A form of cybercrime, wire fraud has led to major losses for homebuyers in recent years. Get to know what it is and what steps you can take to avoid it.

What is wire fraud?

Real estate wire fraud is a scam that targets buyers while making payments during the home buying process. Attackers have taken advantage of the fact that there are several people and entities involved in real estate transactions. Between real estate agents title and escrow companies, mortgage lenders and more, there are many steps, some of which involve sharing financial information and transferring money. This gives ample opportunity for scammers to slip through the cracks somewhere along the line.

The timing of wire fraud is typically during closing using a sophisticated phishing scam. Attackers apply the use of fake emails, phone numbers, or websites, often posing as the buyer’s real estate agent and directing them to allocate funds to a fraudulent account. Because the attacker will have scanned, scrubbed, and lifted your personal information in preparation for the scam, their forms of communication can often look familiar and legitimate.

The mission of the cyberattack is to get your funds into an account the attacker owns. To do this, it is common for them to say that you had previously sent funds incorrectly, that they were never received, that there are new instructions for payment, or that there has been a last-minute change in the closing process. These are all major red flags. It is imperative to take extra caution during the final steps of purchasing a home because transfers, once initiated, are difficult to remedy and can delay your closing process.

How can I avoid wire fraud?

• Get to know the closing process: Talk with your Windermere agent ahead of time about what to expect throughout the closing process. Discuss payment options with your lender and ask specifically about instructions for wiring funds. It is safer to share this information over the phone than through email, as scammers could accumulate this information to use against you.
• Record contact information: Keep a list of the personnel involved in your closing process. Beyond your real estate agent, keep a record of contacts at your mortgage lender, title company, and attorney’s office. In the event that someone new reaches out to you with a request, confirm their identity with one of your contacts.
• Call to confirm: Call to confirm wiring instructions before sending the transaction through. Talk to a trusted representative and ask them to repeat the information to verify its legitimacy. After sending the funds, make same-day follow-up calls to ensure they were received.
• Trust your gut: If you receive an iffy email or phone call, trust your gut. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s the perfect time to reach out to your contacts, discuss your hesitancy, and get advice before proceeding.

The threat of wire fraud emphasizes the importance of working closely with everyone involved in the purchase of your home. If you believe you have been scammed, contact your bank or wire transfer company immediately and request that they issue a recall notice for your wire. Contact the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center and report the activity with as much information as you can gather. For more information about how to protect yourself from wire fraud, visit the National Association of Realtors’ Wire Fraud resources page.

Every home is made up of dozens of moving parts, and none of them last forever. From appliances and flooring to roofing and siding, every component has a general life expectancy. Knowing how long these items typically last can help homeowners plan for repairs, budget for future updates, and make informed decisions when buying or selling a home.

We’re all familiar with the cliché: They just don’t build things like they used to. And while this may be true when it comes to brick siding or slate roofing, lifespans of other household components have increased in recent years. The following guide outlines the average life expectancy of common household components, based on data from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) along with industry estimates.

Appliances:

Among all household components, appliances tend to have the shortest lifespan because they experience daily wear and tear. Advances in technology have improved efficiency, but modern appliances also include more electronic parts, which can lead to repairs or replacement sooner than older models. Proper maintenance can help extend the life of most appliances, but these averages provide a general guideline for planning ahead.

Signs It May Be Time to Replace an Appliance

Even if an appliance hasn’t reached the end of its expected lifespan, certain warning signs may mean replacement is the better option. Frequent repairs, rising energy bills, inconsistent performance, or unusual noises can all indicate that a system is wearing out.

Kitchen & Bath:

Kitchens and bathrooms see constant use, so fixtures and finishes in these spaces often wear out faster than other parts of the home. When choosing your countertops, sinks, and faucets, it helps to consider both style and durability. Some natural materials can last a lifetime, while others may need updating after a couple of decades depending on use and maintenance.

Flooring:

Flooring plays a major role in both the look and function of a home, but different materials have very different lifespans. High-traffic areas will naturally wear faster, while proper care and refinishing can extend the life of many surfaces. If you’re looking for longevity, wood floors are the way to go. Certain rooms in your home will be better suited for carpeting, but you can expect they’ll need replacing within a decade.

Siding & Roofing:

When choosing roofing and siding for your home, climate and maintenance level factor into the life expectancy of the material. However, brick siding and slate roofing are known to be dependable for decades.

Are extended warranties warranted?

Extended warranties, also known as service contracts or service agreements, are sold for all types of household items from appliances to electronics. They cover service calls and repairs for a specified time beyond the manufacturer’s standard warranty.

You will have to consider whether the cost is worth it to you. For some, it brings a much-needed peace of mind when making such a large purchase. Also consider if the cost outweighs the value of the item. In some cases, it may be less expensive to replace a broken appliance than to pay for insurance or a warranty.

Staying informed about the lifespan of your home’s appliances and systems can make homeownership more manageable and help you plan ahead with confidence.

For many of us, pets play a central role in our home life, so taking into account what is best for them when buying a home is important for both their happiness and that of your entire household.

Is the Neighborhood A Good Match For Your Pet?

When looking for homes that are well suited to both you and your furry companion, consider the area surrounding the home. If your pet is an indoor/outdoor animal, it’s important to examine the hustle and bustle of the neighborhood. If your pet spends time outside, a busy neighborhood could be dangerous, and depending on the level of traffic, he or she may need to be on a leash at all times.

How conducive is the neighborhood for taking your pet on walks? If you frequently walk your pet, look for neighborhoods with sidewalks. If your pet enjoys being off-leash, consider prioritizing homes with green belts, parks, trails, or designated off-leash areas nearby. It’s also a good idea to identify where the local emergency pet centers and veterinarian clinics are to insure there is sufficient medical care for your pet in proximity to where you live.

Does The House Meet the Needs of Your Pet?

• Size: Is the house big enough? Depending on the type of pet, or breed of animal, space may be the most important factor in picking a pet-friendly home. If you are moving into a bigger space than you were in previously, understand your pet will likely take to the additional room differently. On the flip side, if you are downsizing, be mindful of how it might impact your pet.
• Yard: If you have a pet that spends time outside, it’s important to pay particular attention to the yard. Is it large enough? Does it have a secure fence? Is there easy access between the home and the yard?
• Flooring: Pet-friendly flooring can be tough. Surfaces that can be repaired or refinished when scratched are typically the best options for homes with pets. Sealing additional layers will build up the resistance to damage from paws, claws, and general pet wear and tear.
• Carpet: Cats are notorious for clawing and scratching at carpet, and dogs are infamous for bringing the outdoors in with them. Consider carpeting of a lesser quality in the area where your pets spend most of the time, or search for carpets that are stain resistant and easy to clean.
• Stairs: Older pets and multileveled homes are at odds. Consider the age of your pet and how active you expect them to be so that you don’t find yourself in a position where you’re having to carry your pet between floors.
• Additions: If you’re comfortable with doing a little work on your potential home, you can consider adjustments that might make it a little more safe and comfortable for your pets. Adding an enclosed outdoor space for your cat called a catio or carving out space in the yard for a dog run can be just what your fur babies need.

More: 5 Pet Friendly House Cleaning Tips

What Does the HOA Say About Pets?

When looking at a home, ask whether or not it is a part of a Homeowners Association and what restrictions may apply to the property. For instance, certain HOA developments limit the number and/or type of pets per household.

Most pet owners take the needs of their pets seriously. In fact, in a recent Realtor.com survey, 95% of pet owners said that their pets needs were an important consideration when finding the right home to buy. When it comes down to it, prioritizing your pet when buying a home not only insures your pet’s well-being, but that of your household, as well.

by Windermere Staff

After decades of city living being the goal, a fresh trend is emerging. More and more people—especially young adults—are reimagining what “home” looks like, and that picture is starting to look a lot like small-town life. From coast to coast, smaller communities are seeing new life as individuals and families seek more space, deeper connections, and a quieter pace. This blog explores why so many are making the move and what it could mean for your next chapter.

A Big Shift Toward Smaller Places

It’s not just nostalgia or affordability driving people back to Main Street. Small towns offer a sense of balance that can be hard to find in big cities. Less time commuting means more time doing what you love. Smaller crowds make room for bigger conversations. And without the constant rush of city life, people are rediscovering how good it feels to slow down and stay awhile.

What’s Driving the Move?

Affordability and the Dream of Homeownership

Big city rent and home prices continue to climb, pricing out many first-time buyers. In smaller towns, buyers are finding more space, greater value, and a better chance of affording their first home. Whether it’s trading a one-bedroom apartment for a three-bedroom house or simply paying less for everyday essentials, the savings are adding up.

Remote work and Flexibility

With more jobs going remote (and staying that way), people are no longer tied to a specific metro area. This new freedom has allowed many to choose where they want to live based on lifestyle rather than commute.

Lifestyle and Access to Nature

Small towns often come with quieter streets, shorter commutes, and greater access to outdoor recreation. From scenic trails to lakefronts and beaches, natural amenities are high on the priority list for today’s buyers.

Community and Connection

In a time when many people feel disconnected, small towns offer something invaluable: a strong sense of community. You’re more likely to know your neighbors, shop at local businesses, and feel rooted in something bigger than yourself. For some, these towns also offer more chances to get involved, including local politics or town-wide initiatives that are often more accessible and welcoming to newcomers.

Entrepreneurship and New Opportunity

According to recent IRS data, small towns have seen a faster rise in new business formation than large cities post-2020. With less competition, lower startup costs, and supportive communities, many entrepreneurs are finding that perfect launchpad in small-town markets.

Education and Family Life

Families are also being drawn to the more personal, community-based education options often found in small towns. Smaller class sizes and greater access to teachers can make a big difference for growing kids. With lower crime rates and more outdoor space, many parents feel they can offer their children a safer and more well-rounded upbringing.

The Other Side: What to Consider

While small-town life has its perks, it’s not without trade-offs. Here are a few things to consider before packing your bags:

• Limited medical services: Access to specialists and immediate care may be limited.
• Fewer job options: While remote work helps, certain industries may have fewer local opportunities.
• Diversity and culture: Small towns may have less cultural diversity and fewer entertainment options.
• Transportation: Public transportation is often sparse or nonexistent. Owning a car or other means of transportation may be necessary.

How Places Like Seabrook, WA Are Leading the Way

One standout example of this new wave of small-town living is Seabrook, Washington. Perched on the Washington coast, Seabrook was designed to blend timeless charm with walkability, coastal views, and a strong sense of place.

Founded in 2004, Seabrook has grown to include 600 homes, over 20 parks, 24 shops and restaurants, a grocery store, pools, trails, and more. It was designed to offer an urban-meets-coastal lifestyle, and today, it’s a thriving year-round community with schools, medical clinics, and a regenerative farm that supports local restaurants and residents.

Whether it’s a full-time move or a weekend escape, places like Seabrook are proving that small towns can offer everything people are looking for: modern convenience, community, and a deep sense of belonging.

Is Small-Town Living Right for You?

If you’ve been dreaming of a slower pace, a bigger yard, or just more breathing room, you’re not alone. Ask yourself:

• Do you work remotely or have a flexible schedule?
• Are you craving more nature and outdoor recreation?
• Would you trade a bustling nightlife for stronger community ties?
• Is homeownership feeling out of reach in your current city?

If you answered yes to most of these, a move to a small town might be worth exploring.