Savoring Summer (and the Shifts That Come With It)

Dear friends,

I don’t know about you, but the heat has a way of slowing my thoughts—just a little. And yet somehow, summer still flies. Every year, I tell myself we’ll take it slow, savor the long days, soak up every moment… and then I blink.

Our eldest turned 11, which means we’re in single-digit territories of summers left before he’s college-bound. It’s a bittersweet number that reminds me to stay present. These days, we’re navigating that ever-present tension between screens and slow living, trying to carve out memories that stick.

And we’ve had some good ones lately: elementary school promotion, birthday joy, 20 cousins filling our home for a family reunion, Grammie visits, whitewater rafting, pool days, D.C. monuments, and fireworks. It’s been full—and full of life.

While summer tends to slow the pace of our lives, it’s also what we’re seeing in the real estate market. The pace has cooled—but that’s not necessarily a bad thing.

In fact, this is the kind of market buyers have been hoping for.

Nationally, inventory is up—and here in the D.C. area, active listings have risen 28%. Although we’re beginning to see more price reductions and a slight market softening, the market continues to surprise in its sheer resilience. Although ultimately a small percentage of the total pool of sellers, many of those impacted by DOGE have listed and likely will continue to list their homes over the summer.  For buyers, however, the rise in inventory spells opportunity any way you look at it. And this gives buyers choices and options that perhaps did not exist even six months ago.

This rebalancing of the market—while slower than the frenzied pace of the past few years—isn’t cause for concern. If anything, it’s overdue. In moments like this, a highly curated and deeply personal approach to the home purchasing process will become even more critical.  At Kaul Home Group we stand ready to help buyers and sellers, navigate a durable, but ever changing market.  

So while summer stretches ahead of us—however fleeting it feels—there’s still time to lean into the season. Whether it’s another trip to the pool or a strategic move in the market, it’s all about timing. And right now, we’re in a rare window with room to breathe, plan, and act with intention.

Here’s to slowing down… even if only for a moment.

Warmly,

House

kaul

git's guide

Hey there, summer lovers! ☀️

Here is a fun little roundup of the things I’m loving and actually using this season. Whether you’re traveling, staying local, or just trying to beat the heat, these picks are all about making life easier, breezier, and a little more joyful. Think of it as your cheat sheet for summer done right.

Cooling Towels

Stay cool instantly with this lightweight microfiber cooling towel. Perfect for workouts, sports, or hot days, it activates with water and provides breathable, chemical-free relief. We use these on our summer trips to Europe to combat heat waves and they work like magic!

Away Luggage

This sleek, expandable carry-on offers up to 2.25" of extra space, perfect for flexible packing. The polycarbonate shell, TSA-approved lock, and smooth wheels make it so easy to travel with kids. Our boys each push along 2 suitcases giving their tired parents a break!

Ninja Juice SLUSHi

The Ninja® Slushi™ Frozen Drink Maker blends slushies, smoothies, and frozen cocktails in seconds with precision and power. Its 40-recipe inspiration guide adds variety, while the easy-to-clean design makes it perfect for daily use, parties, or family fun—refreshment made effortless.

KAUL HOME GROUP sales

NEW CONSTRUCTION COMING SOON IN Bethesda

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5 BD 5 BA 4500 SF $3,200,000

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141 Winchester Avenue

5 BD 5 BA 5399 SF $1,295,000

PRIVATE & EXCLUSIVE IN TALBOT COUNTY

4595 Boone Creek Road

3 BD 3 BA 2689 SF $995,000

THEY REALLY do LIKE ME...

Eight years in a row — and it still means everything. I’m honored to be named a 2025 Washingtonian Top Agent and to appear once again on the RealTrends Verified list by volume — #26 in all of Maryland and #4 across Compass.

This work demands a lot: late nights, tough negotiations, and constant problem-solving. But it gives back even more — in trust, relationships, and the chance to guide people through life-changing moves.

Thanks to YOU, my clients, colleagues, and the Compass community. Your support means the world.

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What my clients say

"No words are enough to express the sincere efforts Gitika has put in to locate a house for us. As seniors, we required many specifics... She understood our needs and kept working painstakingly. With her market insight and connectivity, she offered many options. Gitika never showed any displeasure as we changed our minds... She values relationships — it's not just about closing a deal, but guiding clients with confidence and comfort. A sheer pleasure knowing her!"

- Bethesda Buyer

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