January Real Estate Tips from Kim Idel, Your Home Girl
- Beth Outz
- Jan 8
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 9

Happy New Year, homeowners, buyers, and sellers! As we welcome a fresh start in January, it’s time to reset our goals and plan for a successful year ahead in real estate. Whether you’re thinking about buying your first home, selling your property, or investing in real estate, January is the perfect month to get ahead of the game. Here are some essential real estate tips from me, Kim Idel, Your Home Girl, to kick off 2025 on the right foot!
1. New Year, New Home Goals
The beginning of the year is a great time to assess your real estate goals. Ask yourself:
Do I want to buy a new home this year?
Am I ready to sell my current property?
Should I consider investing in rental properties?
Create a vision board or write down your real estate goals to keep yourself accountable. If you’re not sure where to start, let’s chat! I can help you set realistic goals and craft a plan to achieve them.
2. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
If buying a home is on your to-do list this year, start with a pre-approval. Mortgage rates fluctuate, and being pre-approved gives you a clear understanding of your budget. Plus, it shows sellers you’re a serious buyer, giving you an edge in competitive markets.
3. Declutter and Refresh Your Home
January is ideal for a fresh start. If you’re planning to sell, start by decluttering your home. Pack away holiday decorations and deep clean your space. A clean and organized home appeals to buyers and makes it easier to stage for showings.
Pro Tip: Freshen up your home with a new coat of paint in neutral colors. It makes a big impact without breaking the bank!
4. Take Advantage of the Winter Market
Many people assume spring is the best time to buy or sell, but the winter market can be advantageous:
For Buyers: Fewer buyers in the market means less competition and potentially better deals.
For Sellers: Serious buyers are out looking, even in colder months. Plus, your home will stand out more with fewer listings to compete against.
5. Plan for Home Renovations Early
If you’re planning to update your home this year, start getting quotes from contractors now. Many homeowners wait until spring or summer, so booking early can save you time and money. Prioritize renovations that add value, such as:
Kitchen updates
Bathroom remodels
Energy-efficient improvements
6. Review Your Home’s Equity
Take a look at your home’s current market value and your mortgage balance to understand your equity position. If you’ve built up significant equity, you may be able to leverage it to invest in additional properties or make upgrades to your current home.
7. Work with a Trusted Real Estate Agent
Navigating the real estate market can be overwhelming, especially at the start of a new year. Working with a knowledgeable agent (that’s me!) can make all the difference. I’m here to guide you through every step of the buying or selling process, ensuring you achieve your real estate goals in 2025.
Final Thoughts
January is all about setting the foundation for success, and that applies to real estate too. Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, taking proactive steps now will set you up for a great year ahead.
If you’re ready to make your real estate dreams a reality, I’d love to be your trusted guide. Reach out to me, Kim Idel, Your Home Girl, and let’s make 2025 your best year yet!
Contact Info:
Phone: (573) 761-3403 office or (573) 230-0333 cell
Email: k.idel@icloud.com
Website: www.KimIdelHomeGirl.com
Cheers to new beginnings and successful real estate ventures!
Kim Idel, Your Home Girl
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