The Hills I’ll Gladly Die On as a Real Estate Agent

When it comes to real estate, I’ve got opinions—and I’m not afraid to share them, especially when they help my clients make the best possible choices. After years of walking homes, negotiating offers, and guiding buyers through big life decisions, I’ve come to stand firmly on a few “hills” that I’ll gladly die on. Here they are:

Fall in Love With the Location First—Then the Home

It’s easy to get swept away by granite countertops or charming built-ins, but at the end of the day, where you live is just as important as what you live in. A beautiful home in the wrong location will never feel like home. That’s why I always encourage my clients to explore the neighborhood, feel out the commute, and see how the area fits their lifestyle before diving into home features.

Proximity to Amenities Matters More Than You Think

This is a big one. Being close to grocery stores, quality schools, healthcare, and even your favorite coffee shop can make a huge difference in your day-to-day life. It’s the kind of thing that seems small until you’ve had to drive 30 minutes to grab milk or get to a doctor’s appointment. Convenience equals peace of mind—and that matters.

Open Floor Plans Aren’t the Only Answer

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By Jessica Watts July 15, 2025
I blinked and we are well into July. I hope you are having a beautiful summer. It has been great to see everyone supporting their community recreation programs- and I want to hear about why you are loving yours!! The real estate market is still going strong. Inventory is still low overall, but I am seeing an uptick in certain areas which is great news for buyers! For sellers, we are still seeing prices soar in certain areas. The difference is now, buyers aren’t just picking up any house. So preparing your home is critical. I am helping sellers up to 6 months prior to listing. Remember, my knowledge is your super power. Lastly, in response to all of the grant cuts that have taken place, I have launched a GIVE BACK program. All of my clients will have donations made in their name to a local non for profit of their choice. I can’t wait to help make our communities stronger. Stay tuned for event updates. Yoga in the Garden is coming soon, just trying to finalize the date. Keep having the best summer, and we will chat soon.
By Jessica Watts July 7, 2025
Thinking about selling your home? Before the "For Sale" sign goes up, there are a few key things you should know — the kind of things that can help your property stand out and sell for top dollar. Here’s what I tell every seller I work with.
By Jessica Watts July 2, 2025
Once a year, Jenn Wage or Northern Westchester Moms and I host a garden party in Pound Ridge. This year we had 50 wonderful people attend.
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