Dealing with real estate requires a commitment to staying aware of the ever-changing market. This week, we learned a few tidbits that we’d like to share.

1. Don’t Assume Your Water is Good

The water supply in Flint, Michigan, has been found to contain high levels of lead, and a study by the Natural Resources Defense Council found that 19 other American cities are experiencing issues with high contaminant levels. This is due to old plumbing, so consider having the water tested if you plan on buying an older home.

2. Playrooms are Big Sellers

Those planning to sell their home will find that a nice playroom for the children is currently one of the most sought-after features. Millennial buyers tend to want everyone in the family to enjoy their own special space.

3. All Home Smart Devices Aren’t Created Equal

The Nest Thermostat is a popular home feature that allows you to monitor more than just your temperature when you’re away from home, but a Princeton University study has shown that the device is leaking information online that could compromise your security. Smart devices using encrypted data are safer.

4. Delays in Real Estate Transactions

The National Association of Realtors just did a survey that confirms that as many as one in three real estate deals are delayed by such issues as financing problems, difficult appraisals and odd findings during the home inspection. However, careful planning and a good agent can help you avoid these problems.