Real Talk with Jackie: Buyers Are Back… But They’re Picky

Let’s talk about what’s actually happening in the market right now. Buyers are definitely out there and actively searching, but they’re being careful and calculated. Interest rates are higher, their cost of living has gone up, and they’re not making offers unless a home feels like the right fit. That means sellers need to meet buyers where they are. And that takes a little strategy.

Here’s what I’ve been seeing in Williamsburg, Yorktown, and surrounding areas:

Buyers Want Homes That Feel Cared For

They don’t need perfection, but they want homes that are clean, well-maintained, and not full of projects. If the home looks like it’s been neglected or smells a little “off,” buyers notice immediately. If it feels dark or cluttered, they can’t picture themselves living there.

Some simple things go a long way: fresh paint in a light neutral, clean floors, updated light fixtures, and clearing out extra furniture or personal items. If your home hasn’t had a deep clean in a while, now’s the time. And yes, curb appeal still matters. Mow the lawn, add a few fresh flowers, and power wash if needed. You want buyers to feel good before they even open the front door.

Pricing Needs to Reflect Today’s Market

This is where things can get tricky. Some sellers want to price based on what their neighbor sold for last year or what they hope their home is worth. But buyers are looking at every detail. They’re comparing your home to others in the area, and they’re doing it with calculators in hand.

Even being slightly overpriced can cost you showings. Buyers will skip it online or walk through and say, “It’s nice, but not at that price.” On the flip side, when a home is priced correctly, it stands out. The goal isn’t to give it away, but to be smart about where your home fits in the current market.

How You Present Your Home Matters

This part is huge. You could have the most beautiful home in the world, but if the photos don’t show it well, or if the rooms feel cramped or cluttered, it won’t stand out. That’s why professional photography and staging are so important.

When your home looks great online, more buyers want to see it in person. And when it shows well in person, it gets stronger offers. I work closely with trusted stagers and photographers to make sure your home looks its best from day one.

What Sellers Can Do Right Now

If you're thinking about selling, it’s worth taking a walk through your home with fresh eyes. Look at it the way a buyer would. What feels inviting? What needs attention?

From there, it’s all about putting a plan in place. I help my sellers figure out what updates are worth doing, which vendors to call, and how to price the home based on current data, not guesswork. It doesn’t have to be overwhelming when you have someone guiding you through each step.

Buyers are still out there and they are ready to make moves. But they’re looking for homes that feel right and are priced realistically. With the right prep, pricing, and marketing, your home can absolutely be the one they say yes to.

If you’re thinking about selling or even just starting to consider it, let’s talk.

Your goals. My focus. Success.