Sherrie McCollum
Thinking About Moving to Oklahoma City, OK? Let's Talk.
I am here ready to help you reach your real estate goals by making your needs my number one priority. I recognize you have a choice when it comes to working with a real estate professional and I look forward to earning your trust and helping you discover the smarter way to buy or sell a home.
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BUYER SERVICES
We're here to help you find the home of your dreams. With a team of experts guiding you every step of the way, our extensive knowledge and experience will ensure you have the best home buying experience possible.
SELLER SERVICES
We take the stress out of selling your home by providing a seamless experience from start to finish. Our team will put you in the best position to market your home and sell it for the highest possible price.
EXPLORE OUR FEATURED AREAS
RECENTLY SOLD
- 1/17 17
$ 106,000 11.6%
$ 95,000
2 Beds1.1 Baths1,040 SqFt1005 NW 98 Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73114
Single Family Home
Listed by Danny McHenry of Metro First Realty
- 1/45 45
$ 398,750 1.5%
$ 405,000
3 Beds2.1 Baths2,110 SqFt21905 Bryant Avenue, Purcell, OK 73080
Single Family Home
Listed by Michael Jones of Real Broker LLC
- 1/7 7
$ 285,000
$ 285,000
1.96 Acres Lot9205 SE 15th Street, Midwest City, OK 73130
Commercial
Listed by Ryan Epley of Real Broker LLC
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MY BLOGS
8 Reasons to Buy or Sell Your Home in 2025 and Why January Is the Best Time to Start
As the calendar turns to 2025, you might be dreaming of new beginnings—a new adventure, a fresh start, or perhaps even a new home. Whether you’re planning to buy your first house, move up to your dream home, or sell a property that no longer fits your lifestyle, the early months of the year are the perfect time to act. Many people consider spring the ideal time to enter the real estate market, but starting in January offers unique advantages. It allows you to position yourself strategically, take advantage of favorable market conditions, and avoid the chaos of peak buying and selling seasons. Here’s why getting a head start in 2025 could make all the difference for home buyers and sellers alike. For Home Buyers: Get Ahead of the Competition The spring housing market is often associated with more listings, but it also brings intense competition. By starting your home search early in the year, you can sidestep the frenzy and enjoy several key benefits: 1. More Negotiating Power In January and February, the pool of buyers is typically smaller. That means less competition and more room for negotiation. Sellers who list their homes in the early months are often motivated, whether due to relocations, financial goals, or simply wanting to avoid the rush of spring. This motivation can work to your advantage. You may find sellers more willing to negotiate on price, closing costs, or repairs—something that’s harder to achieve when multiple offers start flooding in later in the year. Trust me; avoiding constantly being in multiple offer situations is a good idea. 2. Lock in Lower Interest Rates Mortgage interest rates can fluctuate throughout the year, and starting early allows you to lock in a favorable rate before potential increases. While no one can predict the market with certainty, historical trends show that rates often stabilize in the early months. Acting can save you thousands over the life of your loan. 3. Faster Closing Timelines One often-overlooked advantage of buying early in the year is the efficiency of the process. With fewer transactions in January and February, lenders, inspectors, and title companies have more bandwidth. This can lead to quicker approvals, faster inspections, and smoother closings—saving you time and reducing stress. 4. Ample Time to Plan Your Move Buying a home is a big decision, and starting early gives you the luxury of time. You can take your time evaluating neighborhoods, touring properties, and making thoughtful decisions without the pressure of a crowded market. For Home Sellers: Stand Out in the Market If you’re thinking of selling your home in 2025, listing it in the early months could be a smart move. While spring may be the busiest season for real estate, January and February offer unique opportunities to maximize your home’s value and attract serious buyers. 5. Less Competition Equals More Attention Most sellers wait until spring to list their homes, creating an influx of new inventory. By listing your property early, you’ll face less competition, making it easier for your home to stand out. Serious buyers who are searching in January are likely to focus on the limited options available, giving your home more visibility and appeal. 6. Attract Motivated Buyers Winter buyers are often more intentional. They may be relocating for work, eager to find a home before the school year ends, or taking advantage of early-year financial planning. These buyers are less likely to waste time and more likely to make serious offers. 7. Highlight Your Home’s Winter Comfort While spring and summer bring blooms and sunshine, winter offers a unique opportunity to showcase your home’s cozy appeal. Warm lighting, a crackling fireplace, and energy-efficient heating systems can make your home feel inviting, even on the coldest days. With the right staging, buyers will envision themselves enjoying the comfort of your home year-round. 8. Get a Jump on Your Own Real Estate Goals Selling your home early in the year gives you the freedom to pursue your goals, whether upgrading to a larger home, downsizing to something more manageable, or relocating for a new chapter in your life. Acting early ensures you’re not caught in the rush of peak season, allowing for a smoother transition. Why Timing Matters in 2025 Every year brings challenges and opportunities in the real estate market, and 2025 is no exception. Experts predict that economic shifts, including interest rate trends, housing inventory levels, and regional price fluctuations, will shape the year. Starting your buying or selling journey early in the year puts you in a position to adapt to these changes. It gives you time to prepare financially, assess market conditions, and develop a strategic plan. Whether you’re aiming to secure the best deal as a buyer or maximize your profit as a seller, timing your move at the beginning of the year can set you up for success. Practical Steps to Get Started For Buyers Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage: Knowing your budget is the first step in any successful home search. A pre-approval gives you a clear picture of what you can afford and shows sellers that you’re a serious buyer. Partner with a Knowledgeable Agent: Working with an experienced real estate agent can help you quickly identify the best opportunities in your local market and navigate the buying process. Identify Your Must-Haves: Take time to reflect on what you need in a home, from location to layout, and use the quieter winter months to explore your options without pressure. For Sellers Prepare Your Home for Listing: Use the early weeks of the year to tackle maintenance tasks, declutter, and stage your home for showings. First impressions matter, and a well-prepared home can command higher offers. Set a Competitive Price: Pricing your home correctly is crucial, especially in the winter months. An experienced agent can help you determine the right price based on market trends and comparable properties. Market Strategically: Winter buyers are often searching online, so make sure your home is marketed with high-quality photos, virtual tours, and compelling descriptions that highlight its best features. Work with a Trusted Real Estate Partner Whether buying or selling, navigating the real estate market can feel overwhelming without the right support. As a seasoned real estate agent, I specialize in helping clients achieve their goals with confidence and ease. For buyers, I’ll help you find the perfect home and negotiate the best deal. For sellers, I’ll work with you to position your property for maximum appeal and profitability. Together, we’ll create a personalized strategy tailored to your unique needs and timeline. Make 2025 Your Year to Move The start of a new year is a time for fresh starts and bold decisions. Whether you’re dreaming of a new home or ready to sell your current one, starting early in 2025 can give you the edge you need to succeed. Don’t wait for spring—let’s start the conversation today. Reach out to schedule a consultation, and together, we’ll make this the year you achieve your real estate goals. Your new beginning is just a call away.
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Navigating Divorce and Selling the Family Home
What Couples Can Expect and How to Move Forward Selling a Home While Going Through a Divorce Divorce is already one of life’s most challenging transitions, but selling the family home during the process adds another layer of complexity. The family home represents stability, memories, and financial security, making its sale a pivotal part of moving forward. For divorcing couples, the emotional and financial stakes can create complications best handled with patience, clear communication, and professional support. This article covers common pitfalls, the importance of working with a real estate agent experienced in divorce cases, and strategies for moving through the process with minimal stress. The Emotional Impact of Selling the Family Home For many couples, the family home is more than just a property; it’s a place filled with memories and a sense of belonging. During divorce, one or both parties may be reluctant to relinquish the home, creating emotional roadblocks. Often, the spouse who has primary custody of the children may feel strongly about keeping the home, while the other may feel just as strongly about selling it to start fresh. This difference in priorities can lead to conflict, with each partner’s emotions and attachments clouding what may be the most logical decision for both parties. An experienced real estate agent who specializes in working with divorcing couples will understand the delicate nature of these emotions and be able to offer a balanced perspective that allows each party to make informed decisions without allowing feelings to dominate the process. Is it Better to Divorce Before or After Selling the House? Here’s my take, though keep in mind I’m not a tax professional! Warning: I've seen couples forget about this aspect of the selling process during divorce and not be happy with the outcome. Deciding whether to divorce before or after selling the house can significantly impact taxes. Here’s why: If you’re married and file jointly, you can exclude up to $500,000 of your home equity from capital gains taxes when you sell. Selling while you’re still legally married may allow you both to avoid paying taxes on your share of the home’s equity if you wait until after the divorce is finalized, though you could end up with a significant capital gains tax bill when it comes time to sell. How is the Current Mortgage Handled and Title Transfered During a Divorce? This step in the process can get a little sticky. I have an in-depth title background, and we could have a long discussion about this topic, but for brevity's sake, when managing a mortgage during a divorce, the two most common options are either selling the house or having one spouse “buy out” the other’s share. Usually, this buyout involves refinancing the mortgage in the name of the spouse keeping the home, which takes the other spouse off both the title and mortgage. A quitclaim deed is officially signed to transfer ownership to the remaining spouse on the title. Common Pitfalls of Selling During Divorce Divorce and property division are often deeply interconnected. Couples may encounter several common issues, including: Disagreement on Property Value: One spouse might believe the home is worth more than the other, leading to disputes about pricing. An agent understanding divorce dynamics will know how to provide both parties with a realistic, impartial market analysis. Deciding on Repairs and Upgrades: One spouse may want to invest in improvements before listing the home, hoping to increase its value, while the other may want to avoid additional expenses. Balancing these differing perspectives is key to avoiding stalemates. Logistical Hurdles with Showing the Property: Depending on the level of conflict, some divorcing couples struggle to coordinate showings or keep the home “show-ready.” If one spouse moves out, the remaining spouse may feel overwhelmed by these responsibilities. Challenges in Communication: High-stress situations can often lead to poor communication. Without a clear communication strategy, conflicts can intensify, slowing down the selling process. Financial Considerations: If the home has substantial equity, the profit from the sale can help each spouse move on financially. However, if there is little equity or the couple owes more than the home’s worth, they may face additional financial challenges requiring difficult decisions. Working with an Experienced Real Estate Agent The importance of working with an experienced real estate agent who understands the intricacies of divorce cannot be overstated. Here are some reasons why a specialist can make a significant difference: Objectivity: A neutral third party can offer an unbiased opinion, helping each spouse understand the market value and the reality of their home’s condition. This perspective can help reduce friction. Coordination of Communications: An agent skilled in working with divorcing clients knows how to facilitate effective communication, ensuring that both parties stay informed and in sync. They often set up systems to keep everyone updated without requiring direct contact between spouses, reducing potential conflict. Efficient Marketing and Sale Preparation: An agent experienced in divorce situations knows how to prepare the home for sale quickly and efficiently. They can provide guidance on which repairs or staging efforts are truly worthwhile, helping couples avoid unnecessary expenses and sell the home faster. Privacy and Discretion: Divorce can be a sensitive subject. A trained agent will handle showings, open houses, and any negotiations with the utmost discretion, respecting the couple’s privacy and allowing them to focus on their journeys. Steps to Move Forward with the Process Despite the intense emotions involved, it’s possible to navigate the sale of a family home with a sense of purpose and forward movement. Here are some practical steps to help couples manage this part of the divorce: 1. Set Shared Goals Even in the midst of divorce, establishing common goals for the sale can create a foundation for a more peaceful process. Both parties should agree on key elements like setting a fair price, determining any essential repairs, and creating a timeline for the sale. It’s important to remember that selling the home and moving forward can be mutually beneficial. 2. Choose a Trusted Agent with Divorce Experience ( Make sure the agent is a neutral third party, not a friend or family of either spouse) This choice is critical for a smoother sale. Interview agents to find someone with the skills, sensitivity, and professionalism needed to handle your unique situation. An agent trained to work with divorcing clients will understand how to manage the complexities of this type of sale, easing stress on both parties. 3. Clarify Financial Expectations Discuss financial expectations early on, ideally with input from a financial advisor and your agent. Clarify who will cover any pre-sale costs, whether repairs or staging are necessary, and how the proceeds from the sale will be divided. A clear financial plan can help avoid misunderstandings and prevent last-minute arguments. 4. Coordinate Showings and Open Houses with Minimal Stress If one spouse remains in the home, the other should respect the effort required to keep it show-ready. An experienced agent can create a minimally disruptive showing schedule, ensuring prospective buyers have access while allowing the remaining spouse space and time to prepare. 5. Seek Emotional Support Selling the family home often brings up painful emotions that can affect decision-making. Seeking support from friends, family, or a therapist can provide a healthy outlet for these feelings. Taking care of your emotional health allows you to approach the sale with a clear mind, and professional support can help you manage feelings of loss, guilt, or anger. 6. Focus on the Future While it may be difficult, keeping the end goal in mind — creating a new beginning for each person involved — can bring relief and closure to the process. Recognize that selling the home is a step towards rebuilding and reshaping your future. Moving Forward in a Positive Direction Divorce and selling the family home are often among the most challenging transitions, but with the right support, couples can navigate them in a way that minimizes stress and conflict. An experienced real estate agent trained to handle the unique challenges of divorce is invaluable in keeping the sale focused, professional, and as streamlined as possible. Remember, this process is just one chapter in your life. By keeping lines of communication open, prioritizing financial clarity, and seeking both emotional and professional support, you can close this chapter with dignity, respect, and a renewed focus on the future. The home sale might mark the end of an era, but it also paves the way for new beginnings—for both parties involved.
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Should I Sell My Home During the Holidays?
As the holiday season approaches, many homeowners contemplate whether to sell their properties during this festive time. The decision can be daunting, especially given the common belief that the real estate market slows down during the holidays. However, several factors may work in favor of sellers who choose to list their homes during this period. One of the primary concerns for potential sellers is the fear that their homes will languish on the market if listed during the holidays. While it is true that fewer buyers may be actively searching for homes amidst holiday festivities, it's essential to recognize that those who are looking are typically serious and motivated. This means that while there may be a smaller pool of buyers, those in the market are often more committed to finding a new home. How High Spirits and Cozy Decor Spark Emotion in Buyers During the Holidays Selling during the holidays can provide unique advantages. Homes tend to look particularly inviting when decorated for the season. Holiday lights, warm colors, and festive decor can create a cozy atmosphere that resonates with potential buyers. A well-staged home can evoke emotional responses and help buyers envision themselves celebrating future holidays in their new space. From a market perspective, it's important to note that real estate activity doesn't completely halt during the holiday season. In fact, many markets experience a dip in inventory as some sellers wait until after the New Year to list their properties. This reduction in competition can work to your advantage as a seller; with fewer homes on the market, yours stands out more prominently. Additionally, serious buyers often take advantage of this quieter time of year to search for homes without feeling rushed or overwhelmed by a crowded market. Many families prefer to move during school breaks or before the New Year begins, making December an opportune time for them to find and purchase a home. Sellers who list their properties during this time may attract motivated buyers eager to close before year-end. It's also worth mentioning that interest rates and market conditions play significant roles in buyer behavior. As we approach 2025, and now that the election is over, interest rates remain relatively stable but could fluctuate based on economic indicators and Federal Reserve decisions. Additionally, there are numerous low-interest loans available under 6% and down payment assistance programs that buyers are tapping into. Listing your home now could mean capitalizing on this urgency among buyers who want to lock in favorable financing terms before potential increases. In terms of marketing strategies, sellers should consider leveraging digital platforms more than ever. With increased online activity during the holidays—think virtual tours and social media engagement—sellers can showcase their properties effectively. The holidays are an excellent time for open houses, especially decorated homes; buyers love looking at someone else's decorations! 9 Reasons Why Sellers Should List Their Homes During the Holidays Many homeowners wonder if they should wait until after Christmas to sell their homes and while the holidays might not seem ideal for selling a home, it's one of the most underrated times to put a property on the market. Listing a home during the holidays can produce unexpectedly positive results for sellers who embrace the holiday season. Here's why the festive period can be an advantageous time to sell and how sellers can make the most of the unique emotional connections and opportunities the season brings. 1. Less Competition Means More Visibility Many sellers avoid listing during the holidays, assuming buyers won't be interested until spring. However, this means there's generally less inventory on the market, giving your home more visibility and making it stand out to the serious buyers actively looking. Fewer homes on the market means less competition and a higher likelihood that your property will be noticed by buyers eager to close a deal, potentially even before the New Year. 2. Buyers Are Highly Motivated Holiday buyers tend to be serious. Whether they're relocating for work, looking for a fresh start in the new year, or simply embracing the season's spirit of change, buyers at this time of year are usually highly motivated to purchase quickly. They may have time off work or be looking to settle before January, leading them to make faster, more decisive offers. In a time-sensitive situation, your home has a more substantial chance of receiving serious interest, minimizing the back-and-forth process often experienced during busier times of the year. 3. The Emotional Appeal of Holiday Decor The holiday season brings a warm, inviting atmosphere that can work in a seller's favor. Festive decorations, twinkling lights, and cozy touches like a roaring fireplace or holiday scents create a sense of comfort and nostalgia. Buyers tend to make decisions emotionally, and when a home feels cozy, welcoming, and ready to host holiday gatherings, it can resonate on a deeper level. Decorated homes look inviting and help buyers envision their future celebrations in the space. Sellers can use tasteful holiday decorations to showcase a property's warmth and functionality, making it feel like a home meant to be shared with loved ones. Just be careful not to overdo it; keep decorations neutral and minimal to avoid overwhelming the space. 4. Interest Rates and Tax Incentives Are Powerful Motivators For many buyers, securing a property by year-end has financial perks. Some may seek tax deductions related to property purchases or take advantage of seasonal interest rate changes. Buyers looking to purchase before the end of the fiscal year may also be motivated by financial planning needs, including deductions on mortgage interest or property taxes. These incentives can create a sense of urgency, encouraging buyers to move forward with offers instead of waiting for the new year. 5. Showcasing Winter-Ready Features The holiday season is an excellent time to highlight features that make a home comfortable in winter, such as energy-efficient windows, insulated attics, or heating systems—this is the season when buyers are most aware of the importance of these features, and highlighting them can boost your property's appeal. If your home has a fireplace, radiant floor heating, or upgraded insulation, this is the perfect time to showcase those winter-ready perks. Adding extra blankets, cozy throws, or well-placed seating by the windows can enhance the cozy ambiance and help buyers envision winter nights at home. 6. Online Market Demand Remains High With the rise of online shopping and virtual tours, buyers are increasingly comfortable browsing homes online year-round. The convenience of online listings, virtual tours, and social media marketing allows potential buyers to view homes anytime, from anywhere. Many people browse listings during holiday breaks, making this a great time to boost your home's online presence. With smart online marketing, your home can capture the attention of buyers browsing during holiday downtime. 7. Professional Services Are Readily Available Real estate professionals, including agents, inspectors, and mortgage lenders, are typically more available during the holiday season. With fewer clients and transactions, professionals can often dedicate more time and attention to individual cases, making the process smoother and faster for both buyers and sellers. Working with a dedicated team can ensure your home is well-marketed, staged, and shown to serious buyers. 8. Take Advantage of New Year's Resolutions The new year often inspires people to set new goals and make significant life changes, like moving or upgrading to a new home. Many buyers aim to start fresh in January, and sellers who list their homes during the holidays are perfectly positioned to attract this mindset. By having your home on the market in December, you capture the interest of buyers ready to act on their resolutions immediately. This can lead to a faster sale and a smoother start to the year. 9. Closing Deals Before Spring Selling during the holidays allows you to close a deal sooner, which can be a great advantage. This eliminates the need to wait until spring, avoiding the influx of new listings and potential decreases in buyer urgency. Sellers can start the new year free from real estate commitments, ready to focus on their next chapter without lingering property responsibilities. This timing can be particularly beneficial if you're selling to move to a new home, downsize, or even make an investment elsewhere. Tips for Successfully Selling During the Holidays Keep Decorations Simple and Neutral: Opt for decorations that enhance the home's appeal without overpowering it. Stick to subtle holiday touches like warm lights, wreaths, or a few winter accents. Focus on Curb Appeal: Make sure walkways are clear, driveways are well-lit, and your home's exterior is welcoming even in winter. Highlight Key Features: Draw attention to cozy elements, like fireplaces or sunlit rooms, and point out any energy-efficient upgrades. Work With Experienced Professionals: Choose a real estate agent who understands the unique nuances of holiday selling and can help position your home for success. Selling a home during the holidays may require a few adjustments, but it can be a highly rewarding time to list. With motivated buyers, less competition, and the unique emotional appeal of the season, sellers who embrace the holiday market can find themselves celebrating both the holidays and a successful sale.
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I am here to assist you with your home buying and selling needs from start to finish
Navigate the Local Market with a Trusted Real Estate Expert by Your Side
Agent License ID: 110246Welcome to my corner of the real estate world! With over three decades of dedicated experience, I am thrilled to be your go-to expert in the dynamic realm of real estate. My journey encompasses a rich background in real estate sales, title insurance, escrow closing, as well as sales and marketing. Passionate about forging lasting connections, I take great joy in partnering with both buyers and sellers, guiding them through the intricacies of the market to discover the perfect home. Let my wealth of knowledge and commitment to excellence transform your real estate experience into a seamless and rewarding journey.