Buyer TipsLifestyleReal Estate January 9, 2026

Why January Is the Smartest Month to Buy a Home

Introduction

January often flies under the radar for prospective homebuyers. Yet, it might just be the most strategic month to make your move. With less competition, motivated sellers, and potential financial advantages, January presents hidden opportunities that savvy buyers shouldn’t overlook.

1. Less Buyer Competition

Most people wait until spring to shop for homes. This seasonal delay means fewer buyers in January, giving you more leverage in negotiations and a better shot at landing your dream home without bidding wars.

2. Motivated Sellers

Homes listed in January are often driven by urgency—whether it’s job relocations, financial needs, or personal transitions. These motivated sellers are more open to negotiations, potentially lowering the final sale price.

3. Better Pricing and Value

According to industry data, home prices tend to dip slightly during the winter months. January offers a chance to find better deals compared to peak seasons, saving buyers thousands.

4. Faster Closing Times

With fewer transactions happening, lenders, inspectors, and appraisers have more availability. This often results in quicker closing times and a smoother buying process.

5. Year-End Financial Planning Advantages

Buying a home early in the year can help align with financial goals, tax benefits, and mortgage interest deductions. You’ll also start building equity from day one of the new year.

FAQ

  1. Is January a good month to buy a house?

    Yes! It offers less competition, better prices, and faster processes.
  2. Are homes cheaper in January?

    Typically yes, due to reduced demand and motivated sellers.
  3. Should I wait until spring to buy?

    Not necessarily—January often presents better negotiation opportunities.
  4. Can I get a good mortgage rate in January?

    Yes. Rates fluctuate based on the economy, not just seasons.
  5. Do sellers take January offers seriously?

    Absolutely—many sellers are eager to close quick

At Coldwell Banker Premier, we’re proud to serve clients in the Mid‑Atlantic and Eastern Seaboard, with a growing footprint that spans over 26,000 square miles across Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, North Carolina, Florida, and Washington D.C. Explore opportunities to buy, sell, or invest at PremierMove.com.

Learn more → linktr.ee/cbpremiermarketing

PressReal Estate January 7, 2026

Coldwell Banker Premier Expands into Richmond | Top Real Estate Brokerage in Virginia

Coldwell Banker Premier Expands into Richmond, Strengthening Its Leadership in Virginia Real Estate

Coldwell Banker Premier, a leading name in Virginia real estate, has officially merged with Coldwell Banker Prime in the Richmond market, marking a major milestone in its growth strategy. With this move, the company becomes the largest Coldwell Banker brokerage in Virginia, expanding its reach to 24 offices across seven states.

A Strategic Merger to Serve the Heart of Virginia

This Richmond real estate merger represents the company’s 11th strategic partnership in six years, further anchoring its presence in the Mid-Atlantic and Eastern Seaboard regions. The location is not just symbolic—it bridges the company’s Shenandoah Valley operations with its Hampton Roads offices, forming a connected network of real estate services throughout the state.

“Richmond represents a strategic geographic addition… and strengthens our position as Virginia’s leading Coldwell Banker affiliate,” said Steve DuBrueler, CEO of Coldwell Banker Premier.

Leadership That Elevates Luxury and Agent Development

As part of the merger, Kate Berkshire Mays and Jeff Mays join Coldwell Banker Premier’s executive leadership team. Kate takes the helm as Vice President of Luxury and International Sales, leading efforts in the luxury homes market and high-value property transactions. Jeff focuses on agent coaching, training, and event strategy, reinforcing Coldwell Banker Premier’s commitment to real estate agent support and development.

These leaders bring a wealth of market knowledge and cultural continuity, ensuring that Richmond agents retain their local identity while gaining access to enhanced tools and opportunities.

Enhanced Resources for Real Estate Agents in Richmond

With this merger, Richmond-area real estate professionals now gain access to Coldwell Banker Premier’s powerful real estate service platform, which includes:

  • The Open House Concierge Program, which generated nearly 5,000 qualified leads in 2025.
  • Expanded capabilities in residential and commercial real estate, property management, and relocation services.
  • Access to the latest real estate technology, including advanced lead generation systems and client management tools.
  • Specialized support for luxury home sales and international buyers.

Importantly, the merger approach preserves the culture of acquired offices. “We don’t force cultural change… we learn from them just as they learn from us,” DuBrueler emphasized.

Positioned for Growth in the Real Estate Industry

Operating in the top 1% of real estate brokerages nationwide, Coldwell Banker Premier is aiming for more than $1 billion in annual sales volume and managing over 5,000 properties. The company holds the #1 Coldwell Banker affiliate rank in Virginia, and consistently appears on the RealTrends GameChangers list.

This Richmond expansion comes at a perfect time, with agents receiving platform training and tools ahead of the busy spring real estate market. It also unlocks expanded referral opportunities and boosts the brand’s competitive edge across the region.

See full press release here.

About Coldwell Banker Premier

Founded in 1995, Coldwell Banker Premier is a full-service real estate company serving seven states with a network of over 350 agents. The company provides a full range of services including residential and commercial sales, property management, relocation assistance, and luxury home marketing. It continues to grow through strategic mergers that combine local expertise with powerful resources and tools.

Learn more at PremierMove.com.

Coldwell Banker Premier Coverage Area: Coverage Map

Explore tools, tips, and resources here.

Real Estate November 18, 2025

Skip Faust and Avery Withers Earn GUILD Elite™ Designation

Skip Faust and Avery Withers Earn GUILD Elite™ Status for Excellence in Luxury Real Estate

Coldwell Banker Premier is proud to celebrate a major milestone for Rehoboth Beach agents Harry “Skip” Faust and Avery Withers. Both have earned the prestigious GUILD Elite Designation from The Institute for Luxury Home Marketing, placing them among the top tier of luxury real estate professionals in the country.

The GUILD Elite honor is reserved for agents who demonstrate consistent success in the ultra luxury market. To qualify, members must close three or more residential sales priced at three million dollars or higher. This level of recognition reflects exceptional production along with a deep understanding of market trends and elevated client expectations.

For Faust and Withers, earning this designation represents years of focus on delivering a polished, thoughtful, and high quality real estate experience. Their work in the coastal Delaware market sets a strong standard for service, attention to detail, and strategic marketing.

A Track Record Built on Trust and Expertise

Skip Faust brings more than three decades of experience helping clients navigate buying and selling in Rehoboth Beach and surrounding communities. Throughout his career, he has earned numerous awards and designations, including the Coldwell Banker Luxury Property Specialist certification. Luxury properties consistently make up a significant part of his business, reflecting his strong understanding of high value homes, coastal lifestyle trends, and accurate pricing strategies.

Avery Withers entered the real estate world in 2018 and partnered with Faust soon after. Withers also holds the Luxury Property Specialist certification and brings a creative, modern approach to marketing properties across all price points. Together, they combine experience and fresh perspective to offer an informed and personalized real estate experience.

A Commitment to Elevated Service

GUILD Elite members are recognized for providing exceptional guidance to clients searching for or selling luxury homes. This includes a refined knowledge of local trends, the ability to craft compelling property stories, and a steady, client focused approach throughout every step of the process.

For Faust and Withers, this designation confirms what their clients already know. They are consistent, dependable professionals who care deeply about delivering strong results with integrity.

Coldwell Banker Premier Founder and CEO, Steve DuBrueler, shared that Faust and Withers represent the highest standard of service. He highlighted their dedication to client satisfaction and noted that the strength of the Coldwell Banker Global Luxury program continues to support their success. Ten percent of the company’s agents are certified as Luxury Property Specialists, a reflection of the firm’s commitment to excellence at the luxury level.

Learn More

Faust and Withers work as a team alongside Avery’s wife, Victoria. They serve clients throughout Rehoboth Beach, Lewes, and other coastal communities. To connect with them or learn more about their services, visit www.skipfaust.com or call the Coldwell Banker Premier Rehoboth Beach office at 302.227.5000.

The Institute for Luxury Home Marketing Member profiles:

Skip: https://www.luxuryhomemarketing.com/members/member_2a3dc.html 

Avery: https://www.luxuryhomemarketing.com/members/member_2ce22.html


Read the full press release here: 251117 Faust/Withers Luxury Million Dollar Guild Elite Release

Buyer TipsLifestyleReal Estate November 17, 2025

5 Smart Homeowner To Dos for November

5 Smart Homeowner To Dos for November

November is a great month to get a few important tasks checked off your homeowner list. A little effort now can help you protect your home through the colder months and keep everything running smoothly. Here are five simple to dos worth tackling.

1. Test Your Safety Devices

Swap batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, then run a quick test. It takes less than five minutes and is one of the easiest ways to keep your home safe.

2. Service Your Heating System

Your HVAC system is about to work overtime. Schedule a tune up to make sure it’s running efficiently. A routine check can help you avoid a mid winter breakdown.

3. Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Falling leaves can clog gutters fast. Clearing them out helps prevent water damage and protects your roof and foundation.

4. Seal Drafts and Check Insulation

Check doors and windows for drafts and seal any gaps. Better insulation helps keep your home warm and can reduce energy costs.

5. Refresh Your Entryway

With more foot traffic during the holidays, add a doormat, shoe tray, and a little seasonal decor. Small touches make your home feel welcoming right at the door.

Learn more at PremierMove.com

FinancingLifestylePressReal Estate August 26, 2025

Coldwell Banker Premier Expands Maryland Presence Through Merger with Coldwell Banker Jay Lilly Real Estate

Expanding Our Reach: Coldwell Banker Premier Merges with Jay Lilly Real Estate

August 26, 2025

Coldwell Banker Premier has officially completed its merger with Coldwell Banker Jay Lilly Real Estate, marking the company’s 10th strategic partnership since 2020. This move expands Coldwell Banker Premier’s presence into Waldorf and California, Maryland, strengthening geographic connectivity between its existing footprint across the Washington, D.C. and Baltimore markets.

A Stronger Connection for Clients

This merger enhances Coldwell Banker Premier’s ability to serve clients relocating throughout the D.C. metro area. With CB Jay Lilly Real Estate’s market reach extending into bedroom communities that serve both D.C. and local military bases, the combined network creates powerful opportunities for clients moving between urban centers, mountain communities, and coastal markets.

Jay Lilly, who has owned the company for 17 years, shared his enthusiasm:

“I am so excited to join CB Premier for the next leg of this journey. Their size and scope will bring incredible value to our agents and help us be even more competitive in this changing market.”

Strategic Benefits

Stephen Meadows, Chief Operating Officer of Coldwell Banker Premier, noted the significance of the merger:

“The greatest strategic benefit for this company is their proximity to Washington, D.C. and their geographic centrality in our current market area. We will be able to more efficiently and cohesively assist clients with any real estate needs the more territory that we cover.”

By combining CB Jay Lilly Real Estate’s deep community ties with Coldwell Banker Premier’s innovative technology, the partnership brings expanded resources to both agents and clients.

Tools and Programs That Drive Growth

Agents joining Coldwell Banker Premier will gain access to a suite of tools and programs, including the Open House Concierge program, which provides targeted social media advertising at no cost to listing agents. This system generates high-quality leads while encouraging agents to host face-to-face open house events, supporting stronger community engagement.

This approach reflects Coldwell Banker Premier’s broader merger philosophy: strengthening what already works in local markets rather than replacing it.

“When we go into a new market, we never assume that we know more than the people who are already working there,” said Steve DuBrueler, Founder and CEO. “Our goal is never to take away, but rather to enhance what the agents already have.”

Expanding a Proven Growth Strategy

This partnership continues Coldwell Banker Premier’s systematic expansion strategy, which has averaged multiple mergers annually since 2020. Previous partnerships have opened new opportunities, including the launch of vacation rental services in Delaware.

CB Jay Lilly Real Estate agents will now benefit from streamlined operations and a comprehensive suite of services, including residential and commercial sales, property management, mortgage, and title services. The integration process emphasizes cultural alignment to accelerate business growth and create new recruitment opportunities.

About Coldwell Banker Premier

Founded in 1995, Coldwell Banker Premier operates across six states with more than 300 agents. The company ranks as the #23 Coldwell Banker affiliate nationally and holds the #1 position for Coldwell Banker in West Virginia, Delaware, and Virginia based on 2024 sales volume and/or units.

Link to the official press release here: Full Press Release

Coldwell Banker Premier Coverage Area: Coverage Map

Explore tools, tips, and resources at Coldwell Banker Premier: Here

See social media announcement: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1EppV99MeP/