Dec. 17, 2025

December Mortgage Update: A Glimmer of Hope and the 2026 Outlook

As 2025 winds down, the mortgage market is showing a welcome stability, creating a slightly more balanced environment for buyers and homeowners. Here's a quick look at the current trends and what experts are predicting for 2026.

December 2025: Rates Holding Steady Near Year Lows

After spending much of the year in the upper-6% range, 30-year fixed mortgage rates have recently settled near their 2025 lows, typically hovering in the low-to-mid 6% area (around 6.2% - 6.4%).

  • The Federal Reserve's Influence: The Fed's latest decision to cut short-term rates, the third consecutive reduction this year, signaled a shift toward a more accommodative stance. While the federal funds rate doesn't directly set mortgage rates, it influences the broader financial market, including the 10-year Treasury yield, which is a key benchmark for mortgage pricing.

  • A Slow Descent: The rate movement has been gradual, reminding us that mortgage rates are not expected to plummet instantly. They are influenced by various factors, including inflation, labor market data, and the overall economic outlook.

The 2026 Mortgage Rate Forecast: Slow and Steady Easing

Looking ahead, the consensus among major forecasters suggests a continuation of the slow, downward trajectory for mortgage rates, but with an important caveat: don't expect a return to the 3%-4% rates of the pandemic era.

Forecaster 2026 Average/End Rate Forecast Key Outlook
Fannie Mae ~5.9% (by end of 2026) Expects rates to dip below 6% as economic growth continues.
Realtor.com ~6.3% (average for the year) Predicts a steadier market with slight easing of affordability pressure.
National Association of Realtors (NAR) ~6.0% (average for the year) A drop to 6% could significantly boost sales and expand the buyer pool.

The Big Picture for 2026:

  1. A More Balanced Market: Most experts anticipate that 2026 will bring the most balanced housing market since the pandemic, characterized by a slow recovery and a more even playing field for buyers and sellers.

  2. Affordability Gains (Slowly): The projected ease in rates, coupled with an expected rise in wages, is anticipated to improve affordability, even as national home prices are expected to rise modestly (in the 1%–2% range).

  3. Refinance Opportunity: If your current mortgage is above 6.5% or 7%, the gradual easing of rates in 2026 could make refinancing a financially viable option for many homeowners, leading to a projected increase in refinance volume.

The Bottom Line for Buyers

The message remains consistent: if you find the right home and the monthly payment fits comfortably into your budget at the current rate, it may not pay to wait. While rates are expected to trend down, a significant drop could bring increased competition, putting upward pressure on home prices. If you buy now, you can always refinance later if rates fall more substantially.

 

Posted in Market Updates
Dec. 14, 2025

Happy Hanukkah!

Tonight marks the beginning of Hanukkah, the eight-day Festival of Lights, a deeply meaningful celebration that commemorates a miraculous victory and the resilience of the Jewish people. The holiday is centered on the lighting of the menorah, remembering the miracle that occurred over 2,000 years ago in Jerusalem. When the Maccabees recaptured the Holy Temple from their oppressors, they found only a single day’s worth of pure oil to light the eternal flame, but miraculously, that oil burned for eight full days. This story is a powerful testament to hope, perseverance, and the triumph of light over darkness, and it reminds us all that even a small amount of faith and dedication can make a profound difference.


Hanukkah is a time for family, reflection, and celebration, filled with specific, joyful traditions. Each night, a new candle is added to the menorah and lit after sundown, bringing increasing light into the home. Alongside the blessings and candle lighting, the holiday is famously celebrated with foods fried in oil, such as crispy potato latkes (pancakes) and sweet jam-filled sufganiyot (doughnuts), symbolizing the miracle of the oil. Children look forward to playing the game of dreidel and exchanging small gifts or gelt (chocolate coins). We extend our warmest wishes to everyone celebrating these eight nights—may your holiday be filled with light, laughter, and lasting joy. Chag Sameach!

 

Posted in General
Dec. 12, 2025

Cincinnati Real Estate: November 2025 Market Update – Prices Keep Climbing!

The Cincinnati real estate market continued its robust performance into November 2025, demonstrating remarkable resilience despite higher interest rates. The overarching theme remains clear: high demand continues to push home values upward, cementing the region as a strong market for sellers, while buyers navigate tight inventory.


📈 Key November 2025 Statistics

The most significant takeaway from November's data is the persistent rise in home prices, both month-over-month and year-over-year.

Metric November 2025 Value Change from Oct 2025 Change from Nov 2024
Median Sale Price $313,000 +4.63% +10.89%
Average Sale Price $382,786 +3.97% +11.89%
New Listings 1,854 (Data N/A) (Data N/A)
Closings 1,437 (Data N/A) (Data N/A)
  • Soaring Prices: The median sale price of $313,000 is an all-time high for November compared to the previous two years, illustrating continued and rapid appreciation.

  • Strong Growth Rate: Both the median and average sale prices saw increases of over 10% compared to November 2024, signaling that the Cincinnati market is still appreciating at a rapid, double-digit pace.


⚖️ A Resilient Seller's Market

While national trends might hint at a market correction, Cincinnati remains firmly in seller's territory. The persistent challenge for buyers is the limited inventory relative to the number of motivated purchasers.

  • Low Housing Supply: Current data indicates the housing supply hovers around two months of inventory. Economists consider six months to be a "balanced" market, meaning the scarcity of available homes perpetuates a competitive environment where sellers continue to hold the advantage.

  • Days on Market: While homes are still selling quickly, there are subtle signs of a slight cooling compared to the frenzied pace of previous years. However, well-priced, exceptional properties continue to command high attention and fast sales, often with multiple offers.

  • Interest Rate Impact: Higher mortgage rates, hovering in the high-6% to low-7% range, have undoubtedly cooled the market compared to the historically low rates of a few years ago. This has led to a reduction in the sheer volume of buyers, but the market's fundamental lack of supply means demand still outstrips available homes. As a result, strategic pricing and leveraging an agent's expertise are more crucial than ever for sellers to secure top dollar and for buyers to navigate the competition.


💡 Outlook for the End of 2025 and Beyond

The Cincinnati real estate market is expected to maintain its steady, sustainable appreciation heading into 2026.

  • The market is characterized by methodical growth rather than speculative volatility, which makes it an attractive and safer investment for homeowners and investors alike.

  • For sellers, capitalizing on the winter season—when inventory typically dips further—can still yield excellent results, provided the home is marketed correctly and priced to reflect current conditions.

  • For buyers, patience and readiness are key. While price cuts may be observed in some instances where properties were initially overpriced, the market is not seeing a widespread 'crash.' Being pre-approved and prepared to act decisively when a desirable home hits the market remains essential.

The current climate reinforces Cincinnati's status as a stable, high-demand metropolitan area driven by strong economic fundamentals and population growth.

Contact Andrew Hersey at The Hersey Group | (513) 835-5506 | www.herseygroup.com for a FREE 2025/2026 Market Strategy Session

Posted in Market Updates
Dec. 10, 2025

Cincinnati Holiday Music in December

The holiday spirit truly ramps up after the first week of December, bringing with it the most iconic and longest-running musical events the Queen City has to offer. If you're looking for classical, intimate acoustics, or even a rock twist on the holidays, you'll find it here!

🎻 Grand Orchestral & Classical Performances

These large-scale shows at the historic Music Hall are the definitive soundtrack to a Cincinnati Christmas.

🌟 1. Holiday Pops

  • When: December 12–14, 2025

  • Where: Cincinnati Music Hall

  • What: The Cincinnati Pops Orchestra returns for its most beloved run of the year. This spectacle features conductor John Morris Russell, choruses, dancers, and special guests like Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Cody Fry, all delivering classic and contemporary holiday favorites.

     

🩰 2. The Nutcracker

  • When: December 18–28, 2025

     

  • Where: Cincinnati Music Hall

     

  • What: While a ballet, the live performance of Tchaikovsky’s magnificent score by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra is a musical masterpiece in itself. A stunning visual and auditory experience perfect for the family.

     

🥂 3. New Year's Eve: Cabaret Café

  • When: Wednesday, December 31, 2025

  • Where: Cincinnati Music Hall

     

  • What: Cap off the holiday season with the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra in a fun, festive program to ring in the New Year. It’s an energetic musical celebration with a cabaret flair.


🎶 Acoustic, Jazz & Contemporary Shows

🎤 An Acoustic Christmas with Over the Rhine

  • When: December 19, 20, & 21, 2025

     

  • Where: Memorial Hall OTR

  • What: A cherished local tradition! The Cincinnati-based folk band Over the Rhine offers multiple nights of intimate, heartfelt, and beautiful music that mixes their unique folk sound with seasonal cheer.

     

🎹 Jim Brickman Live: The Gift of Christmas

  • When: Saturday, December 13, 2025

     

  • Where: Aronoff Center

     

  • What: Pianist and songwriter Jim Brickman brings his signature romantic and popular Christmas melodies to Cincinnati for a perfect evening of holiday relaxation.

     

🕯️ Candlelight Holiday Concerts

  • When: Various dates, including December 18–21, 2025 (Carols) and December 20, 2025 (Holiday Special)

  • Where: Rhinegeist Brewery & National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

  • What: Experience classical Christmas music in an utterly unique setting. A string quartet performs holiday carols and selections from The Nutcracker, all bathed in the warm glow of candlelight.


🎭 Holiday Theater with a Musical Twist

🤣 Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some)

  • When: December 11–28, 2025

  • Where: Cincinnati Shakespeare Company

  • What: A hilarious, high-energy holiday romp that features plenty of singing and musical interludes as three actors attempt to speed-run every Christmas classic, including the stories and songs of Rudolph, It's A Wonderful Life, and more!


🍻 Find Ambient Music at the Christkindlmarkt

If you want music while you shop and sip, the Cincinnati Christkindlmarkt offers live performances almost every day leading up to Christmas Eve. You can find everything from Live Jazz Music on Friday nights to Dickens Carolers and German Bands on the weekends, making it a great place for casual, festive entertainment.

 

Contact Andrew Hersey at The Hersey Group | (513) 835-5506 | www.herseygroup.com for a FREE 2025/2026 Market Strategy Session

Posted in General
Dec. 8, 2025

Holiday Hazards: Keeping Your Trees, Lights, and Candles Safe

The holiday season, with its twinkling lights and festive glow, unfortunately brings a heightened risk of house fires. The main culprits are often the beautiful decorations we rely on to set the mood: Christmas trees, strings of lights, and candles.

For live trees, the danger escalates as they dry out; a well-lit dry tree can become engulfed in flames in seconds. To mitigate this risk, ensure your live tree is always well-watered, checking the water level daily. When purchasing a real or artificial tree, look for a “fire resistant” label.

For all indoor electrical decorations, inspect the wiring carefully for frayed or cracked cords, and avoid overloading wall outlets or extension cords. Never run wires under rugs or furniture, which can damage insulation and create heat buildup.


Candles, while creating a warm ambiance, are a frequent cause of holiday fires. Never leave candles burning unattended, and keep them at least three feet away from anything flammable, especially curtains, paper decorations, and tree branches. Consider switching to flameless LED candles for a safer, maintenance-free glow that looks just as inviting.

When using strings of lights, remember that lights designated for indoor use must never be used outdoors and vice-versa. Always turn off all decorative lights—both indoor and outdoor—and extinguish all candles before going to bed or leaving the house.

Taking these simple, proactive steps ensures that your home remains a safe and cozy haven throughout the holiday season, free from preventable tragedy.

 

Contact Andrew Hersey at The Hersey Group | (513) 835-5506 | www.herseygroup.com for a FREE 2025/2026 Market Strategy Session

Posted in General
Dec. 5, 2025

Top Ten Things to go in Cincinnati This Weekend December 5-7

The first weekend of December transforms Cincinnati into a holiday hub, filled with world-class concerts, beloved holiday classics, and unique annual cultural events. If you're visiting the Queen City from Friday, December 5th, to Sunday, December 7th, 2025, you're just in time for some of the season's most anticipated one-off experiences!

Here are the top ten events to make your holiday weekend shine:


 

Friday, December 5: Christmas Superstars & Classics

 

1. Christmas Together with Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith & CeCe Winans

  • What it is: A single, spectacular concert event featuring three multi-Grammy-winning Gospel and Contemporary Christian music legends on one stage, performing their expansive Christmas repertoires.

  • Why it's unique: This highly anticipated national tour stop marks the first time CeCe Winans has joined Grant and Smith on their Christmas tour since 1998, making it a rare collaborative event.

  • Where: Aronoff Center for the Arts – Procter & Gamble Hall

2. Handel's Messiah (Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra)

  • What it is: A special two-day engagement where the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra performs Handel’s iconic oratorio, Messiah, joined by the Cincinnati May Festival Chorus.

  • Why it's unique: This is a one-off opportunity to hear this specific, powerful choral and orchestral performance featuring a huge cast of local talent.

  • Where: Music Hall (Continues Saturday, Dec 6)

3. Damien Escobar Concert

  • What it is: A single-night performance by the Emmy Award-winning violinist Damien Escobar, known for fusing his classical training with hip-hop, R&B, and pop genres.

  • Why it's unique: A dedicated, one-time concert by a renowned touring instrumentalist who brings a modern twist to classical music.

  • Where: Check local venue listings (likely a music hall or theater)

4. Hollapolooza

  • What it is: A single-night, special holiday performance presented by Exhale Dance Tribe, likely featuring unique, high-energy, contemporary dance routines with a festive flair.

  • Why it's unique: A one-off showcase by a local professional dance company outside of a regular season run.

  • Where: Aronoff Center for the Arts


 

Weekend-Long Events (Dec. 5–7, 2025)

 

5. Indian Film Festival Cincinnati

  • What it is: A multi-day festival showcasing powerful independent films from India, South Asia, and the local Ohio film community, featuring screenings, red-carpet events, and after-parties.

  • Why it's unique: This is a significant annual cultural festival that brings a diverse, global collection of cinema to the city for one dedicated weekend.

  • Where: Various venues (Cincinnati Art Museum, The Children's Theatre, Mariemont Theatre)

6. Light in the Forest

  • What it is: A beautiful illuminated walking tour through a 1-mile trail celebrating nature in wintertime, featuring dazzling lights, interactive activities, and live music.

  • Why it's unique: While this runs over several weekends, the first weekend features the opening ceremonial lighting of Krippendorf Lodge at 6 PM daily, kicking off the immersive nature experience.

  • Where: Cincinnati Nature Center

7. Christmas in the Village (Waynesville)

  • What it is: A three-day festival in the historic downtown of Waynesville (a short drive from Cincinnati), featuring over 1,300 luminaries, carolers, choirs, and unique holiday shopping in 40+ stores.

  • Why it's unique: A major, regional holiday festival that only runs this one weekend, transforming an entire village into a walkable, Victorian-style Christmas experience.

  • Where: Downtown Waynesville, Ohio (Northern Cincy Metro)


 

Saturday, December 6: Comedy Legend & Bourbon Bash

 

8. Jerry Seinfeld Live

  • What it is: A single-night stand-up performance by one of the most celebrated comedians of all time, Jerry Seinfeld.

  • Why it's unique: A special, high-profile tour stop for a comedy icon that is a must-see event for fans of stand-up.

  • Where: Aronoff Center for the Arts

9. Dark Charge Day Winter Block Party

  • What it is: Braxton Brewing Company's annual celebration of the release of their Bourbon Barrel-Aged Imperial Stout, Dark Charge, featuring a massive block party, live music, and special beer variants.

  • Why it's unique: A one-day beer festival and block party focused entirely on a highly anticipated annual beer release, making it a pilgrimage for craft beer enthusiasts.

  • Where: Braxton Brewing Company (Covington, KY – Northern KY/Cincy Metro)


 

Sunday, December 7: Holiday Matinee & History

 

10. ABBA Holly Jolly Christmas

  • What it is: A special holiday-themed concert celebrating the music of ABBA, featuring a tribute band or production.

  • Why it's unique: A single-day musical performance that mixes the joy of ABBA's hits with the festive spirit of Christmas, offered as a special matinee performance.

  • Where: Aronoff Center for the Arts

Posted in General
Dec. 3, 2025

Holiday Card Requests: Share Your Family's Joy with The Hersey Group

We Want to Celebrate With You This Holiday Season!

The holidays are about connection, and The Hersey Group wants to stay connected with you! Andrew Hersey, a 6-year veteran real estate agent at The Hersey Group brokered by FIV Realty, loves receiving holiday cards from clients—it's one of the best parts of the season.

"After selling over 200 homes throughout Cincinnati, I've built relationships that last far beyond closing day," Andrew shares. "Receiving holiday cards showing families in the homes I helped them find—that's what makes this career meaningful."

Why We're Asking for Your Cards:

We Genuinely Care The Hersey Group isn't just about transactions—we're about relationships. Your holiday cards remind us why we do this work: helping families find spaces where life unfolds.

Office Tradition We display client cards in our office throughout December. It's a beautiful reminder of the families we've served and the trust they've placed in us.

Stay Connected Life moves fast. Holiday cards help us keep up with your family's milestones—new babies, graduations, pets, adventures, and growth. We love celebrating with you!

What to Include:

Family Updates We love hearing:

  • How you're enjoying your home

  • Neighborhood connections you've made

  • Projects you've completed

  • How the home is working for your family

  • Any plans for the future

Photos Pictures of your family, your home, or both! We especially love seeing holiday decorations or how you've made the house your own.

Your Current Address This helps us keep our records updated and ensures we can continue sending you valuable Cincinnati OH real estate 2025 market updates and holiday greetings in return.

Where to Send Cards:

The Hersey Group c/o Andrew Hersey
9979 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45242

Or if you're sending digital cards (we appreciate those too!), email them to: [contact information from www.herseygroup.com]

What We Send Back:

Every client receives a personalized holiday card from The Hersey Group. With 36 Google 5-star reviews, we've built our reputation on personal attention and genuine care—and that includes holiday traditions.

"I handwrite notes in every card I send," Andrew explains. "Digital is convenient, but nothing beats a personal, handwritten message. It's a small gesture that shows appreciation for the trust clients place in me."

For Recent Buyers:

If you purchased a home with The Hersey Group this year, your first holiday season in your new home is extra special! We'd especially love to see how you're settling in and making the house your own.

For Past Clients:

Even if we closed years ago, we want to stay connected. You're not just former clients—you're part of The Hersey Group family. Send us your updates, and let us know how life is treating you!

Looking Ahead to 2025:

As we enter a new year, The Hersey Group remains committed to serving Cincinnati's real estate needs. Whether you're thinking about buying, selling, or simply have questions about home values in Cincinnati OH, we're here.

Know someone searching for Cincinnati OH homes for sale? Referrals are the highest compliment we receive. When you trust us with your friends and family, that trust means everything.

Our Holiday Wish:

May your home be filled with warmth, laughter, and love this holiday season. May you appreciate not just the structure that shelters you, but the memories being created within those walls.

Thank you for being part of The Hersey Group story. We can't wait to see your holiday cards and celebrate another year of community, connection, and calling Cincinnati home.

Happy Holidays from Andrew Hersey and The Hersey Group!

Contact Andrew Hersey at The Hersey Group | (513) 835-5506 | www.herseygroup.com for a FREE 2025 Market Strategy Session

Posted in General
Dec. 1, 2025

Personalized Christmas Letters Made Easy: Fiverr Services for Holiday Cards

No Time to Write? Professional Services Can Help Tell Your Year's Story

Writing the annual Christmas letter is either a joy or a dreaded obligation, depending on your personality. If you fall into the latter category—or simply don't have time—professional writing services can help. Andrew Hersey, REALTOR at The Hersey Group brokered by FIV Realty, understands busy schedules and believes in outsourcing when it makes sense.

"As a 6-year veteran real estate agent who has sold over 200 homes, I barely have time to sleep during busy season, let alone write creative holiday letters," Andrew admits. "There's no shame in getting help to create something meaningful."

Why Christmas Letters Matter:

Maintaining Connections Annual letters keep distant family and friends updated on your life—especially important for people you don't see regularly or connect with on social media.

Family History Years from now, these letters become treasured records of your family's journey. Children grow, careers change, adventures happen—letters document it all.

Personal Touch In our digital world, receiving a physical letter feels special and intentional.

Fiverr Christmas Letter Services:

What's Available: Fiverr offers affordable professional writing services for holiday letters:

  • Basic Letters: $10-25 (writer crafts letter from details you provide)

  • Premium Letters: $30-75 (includes multiple drafts, creative formatting, poetry options)

  • Rush Services: Available for last-minute needs (higher pricing)

How It Works:

  1. Search "Christmas letter writing" on Fiverr.com

  2. Review writer profiles, samples, and reviews

  3. Choose your writer and package level

  4. Complete questionnaire about your year (moves, milestones, funny stories, achievements)

  5. Receive draft within agreed timeframe

  6. Request revisions if needed

  7. Receive final version for printing

What Information to Provide:

  • Family members' names and ages

  • Major events (moves, new jobs, graduations, births, weddings)

  • Travel or adventures

  • Hobbies and interests

  • Funny anecdotes or memorable moments

  • Challenges overcome

  • Goals or hopes for the new year

  • Tone preference (funny, sentimental, straightforward)

Real Estate Year Updates:

If you bought or sold a home this year, that's newsletter-worthy! "So many clients include their new home purchase in Christmas letters," Andrew shares. "It's a major life milestone and people want to celebrate it."

Example mention: "After months of searching, we finally found our dream home in Mason! The Hersey Group helped us navigate a competitive market, and we couldn't be happier in our new neighborhood."

DIY Alternatives:

If you prefer writing yourself but need structure:

  • Use free templates from Canva or Microsoft Word

  • Keep it to one page (people's attention spans are short)

  • Include 3-5 major updates maximum

  • Add personality with humor or specific details

  • Include a family photo

Photo Cards vs. Letters:

Many families skip letters entirely, opting for photo cards with brief captions. Companies like Shutterfly, Minted, and Costco Photo Center offer beautiful options.

The Hersey Group Approach:

With 36 Google 5-star reviews, The Hersey Group maintains client relationships through personalized communication—including holiday cards. "We include updates on Cincinnati OH real estate 2025 trends and personal notes for every client," Andrew explains. "It's about showing we care beyond the transaction."

Whether you write your own letter, hire a professional, or skip it entirely—what matters is maintaining the connections that make life meaningful.

Happy holidays, Cincinnati!

Contact Andrew Hersey at The Hersey Group | (513) 835-5506 | www.herseygroup.com for a FREE 2025 Market Strategy Session

Posted in General
Nov. 28, 2025

Black Friday Tips & Tricks: Smart Shopping Strategies for Cincinnati

Navigate Black Friday Like a Pro with These Insider Tips

Black Friday is the Super Bowl of shopping—strategy, stamina, and smart planning separate the victors from the exhausted masses wandering Kenwood Mall aimlessly. Andrew Hersey, a 6-year veteran real estate agent at The Hersey Group brokered by FIV Realty, applies the same strategic thinking to Black Friday that he uses in competitive real estate markets.

"After negotiating over 200 home transactions, I know that preparation and strategy win the day," Andrew shares. "Black Friday is just another competitive arena—except you're fighting for TVs instead of houses."

Pre-Shopping Preparation:

Research Deals (Starting Now!)

  • Download store apps (Target, Walmart, Best Buy, Macy's)

  • Sign up for email alerts for early access

  • Check doorbusters and compare prices

  • Read Black Friday ads online (usually released Thanksgiving Day)

  • Use browser extensions like Honey and CamelCamelCamel to track price history

Create a Battle Plan

  • List must-have items with price limits

  • Prioritize stores and timing

  • Map store layouts (most stores publish these)

  • Identify doorbuster times

  • Have backup options if items sell out

The Cincinnati Black Friday Landscape:

Kenwood Towne Centre Opens early (often 5-6am) Black Friday. Expect crowds. Park strategically near your priority stores. Apple Store and big retailers attract longest lines.

Rookwood Commons Less chaotic than Kenwood but solid options. Good for families wanting less intense shopping.

Liberty Center (West Chester) Outdoor mall—dress warmly! Great mix of stores, usually less crowded than Kenwood.

Cincinnati Premium Outlets (Monroe) Exceptional deals on brand names. Traffic getting there is brutal—arrive before 7am or after 2pm.

Online vs. In-Store:

Online Advantages:

  • No crowds or parking nightmares

  • Price comparison is instant

  • Cyber Monday often beats Black Friday prices

  • Free shipping thresholds are lower during holidays

In-Store Advantages:

  • Doorbusters (truly limited quantities)

  • Instant gratification—no shipping wait

  • Can inspect items before buying

  • Some deals are in-store only

Money-Saving Strategies:

Stack Discounts: Use store credit cards (if you already have them) for additional percentage off, combine with coupons, and use cash-back apps like Rakuten.

Price Match Policies: Most retailers price-match competitors. Take screenshots of online prices and ask at checkout.

Return Policies: Black Friday purchases often have extended return windows. Save receipts!

Gift Card Bonuses: Many stores offer bonus gift cards with purchases ($10 gift card with $50 purchase, etc.). These extend your budget.

Stay Safe:

  • Keep valuables out of sight in vehicles

  • Shop with friends when possible

  • Stay hydrated and take breaks

  • Watch for parking lot scams and distractions

  • Use credit cards (better fraud protection than debit)

The Bigger Picture:

"Black Friday deals are tempting, but don't buy things you don't need just because they're discounted," Andrew advises. "Same rule applies to home buying—low interest rates or motivated sellers don't matter if you're buying the wrong house."

As REALTOR at The Hersey Group with 36 Google 5-star reviews, Andrew knows that smart decisions—whether buying Cincinnati OH homes for sale or shopping Black Friday—require strategy, discipline, and knowing when to walk away.

Happy (smart) shopping, Cincinnati!

Contact Andrew Hersey at The Hersey Group | (513) 835-5506 | www.herseygroup.com for a FREE 2025 Market Strategy Session

Posted in General
Nov. 27, 2025

Happy Thanksgiving Day from The Hersey Group!

Gratitude, Community, and What We're Thankful for This Year

Happy Thanksgiving, Cincinnati! Today, as families gather around tables throughout Greater Cincinnati, we pause to reflect on what truly matters. Andrew Hersey, a 6-year veteran real estate agent at The Hersey Group brokered by FIV Realty, wants to share what he's grateful for this Thanksgiving.

What The Hersey Group Is Thankful For:

Our Amazing Clients "After selling over 200 homes, every client has taught me something valuable," Andrew reflects. "I'm thankful for the trust you place in me during one of life's biggest decisions. Helping families find homes where they'll create memories—that's not just a job, it's an honor."

36 Google 5-Star Reviews "These reviews represent relationships, successful transactions, and clients who felt cared for. Each one means someone took time to share their positive experience. I'm humbled and grateful."

The Cincinnati Community From Oakley to Mason, Hyde Park to West Chester, Cincinnati's diverse neighborhoods make this city special. "I'm thankful for communities that support local businesses, celebrate together, and look out for each other. That's what makes Cincinnati OH real estate 2025 so promising—it's not just about houses, it's about community."

Our FIV Realty Family The Hersey Group is proud to be brokered by FIV Realty, a company that values integrity, innovation, and client-first service. Having a supportive brokerage makes us better agents.

Opportunities Ahead The real estate market continues evolving, creating opportunities for both buyers and sellers. Whether you're buying in Cincinnati OH 2025 or considering listing your home, there are paths to success.

A Message to Our Community:

To Sellers: Thank you for trusting us with your biggest asset. We know listing your home is emotional—it's where you've lived, loved, and created memories. We don't take that responsibility lightly.

To Buyers: Thank you for letting us guide your search. Finding the right home takes patience, compromise, and vision. We're honored to be part of your journey toward homeownership.

To Future Clients: We look forward to helping you navigate Cincinnati OH homes for sale in 2025. Whether you're a first-time buyer, move-up buyer, downsizer, or investor, The Hersey Group is here.

Thanksgiving Reflections:

"Real estate has given me incredible perspective," Andrew shares. "I've helped young couples buy their first homes, families upsize for growing children, and seniors downsize for the next chapter. I've watched people lose homes to foreclosure and others achieve homeownership after years of dreaming."

"Through it all, I've learned that home isn't about square footage or finishes—it's about security, belonging, and the people inside. Today, I'm thankful for a roof over my head, a community that cares, and the privilege of helping others find their place in this world."

Our Thanksgiving Wish:

May your day be filled with laughter, gratitude, and the company of those you love. May your table be abundant, your hearts full, and your homes warm. And may we all remember to appreciate not just what we have, but the journey that brought us here.

From all of us at The Hersey Group—Happy Thanksgiving, Cincinnati!

Tomorrow: We're back to work helping clients achieve their real estate goals. If you're considering buying or selling, let's connect.

Contact Andrew Hersey at The Hersey Group | (513) 835-5506 | www.herseygroup.com for a FREE 2025 Market Strategy Session

Posted in General