Well 2025 is certainly making an entrance. Below are some headlines you may have missed this week. Also, if you’re interested in single family home real estate, be sure to check out my interview with Sean O’Dowd below. Have a blessed week!

Today marks both the third day of 2025 and the 10th day of Christmas— for me, it’s a reminder that while the world has moved on from the holiday rush, we’re still in a season of celebrating Christ’s birth and the hope He brings. Peace be with each of you as we journey through this new year!

Merry Christmas! Commercially, this appears to be a strong year. Retail sales rose by 3.8% including an increase of 2.9% for in-store sales over 2023. Interestingly, it seems to have been largely driven by deal-seekers and promotions (link). May the Lord bless and keep each of you during this joyful season!

Did you know that 30% of all annual giving occurs in December with 10% occurring in the final three days of the year (link)? It’s a great time to be generous. May the hope of Christ be with each of you as we enter these final days before celebrating His blessed birth!

Can private investments work in retirement accounts? Learn more in the 30 Second Tool below on self-directed IRAs. Just a few days left “preparing the way of the Lord.” May God bless you all!

I hope you are all well this holiday season! We’ve refined the newsletter layout to put what YOU want right at your fingertips. Explore the new format and let us know what you think. Have a blessed weekend!