
NEWS
May 28, 2025
Why Local Expertise Matters in Morgantown Real Estate
Morgan Stephens-Simonetti

In a city as vibrant and diverse as Morgantown, real estate is more than just buying or selling a home—it's about truly understanding the community. As a local Realtor® who lives, works, and raises a family here, I know firsthand how valuable local expertise is when helping my clients navigate the market.
Whether you're searching for a home near downtown Morgantown, looking to enjoy lake life out in Cheat Lake, or want to be near WVU, every pocket of this town has its own rhythm—and those subtle differences matter.
One recent example: I worked with a couple relocating from out of state who were set on a neighborhood they’d read about online. After listening to their lifestyle goals and needs, I suggested an area just 10 minutes away they hadn’t even considered. It turned out to be a perfect fit—close to great schools, a growing community feel, and more value for their budget. They’re now settled in and couldn’t be happier.
That’s the difference local knowledge brings. Out-of-area agents might not know how traffic patterns shift during a WVU football game weekend, which parts of Cheat Lake have better resale value, or where the next wave of development is happening. I’ve watched Morgantown grow and evolve over the years, and that history shapes every recommendation I make.
Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make—and having someone who knows the ins and outs of the market can save you time, money, and stress.
If you’re thinking about making a move in Morgantown or just curious about what your options are, let’s talk. I’d love to help you make the most informed decision possible, backed by true local insight.
May 14, 2025
Early Spring 2025 Market Update
Morgan Stephens-Simonetti

Spring is here (even if it doesn’t feel like it yet!), and we’re already seeing some shifts in the housing market. Here's a quick snapshot of what’s happening nationally, based on the latest data from Realtor.com:
Inventory is up 28.5% compared to this time last year—great news for buyers who’ve been waiting for more options.
Buyer demand has eased a bit, mostly due to higher mortgage rates. Some folks are hitting pause or adjusting their search.
Home prices are staying steady overall, but we’re seeing more sellers making price adjustments to stay competitive.
So, what does this mean for you?
➡️ Buyers: With more homes on the market and slightly less competition, you might have more room to negotiate and more time to make thoughtful decisions. It’s a great opportunity to find the right fit.
➡️ Sellers: Pricing your home right from the start is more important than ever. Homes that are well-prepared and priced appropriately are still attracting strong interest—even in a slightly cooler market.
Keep in mind—real estate is local. What’s happening nationally may not reflect what’s going on in your specific neighborhood. If you’re curious about what these trends mean for you, just reach out! I’m always happy to help you understand what’s going on in your market.
May 7, 2025
Why You Should Be Checking In on Your Home’s Value (Even If You’re Not Moving)
Morgan Stephens-Simonetti

When was the last time you checked the value of your home?
If you're like most people, it probably hasn't crossed your mind unless you were prepping to sell. But here’s the thing—keeping tabs on your home’s value isn’t just for sellers. In fact, understanding where your home stands in today’s market can be helpful no matter what stage of homeownership you're in.
That’s exactly why I offer free Real Estate Reviews.
They’re simple, personalized, and give you a snapshot of your home’s current value based on recent sales, local market activity, and neighborhood trends.
Think of it like a yearly wellness check-up for your home.
Just like you see your doctor for an annual physical or take your car in for routine maintenance, it’s a smart idea to keep an eye on what’s likely your biggest financial investment—your home.
Here are just a few reasons why a Real Estate Review might be a good idea, even if you're not planning to move anytime soon:
Stay informed about how your home compares in today’s market
Plan ahead for potential future moves—even if they’re years away
Track your equity growth to help with long-term financial planning
Spot opportunities for upgrades or improvements that add value
And the best part?
This service is completely free, tailored specifically to your home, and comes with zero obligation. Whether you're just curious about your home's equity, thinking about a renovation project, or simply want to be a more informed homeowner, I'm happy to put together a custom Real Estate Review for you.
All you have to do is reach out—send me a quick message, and I’ll take care of the rest.
No pressure, no catch—just good info to help you make smart decisions about your biggest asset.
Apr 30, 2025
New Listing Options Mean More Flexibility for Sellers
Morgan Stephens-Simonetti

If you're thinking about selling your home, there’s a recent change from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) that might work to your advantage. The updated Multiple Listing Options for Sellers policy gives you more say in how your home is marketed on the MLS—and more flexibility to choose what works best for you.
Gone are the days of a one-size-fits-all listing approach. This new policy lets you customize your strategy based on your timeline, privacy preferences, and overall goals.
Here’s a quick breakdown of your options:
● Full MLS Exposure
Want to get your home in front of as many buyers as possible right away? Going live on the MLS immediately is still a great way to reach a wide audience and generate strong interest.
● Limited or Delayed Marketing
Not quite ready to go public? Whether you’re still getting your home ready, need a bit more time, or prefer to keep things quiet for now, a delayed marketing plan gives you the flexibility to ease into the process while still working toward a successful sale.
● Pre-Marketing or “Testing the Waters”
Still feeling things out? This option lets you quietly explore early buyer interest before going fully live on the MLS—perfect if you want feedback and insight without committing right away.
What this really means is: you have options. You can now work with your agent (that’s me!) to create a listing strategy that truly fits your needs. With the right approach, you’ll not only make the process smoother, but you’ll also attract more qualified buyers and set yourself up for better results.
The market is always changing—and smart, flexible strategies are more important than ever. If you’re not sure which direction makes the most sense, I’d be happy to walk you through the pros and cons of each and help you land on the best fit for your situation.