On Thursday, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate fell to 5.98% for the first time since 2022, according to Freddie Mac. CNN

The evidence is patchy on whether lower rates have meaningfully spurred more activity, as the Trump administration floats measures it says will make housing more affordable. NYT

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Month-over-month and year-over-year sales fell in all regions.

.“The decrease in sales is disappointing. The below-normal temperatures and above-normal precipitation this January make it harder than usual to assess the underlying driver of the decrease and determine if this month’s numbers are an aberration,” said NAR Chief Economist Dr. Lawrence Yun. “Affordability conditions are improving, with NAR’s Housing Affordability Index showing that housing is the most affordable it’s been since March 2022. This is due to wage gains outpacing home price growth and mortgage rates being lower than a year ago. However, supply has not kept pace and remains quite low.”

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For more than 20 years, I’ve been quietly selling upper–bracket homes for some of the most visible people in the Washington region. No social media. No “just listed” blasts. Just private conversations, targeted outreach, and results.

Over the last week, a number of clients have started calling me “The House Whisperer,” pointing to my long‑standing reputation for a quiet, thoughtful approach to real estate for both buyers and sellers. I didn’t come up with the name, but it does describe how I’ve always chosen to work for the last 20 years.

So in 2026, I’m formalizing what I’ve done for decades: a discreet advisory role where I design and run whisper‑only campaigns for exceptional properties and the exceptional people who own them. It’s not a new strategy; it’s simply a clearer way to describe the way my practice already operates.

What that means in practice:

• Your home is never used as Social Media content or in the headlines of the local or national press.

• Communication happens directly with me via phone or text, and, when appropriate, through encrypted channels like Signal and WhatsApp.

• Buyers are curated through long‑standing personal and professional relationships in Washington, New York, the Southeast US, and London, UK– not through public feeds and open houses.

If you’re thinking about a move this year – or you simply want to understand how a whisper‑only campaign would work for your situation – reply to this email or text me, and we’ll set up a confidential conversation.

Warmly,

Jim Bell

202-607-4000

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The White House did not summon cameras for this one. There was no East Room backdrop, no carefully choreographed signing ceremony.

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Nestled on one of Kalorama’s most distinguished blocks, this stately 1908 Beaux-Arts townhome was designed by noted architect Frederick B. Pyle for department store magnate Samuel Woodward. Blending timeless elegance with thoughtful modern updates spanning four expansive levels, the residence offers four bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths across a floor plan designed for both grand entertaining and comfortable daily living. The entry level opens with a light-filled sitting room that flows into a gourmet kitchen, outfitted with striking marble counters, custom cabinetry, and space for casual, fireside dining.

Above, the Piano Nobile level - with soaring ceilings, two fireplaces, and magnificent French windows - provides a luminous backdrop for large-scale gatherings. Elegant entertaining rooms unfold in sequence, enriched by original moldings, trim, and south-facing exposures. A butler’s pantry with rear access to the kitchen completes this level. The third floor hosts the spacious primary suite, bathed in natural light and featuring a marble bath with dual showers, a custom dressing room, an adjoining office or sitting room and two more fireplaces. The top floor offers three additional bedrooms and two full baths, including one ensuite. A newly redesigned roof deck (2021) crowns the home with sweeping city views, perfect for al fresco entertaining. Recent updates include a new roof (2020), water heater (2024), and upper-zone AC (2020), along with a comprehensive security system. Seven fireplaces - five with gas inserts - add warmth and character throughout. Private rear parking (with EV charger) further enhances convenience, while the location places you within walking distance of Dupont Circle, Embassy Row, and Kalorama’s cafés and parks. 2131 Bancroft Place NW embodies the best of Kalorama - historic architecture elevated by refined, contemporary luxury, listed by Jonathan Taylor, TTR Sotheby’s International Realty.

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October is Breast Cancer Awareness month! Our goal throughout the month is to increase awareness of the disease and stress the importance of mammograms as the best tool to screen for breast cancer, the second most common type of cancer among women. Approximately one in eight women in the United States will get breast cancer during their lifetime and each year, more than 40,000 women die from breast cancer.-FDA

Scan the QR code to donate to Cancer.Donate.Org

Thank You!

Jim Bell

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Positioned along 400 feet of beautiful scenic frontage at the Palma Ceia Golf Course, this exceptional South Tampa masterpiece offers impeccably designed living space, while outside a flood zone. The gated, treelined estate showcases timeless craftsmanship, with a total of nine bedrooms, ten full baths, and four half baths, a detached guest residence, as well as an additional vacant lot all packaged into one offering. The great room is tremendously welcoming as natural light pours through the arched glass doors lining the room, then complemented by 15-foot ceilings and the winding grand staircase. Resting in its own private wing of the residence, the primary bedroom is a suite with a substantial dream closet, a separate sitting room, and a large balcony overlooking the picturesque backyard greenspace and golf course.

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Positioned along 400 feet of beautiful scenic frontage at the Palma Ceia Golf Course, this exceptional South Tampa masterpiece offers impeccably designed living space, while outside a flood zone. The gated, treelined estate showcases timeless craftsmanship, with a total of nine bedrooms, ten full baths, and four half baths, a detached guest residence, as well as an additional vacant lot all packaged into one offering. The great room is tremendously welcoming as natural light pours through the arched glass doors lining the room, then complemented by 15-foot ceilings and the winding grand staircase. Resting in its own private wing of the residence, the primary bedroom is a suite with a substantial dream closet, a separate sitting room, and a large balcony overlooking the picturesque backyard greenspace and golf course.

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Powell says economy ‘may warrant’ rate cuts, but doesn’t signal when- Washington Post

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Dear Colleagues,

After more than three decades at the forefront of real estate and mortgage banking—personally closing over $1.2 billion in transactions and still serving my own clients—I’m excited to invite you to join my New “Whole Agent” Private Coaching Program.

I want to speak to you honestly: for many in our industry, coaching is just a buzzword. Most so-called “coaches” have never sold a single piece of real estate and resort to “shaming for pay” or guilt-driven techniques because they lack the real-world experience to guide you. This program is different. It’s not about a book I’ve written, or my ego—it’s about you, your business, and your potential to become the best, most fulfilled agent you can be.

Many of you also know my story isn’t just about deals and accolades; my success speaks for itself. Several years ago, I lost my real estate firm to direct competition from a rival. Within 18 months, I suffered a profound personal loss, losing both parents and all of my aunts and uncles except one. It was a time of unimaginable adversity, but I kept going—every single day. It’s this resilience, forged through hardship, that I want to share with you.

This is the kind of perspective and strength I bring to my coaching. I understand what it means to face setbacks—and more importantly, how to overcome them, rebuild, and thrive. My commitment is to teach you not just to excel in transactions, but to grow stronger, more adaptive, and authentically successful—even when life throws its hardest challenges your way.

Here’s what makes this program different:

· Truthful, Real-World Insight: Guidance built on three decades of tough deals, ongoing brokerage work, and the personal resilience that comes only from living through real adversity.

· The Whole Agent Philosophy: We focus on your entire professional self—behavior, character, and reputation—because lasting achievement means being strong in business and in life.

· Private, Personalized Coaching: This is not a group course or motivator session—this is direct, confidential mentorship dedicated to your journey and growth.

· No Shame, No Gimmicks: You’ll find only honest challenge, authentic support, and lessons that empower you to become stronger because of what you’ve overcome—not weaker.

If you’re ready to be coached by someone who’s walked through both triumph and adversity—and has come out stronger, wiser, and at the top of his game—this is your moment.

Reply to this email or email me at JBell@BillionDollarBroker.net to secure your spot. Space is very limited!

Let’s build your future—resilient, successful, and proud—together.

James Bell

JBell@BillionDollarBroker.net

Founder/Private Coach

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Dear Friends,

I am delighted to share some exciting news with you!

This Thursday, I will be launching a special social media series dedicated to the rich and fascinating history of Kalorama. Over the coming weeks, I'll take you on a journey through the neighborhood’s remarkable stories, significant landmarks, and some intriguing tales you may not have heard before.

You can easily follow along with each episode on Instagram. Please feel free to join me on either of my accounts:

· @jbell257

· @JimBellGroup

Each episode will feature photos, stories, and insights designed to spark your interest in one of D.C.'s most storied neighborhoods. I would be honored to have you follow along, leave your thoughts, or share your own memories if you have them!

Thank you for your continued friendship and support. I look forward to connecting with you online and sharing Kalorama’s history together.

Warm regards,

Jim Bell

A Record Surge

The median existing-home sales price jumped to $435,300 in June, up 2% from a year ago and marking the highest ever recorded for the month, according to the latest National Association of Realtors data. This milestone arrives despite a housing market grappling with sluggish sales activity and cautious buyers.

“The record high median home price highlights how American homeowners’ wealth continues to grow—a benefit of homeownership,” said Lawrence Yun, NAR’s chief economist.

Market Forces: Low Sales, High Equity

While prices set new records, home sales tell a different story. June saw a 2.7% year-over-year drop in existing home sales, matching last year’s historically slow pace. Buyers, challenged by rising mortgage rates, elevated home prices, and tightening affordability, are proceeding cautiously or sitting out altogether.

• Inventory is rising: The total number of unsold homes—including those under contract—is up 20% year over year, giving potential buyers more options, but also signaling a cooling in demand.

• Cancellations on the rise: Nearly 15% of pending home sales in June were called off, a level not seen since data tracking began in 2017. Many buyers backed out during inspections or due to affordability concerns, particularly in Sun Belt markets like Florida and Texas.

Regional Highlights

While the price trend is national, some metro areas continue to outpace the broader market:

• Baltimore region: Median sold price reached $425,000, up 3% over last year—a new high for the area.

• Sun Belt cities: Higher contract cancellation rates, fueled by elevated taxes and insurance costs.

Homeowner Wealth Grows—But Challenges Persist

For those who already own homes, the news underlines an extraordinary run-up in household wealth. Over the past five years, the average homeowner’s wealth has grown by $140,900, bolstering the financial security gap between owners and renters.

However, rising prices and higher mortgage rates—hovering between 6.5–7%—continue to erode affordability for first-time and move-up buyers, even as increased inventory and more frequent price reductions signal a moderation in some markets.

What’s Next?

Looking ahead, analysts expect home prices to remain elevated in the near term, with some forecasts predicting a modest decline later this year as inventory increases and buyer leverage grows. Still, the record price mark set in June now serves as both a symbol of homeowners’ strength and the mounting challenge for Americans seeking their place in the housing market.

• Median existing-home price: $435,300 in June 2025 (a new all-time high).

• Existing home sales: 2.7% year-over-year decline.

• Pending sale cancellations: ~15%, the highest for June on record.

The housing market, long the backbone of middle-class wealth, remains a story of contrasts: record riches for owners, headwinds for buyers, and shifting tides ahead.

Real estate broker and Emmy-winning filmmaker James Bell is proud to announce the launch of "Somerville," a new documentary project dedicated to raising awareness and support for the preservation of the Grove family’s historic White Ridge Farm, a cornerstone of the Somerville Va community for over a century.

The film centers on the experiences of Donna Grove, whose family has called White Ridge Farm home for more than 100 years. “I live here on White Ridge Farm in the beautiful little village of Somerville, Virginia. Before me, my dad lived on this farm. He was born here in this house, and my granddaddy bought this acreage. So we've been here over 100 years, and we hope to be here for another 100 years,” Grove shares. White Ridge Farm is a nationally recognized Black Angus bull and cow farm.

Recently, the farm has faced a critical threat: a proposed Dominion Energy route that would cut directly through the property. “You talk about 10 or 15 towers, and the impact that has—it completely destroys the farm,” Caitlin explains. “It was always my dream to come back and work on the farm, and I'm very lucky, because not everybody can say that they have fulfilled their dream.”

The documentary also delves into the Grove family’s personal challenges, including Bobby Grove’s battle with a serious cancer diagnosis in 2019 and Donna’s family’s perseverance in the face of adversity. “Most of the time, we just have to figure out how to keep moving forward. I mean, that's all anybody can do, is figure out how to keep moving forward. This is home. This is our home, and it's not just us; it's everybody in the county that's going to be impacted. Where are we going to go? You know, I don't know where you go that you avoid this.”

"Somerville" uses the power of film to tell the story of White Ridge Farm’s heritage, its economic and cultural importance, and the deeply personal connections that bind the Grove family—and their neighbors—to the land. By documenting these stories, Bell aims to foster a sense of shared responsibility and inspire collective action—through fundraising, advocacy, and partnerships—to protect the farm for future generations.

About James Bell:
James Bell is a respected real estate broker and Emmy-winning filmmaker and with a passion for community heritage and preservation. His previous projects have focused on the intersection of historic preservation and community impact.

For more information, to schedule an interview, or to support the project, please visit www.TheAmericanTable.org or contact James Bell at JamesBell@TheAmericanTable.org

Help us preserve the past—so it can inspire our future.

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Leveraging his acclaimed platform, TheAmericanTable.org, and a personal network built over decades at the pinnacle of Washington society, Bell provides his real estate clients with a suite of bespoke perks rarely available elsewhere. These include:

• Priority reservations at exclusive restaurants

• Connections to at-home private services from Michelin Star chefs and private caterers

• Custom floral design for events and home staging

• Personal sommeliers for curated wine experiences

• Access to exclusive culinary and social events

Bell’s deep connections in the culinary and hospitality industries stem from his Emmy-winning documentary chef series and his passion for bringing people together around food and culture. This distinctive blend of real estate expertise and lifestyle access allows clients to move seamlessly into Washington’s most desirable neighborhoods while enjoying the privileges of Bell’s extensive network.

“Real estate is about more than just property—it’s about lifestyle, community, and connection,” says Bell. “My clients expect the very best, and I am committed to delivering experiences that go far beyond the transaction, opening doors to a world of exclusive opportunities.”

A defining trend in luxury living for 2025 is the rising demand for private chefs among discerning homeowners. In Washington, D.C.’s most prestigious residences, having a private chef has become an essential amenity—offering not only gourmet cuisine, but also bespoke culinary experiences tailored to each client’s tastes and lifestyle. Leveraging his network, Jim offers his clients exclusive access to the region’s most acclaimed private chefs, ensuring unforgettable, restaurant-quality dining in the comfort and privacy of their own homes.

With over $750 million in closed real estate transactions and recognition as a “Power Broker” by Washington Life Magazine and one of “America’s Best Real Estate Agents” by The Wall Street Journal, Bell’s reputation is built on trust, authenticity, and a relentless focus on client success. His philanthropic leadership and passion for food, culture, and community further distinguish his brand in the luxury market.

For more information on Jim Bell’s luxury real estate services and exclusive client perks, visit Jim Bell Group or follow @jimbellgroup and @the_american_table on Instagram.

About Jim Bell:
Jim Bell is Executive Vice President and Global Advisor at TTR Sotheby’s International Realty, a nationally recognized leader in luxury real estate, and the creator of The American Table. With decades of experience, deep community ties, and an unparalleled network, Bell delivers a concierge experience that redefines luxury living in Washington, D.C. and beyond.

Billion Dollar Broker is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a paid subscriber.

For years, I have made security a cornerstone of my business by utilizing encrypted platforms, such as Signal and ProtonMail, for confidential communications and off-market transactions. These secure tools are not just a recent addition—they are an established, ongoing practice in my daily operations. By leveraging Signal and Proton Mail, I ensure that every sensitive conversation and document exchange is protected by industry-leading security protocols.

Whether I am handling discreet sales, exclusive listings, or high-profile acquisitions for political leaders and affluent clients, my unwavering commitment to security gives clients the peace of mind they deserve. This approach has allowed me to successfully close over $750 million in transactions while upholding the highest standards of privacy and professionalism.

My clients can be confident that their information is safeguarded at every step, thanks to my dedication to secure communication. Security is not just a promise—it's a practice that defines the Jim Bell Group and sets us apart in the luxury real estate market. At the Jim Bell Group, your security and privacy are always my top priorities. I look forward to continuing to serve my clients with the discretion, security, and results they expect.

For media inquiries or to schedule a confidential and secure consultation, please contact me directly via Signal or ProtonMail.To learn more about my secure approach to luxury real estate, connect with me on:

Instagram: @JBell257

Signal: James Bell 202-617-6182

ProtonMail: JBell257@proton.me

Website: www.JimBellGroup.com

For media inquiries or to schedule a confidential and secure consultation, please contact me directly via Signal or ProtonMail.

—

Jim Bell

Executive Vice President & Global Advisor

TTR Sotheby’s International Realty

This highlights Jim Bell’s ongoing commitment to security and confidentiality in luxury real estate communications and transactions.

Nestled on a picturesque, tree-lined street in one of DC’s most coveted neighborhoods, the residence blends historic charm with contemporary luxury. The comprehensive renovation, thoughtfully curated by Haselton Creative, preserved the home’s classic architectural details while introducing state-of-the-art amenities and refined finishes throughout. The result is a seamless fusion of old-world character and modern comfort, tailored for today’s discerning homeowner.

Jim Bell, recognized for his expertise in the luxury real estate market, represented the transaction with the utmost professionalism and discretion. “This exceptional property reflects the very best of Cleveland Park—historic charm, thoughtful design, and a true sense of place,” said Bell. “It was an honor to represent a home so beautifully reimagined by Valerie Haselton and Haselton Creative. The new owners are sure to enjoy its unique blend of character and comfort for years to come.”

The sale underscores the continued strength of the Washington, DC luxury real estate market, particularly in neighborhoods like Cleveland Park, renowned for their architectural heritage and vibrant community spirit.

For more information about this sale or to inquire about luxury properties in Washington, DC, please contact Jim Bell at TTR Sotheby’s International Realty.

Jim Bell
TTR Sotheby’s International Realty
+1 202-607-4000/ JBell@TTRSIR.com