Uncategorized • September 26, 2025

Why October Could Be the Biggest Opportunity to Buy in NWA This Year

by CB Harris McHaney & Faucette

Fall brings more than just crisp air and colorful leaves. It’s also a season of opportunity for homebuyers. According to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), October consistently ranks as one of the best months of the year to buy a home nationally.

Why October Stands Out

NAR’s research highlights several advantages that make October a buyer-friendly season:

3.4% below peak prices: Homes purchased in October often close at lower prices than the summer highs — that can add up to thousands in savings.
33% more active listings: Buyers typically see more inventory available compared to the start of the year.
31% fewer competing buyers: Demand softens in the fall, giving buyers more breathing room and reducing bidding wars.
More price reductions: Sellers hoping to finalize a sale before the holidays are more likely to adjust prices.
Homes stay on the market longer: With less urgency, buyers often have more time to make thoughtful decisions.

Together, these factors create what NAR describes as a seasonal “sweet spot” — more inventory, less competition, and stronger negotiating power for buyers.

What This Means for You

Of course, every housing market is unique. While national trends show that October is an especially strong time to buy, the best opportunities depend on your local market conditions.

That’s why it’s important to pair national insights with local expertise. A trusted REALTOR® can help you understand how these broader patterns align with your area — and guide you to the right home at the right time.

Ready to Make Your Move?

October offers buyers across the country a rare advantage. If you’ve been considering purchasing a home, this could be your moment.

Connect with a Coldwell Banker Harris McHaney & Faucette REALTOR® today to see how these national insights fit into your home search.

You can also read the full NAR Magazine article here: When Will Be the Best Time to Buy a Home in 2025? (Hint: It’s Coming Soon)

Community • Lifestyle • September 11, 2025

The Ultimate Ozarks Fall Bucket List: Pumpkin Patches, Haunted Houses & More

by CB Harris McHaney & Faucette

The Ozarks come alive in autumn. From Northwest Arkansas to neighboring mountain towns, fall is packed with festivals, craft fairs, pumpkin patches, orchards, and Halloween fun. Whether you’re hunting for artisan goods, dancing to bluegrass, or floating through a pumpkin patch hayride, here’s your guide to the best events happening across the Ozarks this September through November.

Festivals & Fairs

Arkansas Apple Festival
Festival, October 4 – 6, Lincoln, AR
A celebration of Arkansas’s apple heritage, this festival includes live music, arts and crafts, a parade, and plenty of apple-themed treats.
Learn more: arkansasapplefestival.com

Buffalo River Elk Festival
Festival, September 27 – 28, Jasper, AR
Celebrate the majestic elk that roam the Buffalo River Valley with crafts, elk tours, contests, and family fun set against a stunning mountain backdrop.
Get details: facebook.com/buffaloriverelkfestival

Silver Dollar City’s Harvest Festival & Pumpkin Nights
Festival, September 13 – November 2, Branson, MO
One of the region’s most famous fall celebrations, this festival features thousands of glowing pumpkins, artisan demonstrations, live shows, and seasonal food inside Silver Dollar City theme park.
Plan your visit: silverdollarcity.com

Craft Fairs & Artisan Markets

War Eagle Fair
Craft Fair, October 17 – 20, Hindsville, AR
Held along the banks of War Eagle Creek, this historic craft fair draws artisans from across the country. Expect handmade art, jewelry, woodwork, pottery, and more.
Learn more: wareaglefair.com

Spanker Creek Farm Arts & Crafts Fair
Craft Fair, October 15 – 19, Bentonville, AR
A popular stop during craft fair season, Spanker Creek offers handmade goods, home décor, and gifts from local and regional artists.
Plan your visit: spankercreekfarm.com

Autumn Daze Craft Festival
Craft Fair, September 19 – 21, Branson, MO
Downtown Branson transforms into a vibrant artisan market filled with handcrafted items, food booths, and live entertainment.
Get details: explorebranson.com

Pumpkin Patches & Orchards

Rivercrest Orchard
Pumpkin & Orchard Farm, September 13 – November 1, Fayetteville, AR
Rivercrest Orchard’s Fall Festival features a pumpkin patch, sunflower fields, hayrides, zip-lines, a corn maze, and farm fun for the whole family.
Plan your visit: rivercrestorchard.com

Farmland Adventures
Pumpkin Patch & Farm Activities, September 5 – November 1, Springdale, AR
Enjoy a giant corn maze, wagon rides, pumpkin picking, a petting zoo, and fall fun running well into November.
Learn more: farmlandadventures.com

McGarrah Farms
Pumpkin Patch, Late September – October, Pea Ridge, AR
This working farm offers a family-friendly pumpkin patch along with hayrides, fall produce, and seasonal activities.
Get details: facebook.com/McGarrahFarms

Vanzant Fruit Farm
Fruit Farm & Pumpkin Patch, Late September – October, Lowell, AR
Known for apples, pumpkins, and mums, this orchard brings a true taste of fall with u-pick opportunities and seasonal produce.
Plan your visit: vanzantfruitfarm.com

Gardener’s Orchard & Bakery Fall Festival
Orchard / Fall Festival, Late August – Early November, Brighton, MO
Celebrate the best of fall at Gardener’s Orchard & Bakery with a family-friendly festival full of autumn charm. Enjoy fresh-pressed apple cider, homemade donuts, seasonal treats, and farm activities in a picturesque countryside setting.
Learn more: springfieldmo.org

Exeter Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch
Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze, September 6 – Late October, Exeter, MO
Voted one of America’s top 10 corn mazes, Exeter Corn Maze offers a huge corn maze, pumpkin patch, sunflower fields, go-karts, and more. A full day of family fun and fall excitement.
Plan your visit: exetercornmaze.com

Sequoyah UMC Youth Pumpkin Patch
Pumpkin Patch / Fundraiser, September 27 – October 31, Fayetteville, AR

The Sequoyah United Methodist Church Youth Pumpkin Patch is a seasonal fundraiser where thousands of pumpkins and gourds of all sizes are available. It generally opens in late September or early October and runs through October 31.

Learn More Here: https://www.facebook.com/SUMCpumpkins/

Halloween & Haunted Attractions

Nightmares Haunted House
Haunted House, Various Nights in October, Bentonville, AR
An intense haunted attraction with elaborate sets, scary effects, and an immersive journey through horror.
Learn more: nightmareshaunt.net

The Asylum Haunted House
Haunted House, September 28 – November 2, Cave Springs, AR
One of the scariest attractions in the Ozarks, offering a creepy, immersive haunted experience.
Plan your visit: theasylumhaunt.net

Warehouse of Fear
Haunted House, Every Friday & Saturday in October + Halloween Night, Siloam Springs, AR
This massive haunted attraction spans more than 25,000 sq ft, with multiple rooms, live actors, and frightening effects.
Get details: warehouseoffear.com

Carpenter’s Mortuary Spook House
Haunted House, Various October Nights, Gentry, AR
Set inside a former mortuary, this attraction leans into dark, eerie themes with immersive scares.
Learn more: facebook.com/CarpentersMortuarySpookHouse

Banshee Manor Haunted Attraction
Haunted House, October (Dates TBD), Fayetteville, AR
A medieval-themed haunted house with both scary and no-scare options for visitors.
Plan your visit: bansheemanor.com

Eureka Springs Zombie Crawl
Parade & Festival, October 25, Eureka Springs, AR
Downtown Eureka Springs becomes a playground for the undead with music, food, a market, and the thrilling Zombie Crawl Parade in the evening.
Learn more: eurekaspringszombiecrawl.com

Modern Mission Zombie Battleground
Interactive Event, Select Nights in October, Fayetteville, AR
A unique laser tag experience where teams battle zombies inside a transformed indoor arena.
Plan your visit: modernmission.com

Music & Cultural Festivals

Eureka Springs Blues Party
Music Festival, October 10 – 12, Eureka Springs, AR
A weekend filled with blues performances at venues throughout downtown Eureka Springs.
Get details: eurekaspringsbluesparty.com

Arkansas Folk Festival
Music & Folk Festival, October 17 – 19, Mountain View, AR
The folk music capital of Arkansas celebrates autumn with traditional music, crafts, and storytelling in the Ozark Mountains.
Learn more: arkansasfolkfestival.com

Community Celebrations

Oktoberfest – Eureka Springs
Community Festival, October 4, Eureka Springs, AR
Celebrate German food, beer, and culture in the heart of the Ozarks at this annual Oktoberfest.
Plan your visit: eurekaspringsoktoberfest.com

First Friday Fall Fest – Bentonville
Community Festival, October 3, Bentonville, AR
The Bentonville square hosts local vendors, music, food, and autumn-themed activities during this special First Friday.
Learn more: downtownbentonville.org/first-friday

Cedar Fest at Big Cedar Lodge
Community Fall Festival, Saturdays in October, Ridgedale, MO
Big Cedar Lodge’s Cedar Fest brings the beauty of the Ozarks to life with hayrides, pumpkin picking, bonfires, and seasonal activities every Saturday in October.
Plan your visit: bigcedar.com

Fall in the Ozarks is more than just a season — it’s a celebration. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect pumpkin, enjoying a local craft fair, getting spooked in a haunted house, or listening to live music under the crisp autumn sky, there’s something for everyone. Make your plans early, and enjoy everything the Ozarks has to offer this fall.

Community • Real Estate Trends • September 11, 2025

From Battlefield to Boomtown: Prairie Grove’s 10-Year Rise

by CB Harris McHaney & Faucette

If you’ve driven through Prairie Grove lately, you know it’s not quite the same town it was ten years ago. Known for its Civil War battlefield and annual Clothesline Fair, Prairie Grove has long carried a reputation for history and small-town charm. But over the past decade, it’s been quietly transforming into one of Northwest Arkansas’ most compelling real estate stories. Families are moving in, new neighborhoods are breaking ground, and downtown is seeing fresh energy. The numbers from the ArkansasOne MLS system tell the story of a community on the rise.

Prairie Grove Then vs. Now

In August 2015, buying a home in Prairie Grove was affordable—but it also required patience. The median sales price was just $157,450, and homes averaged a long 136 days on the market. Only 16 homes sold that month, and buyers paid about $95 per square foot.

Fast forward to August 2025, and Prairie Grove looks very different. The median sales price climbed to $290,300, nearly double the 2015 figure. Homes are selling in about 35 days—a fraction of the time it once took. Buyers now pay an average of $192 per square foot, and August sales activity doubled to 32 homes sold. New listings have also multiplied, from 12 in 2015 to 47 in 2025, showing that both demand and supply have grown.

Even inventory tells a story: in 2015, 74 active listings were on the market. By 2025, that number had grown to 152, yet homes are still selling faster—proof of the strong demand driving this market. Sellers are also capturing more value, with the sale-to-list ratio rising from 98.2% to a full 100%.

Prairie Grove Market Snapshot (August 2015 vs. August 2025)

Source: ArkansasOne MLS system, August 2015 vs. August 2025

The Downtown Effect

Beyond the numbers, downtown Prairie Grove is a story of history meeting possibility. Antique shops, family-owned restaurants, and the Battlefield State Park have long anchored the community. Now, revitalization is breathing new life into the area—and buyers are noticing.

Between 2024 and 2025 alone, average downtown home sales jumped from $229,150 to $265,800, a 16% increase in just one year. Even with that appreciation, downtown homes take an average of 89 days to sell. Downtown offers a slower pace that appeals to buyers seeking a quieter, small-town lifestyle without sacrificing long-term growth potential.

Why Prairie Grove Is Growing

Prairie Grove offers something rare: the feel of a historic small town with the benefits of a growing community. Families are drawn to its schools and events, while investors are intrigued by its appreciation and potential. New subdivisions provide fresh housing options, while downtown revitalization is adding character and energy. It’s a town that manages to grow without losing what makes it special.

Looking Ahead

If the past decade is any indication, Prairie Grove’s future is bright. Growth is happening on multiple fronts—residential, civic, and commercial—while the community maintains its historic identity. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a family looking for space, or an investor chasing long-term value, Prairie Grove offers both opportunity and charm.

Part of the Growing Towns Series

Prairie Grove is highlighted in our Growing Towns webpage—an initiative by Coldwell Banker Harris McHaney & Faucette that shines a light on the small towns across Northwest Arkansas making big moves.

Thinking about Prairie Grove? Our team is here to help you buy with confidence, sell strategically, or invest wisely in one of NWA’s most exciting markets. Click here to connect with an agent!

Community • Real Estate Tips • Real Estate Trends • September 10, 2025

Inside the Next Wave of NWA Downtown Revivals—and What It Means for Home Values

by CB Harris McHaney & Faucette

Downtowns are making a big comeback in Northwest Arkansas. From Bentonville’s bustling square to Prairie Grove’s historic streets, these hubs are transforming into places where neighbors gather, businesses thrive, and culture comes alive. As they do, the housing market nearby is shifting too. We pulled fresh data from the ArkansasOne MLS system, tracking homes within 1.5 miles of established downtowns and 0.5 miles of emerging ones. The story the numbers tell is clear: where downtowns grow, housing demand follows.

Why Downtown Revitalization Matters in NWA

Downtowns are often described as the heartbeat of a community. They reflect its history, showcase its culture, and create a sense of place. Revitalization efforts across NWA have focused on creating walkable districts filled with restaurants, public art, bike trails, and gathering spaces. These efforts don’t just attract visitors—they create lasting demand for housing nearby. Buyers are increasingly seeking neighborhoods that combine convenience with culture, and that’s pushing property values higher across the region.

Shining a Light on NWA’s Biggest Downtown Scenes

Bentonville

Walk through downtown Bentonville on a Saturday and you’ll feel the energy—farmers markets, food trucks, families on bikes heading to Crystal Bridges. That demand for the downtown lifestyle is showing up in home prices. Between May and August 2025, the average sale price near downtown hit just over $1 million, up more than 35% from last year. Even with homes taking about 85 days to sell, buyers are willing to wait (and pay) for a chance to live at the center of it all.

Fayetteville

Fayetteville’s downtown thrives on variety—Dickson Street nightlife, arts venues, trail access, and the pulse of the University of Arkansas. That mix continues to attract a wide range of buyers. Homes within 1.5 miles of the square averaged $601,637 in 2025, a 9% increase over 2024. With an average of 84 days on market, the pace is steady, showing that demand for Fayetteville’s cultural core isn’t slowing down.

Rogers

Downtown Rogers is hitting its stride. Once overlooked, the area is now home to breweries, coffee shops, and music venues, blending historic charm with a fresh vibe. That momentum is spilling into the housing market. This summer, homes nearby averaged $390,820, a 21% jump from last year. And with an average of just 52 days on market, Rogers stands out as one of the fastest-moving downtown housing markets in NWA.

Springdale

Springdale is a city in transition. Emma Avenue has seen new breweries, restaurants, and community spaces take root, and buyers are starting to take notice. Homes near downtown averaged $256,386 in 2025, a 7% rise from 2024. At around 55 days on market, homes are selling faster here than in larger downtowns, signaling that affordability plus revitalization is catching buyers’ attention.

Siloam Springs

Siloam Springs offers one of the most charming downtowns in the region, complete with its historic square, coffee shops, and arts scene. Yet the housing market here tells a more nuanced story. Average sale prices dipped to $255,386 in 2025, down 7% from last year. Still, with homes selling in about 68 days, there’s steady activity. For buyers, Siloam Springs represents one of the rare opportunities to live near a revitalized downtown at a more accessible price point.

The Next Wave: Emerging Downtowns Across the Region

Centerton

Centerton has big plans—a 400-acre planned downtown district, a new community center, and walkable spaces designed for the future. But right now, the housing market tells a story of opportunity. The average sale price dipped 12% year-over-year, from $360,020 to $314,800. Yet homes are still moving in just 53 days on average. For buyers, this is a rare chance to get in early before revitalization sends prices upward again.

Johnson

Small but mighty, Johnson is tucked between Fayetteville and Springdale, making it a convenient spot for commuters. Its downtown is quiet but growing, with trail access and historic character giving it charm. Homes here averaged $367,500 in 2025, a 4% increase over last year, with properties taking about 69 days to sell. Johnson feels like a hidden gem—steady, central, and full of potential.

Prairie Grove

Prairie Grove is a town where history meets possibility. Antique shops and local restaurants line downtown, with the Battlefield State Park anchoring the community. Buyers are noticing. Average home sales jumped from $229,150 in 2024 to $265,800 in 2025, a 16% increase. Even though homes take longer to sell here—an average of 89 days—that slower pace often appeals to buyers seeking a quieter, small-town lifestyle without sacrificing growth potential.

How Revitalization Is Reshaping Housing Across NWA

Revitalized downtowns are driving higher demand and home prices—Bentonville and Rogers saw 20–35% year-over-year growth near their downtowns.
Smaller towns like Prairie Grove are proving that modest investments can spark noticeable growth (up 16% this year).
Buyers increasingly want walkability, culture, and community connection, and they’re willing to pay a premium for it.
Homes closest to active downtowns tend to be more insulated from market slowdowns.

NWA Real Estate in the Next Wave

Established downtowns (Bentonville, Fayetteville, Rogers, Springdale, Siloam Springs) will continue to drive strong demand.
Emerging towns like Centerton, Prairie Grove, and Johnson offer opportunities to buy before revitalization fully blooms.
Centerton’s planned downtown district could reshape its market in the next few years.
For investors, these smaller towns represent early-stage opportunities; for homeowners, they mean a chance to join communities on the rise.
The homes closest to thriving or planned downtowns are likely to see the strongest long-term appreciation.

Revitalization isn’t just reshaping Northwest Arkansas downtowns—it’s transforming the housing market around them. Whether you’re looking to buy near a thriving square, sell a home that’s gained value, or invest in one of the emerging towns before prices climb, now is the time to act.

Want to explore what downtown living—or getting in early on the next “downtown in the making”—looks like for you? Reach out to a Coldwell Banker Harris McHaney & Faucette agent. We live and work here—and we’re ready to help you find your place in NWA’s evolving future.

Community • August 14, 2025

What’s Really Happening Behind NWA’s $2 Billion Healthcare Overhaul

by CB Harris McHaney & Faucette

The Northwest Arkansas Council’s Vision 2030 healthcare plan is a big roadmap for making healthcare better in Benton and Washington counties. It was released in late 2024, and it’s built on ideas started in 2019. The goal? Make NWA one of the best places in the country for patient-focused, affordable care.

Vision 2030’s Main Goals for NWA

Better payment systems & policies so doctors can focus on care, not red tape.
More specialty care and a new Level 1 trauma center.
More doctors and nurses through new residency programs and the Alice L. Walton School of Medicine.
More research & new ideas with help from the University of Arkansas’s I³R research institute.

NWA Healthcare Wins So Far

More patients are staying here for care. In 2018, people left the area for about $1 billion worth of medical care. By 2023, that number dropped to $695 million—keeping $300 million in our local economy.
Less money going out of state for insurance-covered care.
Healthcare is booming. Between 2018 and 2023, the healthcare industry here grew by 80%—more than double the overall local economy. It could reach $6.1 billion by 2030.
Big investments. Over $529 million already spent, with $2 billion more planned. One major project is a $700 million heart care campus in Bentonville, opening in 2028, that will be a national leader in cardiovascular treatment and research.

What’s Currently Happening in NWA Healthcare

More residency slots. By mid-2026, we’ll have 26 more spots for new doctors-in-training, with a goal of 100–200 by 2030.
Alice L. Walton School of Medicine opened in July 2025, focusing on both medical science and whole-person wellness.
Major hospital expansions are underway at Arkansas Children’s Northwest in Springdale and Mercy Hospital in Rogers, adding more space, better equipment, and new specialists.

What’s Next for NWA Healthcare

Heart care campus in Bentonville (2028).
Level 1 trauma center by 2030.
Recruiting top doctors in heart surgery, brain surgery, pediatrics, and rural health. Plans also include a health science high school.
More research and innovation to turn NWA into a hub for medical breakthroughs.

How NWA’s Healthcare Growth Impacts Housing & Jobs

More healthcare workers moving here means more demand for housing near hospitals and medical schools.
Every new doctor supports around 17 other jobs in the community.
Better healthcare makes the region more attractive for families to live and stay.
The population could grow past 1 million by 2050, so smart planning for housing and transportation is key.

The Big Picture for NWA

Vision 2030 isn’t just about building hospitals—it’s about building a healthier, stronger, and more connected community. With major projects in motion and more on the way, NWA is set to become a top destination for both healthcare and quality of life.

Thinking about making Northwest Arkansas your home? Now is the time to explore neighborhoods, investment opportunities, and housing options before demand really takes off. Contact our team today to find your perfect place in the middle of this exciting growth.

Buying a Home • Community • Real Estate Tips • Real Estate Trends • August 14, 2025

From Pasture to Prime Property: Pea Ridge’s 10-Year Climb

by CB Harris McHaney & Faucette

Over the past ten years, Pea Ridge has transformed from a small-town secret to one of Northwest Arkansas’ most promising real estate markets. This growth is more than just anecdotal—it’s backed by a decade of compelling real estate data showing substantial gains in value, demand, and development. Let’s take a closer look at the numbers behind the boom.

Here’s a snapshot of how Pea Ridge has changed from July 2015 to July 2025:

In July 2015, the median sales price for homes in Pea Ridge was $130,000. Fast forward to July 2025, and that number has nearly tripled to $350,000, representing a 169% increase in just a decade. This surge in home value is a clear indicator of growing buyer interest, increased development, and improved community amenities that continue to attract families and investors alike.

The average price per square foot tells a similar story. In 2015, homes sold for an average of $98 per square foot. By 2025, that figure more than doubled to $202 per square foot, a 106% increase. This rise reflects not only appreciation in home prices but also enhancements in the quality of homes being built and sold in the area.

Another striking figure is the growth in new listings. In July 2015, only 17 new listings hit the market. By July 2025, that number had jumped to 79 new listings, marking a 365% increase. This uptick signals a major increase in housing development to meet surging demand, and developers are clearly responding.

Even the average list price has seen explosive growth—from just under $123,000 in 2015 to over $436,000 in July 2025. While the list-to-sale price ratio remains strong (97.66% in 2015 and 99.03% in 2025), the days on market have shifted dramatically. In 2015, homes were selling in as little as 21 days, signaling a red-hot seller’s market at the time. In 2025, the average is 109 days, which, while longer, reflects a more stabilized, balanced market as inventory and pricing have matured.

These numbers are more than market trends—they represent Pea Ridge’s evolution into a thriving, highly desirable place to live and invest. With its small-town charm, top-rated schools, and easy access to the broader NWA corridor, Pea Ridge offers both value and opportunity.

Looking ahead, Pea Ridge is gearing up for both residential and civic expansion. The continuing upward momentum has several exciting developments on the horizon:

Residential Growth: ~20 acres along East Pickens Road have been rezoned for medium-density housing, making way for hundreds of new homes.
Retail Expansion: New projects include:
- A Casey’s convenience store
- A new retail strip north of Slack Street
- Pea Ridge Commons Phase 3, possibly featuring Jiffy Lube, office spaces, and a sit-down restaurant
Community Infrastructure:
- The city and school district acquired 55 acres for a future park and a third fire station.
- Fire Station #2 is in the planning stages to improve emergency response.
- A police department needs analysis is underway to prepare for future growth.

These developments reflect Pea Ridge’s commitment to thoughtful expansion while maintaining its small-town charm.

In fact, our team at Coldwell Banker Harris McHaney & Faucette features Pea Ridge on our Growing Towns webpage—an initiative highlighting emerging communities across Northwest Arkansas that are seeing substantial development and long-term investment. Pea Ridge continues to stand out not only for its growth metrics but also for its strong sense of community and quality of life.

Whether you’re considering buying, selling, or investing in Pea Ridge, the team at Coldwell Banker Harris McHaney & Faucette is here to help you navigate one of the most exciting real estate markets in Northwest Arkansas.

Ready to explore the opportunities in Pea Ridge? Contact Coldwell Banker Harris McHaney & Faucette today to connect with a local expert who can help you find your perfect home, sell with confidence, or make a smart investment in one of NWA’s fastest-growing communities.

Real Estate Tips • Real Estate Trends • Selling A Home • July 21, 2025

Ready to Sell in NWA? These 5 Renovations Offer the Biggest Payoff in 2025

by CB Harris McHaney & Faucette

Are you thinking about selling your home soon? The right renovations can increase your home’s value while helping it sell faster. But not all upgrades are created equal.

According to the 2025 Remodeling Impact Report from the National Association of REALTORS®, these are the home projects that offer the best return on investment and highest buyer interest.

Best Home Renovations with the Highest Return on Investment

The top-performing projects in terms of cost recovery are:

New Steel Front Door – 100% Cost Recovery
- Adds security and sleekness, hosts a 100% return on investment, making it the most affordable and impactful updates sellers can make.
Closet Renovation – 83% Cost Recovery
- Efficient storage is important for prospective buyers, and renovating closet space adds functionality.
New Fiberglass Front Door – 80% Cost Recovery
- Fiberglass improves curb appeal and energy efficiency, serving as a more expensive alternative to its steel counterpart.
New Vinyl or Wood Windows – 74% and 71% cost recovery
- Much like fiberglass doors, upgrading improves aesthetics and energy efficiency, two attractive qualities to the modern buyer.
Basement Conversion to Living Area – 71% Cost Recovery
- Adding livable square footage is a major value booster, especially for a basement spaces marketed as a second living room or home office.

What Projects Bring the Most Joy?

Personal satisfaction is also important to buyers. Some projects bring lots of joy, such as:

Adding a Primary Bedroom Suite
Upgrading the Kitchen
Replacing Roofing

These projects offer a strong combination of resale value and homeowner satisfaction.

What Makes a Renovated Home Attractive to Buyers?

According to the National Association of Realtors, buyers are less willing to compromise on a home’s condition. With 46 percent of realtors reporting that buyers expect updated homes.
In other words, renovation is an investment in appeal and equity.

Renovations to do Before Selling House

Before you sell, Realtors recommend potential sellers to:

Paint the entire home
Paint one room
Get a New Roof
Upgrade the Kitchen
Renovate the Bathroom

Fresh paint is a budget-friendly project with high visual impact.

Roofing, kitchens, and bathrooms are important to many buyers; they want them updated, clean, and safe.

Our Takeaway: Balance Budget and Buyer Expectations

At Coldwell Banker, Harris McHaney & Faucette, successful renovations balance cost, joy, and market demand. Here’s how to approach your decision:

Start Small: Painting and front door upgrades offer great return on investment and curb appeal.
Think Long-Term: Projects like new windows, roofs, or basement conversions increase livable space, curb appeal, and energy efficiency.
Know the Market: Focus on more long-term trends, like upgraded kitchens and bathrooms.
Mid-range Projects Perform Well: Don’t be afraid to dip into more complex projects, like closet renovations or Attic Conversions, which offer a good balance of added value and buyer interest.

The Homeowner Approach:

While remaining competitive in the market by remodeling is important, so are your expectations!
According to statistics on the result of remodeling:

28% of owners report better functionality
23% report durable and long-lasting results
23% report more beautiful homes.

On top of that, 80% of people feel some sense of accomplishment over their completed project.

Looking for a Guide?

Coldwell Banker, Harris McHaney & Faucette knows what today’s buyers are looking for, and what investment makes sense for your goals in the market.

Before you renovate, contact us for expert advice on transforming your house.

Community • Real Estate Tips • July 18, 2025

Renovate with Impact: How Habitat for Humanity of NWA Helps Homeowners Give Back

by CB Harris McHaney & Faucette

Planning a home renovation? Don’t swing that sledgehammer just yet. Before you start demo day, there’s a smarter, more sustainable and free way to tear out your old cabinets, light fixtures, flooring, and more. It’s called the Harvest Project, and it can save you time, money, and a trip to the dump.

What is the Harvest Project?

The Harvest Project is a free service offered by Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Arkansas. Instead of paying for labor or hauling fees, the Harvest crew will carefully remove reusable materials from your home before your renovation starts. That means less waste, lower costs for you, and materials that go on to help build or fund affordable housing in Northwest Arkansas.

What Can Be Harvested?

Cabinets & countertops
Windows & doors
Light fixtures & ceiling fans
Plumbing fixtures
Appliances
Flooring

Who Benefits from This?

If you’re a homeowner planning a remodel, a real estate investor flipping a property, or a property manager clearing out a unit, you can benefit. The Harvest Project turns your demo into a donation, making your renovation more affordable and more impactful.

How it Works – Simple as Six Steps

Reach Out – Contact Habitat to discuss your upcoming project.
Assessment – A Harvest Manager visits to evaluate what can be removed.
Agreement – A plan is made, and a simple agreement is signed.
Schedule – Book 1-3 days for the deconstruction.
Deconstruction – The Harvest crew carefully removes and salvages approved items.
Donation – Items are transported to ReStore for resale.

Where do Materials Go? ReStore.

Once your items are harvested, they’re donated to Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore, a nonprofit home improvement store that sells new and gently used furniture, appliances, and building materials to the public at affordable prices. The money raised at ReStore helps fund Habitat’s work building and repairing homes for families right here in our community.

Three Ways You Can Support

Donate – Renovating or moving? Your old materials could help fund someone’s new beginning.
Shop – Find high-quality, gently used home improvement items at a fraction of retail cost.
Volunteer – No experience required – just a willingness to help build a better NWA.

At Coldwell Banker Harris McHaney & Faucette, we’re proud to support the Harvest Project and the mission of Habitat for Humanity.

Whether you’re remodeling or just replacing a fixture, the Harvest Project offers a unique chance to save money and make a difference.

Renovate with purpose. Reuse with heart. Rebuild our community.

Buying a Home • Real Estate Trends • Selling A Home • June 19, 2025

Housing Inventory’s Up, Prices Are Too—So What Kind of Market Is This in Northwest and North Central Arkansas?

by CB Harris McHaney & Faucette

Markets are ever-changing, and the same can be said about the real estate market!

It’s more important than ever to understand what those changes mean and how they can work in your favor.

Coldwell Banker Harris McHaney & Faucette is here to help you understand real estate terms so you can navigate the market with ease!

What’s the Difference Between a Buyer’s Market and a Seller’s Market?

Before you understand what kind of market it is, you need to understand market conditions.

The key measurement is the Absorption Rate. It’s also known as months of inventory or months of supply.

This number tells us how long it would take to sell all the current homes on the market if no new listings were added.

Here’s how it works:

5-6 months of inventory: a balanced market
Less than 5 months: a seller’s market (higher demand, lower supply)
More than 6 months: a buyer’s market (higher supply, lower demand)

Currently, Northwest Arkansas has about six months of inventory, indicating a shift towards a buyer’s market.

Breaking Down the Data:

Now that you understand how realtors determine whether it’s a buyer’s or seller’s market, here’s a quick look at how our local market has evolved over the last five years, using data from ArkansasONE MLS*.

Anything above 6 indicates a shift towards buyer’s market, with seller’s market for anything below!

As you can see, inventory has grown, but so has home value. That’s good news for both buyers and sellers.

Buying Homes in Northwest Arkansas

If you paused your home search over the last year due to tight inventory or bidding wars, now is a smart time to jump back in.

Here are just a few reasons:

More Options: Inventory is up, so you have more homes to choose from
Less Competition: Fewer multiple-offer situations and more room to negotiate.
Better fit: Much more likely to find a home that fits your needs and wants perfectly.

Selling Homes in Northwest Arkansas

While we’ve entered a buyer’s market, that doesn’t mean homes aren’t still selling.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

Northwest Arkansas is growing: With that growth comes new opportunities daily.
Homes are still selling: Because buyers are so common, homes still find buyers.
Prices remain strong: Even though the market shifted, average sale prices have continued to rise. A great sign for sellers.

A Unique Opportunity for Real Estate in Northwest Arkansas

The current market offers a great window of opportunity for both buyers and sellers.

Buyers have more flexibility and negotiating power, while sellers continue to benefit from a strong market supported by steady population growth and rising property values.

Buying or Selling Homes in Northwest Arkansas

Work with a local expert who understands the numbers and how to use them to your advantage! Connect with an agent at Coldwell Banker Harris McHaney & Faucette today!

* Source: Data pulled on June 11, 2025 from Arkansas ONE MLS stats, ADOM vs List Price Median for residential sales customized by months of inventory and sales price average for specific date ranges noted above.

Buying a Home • Real Estate Tips • June 17, 2025

Here’s Why Summer is the Golden Window to House Hunt in the Ozarks

by CB Harris McHaney & Faucette

Summer is one of the best times of the year for homebuyers. Savvy shoppers near and far take full advantage of the seasonal benefits the Ozarks offer.

Before summer officially kicks off, Coldwell Banker Harris McHaney & Faucette have put together a list of top reasons why buying a home during the warmest month is the smartest move.

See the Full Picture of your Future Home in the Ozarks, Inside and Out!

Summer in Arkansas is beautiful and practical for homebuyers. With better weather, more listings, and longer days, you get more out of your home search.

Keep these in mind when checking out properties:

See the Property at it’s best in the Ozarks this Summer

Full greenery shows off curb appeal
Mature trees, green lawns, and blooming flowerbeds in the summer
Natural features like privacy shrubs and shade stands out

How to Spot Rain-Related Home Issues Early

Standing water in yards
Drainage issues around the home
Clogs and leaks in gutters and downspouts

Air Conditioning in the Ozarks is Important

Arkansas Summers are hot, so your HVAC needs to perform
Walking through on a warm day gives a real-time check
Makes it easy to avoid surprises after closing

Pools, Patios and Backyards in Your Future Home

Pool condition: Inspect the pool and equipment while it’s open and in use
Decks/Patios: Check sun exposure, shade, and structural condition
Views: see what you’ll wake up to and wind down with
Yard usability: Picture where you’ll grill, toss a football, or run your dogs

Family Homebuying, Helping your Child Adjust to Moving

School’s out: Kids are available to join showings, pick out rooms, and explore the yard
Flexible schedules: Longer daylight hours mean evening tours are more common and convenient
Neighborhood check: get a feel for the community by seeing how neighbors interact

Lakefront Property or Cabin for Rentals in the Ozarks

See them at peak appeal, with full water levels and lively surroundings
Evaluate yards and landscapes after storms for erosion, cleanup needs, or maintenance
Understand how secluded or social the area is during busy season

Conclusion

As the days grow longer and warmer in Arkansas, there’s no better time to explore the buying opportunities in the Ozarks.

Summer gives you the chance to see properties in their peak. Best of all, shopping now means you’ll be settled in before fall routines kick back in.

At Coldwell Banker Harris McHaney & Faucette, we live and work in the Ozarks. We’re proud to guide buyers through the local market with our care and expertise.

Let us help you make the most of this season and find the home that fits you best. Book with an Agent today and find your next home!

Festivals & Fairs

Craft Fairs & Artisan Markets

Pumpkin Patches & Orchards

Halloween & Haunted Attractions

Music & Cultural Festivals

Community Celebrations

Best Home Renovations with the Highest Return on Investment

What Projects Bring the Most Joy?

What Makes a Renovated Home Attractive to Buyers?

Renovations to do Before Selling House

Our Takeaway: Balance Budget and Buyer Expectations

The Homeowner Approach:

Looking for a Guide?

What is the Harvest Project?

What Can Be Harvested?

Who Benefits from This?

How it Works – Simple as Six Steps

Where do Materials Go? ReStore.

Three Ways You Can Support

What’s the Difference Between a Buyer’s Market and a Seller’s Market?

Breaking Down the Data:

Buying Homes in Northwest Arkansas

Selling Homes in Northwest Arkansas

A Unique Opportunity for Real Estate in Northwest Arkansas

Buying or Selling Homes in Northwest Arkansas

* Source: Data pulled on June 11, 2025 from Arkansas ONE MLS stats, ADOM vs List Price Median for residential sales customized by months of inventory and sales price average for specific date ranges noted above.

See the Full Picture of your Future Home in the Ozarks, Inside and Out!

See the Property at it’s best in the Ozarks this Summer

How to Spot Rain-Related Home Issues Early

Air Conditioning in the Ozarks is Important

Pools, Patios and Backyards in Your Future Home

Family Homebuying, Helping your Child Adjust to Moving

Lakefront Property or Cabin for Rentals in the Ozarks

Conclusion

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