Buyers • April 27, 2025

Is 2025 a Bad Time to Buy a House? Let’s Be Real About Interest Rates

by Amber Bennett

Let’s talk about the thing that’s got everyone nervous—interest rates. Yes, they’re higher right now. And no, it’s not 2020 anymore. But does that mean it’s a bad time to buy a home? Not necessarily.

I want to clear up some of the fear and confusion, because the truth is—it might still be the right time for you to buy, even in today’s market.

The Truth About Interest Rates

Right now, interest rates are definitely on the higher side compared to the last few years. But here’s something most people don’t realize: historically, today’s rates are still pretty normal. We just got spoiled by those ultra-low pandemic-era rates!

And guess what? The market hasn’t stopped. People will always find a reason to need a new home.

Why Buying Now Can Still Make Sense

Here’s why this might actually be a great time to buy:

Less competition – With some people hesitating, there’s more room for you to explore and negotiate.
More inventory – In some areas, there are more homes to choose from, which means better chances of finding the right one.
You can refinance later – You’re not stuck with your interest rate forever. When rates drop, you can refinance and lower your monthly payment.
Renting won’t build equity – Even if your mortgage payment feels a little higher, you’re investing in your future—not paying off someone else’s.

Timing the Market vs. Your Own Timing

Trying to “wait out” the market might sound smart—but no one has a crystal ball. What matters more is your personal timing. Are you ready? Is it time for more space, more stability, or just something that’s truly yours?

If so, waiting might cost you more in the long run—especially if prices keep rising or the perfect home slips through your fingers.

Let’s Talk It Through

I get it—this market can feel a little overwhelming. But you don’t have to figure it all out alone. I’m here to walk you through every step, break it down in a way that makes sense, and help you make the best decision for you.

So if you’ve been wondering, “Should I wait to buy a home?”—let’s chat. Because the answer might be more encouraging than you think.

Homeowners • April 23, 2025

Think Your Property Taxes Are Too High? Here’s What You Need to Know About Protesting in 2025

by Amber Bennett

So, you just opened your property tax notice and nearly spit out your coffee. Trust me — you’re not the only one. Every spring, homeowners across Texas get those little envelopes that somehow manage to be both confusing and expensive.

If your home’s value suddenly skyrocketed on paper and you’re thinking, “No way my house is worth that,” it might be time to file a protest. Here’s a quick breakdown of when, why, and how to challenge your property tax appraisal this year.

Why You Should Consider Protesting:

The county bases your taxes on what they think your home is worth — not what it would actually sell for. And they don’t always get it right.

You might want to protest if:

Your value jumped way more than your neighbors’
Your house has issues that weren’t considered (foundation cracks or that 1990s kitchen, these could actually help you for once!)
You just bought your home and paid less than the county’s value
They listed things you don’t actually have (like an extra bedroom or pool — wouldn’t that be nice?)

This isn’t about being difficult — it’s about making sure you’re paying your fair share, not more.

When to Protest:

In most areas of Texas, you have until May 15th, 2025 — or 30 days after the notice was mailed, whichever comes later. Either way, don’t wait too long. These deadlines sneak up fast.

How to File a Protest:

Look Over Your Notice
1. Check the assessed value and ask yourself: would my house really sell for that today?
Do Some Research
1. Look at what similar homes in your area have sold for recently. If you want help with this — message me. I’ll send over some comparable sales (“comps”) to back you up.
File the Protest
1. You can usually do this online through your county appraisal district’s website. It’s not hard, and they’ll guide you through it.
2. For Tarrant county login to Tarrant County Appraisal District to file.
Get Ready to Chat
1. You might get a chance to settle it through an informal meeting first. If not, you’ll go to a formal hearing. Don’t panic — just bring your evidence, stay calm, and speak your truth.

Final Thoughts:

Protesting your taxes might sound intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. You don’t need a lawyer, and you don’t need to be a real estate expert — though it definitely helps to have one in your corner.

I’m always happy to help you run comps or answer questions. Even if you don’t protest this year, knowing your options puts the power back in your hands.

You worked hard for your home — you shouldn’t overpay for it.

Buyers • April 22, 2025

Renting vs. Buying: Which Is Right for You in 2025?

by Amber Bennett

Your next move is a big decision and I want you to be comfortable knowing you have a trusted REALTOR® on your side.

The decision to rent or buy a home isn’t one-size-fits-all. With the 2025 market shifting and everyone’s financial goals looking a little different, it’s more important than ever to weigh the pros and cons of each. Whether you’re looking for flexibility or long-term stability, here’s a breakdown to help you figure out what’s right for you.

1. Financial Considerations

Upfront Costs:
- Renting: Typically first month’s rent + deposit + application and processing fees. (These fees are depending on the home owner and the property management company)
- Buying: Down payment, closing costs, inspections, etc. These costs will normally be far larger than getting into a rental.
Monthly Payments:
- Rent might be lower in the short-term, but mortgage payments build equity.
Long-Term Investment:
- Homeownership can build wealth over time — renting won’t give you any return.
Taxes & Maintenance:
- Homeowners handle property taxes and repairs; renters typically don’t.

2. Lifestyle Considerations

Flexibility:
- Renting: Easier to move for a job, school, or just a change of scenery.
- Buying: More commitment, but also more control and personalization.
Customization:
- Want to paint the walls or renovate the kitchen? Buying gives you that freedom.
- Renters are normally unable to change a home even if they feel it is for the better.
Stability:
- Homeowners can lock in payments with a fixed-rate mortgage; renters may face rising rents and non-renewed leases.

3. The 2025 Market Snapshot

Interest Rates:
- Still relatively high compared to a few years ago, but many buyers are finding creative financing solutions. Locking in now might be a good idea- If the rates drop you can refinance and if they raise, then you are locked in at a reasonable rate.
Inventory & Prices:
- Depending on your area, buyers may be gaining more negotiating power as the inventory is high in most areas.
Rental Market:
- In many cities, rents continue to rise, sometimes faster than home prices.

4. When Renting Might Be Right for You

You’re planning to move again in the next 1–2 years
You’re still building credit or saving for a down payment
You want minimal responsibility for repairs and maintenance

5. When Buying Might Be the Better Move

You’re ready to settle down in one place
You have stable income and a good credit score
You want to build equity and invest in your future

Final Thoughts:

There’s no universal “right answer” — it depends on your goals, lifestyle, and where you see yourself in the next few years. If you’re unsure which path to take, I’d love to help you talk through your options and see what makes the most sense in your situation. You can also see this calculator provided by CENTURY 21 which may give you some more insight one what could work better for you.

Let’s connect — whether you’re buying your first home, renting for now, or just starting to explore I can help with all avenues!

Market conditions • April 1, 2025

Market Conditions: February 2025

by Amber Bennett

Everyone’s favorite question: “How’s the market?” Let me tell you!

The Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington housing market in February 2025 shows some key trends that both buyers and sellers should pay attention to.

Home Prices Are Up

The median home price rose to $395,000, a 1.5% increase from February 2024. This steady growth indicates that home values continue to appreciate, making it a great time for homeowners thinking about selling to take advantage of rising prices.

Inventory & Listings Are Up

There were 35.7% more active listings this February, with 27,564 homes on the market. This means buyers have more options, and sellers need to price their homes competitively to stand out.

Homes Are Taking Longer to Sell

The total time to close a sale is now 100 days—9 days longer than a year ago. While homes are still moving, they aren’t flying off the market as quickly as they were during the peak frenzy of past years. Sellers should be prepared for a longer selling timeline and ensure their home is priced right and well-marketed.

Sales Have Slowed Slightly

Closed sales dropped 4.4% from last year, with 6,362 homes sold in February 2025. This indicates that while demand is still strong, buyers are being more selective and taking their time.

What This Means for You

• Sellers: Now is still a great time to list your home, as prices are holding strong. However, strategic pricing and presentation are crucial with more inventory on the market. Be aware that gone are the times of going under contract in a week, expect to be on market for a minute. That however does not mean it won’t sell. (Trust your REALTOR® they are working diligently to get it sold)

• Buyers: With more homes available and longer days on market, you have more negotiating power than before. If you’ve been waiting for the right time to buy, this could be your opportunity. Interest rates can be scary, but lock into a rate today, and you are able to refinance later if they go down.

With 3.6 months of inventory, we are still technically in a seller’s market, but trends indicate a shift toward a more balanced market. Whether you’re buying or selling, having the right strategy is key.

Thinking about making a move? Let’s chat! I’d love to help you navigate today’s market.

Judge Fite Company • April 1, 2025

Stronger Together: The Heart of Our People

by Amber Bennett

Whether offering support through the Judge Fite Charitable Foundation, changing lives with Easterseals Lonestar or uplifting local charity organizations, our people are passionate about strengthening our communities.

At CENTURY 21 Judge Fite Company, we believe that making a difference goes beyond buying and selling real estate—it’s about the people we support. Giving back is at the heart of who we are. Whether offering support through the Judge Fite Charitable Foundation, changing lives with Easterseals Lonestar or uplifting local charity organizations, our people are passionate about strengthening our communities. Together, we’re creating positive change in Texas and Oklahoma.

Charities We Support

Through generous donations, fundraising events and heartfelt advocacy, we work to ensure that these organizations can continue providing essential services to our communities. Whether assisting families facing unexpected hardships or supporting individuals with disabilities, our people proudly support the Judge Fite Charitable Foundation and Easterseals Lonestar, making a lasting impact on those in need.

Our People Making a Difference

Beyond our philanthropic partnerships, our agents and staff actively engage in local initiatives that matter most in their communities—supporting more than 600 charitable organizations across Texas and Oklahoma. From organizing food drives, participating in neighborhood clean-ups, sponsoring youth programs and contributing to local shelters, our people go above and beyond. Their passion for service reflects our mission of empowering the communities where we live and work, reinforcing the importance of giving back.

Judge Fite Gives

We’re excited to announce that our annual Judge Fite Gives fundraising event will be held at the Perot Museum on Saturday, September 13, 2025. This incredible evening will bring together friends, family and community members to support the Judge Fite Charitable Foundation and Easterseals Lonestar. Visit our website for more details or watch our social media page.

True success is about the impact we make in people’s lives. Our people aren’t just selling real estate—they’re helping to build stronger, more connected communities. Join us in supporting the Judge Fite Charitable Foundation and Easterseals Lonestar to make a real difference.

Learn more.

Together, we are stronger.

Judge Fite Company • April 1, 2025

How Difficult is it to become a REALTOR®?

by Amber Bennett

To become a REALTOR® is more than just a job—it’s a fulfilling career and life journey that allows you to make a real impact in people’s lives.

Have you ever dreamed of a career where you control your own schedule, build lasting relationships and help people live the American dream? To become a REALTOR® is more than just a job—it’s a fulfilling career and life journey that allows you to make a real impact in people’s lives.

Whether you’re considering a career in real estate or are already navigating the licensing process, understanding the steps involved can help you feel more confident and prepared. In this guide, we’ll break down what it takes to become a licensed real estate agent in Texas and Oklahoma, so you can take the next step toward your exciting new career with clarity and confidence.

General Licensing Requirements

To become a Real Estate Sales Agent or Texas, you must:

Meet Basic Eligibility Criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be a U.S. citizen or lawfully admitted person.
Complete Pre-Licensing Education:
- Complete required education hours – learn more about your state’s courses and options here.
Submit Application and Fees:
- Apply online through TREC’s website and pay the required application fee.
Provide Fingerprints and Background Check:
- Submit fingerprints for a background check as part of the application process.
Pass the Licensing Exam:
- Schedule and pass the real estate licensing exam administered by PearsonVUE.
Find a Sponsoring Broker:
- To activate your license, secure sponsorship from a licensed real estate broker like CENTURY 21 Judge Fite Company – The No. 1 CENTURY 21® in Texas and Oklahoma and No. 4 worldwide.

If you’re looking for the best place to start and grow your real estate career, CENTURY 21 Judge Fite Company offers the support, training and resources you need to thrive in this competitive industry. Learn more about how we can help you become a REALTOR® and succeed in a real estate career for life!

I personally love this company and the training and opportunity they have given me. If you interested in real estate I would love to talk to you about your options! Please reach out to hear more.

Judge Fite Company • February 17, 2025

Team Up with a REALTOR® to Sell Your House

by Amber Bennett

Working with a real estate professional makes selling your house a rewarding, streamlined experience.

Selling your house is one of the biggest financial moves you’ll make, and navigating the process alone can be overwhelming. It doesn’t have to be.

Imagine having a trusted advisor by your side to handle every detail, from crafting a compelling marketing strategy to negotiating a fair deal on your behalf. That’s what partnering with a CENTURY 21 Judge Fite Company real estate professional brings to your home sale. Your real estate professional:

Creates All Property Marketing and Promotion

When you work with us, you gain access to a full suite of marketing materials and tools designed to get your house noticed by the right buyers. Your REALTOR® covers professional photography, listing syndication, print marketing and more*. They know where buyers are looking and how to create interest in your property through targeted advertising and creative outreach.

Schedules Showings and Manages Calls

Selling your home means lots of inquiries, calls and showings. By working with one of our real estate professionals, you can offload the time-consuming tasks of fielding calls and coordinating appointments. REALTORS® are pros at answering potential buyers’ questions, weeding out non-serious offers and efficiently scheduling showings that work with your schedule. They also have a network of other agents to bring buyers to you.

Assesses Offers and Negotiates

Negotiating a real estate contract can be a complex process. Our REALTORS® bring negotiation skills honed through experience and a deep understanding of the current real estate market. When an offer comes in, they’ll assess it based on comparable sales, market trends and your goals, advising you on whether to accept, reject or counter.

Pays Attention to Details for Extraordinary Experiences

A successful house sale requires attention to countless details, from staging tips to contract specifics. Your real estate professional manages many tasks, ensuring everything runs smoothly. From coordinating with inspectors and appraisers to managing the paperwork, they provide a seamless experience.

They’ll also ensure that every aspect of the sale aligns with your priorities, providing guidance through continual communication every step of the way. This commitment to detail turns a typical selling process into an extraordinary experience, allowing you to focus on your next chapter while knowing every detail of your house sale is managed with the utmost professionalism (99% quality satisfaction rating among client experiences).

Schedule Your On-Site Price Consultation Today

Working with one of our real estate professionals makes selling your house a rewarding, streamlined experience. With our market expertise and commitment to world-class service, CENTURY 21 Judge Fite Company will help you achieve your goals and make the sale of your house a success. Connect with me to get the process started today.

Market conditions • February 17, 2025

The Outlook for Real Estate in 2025:

by Amber Bennett

The real estate market is full of opportunity — are you ready to seize it?

For Buyers: More Inventory and New Opportunities

Good news for buyers — housing inventory is continuing to increase, providing more options in the market. While home prices remain elevated, stabilizing interest rates are expected as federal fund rate cuts take effect.

**Top Buyer Trends*:**

All-Cash Transactions: Many buyers are leveraging savings to stay competitive.
Aging First-Time Buyers: Rising home prices are pushing first-time purchases to a later age in life.
Urban Resurgence: Cities are regaining popularity as buyers seek dynamic, centralized locations.
Multigenerational Living: Households are expanding beyond the nuclear family.

If you’re in the market to buy, working with a knowledgeable real estate agent is key to navigating the homeownership journey.

For Sellers: The Perfect Time to List

2025 presents a promising opportunity for sellers who postponed listing their houses in 2024. Although inventory is rising, demand remains robust in desirable markets. The “locked-in effect,” where sellers hesitate due to their low mortgage rates, is diminishing, creating opportunities for motivated homeowners.

Key Tips for Sellers:

Prepare for Competition: Staging and pricing your house effectively are more critical than ever.
Leverage Professional Expertise: A trusted real estate agent can help maximize visibility and value.
Act Quickly: Rising inventory means listing sooner could help you secure the best offers.

If you’ve been on the fence about selling, now is the time to take advantage of a dynamic and growing market.

Emerging Demographics Shaping the Market

Real estate trends in 2025 will be heavily influenced by changing demographics and lifestyle choices. Here are the groups driving the market:

Single Women Buyers: Outpacing single men as a fast-growing buyer segment.
Hispanic Buyers: A demographic increasingly turning to trusted brands like CENTURY 21® for their homeownership needs.
Life Stage Transitions: New marriages, growing families and retirees downsizing are all fueling market activity.

Understanding these shifts is essential for buyers and sellers looking to stay ahead in 2025.

Your Trusted Partner

At CENTURY 21 Judge Fite Company, we’re committed to helping our clients thrive in an ever-changing real estate market. Here’s what sets us apart:

Turn-Key Real Estate Services: We streamline the buying and selling process from start to finish with our One Team of companies.
Award-Winning Training Programs: Our agents are equipped with the tools and knowledge to deliver outstanding results.
Unmatched Market Expertise: Our deep understanding of local and national trends ensures you’re always one step ahead.

Whether you’re buying your first home, selling a property or investing in real estate, CENTURY 21 Judge Fite Company is here to help you achieve your goals with confidence.

Take Charge of Your Real Estate Goals

The real estate market is full of opportunity — are you ready to seize it? Whether you’re looking to buy, sell or simply explore your options, now is the time to act.

Contact Amber Bennett to get started. Together, we’ll make this your most successful year in real estate yet.

* source: NAR 2024 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers

DFW Real Estate Housing Metrics | December 2024 — DFW Real Estate Housing Metrics – December 2023 through 2024

Lending • December 14, 2024

Pre-Qualified vs Pre-approved

by Amber Bennett

The Difference Between Pre-Approval and Pre-Qualified in Real Estate

When you’re embarking on the journey to buy a home, you’ll likely hear the terms pre-qualification and pre-approval thrown around. While they might seem similar, these two processes serve different purposes and can have a big impact on your home-buying experience. Here’s what you need to know about the difference between pre-approval and pre-qualified, and why it matters.

What Is Pre-Qualification?

Pre-qualification is an initial step in the mortgage process. It’s a quick and easy way for potential buyers to get an estimate of how much they may be able to borrow based on the information they provide to a lender.

Key Features of Pre-Qualification:

Informal Process: The buyer provides basic financial information, such as income, debts, and assets.
No Credit Check: Most pre-qualifications don’t involve a hard inquiry on your credit.
Estimate Only: The lender gives you an idea of your borrowing power, but it’s not a guarantee.

Pre-qualification can be helpful for understanding your budget range when you’re just starting your home search, but it’s not as detailed or reliable as pre-approval.

What Is Pre-Approval?

Pre-approval is a more in-depth process that carries more weight with sellers. It involves a thorough review of your financial situation and provides a more concrete understanding of how much you can borrow.

Key Features of Pre-Approval:

Formal Process: The lender verifies your income, credit history, employment, and other financial details.
Credit Check Required: A hard inquiry on your credit report is conducted, which can temporarily affect your score.
Conditional Commitment: You’ll receive a pre-approval letter that outlines how much the lender is willing to lend you.

Pre-approval shows sellers that you’re a serious buyer, and it can make your offer stand out in a competitive market.

Why Does This Matter to Buyers?

Understanding the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval can help you decide which step to take based on your readiness to buy.

If you’re just exploring: Start with pre-qualification to get a rough idea of what you can afford.
If you’re ready to make an offer: Get pre-approved to demonstrate to sellers that you’re a serious and capable buyer.

Final Thoughts

Both pre-qualification and pre-approval are valuable tools in the home-buying process, but they serve different purposes. Pre-qualification is great for planning, while pre-approval is essential for action. As you move forward in your journey, working with a knowledgeable real estate agent and lender can help ensure you’re prepared every step of the way.

If you have any questions about buying a home or need guidance through the process, feel free to reach out. I’d love to help you find the perfect place to call home!

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