Kitchens get the glory. Bathrooms get the budgets. But when it comes to what really moves buyers, we’ve found that it’s often the unexpected rooms that leave the biggest impression.

It’s about more than one transaction. It’s about helping people make smart, well-timed decisions that protect their financial future. Sometimes that means sitting still and waiting for a better market.

In the long run, real estate is built on trust, not on forcing deals. The right recommendation—even when it costs a commission—creates relationships that last well beyond a single sale. And those relationships are what sustain a long-term business.

Summer is the perfect time to refresh your home.

Every month, I give you a checklist to make staying on top of things feel a little less overwhelming. Here’s what to keep in mind this July.

Hit save, forward to your favorite homeowner, and check off a few when you’re feeling productive.

When summer arrives in full swing, so does the desire to gather—whether it’s around a backyard table, the glow of a fire pit, or the spray of a sprinkler. These five party ideas are designed to bring both kids and adults together for unforgettable memories. Each idea includes simple decor tips to elevate the vibe without overcomplicating your to-do list.

Whether you’re prepping your home for guests or just want to give it a fresh seasonal feel, I’ve rounded up my favorite finds for this month that are festive, functional, and perfect for the season.

This Peach Burrata salad with Champagne Vinaigrette is the best way to make the most of your seasonal fruits this summer. Use up any ripe peaches with this delicious salad recipe!

In the world of home design, some spaces get all the glory. The chef’s kitchen, the spa-like bathroom, the sun-drenched breakfast nook. But ask any Pacific Northwest homeowner what space quietly pulls its weight day after rainy day, and you might hear a surprising answer: the mudroom.

Your June home maintenance check list!

May is here, and that means longer days, warmer evenings, and a fresh excuse to update your outdoor space. Whether you’ve got a cozy patio, a full backyard, or just a little balcony to call your own, this month’s Kelly’s Picks is all about outdoor living—with a bonus: Memorial Day sales are making it the perfect time to save.

Here’s the thing: you might be more ready than you think. Buying a home doesn’t require perfection. It requires preparation—and a clear understanding of your goals, budget, and timeline.

So, how do you know if it’s time to take the next step?

Here are 5 signs you might be ready to buy a home—even if you’re still on the fence.

A rate buydown is when the seller (or builder) pays to temporarily lower your interest rate, often for the first 1–2 years of your mortgage. It doesn’t reduce the purchase price of the home, but it can dramatically reduce your monthly payment—especially in that early stretch when every dollar counts.

Your monthly home checklist for the month of May!

If you’ve been holding off on buying a home because you think you need a massive down payment—like 20%—you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common myths I hear from first-time buyers in Seattle. The truth? Most buyers put down far less—and you can too. In fact, the average down payment for first-time homebuyers nationwide is often closer to 6%, not 20%. In the greater Seattle area, where median home prices can feel intimidating, smart financial planning and the right guidance can open doors (literally) much sooner than you think.

Buying a home is more than just a financial investment—it’s a deeply personal journey. It's finding your place, where your story continues and new chapters unfold. At Aufhammer Homes, we don’t take that lightly. We believe in home. And we believe you deserve a buying experience that feels informed, empowering, and (dare we say it?) enjoyable. So, what’s it really like to buy a home with us? Here’s what you can expect—plus three common risks we help our clients avoid every step of the way.

We recently closed on a townhome in Issaquah for some wonderful repeat clients who had just bought their new home earlier this year. With their move complete, it was time to sell—and they entrusted us with the entire process. From the moment they handed over the keys, our goal was simple: minimize hassle, maximize return, and reduce risk.

We’re keeping a close eye on how these laws will impact real estate here in the Greater Seattle area. If you're curious about what this could mean for your home or investment property, let’s connect—we’d love to help you think through the possibilities.

The moment your home hits the market, it’s like the curtain rising on opening night. Serious buyers—many of whom have been waiting and watching for months—are refreshing their apps daily. They’re pre-approved, motivated, and ready to make an offer the second the right home appears. That’s why the first 14 days are absolutely critical.