Navy Fellas Realty Group

Real Estate, Residential sales and purchase

The Most Overlooked Costs of Selling a Home

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Selling a home can feel straightforward, but many homeowners are surprised by the hidden costs that can affect their bottom line. Beyond the agentís commission and mortgage payoff, a variety of expenses can accumulate during the selling process. Understanding these costs ahead of time ensures you are financially prepared and helps avoid surprises at closing.

Repairs and Home Improvements
Even minor repairs can add up. Painting, fixing leaks, replacing outdated fixtures, and landscaping improvements can significantly enhance a homeís appeal. While some upgrades increase sale value, they still require upfront investment, and homeowners should budget accordingly.

Staging and Photography
Professional staging and high-quality photography can help a home sell faster and attract more buyers. These services come at a cost, but they can improve marketing effectiveness, create a strong first impression, and potentially justify a higher asking price.

Moving Expenses
Moving is often an underestimated cost. Packing supplies, professional movers, storage units, and transportation can add thousands of dollars to the selling process. Planning early and budgeting for moving costs helps prevent unexpected financial strain.

Closing Costs and Fees
Sellers often forget about closing costs beyond the agentís commission. These can include title insurance, escrow fees, attorney fees, transfer taxes, and outstanding utility bills. Reviewing these expenses with your agent or a closing professional ensures there are no surprises during settlement.

Temporary Housing and Utilities
If your new home is not ready when you sell, temporary housing or short-term rentals may be necessary. Additionally, you may need to continue paying utilities on your sold home until the closing is finalized. These costs can quickly accumulate if not planned for in advance.

Awareness of all potential expenses allows homeowners to set realistic expectations and make informed decisions during the selling process. By planning for repairs, staging, moving, closing costs, and temporary accommodations, sellers can reduce stress, avoid financial surprises, and maximize the success of their home sale.

Unlocking the Key to a Faster, Stronger Home Sale

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When it comes to selling a home, many people assume that success depends on luck, timing, or even the perfect buyer stumbling across the listing. But the truth is, most successful sellers share one common strategy, and it has little to do with home staging, marketing, or even upgrades. The key? Getting the price right from the very beginning.

Why Price Sets the Tone
Your asking price is more than just a number. It frames how buyers perceive your home, and in today’s market, perception is everything. With mortgage rates shifting and more properties available than last year, buyers are cautious. They are not just shopping, they are comparing.

First Impressions Drive Interest
Price is one of the first details buyers notice. If it seems too high, they may not even click for photos, let alone schedule a tour.

Buyers Have the Tools
With instant alerts and online valuation resources at their fingertips, buyers are quick to identify homes that feel overpriced. They know the competition, and if your property doesn’t line up, it often gets skipped.

Overpricing Can Slow Momentum
Homes that sit too long on the market tend to lose their shine. Even after a price drop, buyers may question what is wrong with the property. Ironically, this can lead to lower offers than if the home had been priced competitively from the start.

The Power of Strategic Pricing
Setting the right price doesnít mean undercutting your homeís value. It means striking a balance where buyers recognize opportunity and urgency. A well-priced home creates buzz, attracts more interest, and can even spark multiple offers, ultimately driving the sale price higher.

This is where local expertise makes a difference. Understanding neighborhood trends, recent sales, and current buyer demand helps shape a pricing strategy that gives your home the best shot at standing out.

If you are preparing to sell, don’t underestimate the role of price in your success. It is not just about finding a buyer, it is about finding the right buyer at the right price, in the right amount of time.

By starting strong, you give yourself the best chance of walking away with both speed and value on your side.

The National Homebuyer Fund’s Role in National Homeownership Month

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June is National Homeownership Month, a special time to celebrate the dream of owning a home and highlight programs that help make homeownership more attainable. One standout resource for many aspiring homeowners is the National Homebuyer Fund (NHF), an organization dedicated to providing vital financial assistance to low-to-moderate income families striving to buy their first home.

What Is the National Homebuyer Fund?
The NHF is a nonprofit that offers down payment and closing cost assistance to qualified homebuyers. This support often comes in the form of grants or forgivable loans, meaning that recipients may not have to repay the funds if they meet program requirements, making the dream of homeownership more affordable and achievable.

NHF’s assistance programs are typically paired with government-backed loans such as FHA, VA, and USDA loans, which themselves are designed to lower barriers for buyers who might not qualify for conventional mortgages. By combining these programs, the NHF helps bridge the financial gap that often prevents many families from making the leap to homeownership.

Why NHF Is Essential for Aspiring Homeowners
One of the biggest obstacles to buying a home is coming up with the upfront costs—particularly the down payment and closing costs. Even with low-interest rates, these initial expenses can be a significant hurdle. The NHF’s assistance programs directly target this challenge by providing funds that reduce the amount buyers need to bring to the table at closing.

Moreover, the NHF places a strong emphasis on helping first-time buyers and families who otherwise might be overlooked by traditional lending practices. By easing the financial burden, the fund empowers these buyers to build stability, equity, and wealth through homeownership.

Aligning with National Homeownership Month
National Homeownership Month is about more than celebrating—it’s about creating opportunities and removing barriers. The National Homebuyer Fund fits perfectly into this mission. As housing affordability continues to be a pressing issue in many communities, NHF’s support ensures that the path to owning a home is accessible to more families.

Programs like NHF remind us that homeownership is a powerful tool for economic security and community strength. They also highlight the importance of targeted assistance and education to help buyers make informed decisions and succeed long term.

How You Can Benefit or Help Spread the Word
If you’re a prospective buyer, learning about the NHF and how it partners with various loan programs can be a game-changer. Real estate professionals and lenders can also play a crucial role by informing clients about NHF’s resources, helping them apply, and connecting them with homebuyer education programs.

During this month, consider sharing information about the NHF with your network. Whether you’re a buyer, an agent, or a community advocate, spreading awareness can help unlock homeownership for more families.

How HomeReady and Home Possible Open Doors During National Homeownership Month

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June is National Homeownership Month, a time dedicated to celebrating the American dream of homeownership and spotlighting the tools and resources that help make that dream a reality. For millions of aspiring homeowners, especially those with modest incomes, programs like Fannie Mae’s HomeReady® and Freddie Mac’s Home Possible® provide a critical pathway forward.

These two government-backed loan programs are specifically designed to increase access to affordable mortgage options for low-to-moderate income borrowers. In a market where rising home prices and limited inventory can feel discouraging, HomeReady® and Home Possible® are helping more people achieve the stability and wealth-building potential that comes with owning a home.

What Is HomeReady®?
Fannie Mae’s HomeReady® program was created to support creditworthy borrowers who may not meet the typical requirements for a conventional loan. With features like down payments as low as 3%, income flexibility, and homeownership education, HomeReady® is especially helpful for:

  • First-time homebuyers
  • Multigenerational households (co-borrowers who don’t live in the home can help qualify)
  • Borrowers with limited savings

HomeReady® also allows for non-traditional income sources to be considered, which can make a big difference for gig workers or those who supplement their income with part-time jobs or family support.

What Is Home Possible®?
Freddie Mac’s Home Possible® program offers similar benefits with additional flexibility. It’s designed to help low-income borrowers and first-time homebuyers overcome some of the most common barriers to homeownership. Highlights include:

  • Down payment options starting at just 3%
  • Flexible credit requirements
  • Reduced mortgage insurance costs
  • The ability to include rental income (like from a basement apartment) to help qualify

Home Possible® also supports homebuyers in underserved areas, promoting more equitable access to homeownership across diverse communities.

Why These Programs Matter During National Homeownership Month
This month is more than a celebration, it is a call to action. As we continue to face affordability challenges and widening wealth gaps, HomeReady® and Home Possible® represent real, tangible solutions. They align perfectly with the mission of National Homeownership Month by:

  • Expanding access to first-time and underrepresented buyers
  • Promoting education and responsible borrowing
  • Encouraging multigenerational and community-focused homeownership

These programs are proof that responsible, sustainable homeownership is still within reach, even in today’s competitive market.

Helping More Families Say “Yes” to Homeownership
The dream of owning a home shouldn’t be limited by income alone. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac’s initiatives help bridge the gap between renters and homeowners by offering smart, flexible options designed for today’s realities. For real estate professionals, lenders, and community leaders, this month is an opportunity to raise awareness about these programs and help more families step confidently into the next chapter of their lives.

Recognizing the Power of Having a Place to Call Home During Homeownership Month

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June is National Homeownership Month, it is a time to celebrate the American dream of owning a home and to reflect on what homeownership means to individuals, families, and communities. I believe in the power of homeownership to build stability, create generational wealth, and provide a true sense of belonging. Whether you are already a homeowner or still working toward that goal, this month is dedicated to you.

National Homeownership Month was originally recognized as National Homeownership Week in 1995. In 2002, President George W. Bush expanded it to the entire month of June to stress the importance of homeownership and make it more accessible to more Americans. Today, it continues to serve as a reminder of the value of owning a home and the support available to those who aspire to buy one.

Why Homeownership Matters
Owning a home is more than just having a place to live, it is about putting down roots and investing in your future. Homeownership offers financial benefits such as building equity, potential tax advantages, and protection against rising rent costs. The benefits go far beyond finances, a home offers a sense of security, control over your living space, and the freedom to personalize it in ways that reflect your style and values.

Resources and Support Are Available
One of the key goals of National Homeownership Month is to make sure potential buyers know about the resources available to help them along the journey. Organizations like the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the National Association of REALTORS®, and Habitat for Humanity offer valuable guidance, tools, and programs designed to assist first-time buyers, low-income families, and others facing challenges in today’s housing market. We will discuss them more this month.

If you are dreaming of buying a home, this month is the perfect time to explore your options. From down payment assistance programs to affordable financing options, there are many paths to homeownership that might be more within reach than you think.

Local Efforts and How You Can Get Involved
Throughout June, many local communities and real estate professionals host events to promote homeownership, share educational resources, and connect buyers with trusted experts. Whether it is a homebuyer workshop, an open house tour, or one-on-one consultations, these efforts are designed to empower you with knowledge and confidence.

If you have been thinking about making a move, we would love to help guide you through the process and explore your opportunities. National Homeownership Month is more than just a celebration, it is an invitation to take that first (or next) step toward a home you can truly call your own.

Why You Should Think Like a Seller When Buying a Home

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When you are buying a home, you are likely thinking about how it fits your life. Is the kitchen big enough? Does it have a home office? Is the backyard right for pets or kids? But what if I told you that thinking like a seller can make you a smarter buyer?

It might sound backward, but approaching your home search with resale in mind can help you make a better investment, avoid future headaches, and even save you money in the long run.

Here’s why you should always have your future resale value in mind, even on day one:

  1. Location Still Reigns Supreme
    You have heard it before: location, location, location. But when you think like a seller, it becomes more than a slogan, it becomes a strategy. A home in a desirable school district, near major highways, or close to amenities will always attract buyers. Even if you do not have kids or work nearby, buying in a strong location increases your resale power when it’s your turn to sell.
    Ask yourself: Would someone else be just as excited about this location in 5–10 years?
  2. Avoid Over Personalization
    It is easy to fall in love with a home that matches your unique style, but if it is too niche, it might hurt you later. Unusual floor plans, bold wall colors, or highly customized features (think built-in fish tanks or neon accent walls) can turn off future buyers.
    Think like a seller: Could you live here happily and appeal to a wide buyer pool later? Look for a good balance between personalization and neutrality.
  3. Consider the Floor Plan
    Some layouts just do not age well. If a home has odd transitions between rooms, a tiny kitchen, or no flow between living areas, it might be hard to resell. A home with a practical, open, and flexible layout will have broader appeal, and that’s something future buyers will value just as much as you.
    Ask yourself: If I had to sell this home tomorrow, how many people would walk through and love the layout?
  4. Watch for Red Flags
    Thinking like a seller sharpens your eye. You will start noticing things that affect future resale, such as homes next to noisy highways, unusual repairs, or neighborhoods trending in the wrong direction. You will also be more critical of how the home was maintained, because you know what your buyers will notice down the road.
  5. Equity Growth Matters
    Homes in high-demand areas with classic features tend to grow in value. When you think like a seller, you’ll gravitate toward homes that build equity faster. And that means when it’s time for your next move, you’re in a better financial position, whether you are upgrading or downsizing.

You are buying your dream home, but you should always keep your future exit in mind. Think like a seller from the start, and you will buy smarter, negotiate better, and feel more confident that your home will hold its value for years to come.

How to Read Between the Lines in a Real Estate Listing

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When you are scrolling through homes online, it’s easy to get swept away by beautiful photos, catchy descriptions, and enticing phrases like “charming fixer-upper” or “cozy starter home.” But as a real estate agent, let me tell you, there is often more to the story than meets the eye. Learning to read between the lines of a real estate listing can save you time, prevent disappointment, and help you find the right home faster.

Here is how to decode what those listings are really saying:

  1. “Needs TLC” = Bring Your Toolbox
    If you see phrases like “needs TLC,” “great bones,” or “handyman special,” these are polite ways of saying the house needs repairs, possibly a lot of them. These homes might be great investments but be ready for renovation costs and potential surprises during inspections.
  2. “Cozy” or “Charming” = Small
    These words aren’t necessarily red flags, but they’re often code for smaller square footage. “Cozy” may sound inviting, but it could mean tight living quarters. Always check the actual square footage listed and compare it to your space needs.
  3. “As-Is” = Seller Will Not Fix Anything
    When a home is listed “as-is,” the seller is letting you know they will not be making repairs, even if your inspection reveals issues. This does not mean it is a bad deal, but it does mean you will need to go in with eyes wide open and budget for potential fixes.
  4. “Up-and-Coming Area” = Not Quite There Yet
    This phrase is commonly used to describe neighborhoods in transition. It might mean you will get a great deal now, but there could be noise, construction, or limited amenities nearby. It’s smart to visit the area at different times of day and ask your agent about future development plans.
  5. “Priced to Sell” = Motivated Seller or Overpriced?
    This can go either way. Sometimes “priced to sell” means the home is competitively priced to attract quick offers. Other times, it may mean the seller is testing the market at a higher price and looking for the best possible deal. A good agent will help you run comps to know for sure.
  6. “Natural Landscaping” = Might Be Overgrown
    While some buyers love wild, eco-friendly yards, phrases like “natural landscaping” or “low-maintenance yard” might really mean there is no grass, and the weeds have taken over. Take a close look at the outdoor photos, or better yet, visit in person.
  7. Photos That Focus on Decor
    If a listing shows more close-ups of throw pillows than the actual layout of the home, it may be hiding something. Pay attention to what is not shown, like missing shots of a bathroom or basement.

Reading between the lines is an art. That is why working with an experienced real estate agent is so important. I’m here to help you translate the language of listings, spot red flags early, and find the home that’s truly the right fit for you, not just the one with the prettiest pictures. Have questions or need help reading between the lines? Give me a call!

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06/05/2025

When you are buying a home, you are likely thinking about how it fits your life. Is the kitchen big enough? Does it have a home office? Is the backyard right for pets or kids? But what if I told you that thinking like a seller can make you a smarter buyer?

It might sound backward, but approaching your home search with resale in mind can help you make a better investment, avoid future headaches, and even save you money in the long run.

Here’s why you should always have your future resale value in mind, even on day one:

  1. Location Still Reigns Supreme
    You have heard it before: location, location, location. But when you think like a seller, it becomes more than a slogan, it becomes a strategy. A home in a desirable school district, near major highways, or close to amenities will always attract buyers. Even if you do not have kids or work nearby, buying in a strong location increases your resale power when it’s your turn to sell.
    Ask yourself: Would someone else be just as excited about this location in 5–10 years?
  2. Avoid Over Personalization
    It is easy to fall in love with a home that matches your unique style, but if it is too niche, it might hurt you later. Unusual floor plans, bold wall colors, or highly customized features (think built-in fish tanks or neon accent walls) can turn off future buyers.
    Think like a seller: Could you live here happily and appeal to a wide buyer pool later? Look for a good balance between personalization and neutrality.
  3. Consider the Floor Plan
    Some layouts just do not age well. If a home has odd transitions between rooms, a tiny kitchen, or no flow between living areas, it might be hard to resell. A home with a practical, open, and flexible layout will have broader appeal, and that’s something future buyers will value just as much as you.
    Ask yourself: If I had to sell this home tomorrow, how many people would walk through and love the layout?
  4. Watch for Red Flags
    Thinking like a seller sharpens your eye. You will start noticing things that affect future resale, such as homes next to noisy highways, unusual repairs, or neighborhoods trending in the wrong direction. You will also be more critical of how the home was maintained, because you know what your buyers will notice down the road.
  5. Equity Growth Matters
    Homes in high-demand areas with classic features tend to grow in value. When you think like a seller, you’ll gravitate toward homes that build equity faster. And that means when it’s time for your next move, you’re in a better financial position, whether you are upgrading or downsizing.

You are buying your dream home, but you should always keep your future exit in mind. Think like a seller from the start, and you will buy smarter, negotiate better, and feel more confident that your home will hold its value for years to come.

Getting Approval for a Short Sale

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If you are struggling to make your mortgage payments and facing the possibility of foreclosure, you’re not alone and you are not out of options. One path worth considering is a short sale, which can help you avoid the long-term impact of a foreclosure on your credit report.

As a mortgage originator, I have helped many homeowners navigate this process.

A short sale occurs when your lender agrees to accept less than the full amount owed on your mortgage to settle the debt. In this scenario, you sell your home for less than the remaining balance on your loan, and the bank forgives the difference or negotiates terms for repayment.

Not all lenders will agree to a short sale, but many do if they believe it’s a better alternative to foreclosure. It requires careful negotiation and solid documentation, but it can be done with the right guidance.

The first and most important step is open communication. Contact your lender and explain your financial hardship. Whether it’s due to job loss, medical issues, divorce, or another major life change, your lender will need a clear understanding of why you’re unable to make your mortgage payments.

They may request documentation such as:

  • Recent pay stubs or proof of unemployment
  • Bank statements
  • Tax returns
  • A hardship letter explaining your situation

Once your hardship is established, your lender will need a detailed look at your financial situation. This may include:

  • Your monthly income and expenses
  • Outstanding debts
  • Assets like savings, investments, or additional property

They want to be sure you’re genuinely unable to continue paying before considering a short sale.

Once your lender gives you preliminary approval to pursue a short sale, you’ll need to work with a knowledgeable real estate agent. They will help you:

  • Prepare a comparative market analysis
  • Submit a preliminary net sheet to the lender
  • List the property and negotiate with potential buyers

After you receive an offer, the lender will review the full package, including the offer price and the listing agreement, before giving final approval.

A short sale may not be ideal, but it’s often a less damaging alternative to foreclosure. It can help you:

  • Avoid a foreclosure judgment
  • Begin repairing your credit sooner
  • Possibly qualify for a future mortgage more quickly

Struggling with your mortgage and unsure what to do next? Let’s talk about whether a short sale is the right move for your situation. I can guide you through the process step-by-step.

Reach out today and let’s find the right solution together.

How to Stage a Home Without Furniture Using Creative Tricks with Lighting, Scent, and Small Details

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Selling a home without furniture can be challenging. Empty rooms can feel cold, echoey, and impersonal, making it difficult for buyers to picture themselves living there. While full-scale staging can work wonders, it’s not always in the budget or timeline. The good news? You can create warmth, character, and connection using a few simple tricks.

Here is how to make a vacant house feel like a welcoming home, no furniture required.

1. Start with Lighting That Speaks
Nothing makes a home feel empty faster than dim, harsh, or unflattering lightning. Good lighting instantly boosts warmth and comfort.

  • Replace outdated or dark bulbs with soft white LED lights that mimic natural daylight.
  • Use plug-in lamps with timers to add a cozy glow in key rooms like the living room, primary bedroom, or entryway.
  • Consider motion-sensor lights in closets or bathrooms for a little wow factor.
    Even inexpensive string lights in a vase or lantern can brighten corners and create ambiance in photos and showings.

2. Let the Scent Set the Mood
Buyers rely on more than just visuals, they feel a space through all their senses. Scent is a powerful memory trigger and can make your home more inviting.

  • Use plug-in air fresheners or essential oil diffusers with subtle, fresh scents like citrus, linen, or vanilla.
  • Avoid heavy florals or anything too overpowering. The goal is clean, not overwhelming.
  • A strategically timed batch of cookies or a warm vanilla scent before an open house can create a comforting, lived-in vibe.

Just be sure to avoid masking odors; clean first, then layer on light scent.

3. Add Life with Small Touches
Furniture may be gone, but that doesn’t mean the home should feel lifeless. Small details make all the difference:

  • Place a decorative bowl of faux lemons or apples on the kitchen counter.
  • Hang plush towels in the bathroom and consider staging a bar of soap or small hand lotion on the counter.
  • Use a simple doormat at the front door with a welcoming message.
  • Hang neutral artwork or framed mirrors to give walls some personality.
  • Leave one or two houseplants or faux greenery touches throughout, especially in corners that otherwise feel bare.

These finishing touches bring life and color without the cost of full staging.

4. Use Rugs to Define Space
Even without furniture, area rugs can define and warm up a space. They visually anchor rooms and help buyers imagine where their own furniture could go.
A soft rug in the living area or under a pendant light can give shape to a room’s layout and reduce echo.

5. Don’t Forget Curb Appeal
The exterior is the first impression, do not neglect it. Clean walkways, trim bushes, add a fresh doormat, and consider a potted plant or seasonal wreath. An empty house still needs to look loved.

An empty house doesn’t have to feel empty. With a few affordable touches, lighting, scent, and strategic details you can turn a vacant property into a welcoming home that connects with buyers emotionally.

If you’re preparing to sell and want expert advice on showcasing your home, we’d love to help you make the most of what you already have.

Understanding the Process of Selling a Home Through a Power of Attorney

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What Is a Power of Attorney in Real Estate?
Selling a home involves a lot of paperwork, legal decisions, and sometimes even travel. But what happens when a homeowner isn’t able to handle those responsibilities themselves? That’s where a Power of Attorney (POA) can come into play. A POA is a legal document that gives another person the authority to act on someone else’s behalf in legal or financial matters—such as selling a home.

This can be incredibly useful for homeowners who are elderly, ill, out of the country, or otherwise unavailable to manage the real estate transaction personally. The person granted this authority is called the “agent” or “attorney-in-fact,” and their role is to carry out the sale as if they were the homeowner.

When and Why You Might Use It
There are a variety of situations where selling a home through a Power of Attorney makes sense. For example, if a homeowner is in a hospital or nursing facility and cannot physically attend meetings or sign documents, their agent can handle the sale. Military personnel stationed overseas often use POAs to allow a trusted family member or friend to manage their property back home. It’s also helpful for homeowners relocating for work who need someone else to handle the sale while they transition.

How the Process Works
The first step is creating the Power of Attorney document, which must be signed and notarized according to your state’s legal requirements. It’s crucial to ensure that the POA specifically includes the authority to sell real estate. Some POAs are general and cover broad financial matters, while others are limited to real estate transactions.

Once the POA is in place, the agent can list the property, sign contracts, and attend the closing on behalf of the homeowner. However, most title companies and lenders will require a copy of the POA in advance to review its validity, and some may require it to be recorded with the county before closing.

Important Considerations
It’s important to remember that the agent under a POA has a legal and ethical duty to act in the best interests of the homeowner. Misuse of a Power of Attorney can lead to serious legal consequences. For this reason, the homeowner should only grant this power to someone they fully trust.

Additionally, not all POAs are accepted in every real estate situation. Some title companies or lenders may have specific language or requirements, so it’s a good idea to work with a knowledgeable real estate agent and attorney to make sure everything is set up correctly.

Using a Power of Attorney to sell a home can make the process much smoother for homeowners who are unavailable or unable to manage the sale themselves. With proper planning, clear documentation, and a trusted representative, a POA ensures the transaction moves forward smoothly, even in challenging circumstances.