Experts Project Home Prices Will Increase in 2024
Even though home prices are going up nationally, some people are still worried they might come down. In fact, a recent survey from Fannie Mae found that 24% of people think home prices will actually decline over the next 12 months. That means almost one out of every four people are dealing with that fear, and you might be, too.To help ease that concern, here's what experts forecast will happen with prices this year.Experts Project a Modest IncreaseCheck out the latest home price forecasts from eight different sources (see graph below):The blue bar on the left means, on average, experts think home prices will go up over 2% by the end of this year – not down.Prices aren’t likely to depreciate in 2024 because inventory is still tight and lower mortgage rates are leading to strong buyer demand. Those two factors will keep pushing prices up as the year goes on. As Selma Hepp, Chief Economist at CoreLogic, explains:“With mortgage rates dropping, demand for homes in early 2024 is likely to be strong and will again put pressure on prices, similar to trends observed in early 2023 . . . Most markets will continue to reach new home price highs over the course of 2024.”What Does This Mean for You?Experts are saying home prices will go up this year, and that's good news if you're thinking about buying a home. When you become a homeowner, you want the value of your house to go up. That appreciation is what builds equity and makes homeownership such a good investment over time. Beyond that, expected home price appreciation also means if you’re ready, willing, and able to buy, waiting just means it will cost more later. Bottom LineIf you're worried home prices will come down, don’t be. Many experts believe they’ll actually go up this year. If you have questions or worries about what’s happening with prices in your area, it's a good idea to talk to a real estate agent.
Read More3 Must-Do’s When Selling Your House in 2024
If one of the goals on your list is selling your house and making a move this year, you’re likely juggling a mix of excitement about what’s ahead and feeling a little sentimental about your current home.A great way to balance those emotions and make sure you’re confident in your decision is to keep these three best practices in mind when you’re ready to sell.1. Price Your Home Right The housing market shifted in 2023 as mortgage rates rose and home price appreciation started to normalize once again. As a seller, you still need to recognize how important it is to price your house appropriately based on where the market is today. Hannah Jones, Economic Research Analyst for Realtor.com, explains:“Sellers need to become familiar with their local market and work closely with a local agent to make sure their listing is attractive to buyers. Buyers feeling the pressure of affordability are likely to be pickier, so a well-priced, well-maintained home is the ticket to drumming up big demand.”If you price your house too high, you run the risk of deterring buyers. And if you go too low, you’re leaving money on the table. An experienced real estate agent can help determine what your ideal asking price should be, so your house moves quickly and for top dollar.2. Keep Your Emotions in CheckToday, homeowners are staying in their houses longer than they used to. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), since 1985, the average time a homeowner has owned their home has increased from 6 to 10 years (see graph below): This is much more than what used to be the norm. The side effect, however, is when you stay in one place for so long, you may get even more emotionally attached to your space. If it’s the first home you bought or the house where your loved ones grew up, it very likely means something extra special to you. Every room has memories, and it’s hard to detach from the sentimental value.For some homeowners, that makes it even tougher to separate the emotional value of the house from fair market price. That’s why you need a real estate professional to help you with the negotiations and the best pricing strategy along the way. Trust the professionals who have your best interests in mind.3. Stage Your Home Properly While you may love your decor and how you’ve customized your house over the years, not all buyers will feel the same way about your vibe. That’s why it’s so important to make sure you focus on your home’s first impression, so it appeals to as many buyers as possible. Buyers want to be able to picture themselves in the home. They need to see themselves inside with their furniture and keepsakes – not your pictures and decorations. As Jessica Lautz, Deputy Chief Economist and Vice President of Research at NAR, says:“Buyers want to easily envision themselves within a new home and home staging is a way to showcase the property in its best light.”A real estate professional can help you with expertise on getting your house ready to sell.Bottom LineIf you’re considering selling your house, reach out to a local real estate professional to help you navigate the process while prioritizing these must-do’s.
Read More2 Reasons Why Today’s Mortgage Rate Trend Is Good for Sellers
If you’ve been holding off on selling your house to make a move because you felt mortgage rates were too high, their recent downward trend is exciting news for you. Mortgage rates have descended since last October when they hit 7.79%. In fact, they’ve been below 7% for over a month now (see graph below):And while they’re not going back to the 3% we saw during the ‘unicorn’ years, they are expected to continue to go down from where they are now in the near future. As Dean Baker, Senior Economist at the Center for Economic Research, explains:“It also appears that mortgage rates are now falling again. They will almost certainly not fall to pandemic lows, although we may soon see rates under 6.0 percent, which would be low by pre-Great Recession standards.”Here are two reasons why this recent trend, and the expectation it’ll continue, is such good news for you.You May Not Feel as Locked-In to Your Current Mortgage RateWith mortgage rates already significantly lower than they were just a few months ago, you may feel less locked-in to the current mortgage rate you have on your house. When mortgage rates were higher, moving to a new home meant possibly trading in a low rate for one up near 8%.However, with rates dropping, the difference between your current mortgage rate and the new rate you’d be taking on isn’t as big as it was. That makes moving more affordable than it was just a few months ago. As Lance Lambert, Founder of ResiClub, explains:“We might be at peak “lock-in effect.” Some move-up or lifestyle sellers might be coming to terms with the fact 3% and 4% mortgage rates aren’t returning anytime soon.”More Buyers Will Be Coming to the MarketAccording to data from Bright MLS, the top reason buyers have been waiting to take the plunge into homeownership is high mortgage rates (see graph below):Lower mortgage rates mean buyers can potentially save money on their home loans, making the prospect of purchasing a home more attractive and affordable. Now that rates are easing, more buyers are likely to feel they’re ready to jump back into the market and make their move. And more buyers mean more demand for your house.Bottom LineIf you’ve been waiting to sell because you didn’t want to take on a larger mortgage rate or you thought buyers weren’t out there, the recent decline in mortgage rates may be your sign it’s time to make your move. When you’re ready, connect with a local real estate agent.
Read MoreReal Estate Insights - Monthly Newsletter
Here is a link to our latest copy of Real Estate Insights, the Armstrong Field Real Estate Newsletter. It contains some interesting facts about real estate, plus a new column called Jim's Journeys, about traveling to different places. What's that got to do with real estate? Absolutely nothing, but this is my newsletter and I like to share my travel experiences with other people. I hope you enjoy it. https://www.canva.com/design/DAFyHN5U7nA/jOT2-oVEUEl7ESrwhTy9hA/view?lofty Please let me know if I can help you in any way related to real estate - buying, selling, etc. Jim
Read MoreThings To Consider If Your House Didn’t Sell
If your listing has expired and your house didn’t sell, it's completely normal to feel a mix of frustration and disappointment. Understandably, you're probably wondering what may have gone wrong. Here are three questions to think about as you figure out what to do next.Did You Limit Access to Your House?One of the biggest mistakes you can make when selling your house is restricting the days and times when potential buyers can tour it. Being flexible with your schedule is important, even though it might feel a bit stressful to drop everything and leave when buyers want to see it. After all, minimal access means minimal exposure to buyers. ShowingTime advises:“. . . do your best to be as flexible as possible when granting access to your house for showings.”Sometimes, the most determined buyers might come from far away. Since they’re traveling to see your house, they may not be able to change their plans easily if you only offer limited times for showings. So, try to make your house available as much as you can to accommodate them. It's simple – if no one’s able to look at it, how will it sell?Did You Make Your House Stand Out?When you're selling your house, the old saying matters: you never get a second chance to make a first impression. Putting in the work to make the exterior of your home look nice is just as important as how you stage it inside. Freshen up your landscaping to boost your home’s curb appeal so you can make an impact upfront. As an article from U.S. News says:“After all, if people drive by, but aren’t interested enough to walk through the front door, you’ll never sell your house.”But don’t let that impact stop at the front door. By removing personal items and reducing clutter inside, you give buyers more freedom to picture themselves in the home. Plus, a fresh coat of paint or thorough floor cleaning can work wonders in sprucing up the house for potential buyers.Did You Price Your House at Market Value?Setting the right price is key. While it might be tempting to push the price higher to maximize your profit, overpricing your house can actually turn off potential buyers and slow down the selling process. Forbes notes:“Pricing a home too high could lead to a slower sale or force the seller to drop their price.”If your house is priced higher than others like it, it may discourage buyers, resulting in increased time on the market. Pay attention to the feedback people give your agent during open houses and showings. If lots of people are saying the same thing, it might be a good idea to think about lowering the price.For all these insights and more, rely on a trusted real estate agent. A great agent will offer expert advice on relisting your house with effective strategies to get it sold.Bottom LineIt’s natural to feel disappointed when your listing has expired and your house didn’t sell. Connect with a reliable real estate agent to determine what happened, and what changes you should make to get your house back on the market.
Read MoreThe Benefits of Working With an Agent When You Sell Your House [INFOGRAPHIC]
Some HighlightsWhen it comes to selling your house, the expertise of a trusted real estate agent can make a big difference.They’ll explain what’s happening today, what that means for you, and how to price and market your house. They’re also skilled negotiators and well versed in the contracts and disclosures involved. Partner with a trusted real estate professional so you have expert advice throughout the entire process.
Read MoreRetiring Soon? Why Moving Might Be the Perfect Next Step
If you’re thinking about retirement or have already retired this year, it’s a good time to consider if your current house is still a good fit for the next chapter in your life.Fortunately, you may be in a better position to make a move than you realize. Here are a few things to think about as you decide whether or not to sell and make a move.How Long You’ve Been in Your HomeFrom 1985 to 2008, the average length of time homeowners typically stayed in their homes was only six years. But according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), that number is rising today, meaning many homeowners are living in their houses even longer (see graph below):When you live in a home for a significant period of time, it’s natural for you to experience a number of changes in your life while you’re in that house. As those life changes and milestones happen, your needs may change. And if your current home no longer meets them, you may have better options waiting for you.How Much Equity You’ve GainedAdditionally, if you’ve been in your house for more than a few years, you’ve likely built-up significant equity that can fuel your next move. That’s because the longer you’ve been in your house, the more likely it’s grown in value due to home price appreciation. Data from the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) illustrates that point (see graph below):While home price growth varies by state and local area, the national average shows the typical homeowner who’s been in their house for five years saw it increase in value by nearly 60%. And the average homeowner who’s owned their home since 1991 saw it more than triple in value over that time.Consider Your Retirement GoalsWhether you're looking to downsize, relocate to a dream destination, or simply be closer to loved ones, your home equity can be a key to realizing your homeownership goals. NAR shares that for recent home sellers, the primary reason to move was to be closer to loved ones.Whatever your home goals are, a trusted real estate agent can work with you to find the best option. They’ll help you sell your current house and guide you through buying the home that’s right for your lifestyle today.Bottom LineRetirement can bring about major changes in your life, including what you need from your home. Connect with a local real estate agent to explore the available homes in your area.
Read MoreGet Your House Ready To Sell This Winter [INFOGRAPHIC]
Some HighlightsAs you get ready to sell your house, there are a few things you should add to your to-do list to make it inviting and boost curb appeal.To name just a couple, it’s a good idea to declutter, take down personal photos and items, touch up any scuffs on the walls, and tidy up your landscaping.Let’s connect so you have advice on what else you may want to do to get your house ready to sell this season.
Read MoreSell Smarter: Why Working with a Real Estate Agent May Beat Going Solo
If you're thinking about selling your house on your own, called “For Sale by Owner” or FSBO, there are some important things to consider. Going this route means taking on a lot of responsibilities by yourself – and that can be a bit of a headache.A recent report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) found two of the most difficult tasks for people who sell their house on their own are getting the price right and understanding and performing paperwork.Here are just a few of the ways an agent helps with those difficult tasks.Getting the Price RightSetting the right price for your house is important when you're trying to sell it. If you're selling your house on your own, two common issues can happen. For starters, you might ask for too much money (overpricing). Alternatively, you might not ask for enough (underpricing). Either can make it hard to sell your house. According to NerdWallet:“When selling a home, first impressions matter. Your house’s market debut is your first chance to attract a buyer and it’s important to get the pricing right. If your home is overpriced, you run the risk of buyers not seeing the listing. . . . But price your house too low and you could end up leaving some serious money on the table. A bargain-basement price could also turn some buyers away, as they may wonder if there are any underlying problems with the house.”To avoid these problems, it's a good idea to team up with a real estate agent. Real estate agents know how to figure out the perfect price because they understand the local housing market. They can use their expertise to set a price that matches what buyers are willing to pay, giving your house the best chance to impress from the start.Understanding and Performing PaperworkSelling a house involves a bunch of paperwork and legal documentation that has to be just right. There are a lot of rules and regulations to follow, making it a bit tricky for homeowners to manage everything on their own. Without a pro by your side, you could end up facing liability risks and legal complications.Real estate agents are experts in all the contracts and paperwork needed for selling a house. They know the rules and can guide you through it all, reducing the chance of mistakes that might lead to legal problems or delays.So, instead of dealing with the growing pile of documents on your own, team up with an agent who can be your advisor, helping you avoid any legal bumps in the road.Bottom LineSelling your house is a big deal, and it can be complicated. Having a real estate agent can make a huge difference with setting the right price and managing all the details, so you can sell confidently. Connect with a local real estate agent to make the process smooth and take the stress off your plate.
Read MoreSelling Your Home Just After New Year's Day
As the new year commences, many homeowners contemplate whether or not it is the right time to sell their homes. While the spring and summer months are typically associated with increased real estate activity, there are several benefits to selling a home just after January 1st. In this blog post, we will explore why sellers should consider taking advantage of this opportune time in the market. One of the main advantages of selling a home early in the year is the reduced competition. Many homeowners tend to wait until the warmer months to list their properties, resulting in a flood of new listings. By choosing to sell just after January 1st, you can stand out in a less crowded market. With fewer homes available, potential buyers may be more inclined to view your property and make an offer, increasing your chances of a successful sale. Moreover, selling a home early in the year often attracts serious buyers. These individuals are often motivated by various factors, such as relocating for work or wanting to settle into a new home before the summer months. By targeting this specific group of buyers, you are more likely to receive offers from individuals who are ready to act quickly and close the deal. Another benefit of selling a home just after the new year is the increased online activity. As people return to their regular routines after the holiday season, they tend to spend more time browsing online platforms. This surge in online activity can work to your advantage as a seller, as listing your property during this time can lead to increased exposure and more potential buyers viewing your listing. Additionally, selling early in the year allows you to take advantage of the latest market updates. As a seller, being aware of current market conditions is crucial in setting the right price for your home. By consulting with a real estate agent who can provide you with up-to-date information on market trends, you can make informed decisions about pricing your property competitively. By doing so, you position yourself to attract serious buyers who recognize the value of your home in relation to market conditions. Lastly, selling a home just after January 1st allows you to showcase your property in a fresh light. By taking advantage of the post-holiday season, you can easily stage your home to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for potential buyers. Removing holiday decorations and tidying up any clutter can help buyers envision themselves living in the space, increasing their chances of receiving offers. In conclusion, selling a home just after the new year can be a strategic move for homeowners looking to maximize their chances of a successful sale. From reduced competition and increased online activity to attracting serious buyers and utilizing market updates, there are numerous benefits to listing your property during this time. By partnering with a knowledgeable real estate agent and effectively showcasing your home, you can take advantage of the opportunities presented in the market and sell your home with confidence. Jim Armstrong, BrokerArmstrong Field Real Estate
Read MoreWhy Mortgage Rates Could Continue To Decline
When you read about the housing market, you’ll probably come across some information about inflation or recent decisions made by the Federal Reserve (the Fed). But how do those two things impact you and your homebuying plans? Here's what you need to know.The Federal Funds Rate Hikes Have StalledOne of the Fed’s primary goals is to lower inflation. In order to do that, they started raising the Federal Funds Rate to slow down the economy. Even though this doesn’t directly dictate what happens with mortgage rates, it does have an impact.Recently inflation has started to cool, a signal those increases worked and are bringing inflation back down. As a result, the Fed’s hikes have gotten smaller and less frequent. In fact, there haven’t been any increases since July (see graph below):And not only has the Fed decided not to raise the Federal Funds Rate the last three times the committee met, they’ve signaled there may actually be rate cuts coming in 2024. According to the New York Times (NYT):“Federal Reserve officials left interest rates unchanged in their final policy decision of 2023 and forecast that they will cut borrowing costs three times in the coming year, a sign that the central bank is shifting toward the next phase in its fight against rapid inflation.”This indicates the Fed thinks the economy and inflation are improving. Why does that matter to you and your plans to buy a home? It could end up leading to lower mortgage rates and improved affordability.Mortgage Rates Are Coming DownMortgage rates are influenced by a wide variety of factors, and inflation and the Fed’s actions (or as has been the case recently, inaction) play a big role. Now that the Fed has paused the increases, it looks more likely mortgage rates will continue their downward trend (see graph below): Although mortgage rates may remain volatile, their recent trend combined with expert forecasts indicate they could continue to go down in 2024. That would improve affordability for buyers and make it easier for sellers to move since they won’t feel as locked-in to their current, low mortgage rate.Bottom LineThe Fed’s decisions have an indirect impact on mortgage rates. By not raising the Federal Funds Rate, mortgage rates are likely to continue declining. Rely on a trustworthy real estate expert to give you expert advice about changes in the housing market and how they affect you.
Read MoreWhy Now Is Still a Great Time To Sell Your House
If you were worried buyer demand disappeared when mortgage rates went up, the data shows there are plenty of interested buyers still out there. The housing market isn't as frenzied as it was during the ‘unicorn’ years when buyer demand was through the roof, mortgage rates were historically low, and home values rose like we’ve never seen before. But that doesn’t mean the market is at a standstill.Nationally, demand is still high compared to the last normal years in the housing market and plenty of buyers are making moves right now. Here’s the data to prove it.Showing Traffic Is UpThe ShowingTime Showing Index is a measure of how frequently buyers are touring homes. The graph below uses that index to show buyer activity over the past eight Octobers: In the graph, the ‘unicorn’ years are shown in pink. You can see demand has dipped some since then. That’s in response to higher mortgage rates. But, when you compare 2023 to the blue bars on the left that represent the last normal years in the market (2018-2019), you can tell buyers are still more active than the norm.But showing traffic isn’t the only way to see buyer demand is still high. The number of offers other sellers are getting and the average days homes are on the market tell the same story.Sellers Are Still Seeing Multiple OffersAccording to the latest data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), sellers are receiving an average of 2.5 offers on their houses. Let’s look at how that compares to recent years (see graph below): It’s true that’s fewer than the number of offers sellers were receiving during the ‘unicorn’ years (shown in pink). But compared to last year, the number is up slightly. And it’s higher than it was in the more normal, pre-‘unicorn’ years in the housing market too.Homes Priced Right Are Selling FastAnd it’s not just that sellers are still typically getting multiple offers more than the norm, they’re also seeing their homes sell fast. That’s a direct result of strong buyer demand. According to Zillow:“. . . low inventory levels are spurring surprisingly strong competition . . . demand has remained resilient, and attractive, appropriately priced listings are moving quickly.”To help showcase that homes for sale are still going quickly, let’s look at data from NAR on the median days on market for this same time of year from 2018 through now (see graph below): As the graph shows, this year homes are sitting on the market only slightly longer than they were during the frenzy of the ‘unicorn’ years. And compared to the last normal years in the market, homes are still selling much faster than they did back then. That’s good news for sellers because it means there are eager buyers out there right now.Bottom LineYou haven't missed your chance to sell at a time when sellers are receiving multiple offers, and homes are selling fast. When you’re ready to sell your house, connect with a local real estate agent to get the ball rolling.
Read MoreIf Your House Hasn’t Sold Yet, It May Be Overpriced
Has your house been sitting on the market a while without selling? If so, you should know that’s pretty unusual, especially right now. That’s because the supply of homes available for sale is still far lower than what we’d see in a normal year. That means buyers have fewer options than they usually would, so your house should be an oasis in an inventory desert.So, if homebuyers have limited choices and your house still hasn’t sold, there’s a reason why. Let’s break one potential sticking point that may be turning buyers away: your asking price.Especially with today’s higher mortgage rates already putting a stretch on their budget, buyers are being a bit more sensitive about price. As a recent article from the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) says:“If you are serious about selling your home now, don’t get greedy with the asking price. This is still a seller’s home market as there simply aren’t enough affordable homes for sale in many parts of the country. But with average 30-year mortgage rates above 6%, buyers are much more price-sensitive than they were a year ago.”Why Setting the Right Price MattersWhile you want to maximize the return on your investment when you sell your house, you also need to be realistic based on current market conditions. The simple truth is your house is only going to sell for what people are willing to pay right now.This can be a hard thing to accept. Especially since emotions can run high during the selling process, which only complicates matters more. After all, you may have lived in this house for years, so it’s only natural you’re emotionally tied to it – and those heartstrings can make it harder to be objective. But it’s important to acknowledge that a bigger-than-expected price tag deters buyers and may make them dismiss your house as a possibility before even seeing it. And if no one’s looking at it, how will it sell?If you want to get your house sold, you’ll need to do something to spark interest in your home again. That’s where a local real estate agent comes in. They’ll help use data to find out if it’s priced too high for your local market. They balance the value of homes in your neighborhood, current market trends and buyer demand, the condition of your house, and more to find the right price for your house, so you can close this chapter and start your next one.Bottom LineWhile it’s true there aren’t that many homes available for sale right now, your home’s asking price still matters. And, if it’s not selling, it may be priced too high.
Read MoreThe Surprising Trend in the Number of Homes Coming onto the Market
If you're thinking about moving, it's important to know what's happening in the housing market. Here's an update on the supply of homes currently for sale. Whether you're buying or selling, the number of homes in your area is something you should pay attention to.In the housing market, there are regular patterns that happen every year, called seasonality. Spring is the peak homebuying season and also when the most homes are typically listed for sale (homes coming onto the market are known in the industry as new listings). In the second half of each year, the number of new listings typically decreases as the pace of sales slows down.The graph below uses data from Realtor.com to provide a visual of this seasonality. It shows how this year (the black line) is breaking from the norm (see graph below):Looking at this graph, three things become clear:2017-2019 (the blue and gray lines) follow the same general pattern. These years were very typical in the housing market and their lines on the graph show normal, seasonal trends.Starting in 2020, the data broke from the normal trend. The big drop down in 2020 (the orange line) signals when the pandemic hit and many sellers paused their plans to move. 2021 (the green line) and 2022 (the red line) follow the normal trend a bit more, but still are abnormal in their own ways.This year (the black line) is truly unique. The steep drop off in new listings that usually occurs this time of year hasn’t happened. If 2023 followed the norm, the line representing this year would look more like the dotted black line. Instead, what’s happening is the number of new listings is stabilizing. And, there are even more new listings coming to the market this year compared to the same time last year.What Does This Mean for You?For buyers, new listings stabilizing is a positive sign. It means you have a more steady stream of options coming onto the market and more choices for your next home than you would have at the same time last year. This opens up possibilities and allows you to explore a variety of homes that suit your needs.For sellers, while new listings are breaking seasonal norms, inventory is still well below where it was before the pandemic. If you look again at the graph, you’ll see the black line for this year is still lower than normal, meaning inventory isn’t going up dramatically and prices aren’t heading for a crash. And with less competition from other sellers than you’d see in a more typical year, your house has a better chance to be in the spotlight and attract eager buyers.Bottom LineWhether you're on the hunt for your next home or thinking of selling, now might just be the perfect time to make your move. If you have questions or concerns about the availability of homes in your local area, connect with a real estate agent.
Read MoreWhen You Sell Your House, Where Do You Plan To Go?
If you’re thinking about selling your house, you may have heard the supply of homes for sale is still low, and that means your house should stand out to buyers who are craving more options. But you may also be wondering, once you sell, how does the current supply impact your own move? And, will you be able to find a home you want to buy with inventory this low?One thing that can help you find your next home is exploring all your options, including both homes that have been lived in before as well as newly built ones. Let’s look at the benefits of each one.The Pros of Newly Built HomesFirst, let’s look at the advantages of purchasing a newly constructed home. With a brand-new home, you’ll be able to:Create your perfect home. If you build a home from the ground up, you’ll have the option to select the custom features you want, including appliances, finishes, landscaping, layout, and more.Cash-in on energy efficiency. When building a home, you can choose energy-efficient options to help lower your utility costs and reduce your carbon footprint.Minimize the need for repairs. Many builders offer a warranty, so you’ll have peace of mind on unlikely repairs. Plus, you won’t have as many little projects to tackle.Have brand new everything. Another perk of a new home is that nothing in the house is used. It’s all brand new and uniquely yours from day one.The Pros of Existing HomesNow, let’s compare that to the perks that come with buying an existing home. With a pre-existing home, you can:Explore a wider variety of home styles and floorplans. With decades of homes to choose from, you’ll have a broader range of floorplans and designs available.Join an established neighborhood. Existing homes give you the option to get to know the neighborhood, community, or traffic patterns before you commit.Enjoy mature trees and landscaping. Established neighborhoods also have more developed landscaping and trees, which can give you additional privacy and curb appeal.Appreciate that lived-in charm. The character of older homes is hard to reproduce. If you value timeless craftsmanship or design elements, you may prefer an existing home.The choice is yours. When you start your search for the perfect home, remember that you can go either route – you just need to decide which features and benefits are most important to you. As an article from The Mortgage Reports says:“When building, you gain more freedom to tailor the design, materials, and features, but it demands more time and involvement. Conversely, buying an established home offers immediate occupancy . . . yet may require compromises. Your choice should align with your budget, timeline, customization preferences, and the local real estate landscape.”Either way, working with a local real estate agent throughout the process is mission-critical to your success. They'll help you explore all of your options based on what matters most to you in your next home. Together, you can find the home that’s right for you.Bottom LineIf you have questions about the options in your area, connect with a local real estate agent to discuss what's available and what's right for you. That way you’ll be ready to make your next move with confidence.
Read MoreExperts Project Home Prices Will Rise over the Next 5 Years
Even with so much data showing home prices are actually rising in most of the country, there are still a lot of people who worry there will be another price crash in the immediate future. In fact, a recent survey from Fannie Mae shows that 23% of consumers think prices will fall over the next 12 months. That’s nearly one in four people who are dealing with that fear – maybe you’re one of them.To help ease that concern, here’s what the experts say will happen with home prices not just next year, but over the next five years.Experts Project Ongoing AppreciationWhile seeing a small handful of expert opinions may not be enough to change your mind, hopefully, a larger group of experts will reassure you. Here’s that larger group.The Home Price Expectation Survey (HPES) from Pulsenomics is a great resource to show what experts forecast for home prices over a five-year period. It includes projections from over 100 economists, investment strategists, and housing market analysts. And the results from the latest quarterly release show home prices are expected to go up every year through 2027 (see graph below): And while the projected increase in 2024 isn’t as large as 2023, remember home price appreciation is cumulative. In other words, if these experts are correct after your home’s value rises by 3.32% this year, it should go up by another 2.17% next year.If you’re worried home prices are going to fall, here’s the big takeaway. Even though prices vary by local area, experts project they’ll continue to rise across the country for years to come at a pace that’s more normal for the market.What Does This Mean for You?If you’re not convinced yet, maybe these numbers will get your attention. They show how a typical home’s value could change over the next few years using the expert projections from the HPES. Check out the graph below: In this example, let’s say you bought a $400,000 home at the beginning of this year. If you factor in the forecast from the HPES, you could potentially accumulate more than $71,000 in household wealth over the next five years.Bottom LineIf you’re someone who’s worried home prices are going to fall, rest assured a lot of experts say it’s just the opposite – nationally, home prices will continue to climb not just next year, but for years to come. If you have any questions or concerns about what’s next for home prices in your local area, connect with a real estate agent.
Read More3 Reasons To Sell Your House Before the New Year [INFOGRAPHIC]
Some HighlightsHere are a few reasons you may not want to hold off until the new year to sell your house. Buyers looking right now are highly motivated, the supply of homes for sale is still low, and you may find buyers are more flexible with showings this time of year.Reach out to a real estate agent to determine if selling your house now is the right move for you.
Read MoreAre There Actually More Homes for Sale Right Now?
If you’re looking to make a move, you want to be sure you have the latest information on the housing market. To help make that possible, here’s an update on the supply of homes for sale today. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, the number of homes available in your local market matters to you. Take a look below. What’s the Truth About Today’s Housing Inventory?While the story for the past few years has been how few homes are on the market, recent national data may leave you feeling a bit confused. That’s because Realtor.com shows inventory is actually growing a bit month-over-month in many parts of the country (see the blue states in the map below):As the map shows, nationally, housing supply increased just over 5% last month. Does That Mean the Days of Limited Inventory Are Over?That might make you wonder: are the days of tight housing supply behind us? The short answer is no. Context is important. While you may see headlines saying inventory is up, data also shows there are still significantly fewer homes for sale than there would usually be in a more normal market.The graph below compares the latest active listing counts (homes currently available for sale) with the most recent normal years in the housing market (2017-2019):As Lance Lambert, Founder, ResiClub Analytics, explains:“Housing market inventory is so far below pre-pandemic levels that October's big jump is still just a drop in the bucket.”What does that mean for you? Remember, real estate is hyper-local. Partnering with a trusted real estate agent will help you gain a better understanding of the inventory situation in your specific market.If you’re looking to buy, you may have slightly more options than you did in recent months, but you still need to brace for low inventory. A great agent will be able to share their expertise and key strategies that have helped other buyers navigate today’s ongoing low housing supply.And, if you’re trying to sell, rest assured you haven’t missed your window of opportunity to potentially get multiple offers or see your house sell quickly. While inventory has ticked up some nationally, overall, it’s still low and may be down even more in your area. Bottom LineIf you’re looking to buy or sell a home, connect with a local real estate agent so you can make sure you’re up to date on all the latest trends that could impact your move, including today’s housing supply.
Read MoreIs Your House the Top Thing on a Buyer’s Wish List this Holiday Season?
This time every year, homeowners who are planning to move have a decision to make: sell now or wait until after the holidays? Some sellers with homes already on the market may even remove their listing until the new year.But the truth is, many buyers want to purchase a home for the holidays, and your house might be just what they’re looking for. As an article from Fortune Builders explains:“ . . . while a majority of people take a step back from the real estate market during the holiday months, you may find when the temperature drops, your potential for a great real estate deal starts to rise.”To help prove that point, here are four reasons you shouldn’t wait to sell your house.1. The desire to own a home doesn’t stop during the holidays. While a few buyers might opt to delay their moving plans until January, others may need to move now because something in their life has changed. The buyers who look for homes at this time of year are usually motivated to make their move happen and are eager to buy. A recent article from Investopedia says:“Anyone shopping for a new home between Thanksgiving and New Year’s is likely going to be a serious buyer. Putting your home on the market at this time of year and attracting a serious buyer can often result in a quicker sale.”2. While the supply of homes for sale has increased a little bit lately, overall inventory is still lower than it was before the pandemic. What does that mean for you? If you work with an agent to price your house at market value, it could still sell quickly because today’s buyers are craving more options – and your home may be exactly what they’re searching for.3. You can determine the days and times that are most convenient for you for home showings. That can help you minimize disruptions to your own schedule, which can be especially important during this busy time of year. Plus, you may find buyers are more flexible on when they’ll tour a house this time of year because they have more time off from work around the holidays.4. And finally, homes decorated for the holidays appeal to many buyers. For those buyers, it’s easy to picture gathering with their loved ones in the home and making memories of their own. An article on selling at this time of year offers this advice:“If you’re selling around a holiday and have decorations up, make sure they accent—not overpower—a room. Less is more.”Bottom LineThere are plenty of good reasons to put your house on the market during the holiday season. Connect with a real estate agent and see if it's the right time for you to sell.
Read MoreSelling a Home When Interest Rates are High: Tips and Considerations
Selling a home is a major decision and one that requires careful evaluation of market conditions. When interest rates are high, it can add an additional layer of complexity to the selling process. However, with the right strategies and a proactive approach, it is still possible to secure a successful sale and maximize your home's value. In this blog post, we will explore some essential tips and considerations for selling a home when interest rates are at their peak.1. Understand the Impact of High-Interest Rates:Before putting your property on the market, it's crucial to understand the impact of high-interest rates on prospective buyers. Higher rates make borrowing more expensive, which can potentially limit some buyers' purchasing power and impact overall demand. It's vital to be realistic about your asking price and be prepared for potential negotiations.2. Price it Right:Setting the right asking price is essential in any market, but it becomes even more critical when interest rates are high. Conduct a thorough comparative market analysis (CMA) to assess recent sales of similar homes in your area. This analysis will help you determine a competitive price that attracts buyers while considering the impact of high interest rates.3. Enhance Your Property's Appeal:To stand out in a competitive market with high-interest rates, it's crucial to pay attention to your property's appearance. Invest time and effort in enhancing curb appeal, performing necessary repairs, and decluttering your home. Consider staging your house to make it more appealing to potential buyers. By presenting your home in the best possible light, you can offset some of the difficulties presented by high-interest rates.4. Market Effectively:Effective marketing is key to attracting potential buyers, particularly in a market characterized by high-interest rates. Utilize both online and offline strategies to widen your reach. Leverage professional photography, high-quality virtual tours, and engaging property descriptions to highlight your home's best features. Partner with a skilled real estate agent who possesses a comprehensive marketing plan and understands the dynamics of high-interest rate markets.5. Assist Buyers with Financing Options:In a market with high-interest rates, potential buyers may be hesitant due to affordability concerns. Help alleviate their worries by providing information on available financing options. Be knowledgeable about different loan programs, including those with adjustable rates, government-backed loans, or alternative financing solutions that offer more favorable terms. By offering guidance and support, you can encourage potential buyers to take the leap and make a purchase.Conclusion:Selling a home when interest rates are high requires a strategic approach to ensure a successful outcome. By understanding the impact of high-interest rates, setting a competitive price, enhancing your property's appeal, marketing effectively, and assisting buyers with financing options, you can navigate this challenging market and achieve a lucrative sale. Remember to consult with real estate professionals for personalized advice tailored to your specific circumstances. With the right strategies in place, you can make the most out of selling your home even during high-interest rate periods. Jim Armstrong Broker Armstrong Field Real Estate https://Armstrongfield.com
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