Grateful and Preparing for 2025

Dear friends,

We are in the month of gratitude and while it may be harder to focus on all that is good right now, the best approach is always a positive outlook.  So, I'll start.  Earlier this month I hosted an absolute joyous holiday market -- our 4th one -- in support of small, women owned businesses.  This gathering is so much more than shopping: It is really about bringing neighbors, clients and friends together around values that unite us-- celebrating hard work, entrepreneurship, creativity and giving.  What I love about this community of makers is that these women have hustle-- a go out and get it attitude that I

admire so much. Thank you to those who came this year and save the date for next year -- Nov 9th, 2025.

Alas, reality beckons us back to some other pressing issues in our market environment.  Put plainly, inflation is cooling back to around 2%, and the U.S. economy is growing at a steady 2-3% with strong job numbers and wages rising faster than inflation. As 2024 ends, the U.S. economy looks stable and outpaces global competitors, with stock markets hitting record highs. But markets are still bracing for potential inflation.

Why? Big policy shifts—like tariffs, tax cuts, and subsidies for key industries—could raise prices and increase government debt. The 10-year Treasury yield has surged close to 4.5%, and markets are reacting with spikes across equities and commodities. Higher growth may counter rising prices, but that depends on consumer-level benefits like wage increases. 

As always, market change is the one constant. And maybe one other thing—experts who make all kinds of predictions.  Some will be right and some won't, because well, it all depends... One thing I do know for sure is that despite our proximity to the center of government, our market has historically been a bit more insulated from large upheaval due to the strong demand for homes driven by demographic shifts, a historically low unemployment rate due to an abundance of government contract work and our relatively small geographic area.  

So what does this mean for you?  If you are on the fence about buying or selling in 2025, there is no better time to initiate your real estate endeavors than when it is best for you and your life.  Some good advice will always be a constant.  

With gratitude always, Gitika

HouseKaul

1361 Spring Road NW

Check out my beautiful developer listing in Washington, D.C. It is a thrilled to watch an old home be transformed into something new, all while retaining the charm of its orginal architecture. This home was taken down to the studs, and new features like additional bathrooms and walk in closets were added --something that did not exist when the home was built in the early 1900s! This home is ideal for someone looking for the very best of DC living or an investor who wants 2 units to rent out as the lower level functions as a stand alone home. Since everything is new, there should be few concerns for many years to come!

CHARLESTON COMPASS

RETREAT

Last week I attended the annual Compass Retreat in Charleston, SC. What a charming city! During this time I was able to connect with hundreds of my Compass colleagues from around the country through multiple networking and team collaborations including candle making, river paddling, walk tours, parties and workshops. It was a whirlwind and I did not get much sleep, but I came back energized and with even more professional agent connections throughout the country to share with my clients when they need an agent anywhere in the United States. When you have a need, don't be afraid to reach out. I have excellent resources in all major cities and if I don't already know someome great for you in another location, I will research it and make sure you have the best fit. And, don't forget to add Charleston to you list of places to visit!

WHAT MY CLIENTS SAY

"Gitika helped me sell my first house. She was thoughtful, professional, patient, and a fantastic agent who listens to her client while providing guidance. Moreover, Gitika lets no obstacle deter her from selling a house. She is an agent who goes all the way for her clients. I highly recommend her!"

- Seller

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A Place to Kaul Home

My unique and nuanced experience allows me to guide my clients through the search and sell process with ease, from contract to closing.

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