Admin

All About Kentucky Real Estate

By Devin Todd Azbill, Top Rated Berea, KY REALTOR® – Devin Ramsey
(Todd & Company KY | BHHS Foster Realtors)
In today’s Berea and Richmond KY real estate market, homes that show transparency and readiness stand out, and one way sellers are achieving that is through pre-listing home inspections.Here’s why it’s become a game changer: Predictable Sales:A pre-inspection eliminates surprises and gives sellers confidence in their asking price. Buyer Trust:A clean report (or documented repairs) strengthens your negotiating position and reduces the risk of deal fall-through. Market Advantage:In competitive markets like Madison County, buyers move fast on homes that appear “move-in ready.” Better Pricing Decisions:A thorough report helps your Berea local realtor recommend a pricing strategy that reflects condition and market demand. Sellers who take this proactive approach often close faster and avoid ...
Comments 3
By Devin Todd Azbill, Top Rated Berea, KY REALTOR® – Devin Ramsey
(Todd & Company KY | BHHS Foster Realtors)
The 30% rule, recommending renters spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing, remains an essential budgeting tool for many households.However, in Berea and Richmond KY, we're seeing more renters approaching the 35–40% range due to limited inventory and rising demand near campus and commuter corridors.Key Talking Points for Clients Evaluate total debt, not just housing costs Consider transportation savings when renting near work/school Compare rental cost vs. monthly mortgage options Review first-time buyer loan programs, especially USDA and FHA in our region I've found that for many renters in Madison County, a smart conversation about the 30% rule often leads to exploring homeownership sooner than expected, especially when the monthly payment difference is small.If you're servi...
Comments 1
By Devin Todd Azbill, Top Rated Berea, KY REALTOR® – Devin Ramsey
(Todd & Company KY | BHHS Foster Realtors)
Many first-time buyers in Berea, Richmond, and Madison County KY are surprised to learn they don’t need 20% down to purchase a home. In reality, options today range from 0% to 3% down, depending on eligibility and loan program.Programs include: USDA (0%) – available in many parts of Madison County VA (0%) – for eligible service members & veterans FHA (3.5%) Conventional (3%) for qualified buyers Kentucky also offers down payment assistance, helping buyers overcome one of the biggest barriers to homeownership.As a local agent in Berea KY, I regularly work with first-time buyers and help them navigate financing, negotiate offers, and find the right Madison County lender partners.If you’d like to discuss down payment strategies or start planning your home purchase, feel free to reach out. ...
Comments 1
By Devin Todd Azbill, Top Rated Berea, KY REALTOR® – Devin Ramsey
(Todd & Company KY | BHHS Foster Realtors)
The latest Madison County real estate market update shows continued strength, driven by accurate pricing and measured buyer activity. This week, we saw 33 new listings and 28 closed sales, signaling a balanced pace.Key numbers: Median Sold Price: $307,250 Average DOM: 52 Sold-to-List Price Ratio: 97.44% Homes continue to sell near asking price when positioned correctly, and buyers are taking time to evaluate options — a healthy trend for a sustainable market.Sellers who align with real-time data are gaining momentum, while overpricing remains a risk. Buyers, meanwhile, benefit from fresh inventory but should remain proactive to secure competitively priced Madison County homes.As a local agent who strives to deliver top-tier service and insight for clients, and consistently works to be s...
Comments 1
By Dora Griffin, NMLS 6380
(D A Griffin Financial.LLC)
That 30 Year Mortgage Interest Rate Seeing on the internet "the average 30 year mortgage rate has dropped the last four weeks reaching 6.17%"  I asked AI what are the costs of that rate.  Here's the reply: The 6.17% rate is a typical market rate as of today, October 31, 2025, and you would be responsible for standard mortgage closing costs, which generally range from 2% to 5% of the total loan amount. These are a separate category of expenses from "discount points."  Discount Points Lenders advertise specific interest rates, like 6.17%, with an accompanying Annual Percentage Rate (APR) and usually disclose how many discount points, if any, are needed to secure that specific rate.  What they are: Discount points are optional upfront fees you pay to the lender at closing in exchange for a...
Comments 1
By Devin Todd Azbill, Top Rated Berea, KY REALTOR® – Devin Ramsey
(Todd & Company KY | BHHS Foster Realtors)
WATCH THE FULL RECAP VIDEO HERE The latest Planning Commission meeting in Berea, KY, brought some exciting updates that anyone interested in the local real estate market should know about. Patrick Sowers highlighted plans for 72 new townhome units, sharing the vision for modern, community-focused living spaces that will offer residents both convenience and comfort. These townhomes aim to provide a range of options for buyers looking for something low-maintenance but stylish, right in the heart of Madison County.Bill Short followed with an update on a much-anticipated single-family home development, detailing 135 new lots that are set to expand Berea’s housing options. Short also addressed the ongoing sewer infrastructure project, emphasizing how these improvements are critical for suppo...
Comments 0
By Devin Todd Azbill, Top Rated Berea, KY REALTOR® – Devin Ramsey
(Todd & Company KY | BHHS Foster Realtors)
As a local agent serving Berea KY, Richmond KY, and Madison County, I frequently speak with homeowners preparing to sell. One of the most common questions I hear is:“What hurts my home value the most?”Here are the leading contributors:🔹 Neglected exterior and curb appeal issuesBuyers form opinions before walking inside.🔹 Deferred maintenanceAging HVAC, old roofing, drainage issues, or outdated plumbing systems quickly lower perceived value.🔹 Poor renovation decisionsUnpermitted additions or DIY work without proper craftsmanship often deter buyers.🔹 Neighborhood declineSurrounding home condition and nearby development play a key role in long-term value.Homeowners in Berea and Richmond KY can protect equity by staying proactive and consulting a trusted real estate professional before majo...
Comments 1
By Devin Todd Azbill, Top Rated Berea, KY REALTOR® – Devin Ramsey
(Todd & Company KY | BHHS Foster Realtors)
Over the past few years, rental scams in Madison County, KY have become increasingly sophisticated. Many use legitimate listing photos, sometimes even from my sold homes to lure unsuspecting renters into sending deposits before seeing the property.Our local news station even interviewed me about the subject once!You can view the interview here! As a Berea and Richmond KY realtor, I want to share a few professional insights that can help renters stay protected: Always confirm ownership. Use the PVA (Property Valuation Administrator) website to verify who owns the property before signing a lease or sending payment. Be cautious of urgency. Scammers thrive on panic. A legitimate landlord won’t pressure you to “act fast” without documentation. Check local market averages. If a 3-bedroom home...
Comments 2
By Devin Todd Azbill, Top Rated Berea, KY REALTOR® – Devin Ramsey
(Todd & Company KY | BHHS Foster Realtors)
As a realtor serving the Berea KY and Richmond KY markets, I’m frequently asked by prospective buyers: “What is the lowest income to qualify for a house?”Here’s how I break it down professionally and help my clients navigate it.Income is Just One Part of the QualificationLet’s be clear: there is no universally fixed “income floor” published by all lenders that reads “you must earn $X to qualify for a mortgage.” Instead, lenders evaluate: Your gross monthly income (employment, self-employment, etc.) Your debt-to-income ratio (DTI), what percentage of your income goes toward debt plus housing. FDIC+1 Credit score, down payment, property value and term of loan. Practical Rule of Thumb for Madison County BuyersWhen working with clients in Madison County real estate, I suggest this framework...
Comments 2
By Devin Todd Azbill, Top Rated Berea, KY REALTOR® – Devin Ramsey
(Todd & Company KY | BHHS Foster Realtors)
The latest Madison County real estate market update shows a healthy, balanced rhythm, with 23 new listings entering the market and 24 homes sold over the past week.The median sold price held steady at $287,500, while the average days on market reached 47, suggesting homes are taking a little longer to go under contract. Sellers are achieving about 94.5% of their original list price, a sign that buyers are being thoughtful and selective but still serious when it comes to well-priced listings.For sellers, this week’s numbers reinforce the importance of positioning, both in price and presentation. Homes that align with current buyer expectations are still moving efficiently.For buyers, the steady pace means opportunity. With new listings keeping up with sales, there’s a balanced flow of Ma...
Comments 4
By Devin Todd Azbill, Top Rated Berea, KY REALTOR® – Devin Ramsey
(Todd & Company KY | BHHS Foster Realtors)
One of the many reasons I love living and working in Madison County, Kentucky is how this community comes alive with local events, especially in the fall! 🍁This weekend, there’s something for everyone: from Trunk or Treats and car shows to farmers markets and community fitness events. It’s the perfect time to experience what makes this area so special, friendly neighbors, family fun, and that small-town Kentucky spirit.Highlights include: Arcadian Cove’s Annual Trunk or Treat Endgame Manor Halloween Walk-thru Berea Runners 5K Trail Race Berea Farmers Market A&W Halloween Car Show If you’re new to the area or thinking about calling Madison County home, weekends like this show exactly why people love living here, where community connection and local pride shine through.👉 Explore all upcom...
Comments 0
By Devin Todd Azbill, Top Rated Berea, KY REALTOR® – Devin Ramsey
(Todd & Company KY | BHHS Foster Realtors)
Every market has its rhythm, and here in Madison County, Kentucky, the key to a quick sale lies in understanding how local buyers think and shop.Here are strategies that consistently shorten days on market for my listings around Berea and Richmond, KY:1. Strategic Pricing Over Aspirational PricingSellers often want to “test the market,” but our data shows that homes priced right from the start sell faster and closer to list. Educating sellers early about local absorption rates is key.2. Localized Marketing Makes All the DifferenceIn smaller markets like Berea, personalized marketing — Facebook Lives, community-based ads, and hyperlocal blog exposure, often outperform national listing syndication.3. Pre-Listing Prep MattersEncourage sellers to declutter, deep clean, and tackle small repa...
Comments 1
By Devin Todd Azbill, Top Rated Berea, KY REALTOR® – Devin Ramsey
(Todd & Company KY | BHHS Foster Realtors)
The Madison County real estate market has delivered another set of telling numbers. 31 new listings came online while 19 homes sold, indicating steady but selective buyer activity.The median sold price held at $289,900, with 56 days on market on average. The 93.5% sold-to-original list price ratio tells us that sellers are getting strong offers, but buyers are negotiating strategically.For listing agents, pricing right matters. For buyers, increased DOM gives more time to assess homes for sale in Madison County and make informed moves.If you're an agent working Madison County homes or have clients ready to buy or sell, let’s connect.🤝 Contact the best realtor in Madison County KY to collaborate or help your clients navigate this evolving market. Devin Todd RamseyREALTOR®Todd & Company K...
Comments 4
By Devin Todd Azbill, Top Rated Berea, KY REALTOR® – Devin Ramsey
(Todd & Company KY | BHHS Foster Realtors)
 “Should I rent or buy?” It’s a fair question—but in Madison County, KY the numbers tell a clear story.Local Snapshot – Fall 2025 Home Prices: $280k–$310k  Rents: Apartments $950–$1,000 | Homes $1,200–$1,800+ Market: Prices climbing 3–6% yearly | 45–60 days on market Cost Check: 2–3 BR apartment: $1,000–$1,200/month Single-family rental: $1,400–$1,600/month Buying a $300k home: ≈ $1,875/month (mortgage, taxes, insurance estimated) Renting: Short-Term Flexibility, Long-Term CostRenting is easier upfront and great for short stays—but rents rise every year, inventory is tight, and your payments build zero equity.Buying: Higher Commitment, Bigger PayoffHomeownership takes more upfront, but every payment builds equity while values steadily grow. In Madison County’s market, long-term owners u...
Comments 2
By Devin Todd Azbill, Top Rated Berea, KY REALTOR® – Devin Ramsey
(Todd & Company KY | BHHS Foster Realtors)
FOR MORE INFO, WATCH HERE0 Down Financing + $5,000 Seller Credit — Affordable Charm on 1 Acre in Madison County, KYIf you’ve been dreaming of homeownership but thought a large down payment was a must — think again.This charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath ranch offers $0 down financing eligibility and a $5,000 seller credit, making it a fantastic opportunity for first-time buyers, downsizers, or those looking to begin (or expand) their rental portfolio.👉 View the Full Listing Here🌳 Rural Charm Meets Convenience Nestled on a spacious 1.05 acre lot, this home blends the peace & quiet of the countryside with quick access to town.Imagine sipping your morning coffee on the covered front porch, hosting evening get-togethers on the back deck, or using the storage building for hobbies, tools, or seasonal...
Comments 0
By Devin Todd Azbill, Top Rated Berea, KY REALTOR® – Devin Ramsey
(Todd & Company KY | BHHS Foster Realtors)
View the video hereLooking for an affordable home in McKee, Kentucky? This charming 3-bedroom, 1-bath ranch is move-in ready, with fresh updates, a fenced yard, and a storage building — all at an incredible price of $145,000.Located just minutes from Main Street, McKee, this property offers easy access to local shops, restaurants, and everyday conveniences while still enjoying a peaceful, quiet setting. Outdoor enthusiasts will love being close to Flat Lick Falls and the Daniel Boone National Forest, perfect for weekend adventures or family outings.Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer looking for an affordable starter home or an investor seeking your next Airbnb or rental property, this home checks all the boxes. The combination of location, updates, and price point makes it a rare opp...
Comments 3
By Devin Todd Azbill, Top Rated Berea, KY REALTOR® – Devin Ramsey
(Todd & Company KY | BHHS Foster Realtors)
Berea City Council Recap + Community Halloween Activities | October 7, 2025The Berea City Council met on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at City Hall. Here’s a community-focused look at what was discussed and how these updates impact our residents.The evening began with the invocation and Pledge of Allegiance led by Steve Caudill, followed by the approval of the agenda and September 16 minutes.Hope’s Wings: Domestic Violence Awareness MonthKaylynn Carpenter, Assistant Director of Hope’s Wings, addressed the council to recognize Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Hope’s Wings continues to play a vital role in supporting survivors across Madison County. Their presentation served as a reminder of the importance of community awareness and resources available to those in need.Berea Pollinator Gard...
Comments 0
By Devin Todd Azbill, Top Rated Berea, KY REALTOR® – Devin Ramsey
(Todd & Company KY | BHHS Foster Realtors)
Every week, I like to keep my neighbors, clients, & fellow real estate pros in the loop about what’s happening here in Berea, Kentucky. This week brought a mix of spooky fun, meaningful community milestones, & serious local news.Local Haunted Barn Raises Funds for Rescue DogsA Berea couple has turned their love for Halloween into something that benefits the entire community. Their free haunted barn attraction, Nightmares Haunt, is open every Friday & Saturday from 7–10 p.m. and Sundays from 7–9 p.m. throughout October—including Halloween night.The walkthrough features multiple rooms inside their barn, fog machines, photo ops, inflatables for little ones, & plenty of spooky surprises. What makes it special is their mission: every donation goes toward supporting Bluegrass Bullies, a local...
Comments 1
By Devin Todd Azbill, Top Rated Berea, KY REALTOR® – Devin Ramsey
(Todd & Company KY | BHHS Foster Realtors)
Exciting news for our community: Berea College has been named the #1 Best College for Your Tuition (and Tax) Dollars in Washington Monthly’s 2025 College Guide. Out of more than 1,400 colleges nationwide, Berea stands out for its commitment to accessible education, academic excellence & preparing students for meaningful careers and lives.Founded in 1855 as the first interracial & coeducational college in the South, Berea College continues to honor its historic mission. Key highlights from this year’s recognition include: No-Tuition Promise: Students attend tuition-free, with full support for housing, meals & fees. Financial Freedom Pledge: Graduates leave debt-free, ready to pursue opportunities that matter. Work College Program: Students gain professional experience while serving the c...
Comments 1
By Dora Griffin, NMLS 6380
(D A Griffin Financial.LLC)
2025 Bank Deregulation: A Balancing Act Between Opportunity and Risk2025 looks to be a pivotal year for the banking industry, with a renewed focus on deregulation in the United States under a new administration. This shift promises both potential benefits and significant challenges for financial institutions, large and small. Can relaxing the changes instituted to make sure banking does not cause another major crisis actually be more negative than positive for the lending industry?  Here are some bullet points of the pros and cons of deregulation.Most of us do not need a reminder of the banks and rating agencies causing a housing collapse the last time there was not significant regulation. The Deregulation Push: What to ExpectThe core of the deregulation agenda is to ease regulatory bur...
Comments 2