your house feel like home, celebrating milestones, making each room your own, and turning neighbors into friends. As you look ahead to the next chapter of your life, it's natural to wonder if this is still the place you want to spend it.

10/07/2026

Have you ever thought about investing in a vacation home? Perhaps, a cabin style property like this?

10/07/2026

Myth vs. Reality: Does the Fed Control Mortgage Rates?

The Fed doesn’t set mortgage rates, but its hikes can keep them higher for a while. The goal is to bring inflation, and eventually rates, down over time. With more hikes likely this year, waiting may not pay off. So, let's map out a plan that works at today's rates.

Need more info?
Reach me at www.EssenceHomeTeam.com

You've probably heard the Federal Reserve (the Fed) is raising rates again. And if you're planning to buy or sell a house, you may be wondering what that means for you.