May Real Estate Roundup: How to Build Summer Momentum Now

As we move through May, we’re seeing a growing market we can work with—even if interest rates are a bit higher than we’d hoped for this spring.

The weather is ideal for open houses, families are planning moves around the school calendar, and many buyers are growing more comfortable with today’s rate environment. All of this makes preparation more important than ever—strong pre-approvals, realistic expectations, and clear communication.

Let’s take a look at what else is shaping the market this month…

Saluting VA Loans

May is Military Appreciation Month, making it a great time to spotlight the value of VA loans for service members, veterans, and eligible spouses:

• No down payment required 

• Typically competitive interest rates 

• No private mortgage insurance 

• VA Renovation loans (up to $75k) are ideal for non-structural fixer-uppers

Even better, the VA has introduced updates to streamline the appraisal process this month, helping keep transactions moving. For example, detached sheds and outbuildings are no longer evaluated, and radon inspections are no longer required. Let me know if you’d like more details.

E-closings are another helpful option—especially for military clients stationed abroad or anyone who prefers a more flexible signing process. While not every transaction qualifies for a full digital close, even partial e-closings can make a meaningful difference. I’m happy to walk you through how they work.

Summer Families on the Move

With summer approaching, we’re entering a window where buyers with children are especially motivated—they’re aiming to secure a home and move before the next school year begins.

That urgency can work in your favor, but it can also bring tighter timelines and heightened emotions. Setting expectations early is key. Encourage buyers to get fully pre-approved (not just pre-qualified), understand their budget, and be ready to act quickly when the right home hits the market.

This is also a great time for a thoughtful conversation around financial priorities: 

• Consider scaling back on large discretionary expenses like vacations 

• Major purchases can impact debt-to-income ratios, savings reserves, and loan qualification

Framing these decisions as short-term tradeoffs for long-term gains can help clients stay focused and confident.

The Key to Unlocking the Lock-In Effect

You’ve likely heard of the “lock-in effect”—homeowners holding onto ultra-low rates. While it can feel like a challenge, it’s also an opportunity to guide clients through their options. Life events—relocation, downsizing, or other changes—don’t always wait for ideal rate conditions.

Here are a few ways to reframe the conversation:

Shift from rate-focused to life-focused: A low rate is valuable, but it shouldn’t keep someone in a home that no longer fits their needs. Help clients weigh lifestyle factors alongside financial ones.

Show ways to preserve their advantage: Options like rate buydowns, seller concessions, or renting out their current home can help offset the transition. Position it as finding ways to recreate as much of their current benefit as possible.

Focus on long-term opportunity: While today’s rates may feel high by comparison, they’re still within a historically normal range. A new home that better supports appreciation, income potential, or future plans can offer meaningful long-term value.

The goal is to move clients from feeling “stuck” to seeing that they have options.

Communication Is Key

As activity picks up, transactions can become more complex. Keeping clear, consistent communication between you, your clients, and me helps ensure everyone stays aligned and informed. A smooth transaction isn’t just about reaching the closing table—it’s about the experience along the way.

May sets the tone for the summer market. With the right preparation, thoughtful conversations, and a proactive approach, you can help your clients move forward with confidence—and reinforce your role as a trusted advisor they’ll return to again and again.

There’s a lot to be optimistic about this month, and I look forward to working together—let’s connect!