Deborah Winters Chaney, The Realty Partnership, LLC

09/03/2026

Thinking about buying a home? Getting pre-approved is one of the smartest first steps you can take. To get started, most lenders will want four basic things: a current driver's license or state-issued ID, your Social Security number, proof of income and funds available for your down payment, and a list of your current debts.Having these items ready can help streamline the process and give you a clearer picture of what you can comfortably afford. It can also strengthen your position when it's time to make an offer.If you're preparing to buy, I'm happy to connect you with trusted lenders who can help you take the next step with confidence.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/DeborahWintersChaney/2026/09/03/4-things-to-start-your-pre-approval

Deborah Winters Chaney, Realtor/Partner
I never forget, "I work for YOU!"
(281) 224-7800
www.DeborahWintersChaney.com
[email protected]

09/02/2026

There's a lot of discussion about mortgage debt today, but the bigger story may be how much equity homeowners have actually built. Stronger lending standards and years of appreciation have created substantial homeowner wealth across the country. If you'd like to better understand today's housing market and what it could mean for you, I'd be happy to help

Deborah Winters Chaney, Realtor/Partner
I never forget, "I work for YOU!"
(281) 224-7800
www.DeborahWintersChaney.com
[email protected]

Despite concerns about mortgage debt, today's homeowners collectively hold trillions of dollars in equity, reflecting stronger lending standards and long-term wealth accumulation through homeownership.

09/01/2026

Days on market can tell you more than how long a home has been listed. It may provide clues about demand, pricing, condition, and seller motivation.A newly listed home could require quick action, while one that has been available for several weeks may create an opportunity to ask questions or negotiate.However, the displayed number does not always tell the complete story. A listing can be removed and relisted, causing the DOM counter to restart.Before making an offer, ask your agent to review the property's full listing history and cumulative days on market. Better information can help you evaluate the seller's position, structure a stronger offer, and make a more confident buying decision.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/DeborahWintersChaney/2026/09/01/What-Buyers-Should-Know-About-Days-on-Market

08/27/2026

Your trusted agent can recommend a trusted mortgage lender which is crucial for most first-time buyers.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/DeborahWintersChaney/2026/08/27/Smart-Actions-for-First-time-Homebuyers

Deborah Winters Chaney, Realtor/Partner
I never forget, "I work for YOU!"
(281) 224-7800
www.DeborahWintersChaney.com
[email protected]

08/26/2026

Many homeowners are surprised to learn how much equity they've built over the years. That equity may be able to help with renovations, debt consolidation, investing, or even making a move to a better-fit home. If you'd like to better understand your home's value and the opportunities your equity may create, let's talk.

Deborah Winters Chaney, Realtor/Partner
I never forget, "I work for YOU!"
(281) 224-7800
www.DeborahWintersChaney.com
[email protected]

Many homeowners have accumulated substantial equity in their homes, creating opportunities to improve finances, invest in the future, and achieve important life goals.

08/25/2026

If you have the ability to make a large principal payment and want to lower your monthly mortgage payment, recasting may be worth asking your lender about. A recast allows some homeowners to keep their existing loan and interest rate while the lender recalculates the payment based on the lower loan balance. This can be appealing if your current rate is lower than today's rates. However, recasting is typically only available on conventional, conforming loans, and FHA, VA, and USDA loans are generally not eligible. Refinancing is different because it replaces your current loan with a new one.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/DeborahWintersChaney/2026/08/25/Mortgage-Recasting-to-Lower-Your-Payment

08/20/2026

If your property tax assessment seems higher than your home's market value, it may be worth a closer look. Assessments aren't always perfectly aligned with current conditions, and even small discrepancies can impact what you pay each year.The key is comparing your assessment to recent sales and understanding how your property is being evaluated. If there's a gap, you may have grounds to appeal.I can help you review your home's value and provide supporting information to guide your decision.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/DeborahWintersChaney/2026/08/20/Is-your-property-tax-assessment-too-high

Deborah Winters Chaney, Realtor/Partner
I never forget, "I work for YOU!"
(281) 224-7800
[email protected]

08/19/2026

Many buyers assume they have to purchase a home completely on their own, but co-ownership can be a smart alternative in today's market. Whether it's friends buying together or a family member helping with the investment, there are creative ways to make homeownership more achievable. If you'd like to explore your options, let's talk about what might work for your situation.

Deborah Winters Chaney, Realtor/Partner
I never forget, "I work for YOU!"
(281) 224-7800
[email protected]

Co-owning a home can help buyers overcome affordability challenges by sharing costs, combining resources, and creating new pathways to homeownership.

08/18/2026

Not every renovation pays off when it is time to sell. Some improvements are wonderful if you plan to enjoy them for years, but they may not add enough resale value to recover the cost. Highly personal design choices, luxury upgrades, removing functional space, or over-improving for the neighborhood can all limit your return. Before spending a large amount of money, it is smart to look at what buyers in your area actually value. If you are thinking about renovating and want to know which projects may help resale and which ones may not, contact me. I can help you look at your home through a buyer's eyes.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/DeborahWintersChaney/2026/08/18/Renovations-That-Don-t-Pay-Off