It’s cold outside

And I’m starting the year off right, and you can too.

All January, I’m running the It’s Cold Outside Campaign and collecting gently used winter gear for our community.

We’re looking for jackets, hats and mitts

Men’s items are needed the most

Items must be in decent condition and freshly washed because dignity matters

If you have something sitting in your closet that could keep someone warm, this is an easy way to help in a real way

All donations will be distributed through The Humanity Project

Text me at 506 377 2279 or send me a DM and I’ll make it easy

Let’s stay warm together

What’s in, what’s out, and what buyers are quietly judging when they walk through your front door

Design trends come and go. Some age like fine wine. Others age like that beige shag carpet someone swore was “timeless.”
2026 is shaping up to be a year where homes feel more human, more intentional, and way less “I bought this because Instagram told me to.”

Whether you’re renovating, building, or quietly wondering if your house still has the vibe, here’s what’s actually showing up in homes buyers love right now.

1. Warm Is Winning (Cool Tones Are Taking a Nap)

The era of icy greys and stark whites is officially cooling off.
In 2026, homes are leaning warm and cozy without feeling dark or heavy.

Think
• Creams instead of white
• Soft beiges instead of grey
• Clay, sand, oat, and mushroom tones
• Natural wood that actually looks like wood

Buyers want spaces that feel calm, comfortable, and lived in, not like a dentist’s waiting room.

2. Texture Is the New Statement Piece

High-gloss everything is stepping aside. Texture is stepping forward.

We’re seeing
• Limewash and plaster walls
• Wood slat accents
• Subtle stone features
• Layered textiles instead of shiny finishes

Texture adds depth without screaming for attention. It makes a home feel designed without trying too hard.

3. Kitchens Are Softer and Smarter

Kitchens are still the heart of the home. They’re just less flashy and more thoughtful.

What’s trending
• Two-tone cabinetry
• Hidden pantries and appliance garages
• Warm metals like brushed brass
• Fewer uppers, more breathing room

What’s fading
• Ultra glossy cabinets
• Harsh contrast
• Kitchens that look amazing but function terribly

Buyers notice flow, storage, and how the space feels when they stand in it.

4. Bathrooms Feel Like Quiet Escapes

Bathrooms are moving away from hotel vibes and into calm retreat territory.

Expect to see
• Floating vanities
• Large-format tiles
• Soft lighting
• Organic shapes and finishes

If your bathroom makes someone exhale when they walk in, you’re doing it right.

5. Purposeful Rooms Are Back

Open concept isn’t dead. It’s just more… intentional.

Buyers love
• Home offices with doors
• Mudrooms that actually work
• Flex spaces that adapt to real life
• Small nooks with purpose

Homes that acknowledge how people actually live are winning.

6. Outdoor Spaces Count as Living Space

Outdoor space is no longer a bonus. It’s expected.

In demand
• Covered patios
• Defined seating areas
• Simple landscaping with structure
• Spaces that feel usable, not just green

You don’t need a resort. You need somewhere people can picture themselves having coffee or hosting friends.

The Big Takeaway for 2026

Homes that sell well in 2026 aren’t chasing trends.
They feel warm, functional, and thoughtfully put together.

If you’re thinking about selling, small design updates can absolutely impact how buyers emotionally connect with your home. And that connection matters more than people think.

If you want honest advice on what’s worth doing and what’s not worth your time or money, I’ve got you.

Hiring a real estate agent isn’t like picking a random coffee shop for your morning caffeine fix. This is the person who’s going to help you navigate one of the biggest financial moves of your life. You need someone who knows their stuff, has your back, and—let’s be honest—doesn’t make you want to roll your eyes every five minutes.

So, how do you find the one? Here’s how to separate the pros from the, well… let’s just say, “not-so-pros.”

Step 1: Stalk Them (The Legal Way, Of Course)

Before you even set up a meeting, do a little digging. Check out their website, social media, and reviews. Are they actively helping buyers and sellers in your area? Do they seem knowledgeable, engaged, and like a person you’d actually enjoy working with?

Red flag: If their last Instagram post was in 2019 and it’s a blurry photo of a “SOLD” sign, they might not be as active in today’s market as you’d like.

Step 2: Ask the Right Questions

Once you’ve found a few potential agents, it’s time to grill them (nicely). Here are some key questions to ask before you commit:

For Buyers:

✅ How well do you know this market?
You need someone who understands pricing trends, neighborhoods, and what’s really going on beyond what’s listed online.

✅ How do you handle competitive offers?
In a hot market, it’s not just about throwing money at a house—it’s about strategy. Your agent should have a game plan to make your offer stand out.

✅ What’s your availability like?
If houses are selling fast and your agent is MIA for days at a time, that’s a problem. You need someone who responds faster than your mom when she hears you’re dating someone new.

✅ What’s your negotiation style?
Are they aggressive? Strategic? A good agent knows how to push just enough without scaring off sellers.

✅ Can you connect me with trusted mortgage brokers, inspectors, and lawyers?
A well-connected agent is priceless. They’ll hook you up with professionals who won’t leave you hanging.

For Sellers:

✅ How will you market my home?
A top agent won’t just slap your listing online and hope for the best. They should have a plan that includes professional photos, social media promotion, and possibly even video tours.

✅ How do you determine the right listing price?
Overpricing scares off buyers. Underpricing leaves money on the table. Your agent should have a solid pricing strategy based on real data.

✅ What’s your track record in selling homes like mine?
If they’ve only sold downtown condos and you’re selling a farmhouse, that might not be the best fit.

✅ How do you handle negotiations and multiple offers?
The way your agent handles offers can mean the difference between a bidding war and a house that sits on the market too long.

✅ What’s your commission, and what does it cover?
Get clear on fees upfront so there are no surprises later. A good agent will happily break it down for you.

Step 3: Trust Your Gut

You’re going to be spending a lot of time with your agent, so make sure you actually like them. If they make you feel pressured, confused, or like they’d ghost you the second you sign a contract—run.

A great agent will be:
✔️ Responsive and communicative
✔️ Honest (even if it’s not what you want to hear)
✔️ A strong negotiator
✔️ Experienced in your type of sale
✔️ Someone who genuinely cares about you and not just their commission

Final Thought: Don’t Settle

Buying or selling a home is a huge deal, and you deserve an agent who’s going to hustle for you like it’s their own house on the line. Ask the right questions, do your research, and make sure they’re the right fit—because the only surprises you want in this process are good ones.

Looking for an agent who actually gives a damn? Let’s chat. I’d love to help you find your perfect home—or the perfect buyer for yours.