10 Halloween Safety Tips to Protect Your Kids
10 Halloween Safety Tips to Protect Your Kids
Halloween is one of the most exciting nights of the year for kids—costumes, candy, and endless fun. But before heading out for trick-or-treating, it’s worth taking a few extra steps to make sure everyone stays safe. Here are ten simple tips to help keep your little ghouls and goblins safe while still enjoying all the Halloween magic.
1. Practice Costume Safety
Make sure all costumes, wigs, and accessories are fire-resistant. Kids can come across open flames from jack-o-lanterns or even neighborhood bonfires. Also, ensure costumes fit comfortably and don’t drag on the ground to prevent trips and falls.
2. Choose Makeup Wisely
Opt for nontoxic makeup and test it on a small patch of skin first, especially if your child has sensitive skin. When the night’s over, remove all makeup according to the product’s instructions to avoid irritation.
3. Rethink the Mask
Masks might look cool, but they can block vision and make it harder for kids to see obstacles or traffic. Try face paint instead—it’s safer and allows for plenty of creativity.
4. Prepare for the Scare
Halloween can be overwhelming for younger children. Talk with them beforehand about the difference between what’s real and pretend. Let them know it’s okay to skip the haunted house this year and ease into the spookier stuff when they’re ready.
5. Give a Traffic Safety Refresher
In all the excitement, even older kids can forget the basics. Remind them to use crosswalks, look both ways, and make eye contact with drivers before crossing. Studies show Halloween has one of the highest rates of pedestrian accidents for kids, so a quick reminder goes a long way.
6. Increase Visibility
Dark costumes can make kids hard to see at night. Add reflective tape, clip-on lights, or hand out glow sticks to make sure they’re visible to cars and other trick-or-treaters.
7. Encourage the Buddy System
Remind kids to stick together whether you’re with them or they’re trick-or-treating on their own. Make sure older kids have fully charged phones and understand the plan if they get separated from the group.
8. Stay in Familiar, Well-Lit Areas
If your kids are going out without you, plan their route ahead of time. Encourage them to stay close to home, stick to well-lit streets, and avoid cutting through alleys or yards. They should never enter a stranger’s house or car, even if invited.
9. Check All Treats
It’s rare, but checking candy before eating is always smart. Remove any opened or unfamiliar treats, and keep small, hard candies away from younger kids to prevent choking.
10. Watch for Allergies
If your child has food allergies, swap out unsafe candy for allergy-friendly treats once they’re home. Consider carrying safe snacks while out trick-or-treating to avoid temptation.
Enjoy a Safe and Spooky Halloween
A little planning can make Halloween night both safe and unforgettable. From reflective costumes to buddy systems, these small steps can make a big difference.
At Coldwell Banker Premier, we love seeing our communities come together for moments like this—neighbors chatting on porches, kids running from house to house, and everyone sharing in the fun. Wishing you a happy (and safe) Halloween from all of us! 🎃
Here’s your go-to checklist for a safe and spooky night: Download or print 2 different Trick Or Treat Safety Checklist.
Looking for a neighborhood that’s perfect for family fun year-round? Visit PremierMove.com to explore homes in your area today.
Pumpkins, Profits, and Properties: How Fall 2025 is Shaping the Housing Market
Pumpkins, Profits, and Properties: How Fall 2025 is Shaping the Housing Market
Fall is in the air, and so are big shifts in the real estate market. October is often overlooked, but it’s one of the most revealing months of the year when it comes to spotting housing trends.
Mortgage Rates: The Big Watch
Interest rates in October can influence buying power more than most people realize. Even small changes in rates affect monthly payments in a big way, and savvy buyers are paying attention.
Investors See Fall as Prime Time
Vacation homes and rental properties often pop up in fall. Why? Sellers want to offload them before year-end, which creates opportunities for investors ready to scoop up income-producing properties.
Marketing Advantage for Sellers
Sellers who embrace seasonal marketing—think fall décor, cozy open houses, and professional photography with warm tones—stand out. A home that looks inviting in October is more likely to attract serious buyers.
The Seasonal Sweet Spot
October often brings balance. It’s not the rush of summer, and it’s not the slowdown of the holidays. Buyers and sellers both tend to be more intentional, which makes for smoother transactions.
Bottom line: Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, fall isn’t just about leaves changing—it’s about market dynamics shifting.
Want a local market update for October? Sign up for our neighborhood news for exclusive property and market insights to get the latest data for your area. Click here to sign up: https://PremierMove.com/Neighborhood-News
Coldwell Banker Premier Celebrates 18 Agents Named to RealTrends Verified 2025 Rankings
Coldwell Banker Premier Celebrates 18 Agents Named to RealTrends Verified 2025 Rankings
Coldwell Banker Premier is proud to announce that 18 of our agents have been recognized in the 2025 RealTrends Verified State Rankings, honoring top-performing real estate professionals across Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania.
In a market that’s been anything but easy, RealTrends Verified remains one of the industry’s most respected benchmarks for performance and credibility. Earning a spot on this list means an agent’s results have been verified and ranked among the top producers in their state.
What the RealTrends Verified Awards Represent
The RealTrends Verified platform is the real estate industry’s trusted source for performance benchmarking. It recognizes the nation’s top agents, teams, and brokerages based on verified sales data, including closed transaction sides and sales volume.
To qualify for 2025 recognition (based on 2024 production):
- Individual agents needed to close at least 25 residential transaction sides or $10 million in volume.
- Teams needed to close at least 40 sides or $16 million in volume.
Each submission goes through a verification process to ensure accuracy, making these rankings one of the most credible measures of success in real estate today.
Our 2025 RealTrends Verified Honorees
We’re honored to celebrate the following Coldwell Banker Premier professionals who have achieved this distinction:
Delaware
- Julie Gritton – Lewes
- Skip Faust – Rehoboth Beach
- Kathy Newcomb – Rehoboth Beach
- Beth Dorman – Rehoboth Beach
Maryland
- Seth Loar – Cumberland
- Dawn Stahlman – Cumberland
Virginia
- Nicole Lewis – Winchester
- Stuart Sinclair – Winchester
- Tracy Link – Winchester
- Wendy Connor – Winchester
- Lisa Behr – Winchester
- Monique Claytor – Virginia Beach
West Virginia
- Kimberly Teska – Shepherdstown
- Team Whitehead – Martinsburg
Pennsylvania
- Dawn Griffith – Bedford
- Cheryl McInroy – Bedford
- Melinda Feaster – Bedford
- Eleni LeVan-Miller – Bedford
Each of these agents represents the very best of Premier — professionals who go beyond the transaction to deliver unmatched service, market expertise, and integrity.
A Message from Our Leadership
“These agents go above and beyond to serve their clients, deliver outstanding results, and live our values every day,” said Steve DuBrueler, Founder and CEO of Coldwell Banker Premier. “They truly deserve to be honored for their hard work and expertise. When our agents thrive, our clients win.”
DuBrueler also credited Premier’s environment for supporting agent success through cutting-edge tools, advanced coaching, collaboration, and an exceptional support staff.
“Our motto is ‘Where the Pros Work’ — and awards like these prove it. We’re proud to create a company where agents are empowered to reach their full potential,” DuBrueler added.
Stephen Meadows, COO of Coldwell Banker Premier, shared his excitement for what’s ahead:
“We’re confident this is only the beginning. We’ve enhanced our mentorship programs and expanded through strategic mergers, bringing in even more talented professionals. We expect to see even more Premier names on next year’s list.”
Why This Recognition Matters
Earning a spot on the RealTrends Verified list places these agents among the nation’s elite, validating their production with verified, data-backed results.
For clients, this means working with professionals who consistently perform at the highest level. For our company, it reflects the success of a system built around agent growth, innovation, and support.
Our Commitment to Agent Success
Coldwell Banker Premier continues to invest in our people through:
- Mentorship & training programs that help new and experienced agents alike refine their skills.
- Comprehensive marketing and technology systems that simplify operations and elevate exposure.
- A culture of collaboration and integrity that encourages agents to support one another.
- A robust staff-to-agent ratio that ensures our professionals have access to the tools and assistance they need to perform at their best.
We believe that when agents are supported — personally and professionally — success follows naturally.
Looking Ahead
As Coldwell Banker Premier continues to grow through mergers and strategic expansion, our commitment to agent excellence remains unchanged. With 23 office locations across six states, over 340 agents, and 50 dedicated staff members, we’re proud to be ranked among the top 1% of real estate brokerages in the U.S. according to RealTrends.
We look forward to celebrating even more achievements in the year ahead as our professionals continue to lead with skill, service, and heart.
Read full press release: here.
About Coldwell Banker Premier
Founded in 1995 by Steve DuBrueler, Coldwell Banker Premier provides full-service real estate solutions across residential, commercial, property management, auction, and relocation services.
Operating in VA, WV, MD, PA, DE, NC, FL, and Washington D.C., Premier is ranked #23 among Coldwell Banker affiliates nationwide and holds the #1 position in West Virginia, Delaware, and Virginia.
To learn more about Coldwell Banker Premier or connect with one of our award-winning agents, visit PremierMove.com or call 800.835.0811.
About RealTrends
RealTrends is a leading authority in real estate performance benchmarking and industry rankings. With over three decades of experience, RealTrends publishes trusted lists (including its collaboration with The Wall Street Journal) that highlight top-performing agents, teams, and brokerages across the U.S. Its data-driven insights help industry professionals benchmark, grow, and build credibility in the market. Visit https://www.realtrends.com/.
Coldwell Banker Premier Ranks Among America’s Fastest-Growing Brokerages
We’re RealTrends GameChangers Again: Here’s How We Achieved 113% Growth
We’re thrilled to share that Coldwell Banker Premier has been named to the 2025 RealTrends GameChangers list for the third consecutive year.
This recognition celebrates our 113% growth over five years. We’re one of just 24 elite brokerages nationwide that achieved at least 75% growth during this period, significantly exceeding the threshold.
We’ve transformed from a regional player into a multi-state powerhouse, now operating 23 office locations across six states with over 340 agents and 50 staff members.
Our Growth Strategy: Mergers with Purpose
Over the past five years, we’ve completed 10 mergers, including five major acquisitions in 2022 alone.
But these weren’t just transactions. Each merger was guided by a philosophy that’s become central to who we are: preserving the legacies of acquired brokerages while enhancing their capabilities.
We’re not just acquiring companies. We’re welcoming agents into a support system that helps them grow their businesses with additional tools and services.
Investing in Our Agents at Every Stage
Our growth stems from more than acquisitions. We’ve built a comprehensive value proposition designed to support agents wherever they are in their careers.
New agents receive mentorship and foundational training. Mid-level producers gain business performance tools. Top performers benefit from specialized marketing support and advanced technology platforms.
We also extend health and wealth benefits to our agents and their families. In an industry where independent contractors typically secure their own benefits, this differentiator matters.
Our mission is simple: train agents to be successful and move them from where they are to where they want to be.
What This Recognition Means
Our sustained growth has elevated us to the number 23 Coldwell Banker affiliate nationally by sales volume. We hold the number one position in West Virginia, Delaware, and Virginia among Coldwell Banker affiliates.
Our 113% growth rate reflects consistent year-over-year expansion even as market conditions fluctuated.
Growth as Responsibility
We view our increased size and influence as both an advantage and a responsibility.
We’re guided by our core value to do the right thing in all decisions and actions. Our size gives us the ability to invest in our agents and communities in ways we couldn’t before.
We maintain a culture that balances professional ambition with personal priorities. We value family over career and operate on a “work hard, play hard” philosophy.
Looking Ahead
We’ve set ambitious targets for continued expansion: more than 500 agents, exceeding $1 billion in annual sales volume, and managing over 5,000 properties.
We continue to evaluate merger opportunities with brokerages seeking succession planning solutions. Our track record of preserving legacies while enhancing agent support has made us an attractive option for owners planning exits.
Thank You to Our Team
This recognition belongs to every agent and staff member who has contributed to our growth.
We’re stronger together, and we’re just getting started.
See the full list: https://www.housingwire.com/…/realtrends-gamechangers…/
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Coldwell Banker Premier’s Leaders Explain Localized & Industry-Wide Impact of Compass/Anywhere Real Estate Merger
Coldwell Banker Premier’s Leaders Explain Localized & Industry-Wide Impact of Compass/Anywhere Real Estate Merger
September 25, 2025 — Coldwell Banker Premier leaders clarified their position following the proposed Compass-Anywhere Real Estate acquisition news, highlighting opportunities for regional leaders in an increasingly consolidated real estate market. The Winchester-based brokerage, currently operating 23 offices across seven states with over 340 agents, views the mega-merger as validation of its own growth-through-acquisition strategy.
Stephen Meadows, Chief Operating Officer of Coldwell Banker Premier, expressed measured optimism about the industry shift. “The merger makes sense from a business standpoint when considering what Compass is trying to accomplish,” Meadows stated. “Anywhere is a great company with many legacy brands that should help stabilize Compass and give them additional revenue streams that they desperately need.”
Message to Industry Stakeholders
Coldwell Banker Premier’s Founder and CEO, Steve DuBrueler addressed concerns from agents, clients, and potential merger partners about industry uncertainty. The company emphasized its independence and stability amid the changing market conditions. “To our agents, I would like to say, don’t panic. We are still an independent company making our own decisions,” DuBrueler stated. “We feel very confident that the Coldwell Banker brand will remain largely intact and undisturbed through this process.”
For potential merger partners, the company positions itself as a stable alternative during uncertain times. “The industry is changing and it’s better to be under the umbrella of a stable company than to be out on your own in these uncertain times,” DuBrueler added.
Since the main players in this game are Coldwell Banker Realty (non-franchised offices that are owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC) and Compass, and they are primarily in large metropolitan areas, Coldwell Banker Premier sees a distinct advantage for our brokerage to consolidate and grow their market shares in the tertiary markets.
Strategic Advantages for Mid-Size Brokerages
The company expects to benefit significantly from the consolidation trend, particularly through enhanced technology access and potential private listing network opportunities. Coldwell Banker Premier has completed ten acquisitions over the past five years, demonstrating what Meadows calls “strength in numbers” without the market duplication challenges facing larger consolidations.
“We expect this acquisition, should it go through, to provide us with a net positive gain of technology, size and scale,” Meadows explained. “If the private listing network that Compass has been trying to launch comes to fruition, that puts a large brokerage like ours in a very good position to command a lot more of the listing inventory in our markets.”
The private listing network concept could create exclusive access periods for listings within the consolidated entity, potentially disadvantageous to smaller independent brokerages. This development would strengthen Coldwell Banker Premier’s recruiting capabilities and merger opportunities in their target markets.
Technology and Legacy Brand Balance
Coldwell Banker Premier emphasizes balancing technological advancement with the 120-year legacy of the Coldwell Banker brand. The company believes the increased focus on technology by Compass will benefit all Coldwell Banker affiliates while preserving the brand’s foundation of ethical real estate practices.
Steve DuBrueler added that “The Coldwell Banker brand was built on the foundation of ethical real estate sales and has been a cornerstone of the real estate industry since its founding in 1906. Compass has been very focused on technology and I think the two offerings when done correctly can create a new chapter for Coldwell Banker that will give our agents an advantage moving forward.”
Read full press release here.
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About Coldwell Banker Premier
Founded in 1995 by Steve DuBrueler, Coldwell Banker Premier provides comprehensive real estate services across residential and commercial sales, leasing, property management, foreclosures, auctions, mortgage, title, and relocation services. The company now operates in six states with 23 office locations, employing over 340 agents and 50 staff members. Coldwell Banker Premier is ranked #23 among Coldwell Banker affiliates nationwide and holds the #1 position in West Virginia, Delaware, and Virginia. The firm is also ranked in the top 1% of real estate brokerages nationwide according to RealTrends. The company can be reached by phone at 800.835.0811 or via its website, PremierMove.com.
Thinking About Real Estate?
Are you a real estate professional looking for a brokerage that values both your growth and your well-being? At Coldwell Banker Premier, we don’t just equip agents with powerful marketing and tech tools—we support them with training, mentorship, and a culture of care.
Ready to Learn More? Connect with us today and discover how Coldwell Banker Premier can help you build a safe, successful, and rewarding career in real estate.
Learn more about joining our team at www.PremierMove.com.
REALTOR® Safety Month: Smart Tips Every Agent Should Know
At Coldwell Banker Premier, we believe every REALTOR® deserves to feel confident and safe while doing the work they love. September is REALTOR® Safety Month, a time to highlight the importance of protecting yourself in the field. Real estate professionals are often in unique situations—meeting new clients alone, hosting open houses, or touring vacant properties. That’s why safety isn’t optional, it’s essential.
In this post, we’ll cover practical REALTOR® safety tips you can start using today, plus share resources that can help keep you protected.
Why REALTOR® Safety Matters
Real estate is a people-first business, but it can also bring risks. Agents often:
- Work late evenings or weekends.
- Meet with strangers in unfamiliar locations.
- Market and host properties that may be vacant.
The National Association of REALTORS® reports that nearly 40% of agents have felt unsafe on the job. Safety awareness helps reduce that risk and builds trust with clients who know their agent takes security seriously.
Top REALTOR® Safety Tips
Here are some of the most effective strategies for staying safe:
1. Meet Clients in Public First
Schedule your first meeting in a coffee shop, office, or other public place. Take time to verify their identity before setting up a private showing.
2. Share Your Schedule
Let a family member, friend, or colleague know where you’ll be. Many agents use apps that allow location sharing in real time.
3. Trust Your Gut
If something feels off about a situation, step away. It’s better to reschedule than to ignore red flags.
4. Control the Showing Environment
Arrive early to a property, turn on lights, and unlock doors. Park where you won’t get blocked in, and always let the client walk ahead of you.
5. Limit Personal Information
Be cautious about sharing your home address, routines, or personal details online. Review your social media privacy settings to avoid oversharing.
Safety Tools REALTORS® Should Use
Coldwell Banker Premier agents have access to industry tools that support their safety:
- Showing management platforms that verify clients and control access to properties.
- Broker-provided training focused on safety best practices.
- Mobile apps that provide emergency alerts and location sharing.
Taking advantage of these resources ensures you’re not only protecting yourself but also serving your clients with professionalism and care.
A Culture of Safety at Coldwell Banker Premier
At Coldwell Banker Premier, our goal is to give agents the tools they need to succeed, while also making sure they feel safe and supported. We provide ongoing education, technology solutions, and a collaborative culture that puts people first.
This REALTOR® Safety Month, take time to review your safety plan. A few small changes in your daily routine can make a big difference.
Final Thoughts
Your success in real estate should never come at the expense of your safety. As we recognize REALTOR® Safety Month, let’s commit to making safety a daily habit.
Are you a real estate professional looking for a brokerage that values both your growth and your well-being? At Coldwell Banker Premier, we don’t just equip agents with powerful marketing and tech tools—we support them with training, mentorship, and a culture of care.
Ready to learn more? Connect with us today and discover how Coldwell Banker Premier can help you build a safe, successful, and rewarding career in real estate.
Learn more about joining our team at www.PremierMove.com.
2025 Mid-Year Report

Smart Luxury: The 2025 Coldwell Banker Global Luxury® Mid-Year Report Is Here
The 2025 Coldwell Banker Global Luxury® Mid-Year Report just dropped, and it’s more than a data recap — it’s a look into the mindset driving today’s high-net-worth buyers.
What’s clear? The era of flashy purchases just to make a statement is giving way to something more intentional. Wealthy buyers are thinking strategically — making moves with estate planning, tax optimization, and long-term ROI in mind. In other words, strategy is the new status symbol.
The Rise of “Smart Luxury”
Affluent clients aren’t just buying homes — they’re building legacies. This shift is redefining luxury real estate across the board. As inventory expands and the market levels out, buyers are stepping in with purpose and precision.
They’re asking smarter questions, working with top-tier professionals, and prioritizing value, location, and financial sensibility over excess. This isn’t about spending less — it’s about spending wisely.
What’s Inside the Report:
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Market trends across top U.S. luxury markets
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Insight on international influence and buyer behavior
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What’s driving demand and where opportunity lies
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Key takeaways for the second half of 2025
This report is a must-read for anyone navigating or working within the high-end real estate space — whether you’re buying, selling, investing, or advising.
Read the full report: Coldwell Banker Global Luxury® Mid-Year Report 2025
Coldwell Banker Premier
Your trusted luxury real estate experts across VA, WV, DE, MD, NC, PA, FL, and Washington D.C.
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