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Shari Zimbelman
(701) 200-2608 Cell

Happy New Year! January is that magical time when we all swear we will get organized, drink more water, and absolutely keep our resolutions (at least for a few weeks😉).

It’s also a great time to take a fresh look at the real estate market—whether you’re dreaming about a move this year or happily nesting in the home you already love. January is perfect for checking in on home values, exploring possibilities, and getting a sense of what’s ahead, even if a move is still just an idea.

In this issue, we’re diving into the 2025 market stats, sharing a wrap-up of this school year’s Lions Vision Screening, featuring some great listings, and offering tips for juggling buying and selling at the same time. You’ll also find advice on setting smart home-buying goals and a reminder about something important (but not so fun): why carbon monoxide detectors are a must in every home.

If a move is on your 2026 vision board, I’m here to help make it happen. Reach out anytime to schedule a home tour, request a free market analysis, or just chat all things real estate.   - Shari 


Lions Vision Screening

This school year, I’m incredibly proud of the work our West Fargo Lions Club has done to support local students through our annual vision screening program. Our volunteers screened students at five West Fargo elementary schools, reaching an impressive 2,014 students. Of those, 275 students—about 13.64%—received referrals to see an optometrist for further evaluation.

It’s amazing to think that 80% of learning is visual, and that 1 in 3 young children have correctable vision issues—often something as simple as needing glasses. These screenings truly make a difference, helping kids learn more confidently and succeed in the classroom.

Thanks to the amazing folks who support our Lions Club meat raffles, we were also able to donate over 2,100 snacks to the five schools, giving students something extra to enjoy at school or at home and helping ensure no child goes hungry.

Every student also received a cool "I got my eyes checked by the West Fargo Lions Club" sticker, made possible by a generous donation from Business Essentials.

I’m so proud to be part of a club that serves our community in such meaningful ways and makes a real impact on our kids and schools.

The next meat raffle is Friday, February 6th at 5:30 at the Silver Dollar Bar & Flying Pig Grill in West Fargo. Donate your old eyeglasses and receive a free raffle ticket! I'd love to see you there! 




How's the Market?

In 2025, our local housing market showed steady strength and plenty of opportunities. Home values rose 4.6%, beating the U.S. historical average of 4.27%—a reassuring sign of long-term stability for homeowners. Inventory averaged 4.34 months, right in the “balanced market” sweet spot of 4–6 months, though levels do vary by price point. Whether you’re thinking about selling, buying, or just keeping an eye on the market, these conditions set the stage for some smart moves in 2026 and I'm always available to help you make sense of the numbers!

What the Numbers Mean for Buyers 
Buyers will find the most competition in homes priced under $300,000, where limited inventory continues to drive strong demand. However, opportunities improve in the $400,000–$500,000 range, where inventory is balanced and negotiations are more reasonable. In the $500,000+ price range, higher inventory levels mean more choices, increased leverage, and potentially better terms for buyers willing to act strategically.

What the Numbers Mean for Sellers 
Sellers benefited from the increase in home values, making 2025 a solid year for equity growth. Homes priced under $300,000 remain especially attractive to buyers and often sell quickly. Sellers in higher price ranges may need more thoughtful pricing and strong presentation to stand out, as increased inventory gives buyers more options.

What the Numbers Mean for Investors 
For investors, low inventory under $300,000 highlights continued demand for affordable housing and strong rental potential. Balanced conditions in the mid-price ranges support stable appreciation with less volatility, while higher-end properties may present value opportunities through negotiation. Overall, steady appreciation and a balanced market make this an environment where informed, numbers-driven decisions

As your REALTOR®, I will provide you with expert advice and assistance every step of the way. With 19 years of experience, I’ve been through every type of real estate market! Call, email, or message me anytime with your real estate questions.


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Featured Listings

Looking for a new place to call home? Check out this month's featured listings!

Visit www.ShariZimbelman.com for a complete list of available homes and upcoming open houses!




2507 25th St S, Fargo

3127 30th St S, Moorhead

3512 40th Ave S, Fargo

$147,000

$308,900

$475,000

 


 

Real Estate Advice

Home Sellers Homeowners Home Buyers

Juggling Buying & Selling at the Same Time Carbon Monoxide - Hidden Danger New Year, New Home - Smart Home Buying Goals

Follow me on Facebook for the latest stats, helpful real estate tips, community info & more!
 

Your Realtor,

SHARI ZIMBELMAN | REALTOR 

Broker Associate | Dakota Plains Realty

ABR | CRS | GRI | SFR | C2EX

Cell: 701.200.2608 | Office: 701.566.7080 

www.ShariZimbelman.com

Click Here or Scan the QR Code for My Complimentary Guides to Buying and Selling a Home.

5302 51st Ave S | Ste B - Fargo, ND 58104
The content of this newsletter is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal or financial advice. 
If you are working with a Realtor®, this is not a solicitation. 
 
Disclaimer: All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. All properties are subject to prior sale, change or withdrawal. Neither listing broker(s) or information provider(s) shall be responsible for any typographical errors, misinformation, misprints and shall be held totally harmless. Listing(s) information is provided for consumers personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. Information on this site was last updated 03/22/2026. The listing information on this page last changed on 03/22/2026. The data relating to real estate for sale on this website comes in part from the Internet Data Exchange program of RMLS-MN MLS (last updated Sun 03/22/2026 9:56:58 PM EST) or (last updated Sun 03/22/2026 9:59:19 PM EST). Real estate listings held by brokerage firms other than Dakota Plains Realty may be marked with the Internet Data Exchange logo and detailed information about those properties will include the name of the listing broker(s) when required by the MLS. All rights reserved.
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