March has arrived, bringing with it the much-anticipated Spring Market. For many of us, this season represents more than just a change in the weather; it’s the start of our busiest chapter. As the housing inventory begins to thaw and more clients look to make a move, staying agile and informed is the key to helping your clients cross the finish line. 

This month, we also celebrate Women’s History Month. We are proud to honor the inspiring women across West Virginia and in our own industry who have made and continue to make history.

Let’s make this season one for the record books!

Best regards,

Rachel Showalter, Agency Operations Manager

While AI is accelerating transaction speeds, eXp Realty CEO Leo Pareja argues that professional expertise is becoming more valuable, not less. He views AI as a powerful "accelerant" for tasks like lead generation, but maintains that consumers still need agents to act as "Sherpas" through the complex moving process. Pareja also highlights the transparency of the U.S. MLS system as a critical competitive advantage that must be protected as technology evolves. Read more on why the human element remains essential to the future of real estate here.

During the 2026 State of the Union Address, President Donald Trump stressed his goal of making housing more affordable without lowering home values and noted that interest rates have fallen since he took office, about a year ago. However, his plans have sparked skepticism, as experts question whether homes can truly become more affordable without prices adjusting. Learn more about what his address means for the real estate industry here.

In our business, we need partnerships, but unfortunately, not all of them work out. Avoid costly missteps by asking the four critical questions that expose misaligned goals and hidden risks. Drawing on hard-won lessons from failed collaborations, this guide reveals why a partner’s funding model, industry track record, team structure and five-year roadmap are the ultimate indicators of long-term success and help you understand who you’re getting into business with.

The Federal Reserve is rethinking strict post-2008 regulations that caused the bank-held mortgage market to plummet from 70% to just 30%. By lowering the massive cash reserves currently required for low-risk loans, the Fed aims to bring traditional banks back into the game and spark more competition. This shift could make home loans more accessible and affordable for everyday borrowers. Read more here.