Over the past few months, many buyers have been waiting on the sidelines hoping for one thing ~
a little relief in interest rates. Recently, we’ve started to see just that. While rates haven’t dropped
dramatically, even a small decrease can make a noticeable difference in monthly payments and
purchasing power.
And in real estate… psychology matters just as much as math.
When rates were climbing, buyers felt urgency but also uncertainty. Now that rates have softened,
confidence is starting to return. More showings are being scheduled, online home searches are
increasing, and homes priced correctly are attracting stronger interest again.
What This Means for Buyers
If you’ve been waiting, you’re not alone. Many buyers paused their search over the past year. The
recent shift is giving people an opportunity to step back in ~ before competition heats up again.
You can always refinance later. You can’t go back and buy the home you missed. Waiting for the
“perfect” rate often costs more than buying at a good price.
What This Means for Sellers
When rates drop even slightly: More buyers qualify, more buyers tour homes, and multiple-offer
situations return faster than expected.
We typically see activity pick up before spring, not after. Buyers who sat out the winter are
preparing to move quickly once they feel the market turning.
Southern Oregon Market Insight
Locally, inventory is still relatively limited compared to demand. That means well-prepared homes
~ clean, priced properly, and marketed correctly — are standing out and selling.
If rates continue easing into spring, we could see a more balanced but active market rather than the
slow start many were expecting.
The Bottom Line
Real estate moves in cycles, and small rate changes often signal the beginning of the next phase~ not the peak of it.
Whether you’re thinking about buying or selling, timing the market perfectly is nearly impossible.
Preparing early, however, gives you options.

Therese MacGregor
Coldwell Banker Pro West Real Estate
541-840-2708 | Theresem@cbprowest.com

Your Southern Oregon Realtor

Not all Olympic Games are the same.

Some take place on ice and snow. Others under the summer sun.

Different environments, different strategies, but the same goal — success.
Real estate markets work the same way. Some seasons favor buyers. Some favor sellers.
The Summer Olympics Market – Fast & Competitive
This reflects a seller’s market where homes attract attention quickly and multiple offers are
common.
Sellers should focus on presentation and pricing strategy. Buyers should be pre-approved and
ready to act quickly.
The Winter Olympics Market – Precise & Strategic
This reflects a buyer’s market where homes stay on the market longer and negotiations are
common.
Sellers need patience and accurate pricing. Buyers have more opportunity to negotiate and
evaluate value.
The Real Secret
You don’t control the market — you adjust to it. Success comes from the right strategy for current
conditions.
Therese MacGregor
Coldwell Banker Pro West Real Estate
541-840-2708
theresem@cbprowest.com

What the Olympic Games Teach Us About Real Estate
Every four years the world pauses to watch the Olympic Games — a tradition that began thousands
of years ago and continues to inspire today.
But beyond the medals and ceremonies, the Olympics tell a story about preparation, timing, and
dedication — the very same principles that apply when buying or selling a home.
Ancient Olympic Games – The Power of Preparation
The first Olympic Games were held in Olympia, Greece in 776 BC. Athletes trained for years for
one moment — a single event that could define their legacy.
Real Estate Lesson: Selling a home is the same way. The preparation phase determines the
outcome. Cleaning, staging, repairs, photography, and pricing strategy often matter more than the
listing date itself.
The Early Modern Olympics – Timing Matters
When the modern Olympics began in 1896, events were simpler — but athletes still needed perfect
timing.
Real Estate Lesson: Pricing strategy works the same way. Overpriced homes get ignored,
underpriced homes lose value, and correctly priced homes create competition and stronger offers.
Today’s Olympic Games – Teamwork Wins
Today’s Olympics rely on entire teams — coaches, trainers, strategists, and analysts. No athlete
wins alone anymore.
Real Estate Lesson: Buying or selling a home takes a team — lender, inspector, title company,
negotiator, and agent guiding the strategy.
Going for Gold in Real Estate
Preparation + Timing + Teamwork are the keys to success.
If you’re thinking about buying or selling in Southern Oregon, I’d be happy to help you create your
own gold-medal strategy.
Therese MacGregor
Coldwell Banker Pro West Real Estate
541-840-2708
theresem@cbprowest.com

In the Olympics, the medal ceremony isn’t just about winning — it’s about the journey that led there.
Real estate feels very similar.
After the showings, negotiations, inspections, and paperwork, there comes a moment where the
keys change hands. That moment is rarely just a transaction. It’s relief, excitement, sometimes
even happy tears.
A home is where life happens — holidays, quiet mornings, new chapters.
My role is to guide you through the competition phase so when closing day arrives, you feel
confident and cared for every step of the way.
If 2026 might be your year to move — whether upgrading, downsizing, or simply exploring — we
can map out a plan together. No pressure, just clarity about your next step.
Because every home has a story waiting to begin.
Warmly,
Therese MacGregor
Your Southern Oregon Realtor

With the 2026 Winter Olympics approaching, I’ve been thinking about how similar the home buying
and selling process is to training for a big event. Athletes don’t just show up ready — they prepare,
practice, and plan long before competition day.
Real estate works the same way.
If you’re thinking about selling, the preparation phase matters more than people expect. Small
improvements often create the biggest impact — decluttering, light repairs, thoughtful staging, and
a pricing strategy based on the current Southern Oregon market.
Buyers have their own training plan too:
Getting pre-approved, understanding monthly comfort levels, and learning what features truly
matter in a home.
Preparation doesn’t just improve your results — it reduces stress and builds confidence.
Even if your move is months away, starting the conversation early gives you an advantage. Just like
the Olympics, success rarely happens overnight… but it always starts with a plan.
Warmly,
Therese MacGregor
Your Southern Oregon Realtor

If you’ve been watching the real estate market lately, you’ve probably noticed something: there are
more homes coming on the market now. That’s great news for buyers—and it changes the game for
sellers too.

More Choices for Buyers
For buyers, rising inventory means more options. Instead of feeling rushed, buyers can take time to
compare homes, neighborhoods, and features to find the right fit.
What Increased Inventory Means
When more homes come on the market, competition softens slightly, buyers gain leverage, and sellers
need to be more strategic. Homes are still selling—especially those that are priced and presented well.
For Sellers: Presentation Matters
With more choices available, buyers are selective. Homes that stand out through strong pricing,
marketing, and presentation continue to attract serious interest and sell successfully.
Southern Oregon Market Snapshot
Across Southern Oregon, we’re seeing renewed listing activity. Buyers are actively searching, and
sellers who prepare properly are seeing solid results.
Strategy Makes the Difference
Whether you’re buying or selling, having the right plan matters. Understanding current inventory trends
can help you make confident, informed decisions.

The Southern Oregon real estate market is starting the year with steady activity, thoughtful buyers, and
motivated sellers — even during the traditionally slower winter season.
While colder months usually bring fewer listings, today’s market is offering unique opportunities for both
sides.
Low Inventory = Less Competition for Sellers
Winter typically means fewer homes on the market, and this year is no exception. With limited inventory
in areas like Medford, Jacksonville, Central Point, and Eagle Point:
– Well-priced homes are still attracting strong interest
– Sellers face less competition from neighboring listings
– Serious buyers are actively watching for new properties
If you’ve been thinking about selling but waiting for “spring,” you may benefit from listing now while your
home stands out.
Buyers Are More Selective — But Still Ready
Today’s buyers are cautious, informed, and prepared. Many are pre-approved and financially ready,
looking for homes that are move-in ready, and willing to act quickly when the right property appears.
With fewer listings available, the right home can still generate multiple showings and solid offers.
Interest Rates & Pricing Strategy Matter
Interest rates continue to influence affordability, making correct pricing more important than ever.
Homes priced realistically from the start tend to sell faster, receive stronger offers, and avoid extended
time on the market. Overpriced homes often sit longer and require reductions later.
What This Means for You
If you’re selling: Now can be an excellent time to take advantage of low competition and serious
buyers.

If you’re buying: You may have less inventory to choose from, but also fewer competing offers and
more room to negotiate.
Local Guidance Makes the Difference
Every neighborhood in Southern Oregon behaves a little differently. Jacksonville, East Medford, Central
Point, and rural properties all have unique trends.
Having a local expert who understands pricing, timing, and negotiation strategies can make a
meaningful difference in your results.

•By Therese MacGregor, Coldwell Banker – Southern Oregon

When most people think about real estate, spring and summer usually come to mind. But here in
Southern Oregon, winter can be a surprisingly smart time to make a move — whether you’re buying,
selling, or just exploring your options.
Let’s take a look at what today’s winter market really means for you.
Winter Inventory Is Lower – And That Can Be a Good Thing
During the colder months, fewer homeowners choose to list their properties. That means:
• Less competition for sellers
• More serious, motivated buyers
• Homes that stand out more online and in showings
Instead of competing with dozens of similar listings, your home has a better chance to shine.
For Buyers: Quality Over Quantity
Yes, there are fewer homes available in winter — but the buyers who are shopping right now are
typically focused and ready.
Winter buyers often benefit from:
• Less competition from other buyers
• More flexible sellers
• Strong negotiating opportunities
• Faster response times from lenders, inspectors, and title companies
If the right home comes along, winter can be an excellent time to secure it without the pressure of
spring bidding wars.
For Sellers: Stand Out in a Smaller Crowd
Homes still sell in winter — especially when they are priced correctly and prepared well.
Successful winter listings usually include:
• Accurate pricing based on current Southern Oregon market data
• Clean, cozy presentation (lighting, heat, and simple staging go a long way)
• Professional photos Strategic online marketing
Buyers shopping now aren’t just browsing — they’re serious about finding the right home.
The Market Is Important — But Your Life Matters More
Headlines don’t tell your whole story.
The best time to buy or sell depends on:
• Your lifestyle and family needs
• Job or retirement plans
• Financial goals
• Equity position
• Long-term plans
A personalized approach will always beat general market advice.
Final Thoughts
Winter in Southern Oregon may bring cooler temperatures, but the real estate market is still moving —
just a bit more quietly and strategically.
Whether you’re thinking about buying, selling, or simply want to know what your home might be worth
in today’s market, I’m always happy to help you explore your options with no pressure.
Warm regards,
Therese MacGregor
Coldwell Banker – Southern Oregon

We’re watching the share of first-time home buyers and the share of all-cash buyers, because that push-and-pull has really dominated the market. Another trend I watch closely is the growing share of single female buyers: We’re seeing single women really growing as a force in the market, and that reflects lower marriage rates and lower birth rates. There will continue to be people who buy homes, but it could be a different type of person than what we have seen historically. These demographic shifts are really shaping who is able to make moves in this housing market.”

• First-time buyers gradually re-emerge: “We know that interest rates have come down some, and we also know that there has been more supply entering the market in the existing-home sales space. With more inventory and slightly improved affordability conditions, that does mean an opportunity for first-time home buyers. I hope they are able to take advantage of that next year. We need them to come in so that we can see more movement in the housing market and healthy growth … because homeownership is a wealth-building tool.”
• Baby boomers remain the dominant force: “We are seeing that baby boomers are really the dominating force in today’s housing market. They have a ton of housing wealth, and they’re able to make trades right now—move close to the grandkids and move where they want to be. They’re not making many concessions on their home choices, and they have the funds to really make those choices. “If we continue to see this large share of retirees, we could continue to see smaller households and different housing choices than what we’ve seen historically. Just a quarter of buyers have kids. If we look at the demographics, we know that home size is shrinking and the number of people in the household is shrinking. With a larger share of retirees in the market, we’re seeing fewer buyers with young children.”
• All-cash buyers aren’t going away: “Mortgage applications have been trending up for a couple of months, so we are seeing more buyers enter the market who are not all-cash. That being said, I don’t think all-cash buyers are going away anytime soon, just because of the wealth that is in this housing market and the ability of homeowners to make trades without a mortgage.

From Jessica Lautz, NAR deputy chief economist