Where you retire has a significant impact on how far your savings will go. According to recent data, the average annual cost of retirement in the U.S. ranges from under $60K in some Southern and Midwestern states to over $120K in coastal states like California and Hawaii.
When evaluating a new location for retirement, be sure to factor in the average local cost of: 🍎 Groceries 🏠Housing and property taxes 💊 Healthcare and insurance 🚗 Transportation 💡 Utilities and home maintenance
As well as… 🎉 Discretionary spending like travel and entertainment 💰 A savings buffer for the unexpected
If you’re over 55 and thinking about relocating to stretch your retirement dollars or simplify your lifestyle, please contact me.
I can help you explore your housing options, whether that’s downsizing locally or moving to a more affordable state that supports your long-term goals.
Starting a home-based business is a bold move. Doing it while trying to find the coffeemaker in a pile of moving boxes? That’s another level of brave. But for many, this kind of chaos isn’t optional—it’s just life happening all at once. If you’re settling into a new house and simultaneously trying to launch a business from your kitchen table, you’re not alone, and you’re definitely not doomed. With the right strategies, you can keep your new-home stress in check while building something that’s genuinely yours.
Set boundaries before you unpack the Wi-Fi
There’s something about being at home that blurs lines. When you’re living and working in the same space, those lines disappear fast. So it’s crucial to set boundaries—not just physical ones, but mental ones too. Whether it’s a designated work corner or scheduled work hours, your home needs to tell you where work ends and where life begins, even if your laptop is never more than ten feet away.
Let your clutter work for you—not against you
Moving brings clutter, and clutter kills focus. But here’s the twist: some of that clutter holds clues. As you unpack, notice what you keep reaching for. These are your essentials, and your workspace should be built around them. Instead of stressing about a perfect setup from day one, use the moving process to learn how you naturally work best in your new environment.
Sharpen your edge with targeted learning
You can explore career opportunities in business more confidently when you’ve built a solid foundation of practical knowledge. Online business courses offer flexible, accessible ways to develop skills in accounting, communications, management, and more. These classes fit easily into a busy schedule and let you learn at your own pace. With every module, your business instincts get sharper.
Make logistics part of the business plan
Launching a home-based business during a move isn’t just emotional juggling—it’s logistical tightrope-walking. You’re switching addresses, utilities, and possibly states, and all of that affects taxes, licenses, and shipping logistics. Build these elements into your business plan. It’s not just paperwork—it’s the scaffolding that keeps everything upright while your new world spins into place.
Treat your neighborhood like a soft launch
You don’t need to wait for a website or business cards to start building buzz. Your new neighborhood is full of curious strangers who might need what you’re offering. Strike up conversations at the mailbox or the farmers market. Not only will you feel less isolated, but you’ll get real-time feedback on your pitch, your pricing, and your personality.
Work with people who make things easier
Let’s be honest: not every part of starting fresh is fun. That’s why the people you work with—especially on the real estate side—matter more than you think. If you’re still looking for that perfect home base or just settling in, working with someone like Bertrand Realty gives you a leg up. When your real estate team understands your entrepreneurial goals, they help you find a space that works just as hard as you do.
Start small, then go even smaller
Your new business doesn’t need a full launch right away. In fact, it probably shouldn’t. While your home is still in flux, focus on the smallest, most meaningful actions: one client, one product, one win. This micro-focus will help you build momentum without tipping over into burnout—and it’ll let you refine your systems before things scale.
Remember that chaos is temporary, but regret lingers
There’s a messy beauty in doing two big things at once. You’ll lose stuff, miss deadlines, forget to eat, and maybe question your sanity once or twice. But if the fire to build something real is burning inside you, then you owe it to yourself to fan those flames. Moves end. Boxes get unpacked. But the regret of not trying? That sticks around a lot longer.
There’s never a perfect time to start something big. Waiting until every shelf is hung and every picture is framed might sound reasonable, but it’s often just a sneaky form of procrastination. The truth is, most great ventures begin in imperfection. If you’re moving and starting a business at the same time, don’t wait for the dust to settle. Instead, build through the dust. Work through the noise. Because starting when it’s hardest builds grit—and grit is what will carry your home-based business from idea to income.
Discover your path to real estate success with Bertrand Realty, where our expert agents empower you to confidently buy or sell your home!
Springtime is often considered the best season for selling a house, and there are several reasons that contribute to this trend. Here’s why you should consider listing your home during this vibrant season:
Increased Buyer Activity
As the weather warms up, potential buyers become more active in the real estate market. Families often prefer to move during spring or summer to avoid disrupting their children’s school year. This increase in demand can lead to more showings, interest, and ultimately, competitive offers.
Curb Appeal
Spring is a time of renewal and growth. Your property’s exterior can benefit from blossoming flowers, lush greenery, and a fresh landscape. Enhancing your home’s curb appeal with seasonal blooms and landscaping can create a positive first impression, attracting more buyers.
Longer Days
With longer daylight hours, potential buyers have more time to view homes after work or during weekends. This extended daylight can make your property feel warmer and more inviting during showings.
Motivated Buyers
Spring buyers tend to be more motivated; they are often searching because they have specific plans, such as relocating for a job, changing schools, or starting fresh. This sense of urgency can lead to quicker sales and fewer negotiations on price.
Optimal Pricing Strategy
With increased buyer interest, sellers can often command higher prices. The competitive nature of the spring market can work in your favor, leading to multiple offers and potentially a bidding war, which drives up the final sale price.
Perfect Time for Inspection and Repairs
Spring is the ideal season for home inspections and repairs, as the mild weather allows for easier access to attics, basements, and roofs. Homeowners can address any issues that might arise during the buying process, helping to ensure a smoother transaction.
Conclusion
Selling your home in spring can be a strategic choice that leverages buyer enthusiasm, desirability created by outdoor aesthetics, and favorable market conditions. If you’re considering selling, this blooming season could provide the perfect opportunity to attract buyers and achieve a successful sale.
Real estate is an ever-changing industry—one moment, everything is thriving, and the next, challenges arise. The key to long-term success? Your mindset. How you approach your career will determine whether you push through obstacles or let them hold you back.
Know Your WHY
Why are you in real estate? If your only motivation is commission checks, you may struggle to stay motivated. But if you’re driven by a deeper purpose—like helping first-time buyers achieve homeownership—your passion will fuel your success.
When I started, I helped a single mother who never believed she could own a home. I guided her in improving her credit and saving for a down payment. A year later, she held the keys to her very own house. She spread the word, and soon, I became the go-to agent for single women looking to buy homes. That became my WHY—and it made getting up every morning exciting.
Find Your Niche and Build Credibility
Who do you serve best? Identify your target audience and focus on becoming a trusted expert in that space. Whether it’s first-time homebuyers, luxury clients, or investors, honing in on your niche will set you apart.
Play the Long Game
Success in real estate isn’t a sprint—it’s a marathon. Stay the course, remain consistent, and give your business time to build momentum.
Stay Connected with Clients
Your past and current clients are your best source of future business. Stay in touch without being pushy:
Send greeting cards just to say hello. A simple “Thinking of you” message can go a long way.
Remember birthdays and home anniversaries—it makes people feel special.
Follow up with helpful market updates and homeowner tips.
When you stay top-of-mind, you’ll be the first person they call when they’re ready to buy or sell.
Set Goals and Take Daily Action
A successful business starts with a plan. Know what you need to accomplish each day and stick to it.
Follow the 1-3-3 Method
A tried-and-true strategy for building a thriving real estate business:
Talk to one new person every day.
Reach out to three past clients to check-in.
Reconnect with three people you’ve lost touch with.
Momentum doesn’t happen overnight, but small daily actions lead to significant results. Start daily with the right mindset, commit to actual real estate-focused activities, and watch your business grow!
If you’ve been keeping an eye on the real estate market, you’ve probably noticed a buzz of activity. After a period of fluctuating trends, the market is steadily gaining momentum. Whether you’re dreaming of starting a career in real estate or reigniting your passion for it, now might be the perfect time to dive in and explore the opportunities waiting for you.
The Current Real Estate Landscape
The housing market is showing positive signs of growth, with increasing buyer demand and a robust inventory of homes available. Low interest rates, a growing economy, and improved consumer confidence are contributing to a vibrant market. This upward trend means opportunities for real estate professionals to thrive in various areas—whether it’s residential sales, commercial properties, or property management.
Why Now Is a Great Time to Start or Continue Your Career
Real estate offers endless possibilities for those with drive and determination. Here are a few reasons why stepping into or staying in the industry right now could be a smart move:
High Demand for Agents: With more buyers and sellers entering the market, the demand for knowledgeable and dedicated real estate agents is on the rise.
Flexibility and Growth: A career in real estate allows you to choose your niche. Whether you’re passionate about helping first-time homebuyers or closing commercial deals, there’s room to grow and specialize.
Tech and Training Opportunities: Advancements in technology have made it easier than ever to market properties, manage clients, and streamline transactions. Training programs and resources are widely available, offering aspiring agents the tools they need to succeed.
Economic Resilience: Real estate remains a cornerstone of economic activity. Professionals who adapt to market trends and stay committed to learning will find ample opportunities to build a successful career.
Choosing Your Path in Real Estate
One of the most exciting aspects of a real estate career is the variety of roles available. Here are a few options to consider:
Residential Real Estate: Helping individuals and families find their dream homes.
Commercial Real Estate: Facilitating transactions for businesses and investors.
Property Management: Managing rental properties and ensuring a smooth experience for landlords and tenants.
Real Estate Investing: Purchasing and developing properties for profit.
Real Estate Coaching and Mentoring: Sharing your expertise with aspiring agents.
Start Your Journey Today
If you’ve been on the fence about a career in real estate, consider this your sign to take the leap. The market’s momentum is creating opportunities for those ready to invest their time and energy into a fulfilling career. Whether you’re new to the field or looking to elevate your current business, now is the time to explore your options and get the training you need to succeed.
At Bertrand Realty, we believe in empowering agents to achieve their goals. We provide the resources, mentorship, and support you need to thrive in this dynamic industry. Ready to make your move? Contact us today to learn how we can help you launch or grow your real estate career.
Remember, in real estate, every challenge is an opportunity in disguise. Seize the moment and make your mark in this exciting and rewarding field!
Bertrand Realty Blog 