<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" version="2.0"><channel><title><![CDATA[Kerrie Merck]]></title><description><![CDATA[Kerrie Merck]]></description><link>https://www.kerriemerckrealtor.com/blog</link><generator>RSS for Node</generator><lastBuildDate>Fri, 15 May 2026 08:57:42 GMT</lastBuildDate><atom:link href="https://www.kerriemerckrealtor.com/blog-feed.xml" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"/><item><title><![CDATA[The Benefits of Downsizing: Why More Homeowners Are Making the Move]]></title><description><![CDATA[Downsizing has become one of the fastest-growing trends in real estate, especially among retirees and long-term homeowners looking to simplify their lifestyle. Moving to a smaller, more manageable home can offer both financial and lifestyle benefits that go far beyond square footage. One of the biggest advantages of downsizing is reduced maintenance. Smaller homes typically mean lower utility costs, less upkeep, and more time to enjoy life rather than manage a property. For many homeowners,...]]></description><link>https://www.kerriemerckrealtor.com/post/the-benefits-of-downsizing-why-more-homeowners-are-making-the-move</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69f39e51cdf606143411ec6b</guid><pubDate>Mon, 27 Apr 2026 20:05:36 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/nsplsh_f3e787f7390b4af2bd535e308af4a2bb~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Elliott Ashton</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[What Today’s Real Estate Market Means for Buyers and Sellers in 2026]]></title><description><![CDATA[The real estate market in 2026 continues to evolve, shaped by shifting interest rates, limited inventory, and ongoing demand in desirable communities. For both buyers and sellers, understanding these conditions is key to making informed decisions and achieving the best possible outcome. For buyers, higher competition in many markets means preparation is more important than ever. Pre-approval, clear budgeting, and working with an experienced agent can make the difference when multiple offers...]]></description><link>https://www.kerriemerckrealtor.com/post/what-today-s-real-estate-market-means-for-buyers-and-sellers-in-2026</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69f39e51cdf606143411ec6c</guid><pubDate>Mon, 27 Apr 2026 20:04:37 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/nsplsh_b3fac9d82f374a30b6ec27b2845318b1~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Elliott Ashton</dc:creator></item></channel></rss>