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Market Update: We Officially Broke the 6% BarrierDate: February 28, 2026
If you read my update last week, you know we were hovering right on the edge of a major milestone. Well, this week, it finally happened. For the first time since September 2022, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate has officially dropped into the 5% range. If you are looking to buy or sell in Prescott this spring, this is the news we have been waiting for. Here is a breakdown of what happened, why it matters, and what you should expect as we head into March. The Week in Re
David Merkel
1 day ago3 min read


The "Closing Day" Chicken & Dumplings
Total Time: About as long as a standard escrow (okay, more like 1 hour) Yields: Enough to feed a hungry family or one very stressed-out Realtor Let’s be honest: the real estate market can be a bit... chewy . Between the inspections that uncover "creative" DIY plumbing and the appraisal gaps that make us want to hide under our desks, we all need a little comfort. Enter the Southern Style Chicken & Dumplings . This isn't just a meal; it's a warm hug for your soul and a "congr
David Merkel
2 days ago2 min read


The Local Flavor: Why Lazy G Brewhouse is the Perfect Taste of the Prescott Lifestyle
When I’m working with clients looking to move up the hill from Phoenix or relocate from out of state, the conversation eventually turns from square footage and lot size to something equally important: lifestyle. They ask, "What is there to do downtown?" or "Where do the locals actually go?" Prescott has a unique energy. We are a historic western town, yes, but we are also vibrant, growing, and full of modern amenities. Nowhere is that balance captured better right now than at
David Merkel
5 days ago2 min read


Discover Prescott’s Rich Culture: A Spotlight on the Museum of Indigenous People
When you're looking for a new home, you aren't just buying a property—you're buying into a community. One of the things that makes living in Prescott, Arizona, so incredibly special is our deep connection to Southwestern history, art, and culture. If you want to truly understand the heart of our area, there is no better starting point than the Museum of Indigenous People (formerly known as the Smoki Museum). Located near our beautiful downtown at 147 N. Arizona Avenue, this
David Merkel
6 days ago2 min read


Market Update: Mortgage Rates Hit a 3.5-Year Low Just in Time for SpringDate: February 20
Happy Friday! We are wrapping up a very exciting week in the real estate world. If you have been waiting for a sign that it is time to jump into the market, the news we received over the last few days might be exactly what you have been looking for. Over my 30+ years navigating the local real estate market, I’ve seen my share of rate cycles, and right now, the momentum is undeniably shifting in favor of buyers. Here is a breakdown of the fantastic news we received this week a
David Merkel
Feb 203 min read


Curb Appeal in a Bowl: The Ultimate French Onion Soup
They say the kitchen is the heart of the home. As a real estate agent, I see a lot of kitchens—from sleek, modern marble islands to retro-tiled charmers. But the truth is, it doesn't matter if you have a Viking range or a hot plate; what makes a house feel like a home is the smell of something amazing bubbling on the stove. Since the weather is still a bit chilly, I wanted to share a recipe that is the culinary equivalent of a cozy fireplace: French Onion Soup with Cheesy Cr
David Merkel
Feb 152 min read


Market Update: Will Tomorrow’s Inflation Report Be a Valentine for Buyers? Date: February 12, 2026
Valentine’s Day is this Saturday, but the real estate market is looking for some love a little early—specifically, tomorrow morning. We are currently sitting in a "wait-and-see" window. Today (Thursday) is relatively quiet, but it is the calm before what could be the most significant financial news day of the month. Here is the breakdown of what happened last week, what is happening tomorrow, and why you should care if you are house hunting in Prescott. The Rearview Mirror: J
David Merkel
Feb 122 min read


Hearty "Home-Sweet-Home" Chili Mac
There is nothing quite like the smell of a home-cooked meal to make a house feel like a home. Whether you are fueling up for a weekend of open houses or settling into a new space, this One-Pot Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food. It’s quick, budget-friendly, and perfect for feeding a hungry family. Ingredients Category Item Quantity Protein Lean Ground Beef 1 lb Base Elbow Macaroni (dry) 2 cups Liquids Beef Broth 2 ½ cups Canned Tomato Sauce (8 oz) 1 can Canned Diced Toma
David Merkel
Feb 51 min read


Market Update: Groundhog Day, The Fed, and the Spring ThawDate: February 2, 2026 Category: Market Trends / Real Estate News
Happy Groundhog Day! It is the day we ask: Will we see six more weeks of winter, or is an early spring around the corner? In the real estate world, we are asking a very similar question right now about mortgage rates. After a busy end to 2025, the market seems to be looking for its shadow. Here is the breakdown of what is happening this week and what it means for Prescott buyers. The Fed Pause: Staying the Course Last week, the Federal Reserve wrapped up their first meeting o
David Merkel
Feb 23 min read


Local Flavor: Why Deli Plaza Liquor and Deli is a Prescott Staple
If you’re looking for a home in Prescott, you aren't just buying a property—you’re buying into a lifestyle. One of the best parts of living in "Everybody’s Hometown" is discovering those local gems that have been serving the community for decades. Today, we’re highlighting a true neighborhood icon: Deli Plaza Liquor and Deli. Located right on Iron Springs Road, this isn't your average convenience stop. It’s a hybrid of a high-end bottle shop and a classic East Coast-style del
David Merkel
Jan 262 min read


The Heart of Prescott History: Exploring the Fort Whipple Historic District
When you buy a home in Prescott, you aren't just buying real estate—you are buying into a genuine piece of the American West. While downtown’s Whiskey Row gets a lot of the attention, the true foundation of our town lies just a mile to the northeast: The Fort Whipple Historic District . For potential homebuyers, history buffs, and our large veteran community, Fort Whipple is more than just a landmark; it is a symbol of Prescott’s resilience and character. The Origins of "Ever
David Merkel
Jan 223 min read


Market Update: The "Inflation Report Card" is In Date: January 14, 2026 Category: Market Trends / Real Estate New
We are halfway through January, and the financial markets are officially back in full swing. If you have been waiting for a signal on where mortgage rates are headed in 2026, this was a critical week. Yesterday and today marked the release of two major inflation reports that the Federal Reserve watches closely. Here is the breakdown of what happened, how the market reacted, and what it means for your home search in Prescott. The News: Inflation Data Released The financial wor
David Merkel
Jan 143 min read


The Holiday "Hangover" & The Big Friday ReportDate: January 6, 2026 Category: Market Trends / Real Estate News
Welcome to the first full working week of 2026! The out-of-office auto-replies are turning off, the holiday decorations are coming down, and the real estate market is officially waking up. If you are planning to make a move this year, this is the week where we start to see the "real" market emerging. Here is what is happening right now with mortgage rates and what we are watching for the rest of the week. The Current Landscape: A Slow Start After the excitement of the Federal
David Merkel
Jan 63 min read


Local Spotlight: Why Bill’s Pizza is the Heart of the Prescott Plaza
If you spend any time walking around the historic Courthouse Plaza in downtown Prescott, you’ll notice two things: the stunning elm trees and the line of happy people waiting to get into Bill’s Pizza . As a real estate professional, I always tell my clients that you aren’t just buying a house; you are buying a neighborhood and a lifestyle. In Prescott, that lifestyle is defined by community, history, and—let’s be honest—really incredible food. Bill’s Pizza isn't just a restau
David Merkel
Jan 52 min read


Comfort in a Bowl: Creamy Chicken & Corn Chowder
There is an old saying in real estate: The kitchen is the heart of the home. Whether you are settling into a new place or have been in your home for years, nothing makes a space feel warmer and more inviting than the smell of a hearty soup simmering on the stove. With the cooler weather settling in, we are all looking for excuses to stay indoors and get cozy. This month, I wanted to share one of my favorite "welcome home" recipes. This Creamy Chicken & Corn Chowder is rich,
David Merkel
Dec 31, 20252 min read


Living with History: A Spotlight on the Fort Whipple Historic District Category: Local Highlights / Prescott History
When people ask me what makes living in Prescott so special, the conversation almost always turns to our rich history. We aren't just a town with old buildings; we are a community that lives alongside our heritage. Nowhere is this more evident than at the Fort Whipple Historic District . While many locals know it today as the VA Medical Center, Fort Whipple is arguably one of the most significant historical sites in the American Southwest. Roots Running Deep (Est. 1864) Estab
David Merkel
Dec 31, 20252 min read


From the Kitchen to the Community: Homemade Black Bean Burgers
As a real estate professional, I spend a lot of time talking about "good bones"—that solid foundation that makes a house a home. Surprisingly, cooking has a similar principle. You need a solid base to build a great meal. Today, I'm trading open houses for oven mitts to share a recipe that has become a staple in my own home: Homemade Black Bean Burgers . Whether you're looking for a meatless Monday option, hosting a backyard barbecue in your new patio space, or just want a hea
David Merkel
Dec 20, 20253 min read


Local Spotlight: Why The Raven Cafe is the Heart of Downtown Prescott
When you are looking for a new home, you aren’t just buying four walls and a roof—you are buying into a community. You are looking for that perfect "third place" (besides home and work) where you can unwind, meet neighbors, and soak up the local culture. In Prescott, that place is undoubtedly The Raven Cafe . Located at 142 North Cortez Street, just steps from the historic Courthouse Plaza, The Raven is more than a coffee shop; it is a European-style bistro and a cornerstone
David Merkel
Dec 19, 20252 min read


Speaking the Language of Lenders: A Mortgage Glossary for Beginners
Buying a home is exciting, but the paperwork? That can feel like reading a foreign language. Suddenly, you are surrounded by acronyms and financial jargon that can make even the savviest shopper’s head spin. Don't let the vocabulary scare you off. Understanding these key terms is the first step toward feeling confident and in control of your home-buying journey. Here is your cheat sheet to the most important mortgage terms you need to know. The "Big Four" of Your Monthly Paym
David Merkel
Dec 18, 20253 min read


Real Estate Resolutions: A Strategic Guide for Buying and Selling in 2026
As we step into 2026, many of us are setting goals for fitness or finance, but it’s equally important to be intentional about your real estate ambitions. Whether you are looking to purchase your first home, sell a property, or expand your investment portfolio, success in the housing market requires a game plan. By combining a clear mindset with solid financial preparation and strategic timing, you can navigate the 2026 market with confidence. Here is your step-by-step resolut
David Merkel
Dec 15, 20253 min read
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