What Should You Do Before Your First Showing?
A Seller’s Guide to Making a Great First Impression in Any Market
Getting ready for your first home showing can feel a little like preparing for a job interview—nerves, expectations, and the pressure to make a great first impression. Whether you’re selling in a hot market or a slower season, the first showing is a critical moment. Buyers often make up their minds within minutes of walking through the door.
So how do you ensure your home looks its best from day one? Here’s a step-by-step guide to everything sellers should do before their first showing—no matter the market conditions.
Why is the first showing so important?
First impressions matter. Most buyers start forming opinions about a home within the first 60 seconds of entering. If your home feels clean, fresh, well-maintained, and move-in ready, you're far more likely to receive strong offers—and quickly.
In Edmond’s competitive real estate market, where buyers often compare multiple homes in a weekend, it’s especially important to stand out right away. That first showing could be your only shot to win someone over.
What are the must-do cleaning and decluttering tasks?
Before your first showing, your home needs to look and feel like a blank canvas—but still warm and inviting. Here are the essential steps:
1. Deep Clean Everything
This includes floors, baseboards, windows, ceiling fans, kitchen appliances, and bathrooms. Don’t forget overlooked areas like light switches, air vents, and grout. Clean homes signal that the property has been cared for.
2. Declutter Every Room
Clear off counters, bookshelves, and tabletops. Remove excess furniture to help rooms feel larger. Pack away personal items like family photos, excessive décor, and knickknacks. Less is always more when selling.
3. Organize Closets and Cabinets
Yes—buyers open them. A tidy linen closet or spacious pantry shows off storage potential. If you’re tight on space, consider temporarily storing items off-site.
How can you improve curb appeal before buyers even walk inside?
Curb appeal sets the tone. Buyers often drive by before even scheduling a showing, and their reaction to the exterior influences how they perceive the interior.
Key curb appeal tasks before your first showing:
Mow the lawn, trim hedges, and edge walkways.
Power wash siding, driveways, and porches.
Repaint the front door or update hardware if needed.
Add fresh mulch and seasonal plants for a pop of color.
Ensure the house number is visible and lighting works.
Pro Tip: Even small touches like a clean welcome mat or potted plants near the entrance can make a big difference.
Should you stage your home—even if it’s already furnished?
Staging isn’t just about adding furniture; it’s about creating a lifestyle buyers can imagine themselves living in. In many cases, that means editing what you already have.
Simple staging tips before your first showing:
Create defined spaces (e.g., reading nook, breakfast area).
Use neutral tones and light-colored bedding or towels.
Add fresh flowers or greenery to bring in warmth.
Let in natural light—open blinds and use soft lamps.
Remove rugs that make rooms feel smaller or busier.
In Edmond’s current market, staged homes tend to sell faster and for more money, especially when competing with new construction or model homes.
What final steps should you take right before buyers arrive?
Right before the showing, it’s all about ambiance and accessibility. You want buyers to feel comfortable and welcomed.
Final showing checklist:
Take pets with you or arrange for them to be out of the home.
Turn on lights in every room, even during the day.
Open curtains and blinds to let in natural light.
Set a comfortable temperature.
Leave soft background music playing quietly (optional).
Empty trash bins and put away dishes or laundry.
Leave the home at least 15 minutes before the scheduled time.
Buyers need space and time to explore without distractions or pressure, so it’s best to make yourself scarce during the showing.
Why does prepping for your first showing matter more in Edmond?
In a market like Edmond, where buyers are often well-informed and comparing multiple homes at once, your first impression sets the tone for every conversation that follows. Whether you're in a hot-selling neighborhood like Iron Horse Ranch or listing a starter home near UCO, the way your property presents on Day 1 could determine how long it stays on the market.
If you want your home to compete with others nearby, preparation before the first showing isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Who can help you nail your first showing?
Preparing for a showing can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone. The Justiz League Real Estate Team has helped hundreds of Edmond homeowners sell smarter, faster, and with less stress. From pre-listing prep to pricing strategy and staging support, they know what today’s buyers want—and how to position your home for maximum impact on the first showing and beyond.
If a first showing can make or break a sale, what are you doing to make sure your home leaves a lasting impression?
National Trends in Housing Inventory (May 2025 Recap)
Understanding inventory—the number of homes listed for sale—is one of the clearest ways to gauge the health of any housing market. And as ResiClub recently reported in their latest article analyzing end-of-May 2025 inventory data from Realtor.com, the landscape across the U.S. is shifting again.
Let’s break down what’s happening nationally and explore what this might mean for buyers, sellers, and investors right here in Edmond, Oklahoma.
According to ResiClub’s analysis, inventory has increased in many states compared to the same time last year. This shift reflects a gradual normalization of supply after years of record-low listings and bidding wars. However, the growth is uneven—some states are seeing sharp jumps in homes available for sale, while others remain tight markets.
Key national takeaways from ResiClub’s report include:
Overall inventory levels are up year-over-year in many Sun Belt and Midwest states.
Some markets are experiencing a faster recovery in inventory, especially where interest rates have remained more stable.
States like Texas, Arizona, and Florida are leading the increase in listings, while inventory remains constricted in parts of the Northeast and West Coast.
📊 What does this signal? A potential balancing of power between buyers and sellers after a multi-year seller’s market.
🏘️ What This Means for Edmond’s Housing Market
While Edmond isn’t directly mentioned in the report, national housing trends often ripple through mid-sized cities like ours within months. Here’s how these broader patterns could be shaping our local real estate landscape:
1. Rising Inventory Could Ease Price Pressure
If Oklahoma follows the national trend, we may begin to see a modest increase in active listings. More inventory typically means buyers have more options—reducing bidding wars and potentially cooling rapid price growth.
2. Opportunities for First-Time Buyers
Increased supply often creates openings for first-time homebuyers who were priced out during the frenzy of the past few years. Edmond, with its strong school districts and suburban appeal, could attract more millennial buyers if affordability improves.
3. Investor Attention Could Shift
Investors watching national patterns may look to Edmond if inventory ticks up and prices stabilize. That could mean more competition for single-family rentals—but also more opportunities for those looking to expand local portfolios.
🧭 Final Thoughts: Is Edmond Real Estate Following National Trends?
We’ll be watching closely to see if Realtor.com’s reported rise in inventory nationally begins to show up in our local Edmond housing reports. For now, the signals point toward a slow but steady rebalancing—and that could be good news for both buyers and long-term investors.
Whether you're buying your first home or your fifth, the Justiz League Real Estate Team helps you compete with confidence — using market data, local insight, and smart negotiation strategies. We know Edmond and OKC like the back of our hand, and we’re here to help you buy boldly and wisely.
📚 Cited Source:
ResiClub, “Inventory is a key housing metric—here’s what state level inventory is telling us right now”, June 5, 2025.
Why Edmond, OK Is the Hidden Gem of Metro Real Estate
🏡 Is Edmond, OK the Right Place for You?
If you're searching for a home in the Oklahoma City metro area, Edmond, OK, might not be the first place that comes to mind. However, this charming city just north of Oklahoma City offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience, making it a hidden gem for homebuyers.
In this blog, we'll explore why Edmond is gaining popularity among homebuyers and what makes it stand out in the competitive real estate market.
🌆 What Makes Edmond Stand Out?
✅ A Thriving Community with Small-Town Charm
Edmond boasts a population of over 94,000 residents, offering a tight-knit community feel while providing access to big-city amenities. The city's motto, "A Great Place to Grow," reflects its family-friendly atmosphere and commitment to fostering a welcoming environment for all.
✅ Top-Rated Schools and Educational Opportunities
Education is a top priority in Edmond, with multiple schools earning GreatSchools ratings of 9 or 10. Notable institutions include:
Santa Fe High School – Rated 10/10
Chisholm Elementary – Rated 9/10
North High School – Rated 9/10
Russell Dougherty Elementary – Rated 9/10
Cross Timbers Elementary – Rated 9/10
These schools not only offer academic excellence but also contribute to higher home values in their attendance zones. Proximity to great schools remains a top consideration for buyers.
✅ Abundant Parks and Outdoor Activities
With over 20 parks, trails, and access to Arcadia Lake, Edmond encourages an active lifestyle. Residents enjoy community events, local art installations, and a dynamic downtown filled with shops and eateries. The city is safe, scenic, and perfect for both young professionals and growing families.
✅ Vibrant Arts and Cultural Scene
Edmond's cultural scene is thriving, with events like "Heard on Hurd," the Downtown Edmond Arts Festival, and performances at the UCO Jazz Lab. These events showcase the community’s lively and festive spirit, making Edmond a place where culture and community intersect.
📊 Edmond's Real Estate Market: What Buyers Need to Know
🏠 Housing Market Overview
As of April 2025, Edmond's real estate market remains competitive yet balanced. The median listing price is $424,500, while the median sold price is $372,085. Homes are spending an average of 52 days on the market, indicating a more balanced pace compared to previous years.
📈 Market Trends
Price Appreciation: Home prices have seen a steady increase, with a 3.6% rise in the median sold price year-over-year.
Inventory Levels: There are over 1,300 active listings, providing a variety of options for buyers.
Days on Market: Homes are selling faster than the state average, reflecting strong demand.
These trends suggest that Edmond offers a stable and appreciating real estate market, making it an attractive option for homebuyers.
🏘️ Neighborhoods to Consider in Edmond
Edmond is home to 70 neighborhoods, each offering unique features and amenities. Some of the most sought-after neighborhoods include:
Oak Tree: Known for its luxury homes and golf course views.
Coffee Creek: Offers family-friendly amenities and parks.
Twin Bridges: Features spacious homes and proximity to schools.
Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or a vibrant community, Edmond's diverse neighborhoods cater to various preferences and lifestyles.
💰 Affordability and Cost of Living
Compared to the national average, Edmond's cost of living is approximately 10% lower. This affordability extends to housing, with the median sale price of a home in Edmond at $385,000, which is 12% lower than the national average. This makes Edmond an appealing option for buyers seeking value without compromising on quality of life.
🧭 Final Thoughts
Edmond, OK, offers a unique blend of small-town charm, top-rated schools, abundant parks, and a vibrant arts scene. Coupled with a stable and appreciating real estate market, it's no wonder that more homebuyers are considering Edmond as their next home destination.
As you explore your homebuying options, consider what Edmond has to offer. Could this hidden gem be the perfect place for you to call home?
Whether you're buying your first home or your fifth, the Justiz League Real Estate Team helps you compete with confidence — using market data, local insight, and smart negotiation strategies. We know Edmond and OKC like the back of our hand, and we’re here to help you buy boldly and wisely.
Winning the Bid Without Overpaying: Smart Homebuyer Strategies for Oklahoma’s Competitive Market (2025)
🏡 Can You Really Win in a Hot Market Without Paying Too Much?
If you’ve been house hunting in 2025, especially in fast-moving markets like Edmond or the Oklahoma City metro, you’ve probably felt the pressure: low inventory, rising prices, and competition that feels more like a bidding war than a home purchase.
So, the big question is — how do you win the house without blowing your budget?
It’s not about outbidding everyone. It’s about outsmarting the competition. In this blog, we’re going to show you how to make your offer stand out without paying more than a home is worth — using data-driven strategies and real-world buyer advice that actually works in today’s market.
Why Are Bidding Wars Still a Thing in 2025?
Even though the frenzy of 2021 and 2022 has cooled, many cities — including Edmond, OK — are still experiencing tight inventory, especially for homes under $400,000. Interest rates have stabilized, but strong demand and lagging new construction continue to create micro-markets where competition is fierce.
Homes that are:
Well-priced
In desirable school districts
Move-in ready
…often receive multiple offers in the first few days on the market.
The good news? There are smart, strategic ways to win without simply throwing more money at the seller.
What Makes a Competitive Offer Stand Out?
It’s not always the highest offer that wins. In fact, most sellers are looking for clean, reliable, and efficient closings. Your goal is to reduce risk for the seller while making your offer as strong as possible — even without escalating your price.
Key Offer Strategies That Work:
✅ Get Pre-Approved, Not Just Pre-Qualified
Pre-approval from a reputable lender shows you're serious and ready to close — a huge deal in a tight market.
✅ Make a Strong Earnest Money Deposit
Bumping your earnest money from the standard 1% to 2–3% can signal commitment and strength without increasing the offer price.
✅ Shorten or Waive Contingencies (Carefully)
If you're comfortable with the inspection report, consider waiving repair requests or shortening the inspection period. This can give you an edge — but never skip inspections altogether.
✅ Work With an Experienced Local Agent
Local agents understand what motivates sellers in your target neighborhood. They know how to tailor the offer — whether it’s timing, rent-back options, or escalation clauses.
How Can You Protect Yourself While Staying Competitive?
Sometimes in a bidding war, buyers waive important protections like appraisals or financing contingencies — and regret it later. You don’t have to go that route.
Better Alternatives:
Appraisal Gap Coverage: Agree to cover a limited gap if the appraisal comes in low — but cap your exposure.
Flexible Close Dates: Offer to work with the seller’s timeline, especially if they’re buying another home.
Personal Letters (Used Carefully): A heartfelt note can sometimes make a difference — but know that some sellers may ignore them due to fair housing concerns.
The goal: keep your offer strong and seller-friendly, but never give up all your safeguards.
Are You Emotionally Ready for the Competition?
Let’s be real: competing for a home can feel like an emotional rollercoaster. Offers rejected. Deadlines missed. Perfect homes gone in 24 hours. It’s easy to get discouraged — or to make a desperate offer just to win.
Here’s how to stay sane:
Know your walk-away number. Decide ahead of time what your financial and emotional limits are.
Keep perspective. Another great home will come along — especially if you're working with an agent who knows the area.
Learn from each offer. Every showing, offer, and rejection helps refine your strategy.
The smartest buyers aren’t the ones who rush. They’re the ones who prepare, partner with the right team, and stay patient.
Final Thoughts
Winning a bidding war without overpaying is absolutely possible — but it takes preparation, smart strategy, and local expertise. In markets like Edmond, OK, where homes can go quickly, buyers who show up organized and informed are often the ones walking away with the keys — without overextending themselves financially.
Whether you’re buying your first home or your fifth, the Justiz League Real Estate Team helps you compete with confidence — using market data, local insight, and smart negotiation strategies. We know Edmond and OKC like the back of our hand, and we’re here to help you buy boldly and wisely.
Durango vs. Oklahoma City: A Tale of Two Real Estate Markets – Lifestyle, Climate & Investment Compared
Explore the key differences between these two growing markets—from mountain charm to metropolitan energy—and discover which one aligns with your goals.
by Ashley Blackmore in collaboration with Cassi Justiz
Whether you're looking to relocate, invest, or simply explore your options, Durango, Colorado and the Oklahoma City Metro Area are two distinctly appealing places capturing attention in today’s real estate market. One offers rugged mountain beauty and a tight-knit community vibe, while the other delivers urban energy, economic growth, and surprising affordability.
In this blog, we’ll compare these two unique locations across key factors: climate, lifestyle, market data, what’s driving demand, and investment potential. If you're weighing your next move, let this serve as your comprehensive starting point.
🏞️ A Quick Introduction
Durango, CO is nestled in the San Juan Mountains in Southwest Colorado. It’s known for its outdoor adventure scene, historic downtown, and proximity to national parks. It's a haven for nature lovers and remote workers who crave a slower pace without sacrificing culture or amenities.
In contrast, the Oklahoma City Metro Area is one of the fastest-growing regions in the central U.S. With a low cost of living, strong job market, and a revitalized downtown, OKC appeals to families, young professionals, and investors looking for growth without the sky-high prices of larger metros.
🌤️ Climate & Lifestyle Snapshot
Durango:
Four true seasons with snowy winters and dry, sunny summers
Ideal for skiing, hiking, rafting, and mountain biking
Small-town feel with a vibrant local arts and food scene
Oklahoma City:
Mild winters and hot summers with a touch of southern hospitality
Plenty of parks, lakes, and a growing foodie and cultural scene
More suburban sprawl with urban conveniences
If your lifestyle leans toward outdoor recreation and small-town charm, Durango is hard to beat. But if you're after a dynamic city with career opportunities and growing amenities, OKC delivers.
📊 Real Estate Market Comparison (as of Q1 2025)
🚀 What’s Driving Each Market?
Durango:
Limited land for new development increases competition
High demand from remote workers, retirees, and second-home buyers
Proximity to outdoor recreation and scenic value boosts desirability
Oklahoma City:
Booming job market in aerospace, health care, and energy
Influx of out-of-state movers looking for affordability
Ongoing urban development and infrastructure projects
💭 Lifestyle Considerations
• Want space, nature, and quiet? Durango wins.
• Crave cultural events, career mobility, and affordability? OKC may be the better fit.
• Think about school quality, healthcare access, and daily conveniences—both markets offer pros and cons depending on your priorities.
💬 Expert Market Insights from Ashley Blackmore Realtor® – Durango & Southwest Colorado
“As someone who’s worked closely with buyers and sellers across Durango and Southwest Colorado, I can tell you that demand here continues to outpace inventory—especially for well-maintained homes under $800,000. Buyers are prioritizing lifestyle: they want access to trails, walkable neighborhoods like Historic Downtown, or proximity to skiing and lakes. We’re seeing strong interest from remote workers, retirees, and even young families making intentional moves away from urban sprawl.”
“Durango isn’t just a place—it’s a lifestyle. Whether it's biking to work, hitting the slopes before lunch, or enjoying a local brew downtown, people are investing in more than just property—they’re investing in quality of life. That’s something buyers can’t always find in larger metro areas.”
“From an investment perspective, properties that cater to tourism—like short-term rentals near Purgatory or the Animas River—have been solid performers. And while regulations are evolving, there's still strong opportunity with the right property in the right location.”
If you're considering a move to Durango, Ashley adds, “It’s important to have a local agent who understands the nuances of our market, especially when it comes to navigating low inventory and competitive offers. We’re a close-knit community—and that extends to how we do business.”
💬 Expert Market Insights from Cassi Justiz Realtor® – Oklahoma City Metro Area
“The Oklahoma City Metro continues to show remarkable resilience and value in 2025. We’re seeing steady demand across the board—from first-time buyers to seasoned investors. Affordability is a huge draw. With a median home price still under $300,000, buyers from higher-cost states are relocating here for more space, newer homes, and a better cost of living.”
“One of the standout trends is growth in suburban communities like Moore, Yukon, and Edmond. These areas offer top-rated schools, new construction, and easy access to downtown OKC. We're also seeing a lot of interest in revitalized neighborhoods like The Paseo and Plaza District, especially among young professionals looking for charm and culture.”
“For investors, Oklahoma City offers strong rental potential. The job market is diverse and stable, especially in health care, aerospace, and tech. Rental demand is up, and properties in well-located areas are leasing quickly. It’s a great market for buy-and-hold strategies and portfolio growth.”
Cassi emphasizes the importance of timing and local insight:
“Inventory is moving fast, but we’re not seeing the bidding wars of markets like Denver or Austin. That makes OKC a great option for buyers who want opportunity without overwhelming pressure. Working with a local agent who understands neighborhood trends and upcoming development is key to finding the right fit—whether you’re buying a home or investing long-term.”
ABOUT THE EXPERTS
Ashley Blackmore - Real Estate Professional | Luxury & Equestrian Property Specialist
Ashley Blackmore, a Durango, Colorado native, combines her strong background in Business Management and Marketing from Fort Lewis College with a passion for her hometown to elevate the local real estate industry. Recognizing the need for a higher level of professionalism, she entered the market with a commitment to redefine real estate standards.
Founder of Ashley Blackmore Homes - A Luxury Real Estate Brand
Ashley established her own luxury real estate brand to deliver innovative marketing strategies, particularly focusing on video and social media to stay ahead of trends. She is known for her strategic, forward-thinking approach, emphasizing the "lifestyle" that comes with a home, setting her apart from traditional agents.
Specialist in Selling Hard-to-Sell Properties
With an in-depth knowledge of the local market, Ashley excels in accurate property pricing and successfully sells hard-to-sell properties. Her dedication to building long-term relationships has earned her trust and loyalty from clients both locally and nationally.
Mentor & Advocate for Entrepreneurs
In addition to her real estate expertise, Ashley is passionate about mentoring fellow entrepreneurs, helping them build successful businesses using innovative strategies and insights.
Commitment to Luxury & Equestrian Properties Across North America
As part of Ashley Blackmore Homes’ mission, we connect luxury and equestrian property buyers with expert insights across North America. Specializing in luxury ranches and mountain estates in Colorado and New Mexico, we partner with distinguished realtors to deliver comprehensive market knowledge.
Cassi Justiz - Real Estate Professional
Founder of The Justiz League Real Estate Team – Guiding with Heart, Knowledge & Experience
Cassi Justiz, born and raised in Lubbock, Texas, I pursued my education at Texas Tech University and Oklahoma State University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master of Science in Healthcare Administration. After moving to Oklahoma City for a job opportunity, I quickly found my place in the community—and in real estate.
From Healthcare to Housing – A Natural Transition to Real Estate
After spending a decade in nursing and administrative roles, I began building a rental property portfolio. That journey revealed my true passion: helping others navigate the often overwhelming world of real estate. In 2019, my husband Ralph joined me in this mission, and together we formed The Justiz League Real Estate Team, dedicated to empowering buyers, sellers, and investors alike.
A Commitment to Excellence & Education
To deliver top-tier service, I’ve earned several certifications and designations, including Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR), Seller’s Representative Specialist (SRS), Pricing Strategy Advisor (PSA), Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource (SFR), and At Home With Diversity (AHWD). I proudly serve as Chairperson for the Oklahoma City Metropolitan Association of Realtors Diversity and Inclusion Committee and am a graduate of the Association’s Leadership Class of 2021.
Empowering Clients at Every Stage of the Journey
Whether you're buying your first home, upgrading for a new season in life, or diversifying your investment portfolio, my team and I are here to guide you with integrity, insight, and empathy. We specialize in making the process smooth, educational, and even fun.
Life Beyond Real Estate
When I’m not working, I’m spending time with my husband, our toddler, and our dog. I’m a dedicated foodie who loves trying new restaurants, scrolling the internet for fun finds, and traveling every chance I get. The outdoors is my happy place.
📦 Making the Move
Relocating to a new city isn’t just about buying property—it’s about choosing a lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for your first home or your forever dream estate, it’s important to explore the area, connect with locals, and work with trusted professionals who know the market inside and out.
🛎️ Ready to Take the Next Step?
From the mountain charm and outdoor lifestyle of Durango to the dynamic growth and urban energy of Oklahoma City, both offer incredible opportunities for first-time buyers and luxury homeowners alike. The key is finding the perfect fit for your lifestyle and goals.
📩 Your Dream Home Starts Here
Whether you're taking your first step into homeownership or upgrading to something extraordinary, Ashley Blackmore and Cassi Justiz are here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s turn your vision into reality—contact us today and start the journey to your ideal home.