The Silver Lining for Homebuyers in the Wake of Bank Collapses

How recent financial events could lead to significant savings on your dream home

In the ever-changing world of finance and real estate, sometimes the unexpected can lead to new opportunities. The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and other regional banks might seem like bad news, but it could present an opportunity. Let’s delve into the backstory and explore how these events can benefit homebuyers.

A Brief Backstory

bank building

In 2020 and 2021, banks saw a flood of new deposits as a result of stimulus money and increased savings during the pandemic. At the time, banks invested in low-interest treasury bonds and mortgage-backed securities, locking in 1-2% returns. Fast forward to today, and the Federal Reserve has significantly raised interest rates, making those previous investments far less attractive. This series of events has contributed to the banks’ downfall.

The Silver Lining for Homebuyers

calculating home value

The collapse of these banks and the subsequent rapid drop in interest rates have led to a decrease in mortgage rates. Mortgage rates typically align with the 10-year treasury.

Seizing the Opportunity

international bills and coins

If you or someone you know has been considering purchasing a home, this recent turn of events could be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Here are a few steps you can take to make the most of these favorable financial conditions:

  1. Get pre-approved for a mortgage: With lower interest rates available, now is the time to secure your mortgage pre-approval. Lock in these favorable rates!
  2. Start your home search: Begin exploring potential homes and neighborhoods that fit your criteria. Consider working with a knowledgeable real estate agent who can guide you through the process. Let us help you make the most of this opportunity.

Navigating the Current Market

house key

The recent collapse of banks might seem like a cause for concern, but it has opened up a window of opportunity. Homebuyers might secure their dream home at a potentially lower cost. By acting quickly and working with knowledgeable professionals, you can take advantage of this rare chance to save on your mortgage. Make your dream of homeownership a reality.

If you have any questions or need assistance navigating these unique market conditions, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We’re here to help you every step of the way.

Learn how to maximize the equity of your home.

Simple Ways to Improve Your Home’s Curb Appeal

Key Takeaways:

  • Curb appeal is an important part of selling your home
  • You can improve your home’s attractiveness without a professional
  • Contact us to see how improving your home’s appearance can help it sell

Curb appeal is the overall exterior allure of your home, and has nothing to do with the concrete edge it’s named after. If you’re looking to sell your home in 2023–whether it’s a townhome, condo, or single-family residence–you should be evaluating your home’s curb appeal. It’s the first thing prospective buyers see. If you follow these simple tips and apply them appropriately, you can make a good first impression on local homebuyers before anyone even steps through the front door.

If You Have a Lawn, Manicure It

grass being mowed

Manicure may sound like a silly word to use in this instance, but it’s accurate as you’re ultimately tending to your lawn’s cosmetics. Spruce up your lawn before showings by cutting overgrown grass and shrubbery to uniform heights and removing all weeds..

Of course, manicuring also includes getting rid of those patches of dried, brown, dead grass. A real, natural look should be your goal as a clean lawn gives the entire property a more elegant appearance.

Tend to Your Garden Beds

windowsill flower bed with pink and white flowers

Even if you don’t have a lawn and grass to worry about, you may have garden beds that need tending. Mulch fades and decorative rocks can get lost over time. Fill in any bare spots; replace your current mulch with a fresh, brightly colored option; and remove dead plants as needed.

Even if it’s just a windowsill flowerbed, the extra care and attention can go a long way to sprucing up your home’s curb appeal.

A Pop of Color for Curb Appeal

blue painted door and brick home

The front door is a focal point of your home and can be one of the first things buyers notice. Unless there’s heavy damage to the door, you don’t need to replace it. Simply add a coat or two of paint, using a color that accentuates the scheme of your home. Be mindful of any HOA regulations regarding exterior paint colors. You may have to choose from a specific set of shades.

While you’re painting the door, replace the hardware to match the new color. If your old hardware does match and can be cleaned to look brand new, certainly use it. While you’re replacing the hardware, you might as well swap out any street numbers if you can find a good match.

Upgrade Your Lighting Fixtures

a lone black light fixture

Light fixtures can be a pretty big part of your home’s curb appeal. No matter how many you have, these fixtures should look updated and new. In many cases, you can clean up the ones already installed and maybe even hit them with a can of spray paint. However, it can be necessary to replace them entirely if they’re damaged or beyond repair.

If you aren’t sure if fixtures need to be repaired, don’t tackle the project alone. We can recommend local experts who can tackle any needed updates.

Install Outdoor Path Lighting

path lighting illuminating stepping stones

Townhomes, condos, or single-family homes typically come with a walkway leading up to your front door. Even if you have a motion sensor flood light, path lighting can really enhance your space, give it a luxurious look, and even improve safety. Path lighting comes in all shapes and sizes, and, for the most part, is solar-powered.

Additional to path lighting, you may consider adding uplighting to illuminate a lone tree, a planter you’re quite proud of, or to showcase the exterior facade of your home. Uplighting really adds a touch of class to any exterior, leaning even further into the lavished home look with minimal effort needed.

Add Simple Accents

potted plants and welcome mat accents

A home without anything out front to fill the empty space can seem vacant, cold, and dull. Even if you just add potted plants, a welcome mat, or a seasonal wreath, it can go a long way to give a welcoming look and feel. One thing to consider is symmetry. Potted plants look so much better in pairs when they’re symmetrical.

Try not to crowd your porch or any other area you’re filling in. Just add enough to boost your home’s curb appeal.

Clean It All Up for Maximum Curb Appeal

cleaning gutters

Everything that can be seen from the road should be scrubbed, swept, wiped down, and cleared out. Gutters, stairs, windows, driveways, porches—try to make things as spotless as possible. A clean-looking home is going to be more attractive to buyers because they’ll know it’s been in good hands all these years. A high level of cleanliness shows you really cared about the space, and will certainly get buyers excited to see the rest of your home.

Put Your New Curb Appeal to Use

If you’re putting in all this work to improve your home’s curb appeal, then it must mean you’re getting ready to sell your home in 2023. Reach out to our team today to start discussing how we can leverage your new curb appeal to build a sales strategy that will attract new homebuyers. Our local sales experts use the latest market data for your neighborhood to ensure you’re getting the best return on your home.

Read more about how a beautifully landscaped garden can improve your bottom line.

Homebuying Tips for the Spring Real Estate Market

The spring real estate market looks different for homebuyers in 2023 than in previous years. With recent changes to interest rates, available inventory, home prices, and a lot more, it’s essential to work with your trusted local real estate team to get prepared! The spring real estate market is full of opportunity and potential, making it the ideal time to purchase a home. If you’re looking to buy a home this season, here are some tips on what steps to take.

Key Takeaways:

  • Get your best mortgage rate with a better credit score
  • When you find a property you love, make an offer
  • Don’t wait—contact us and start planning your move today!

Improve your credit score for a better mortgage rate

Photo of cheerful loving young couple using laptop and analyzing their spring finances with documents.

The first step in buying a home is getting pre-approved for a mortgage loan. This involves submitting information like credit score and payment history to potential lenders so they can determine whether or not you’re eligible for a loan. In order to get the best mortgage rate possible, it’s important that your credit scores are up-to-date. Improving your credit scores may involve paying off any existing debts or disputing any errors that may be present on your credit report. Keep your debt-to-income ratio low by avoiding taking on new debts while trying to get pre-approved.

Utilize our online tools to find the right home for you

Happy mature older family couple laughing, bonding sitting at home table with laptop.

Technology has made it easier for potential buyers to find their new dream homes without stepping outside their current homes! Our free and easy-to-use tools  allow you to view properties from all angles and calculate estimated monthly payments to plan before making an offer. Our advanced property search, instant listing alerts, virtual tours, and mortgage calculators save you time. We give you an idea of what to expect when viewing a property in person or speaking with lenders about loan options.

Work with the right agent—starting today!

Real estate agent near door inviting young couple to enter house for visit

Finding the right professional help is key when it comes to navigating through the homebuying process. Work with our knowledgeable team because we know both the local market and the national trends. We’re here to help make finding your dream home much easier, as well as helping you avoid common pitfalls associated with purchasing property. Finding a reliable lender offering competitive rates will ensure you get the best deal possible on your mortgage loan, so make sure to speak with our team as you start the pre-approval process to get our insights into the best lenders for your goals. Start searching homes for sale now, so you have plenty of time before closing day rolls around!

Pounce on Desired Properties Immediately in the Fast-Moving Spring Market

Happy father with daughter standing near open balcony and smiling at spring landscape

Once you find your dream home, don’t hesitate—act quickly! Finding the exact home you’re looking for doesn’t happen every day, so make sure that you take advantage of this opportunity by putting in an offer as soon as possible after viewing it in person or online via virtual tours. Before you contact the home seller, contact our team first! We’ll get you access to the latest neighborhood sold reports and other market data to help you determine the best offer for that dream property. And, our team brings expert negotiation tactics to the table, plus smart advice to avoid common pitfalls like overbidding or offering too little money initially.

Don’t Wait Until Spring is Gone—Start Buying Now!

Ready to buy your next home during the spring real estate season? Start by improving your credit score, using our online tools and market data, and building a strategy we can execute quickly when the right home comes up for sale. With these tips, you can maximize your chances of success during this season’s real estate market. So if you’re ready to start looking for your dream home, contact us today to get started!

Boost your curb appeal to sell this spring.

Get Ready for a Busy Spring 2023 Real Estate Market

Key Takeaways:

  • The spring real estate market is going to be busy
  • Lower mortgage rates mean increased competition
  • Get ready to succeed this spring—contact us today!

The spring real estate market starts to shake things up after the quieter winter season, and this year is no exception. With mortgage rates cooling off from last year’s highs, the spring 2023 real estate market indicates that there will be plenty of homebuying and selling activity—and it’s starting early. So let’s take a look at what you can expect and how you can work with our team to help you find success and get into your next home.

Mortgage rates are trending lower

Open door with key to home

The good news for homeowners and potential homebuyers is that mortgage rates have reached their highest point and are now heading south toward a more comfortable rate. According to Forbes, the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) anticipates that the 30-year mortgage rate will be near 5.2% by the end of 2023, over one percentage point lower than their current level.

The decrease in rates comes as NAR’s Senior Economist Nadia Evangelou indicates that inflation should continue to subside, which would result in mortgage rates dropping even further. An expected reduction of this magnitude could save those with mortgages or looking to buy considerable amounts of money over time, making it an exciting opportunity for those in the market for new housing.

Expect an increase in homebuying activity during Spring

Family buying new house

With mortgage rates decreasing, the National Association of Home Builders expects increased demand and more buyers returning to the market. Plus, more inventory on the market could further encourage potential buyers. Open houses are seeing more interest, with multiple bids surfacing after a prolonged lull. These are encouraging signs, indicating that an influx of new properties on the market could spark increased enthusiasm among eager homebuyers who’ve been waiting on the sidelines for some time now.

Once those buyers enter the market, they will attract new sellers and fill out the housing inventory available on the market. (Tight inventory was one of the defining issues of last year’s housing market, but there will be more to choose from this year during a busy spring season.) And, once those sellers turn around and buy, you’ll see the fast-paced, exciting spring real estate market we all know and love is in full bloom.

Look for deals on new construction homes

Two business man professional engineer worker at the house building, happy feeling.

America’s homebuilders are showing positive signs of growth as the demand for new houses rises alongside dropping mortgage rates. According to the National Association of Home Builders, sentiment among builders has increased for the first time in a year, with reports of increases in sales, traffic, and expectations for sales over the next six months. This surge in confidence and activity is influenced mainly by low interest rates, which is driving more homebuyers into the market.

According to Zillow, the number of new homes currently under construction has risen 50% since February 2020. And newly complete homes are showing up on the market quickly, meaning there’s plenty for homebuyers to choose from. Our team will help you expertly work with builders to find special offers and incentives to get you into one of those gorgeous new homes!

Hop Into the Spring Market With Us

Are you ready for the 2023 spring real estate market? We are! There’s so much to consider, from mortgage rates to inventory and new construction homes. Buyers and sellers alike are eager to get things in full swing, so contact our team now so we can start building your ideal real estate strategy and take action. Spring is just around the corner—reach out today!

Get ready to sell by increasing your curb appeal.

How to Get Your Home Ready to Sell in 2023

Key Takeaways:

  • Sell your home faster with these easy repair and design tips
  • Minor improvements can make a big difference
  • Contact us to sell your home for top dollar in 2023

Thinking about selling your home in 2023? Your property’s interior and exterior look and feel have a direct impact on the final sale price of your home. Investing in minor improvements such as paint, flooring, or furniture creates an inviting atmosphere and draws potential buyers. Before you list your home, try these proven tips to help get you every penny your home is worth!

Remove extra clutter in your home

Realtor is giving the keys to a home to clients.

A home free of clutter can help potential buyers see the true beauty in your space. Not only does removing the clutter make viewing easier, but a clean room shows that you take care of your home. Removing items blocking walkways or other essential areas allows buyers to better imagine their furniture and possessions in each room. Decluttering also helps you keep organized as you move out, simplifying the packing process. Don’t let unnecessary objects get in the way of potential buyers seeing how great your space is!

A fresh coat of paint goes a long way

Neutral living room

Neutral colors make a home appear clean, open, and inviting, so painting the walls in a neutral shade is a must for anyone getting ready to sell their property. Neutral colors help buyers envision the space as their own – allowing them to mentally plan how they’ll use the rooms in their new home. Plain colors can also make furniture and other decorations stand out, so they don’t have to worry about adjusting pieces to match what was already on the walls. Utilizing neutral colors will give potential buyers an idea of how a room would look if decorated with their own style and personality.

Entice homebuyers as soon as they arrive

Beautiful, Newly Built Luxury Home Exterior

Increasing your home’s curb appeal is an easy and satisfying way to give your living space a fresh look. By tidying up the yard and enhancing the house’s exterior, you can create an inviting atmosphere that potential buyers will love coming home to. Taking care of the lawn can be as simple as mowing regularly or adding potted plants and foliage that match your decor style. Paying extra attention to specific details, like painting the front door, can help your property stand out nicely. An easy and inexpensive option to add instant curb appeal is to have your house power-washed. With just a little effort, you can craft a stunning outdoor environment that will draw admirers far and wide.

Let’s Discuss Your Real Estate Goals

If you’re thinking about selling your home in 2023, right now is the best time to start getting ready. Contact our team to discuss your real estate goals so we can help you build a smart strategy for selling. Our team has the local experience you need and backs our advice with the latest market data for your neighborhood to help you get top dollar for your home!

Check out our seasonal tips for selling in 2023.

Forecast: What’s Ahead in the 2023 Real Estate Market

Key Takeaways:

  • There’s goods news on the horizon in 2023 for home buyers and sellers
  • Look for shifts when it comes to home prices, inventory, and interest rates
  • Make a smart move by contacting us today to plan and strategize!

The COVID-19 pandemic ushered in an era of unprecedented milestones in the housing market. From the lowest interest rates in history to record amounts of equity, the last few years in the real estate market were anything but ordinary. As economies work on finding a middle ground, homebuyers and sellers can look forward to a much more familiar market in 2023. Let’s take a look at what we expect to see this year, so you can start thinking ahead to make your move.

Expect a bright spring for the national real estate market

Coin stack on international banknotes with house and construction crane models on the table.

The current inflationary pressures should ease by the spring of 2023. The sellers market will start to wane as slight price adjustments and an increase in inventory bring balance. Supply chain issues caused by the COVID-19 global pandemic are easing and will continue to improve throughout the year. Finally, the overall sentiment of the housing market will improve as we move away from comparisons that distort decades of housing market data.

What homebuyers can expect from this year’s market

Happy millennial couple receiving keys from realtor, purchasing real estate

As the market continues to balance, there will be an increase in the number of homes available for sale. Estimates suggest around 23% more inventory. Younger generations are planning to enter the housing market—many for the first time. A recent survey indicated that 79% of Millennials and 84% of Gen Z plan to buy a house in the next few years. Interest rates are forecast to come down nearly two percentage points. They should move down from the recent high of 7.12% to a more standard 5.25% by the end of this year, according to Bankrate. This will help fuel movement among homebuyers, who are also enjoying a strong job market. Despite high-profile layoffs primarily in the tech sector, the overall unemployment rate is expected to stay at a low 3.6%.

What homesellers can expect from this year’s market

Home agent shake hand with customer after sign contract and finishes deal purchase house success

The Fannie Mae Home Price Index (FNM-HPI) expects home prices to decline this year—by a modest 1.5%. While a “decline” can sound disappointing, since the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the median home listing price is up 27%. This adds more than $9 trillion to the total value of the US housing market. Despite the recent dip in home values, homeowners that purchased before February 2020 are still better off. They are up an average of $92,000 in equity, according to real estate experts Black Knight. This provides sellers with some flexibility in the listing price, allowing for a faster sale if you’re willing to price your home competitively. It’s important to keep the last several years in perspective in order to maximize those returns and put your investment to work for you.

Talk With Us About Your Real Estate Goals

While the real estate market is always in shift, ultimately, buying or selling a home is more about what’s right for your lifestyle each year. And with a more egalitarian market expected in 2023, both homebuyers and sellers can expect to make beneficial deals. The best way to get started is to contact us. Our team has experienced countless shifts in the market, and we’re backed by the latest data in your local area to help you find your dream home!

Should you wait for spring to sell?

Why the Holidays Are an Excellent Time to Sell Your House

Key Takeaways:

  • Less competition and holiday decor make your home stand out.
  • Serious buyers and fast closings make for a merry sale.
  • With the year coming to a close, contact us today to get started!

Believe it or not, the holidays are a wonderful time to sell your home! People are in warm spirits, and there is typically less competition from other sellers during the holidays, so your house is more likely to stand out. So if you’re considering selling your house, the holidays may be the perfect time to do it!

Holiday cheer extends to homebuyers

Home with a bow in front of a holiday tree.

During the holidays, people are out shopping—for homes! Yes, homebuyers take advantage of the festive atmosphere to research options and kickstart their house-hunting journey. With offers of holiday cheer in the air, many buyers feel more confident taking the plunge and seriously making offers on potential homes. Beyond being a season of merriment, the holidays have become a time for serious house hunters to jump into the market.

With less competition, your home shines bright

House in winter with a sold sign.

During the holidays, sellers can enjoy a unique advantage over their competition. With fewer houses listed on the market, those for sale tend to see busy open houses bustling with would-be buyers. That’s why when you list your home during the holiday season, your house has a better chance of standing out to potential buyers and moving off the market as quickly as possible.

Offers made during the holidays are serious

Buyers purchasing a home.

Buyers during this time of year tend to be more serious about making an offer, so you’re more likely to get an offer – and close the deal! By taking advantage of the housing market at this time of year, you’re capturing demand during the seasonal rush. The holidays could be the perfect opportunity to sell your home quickly and for top dollar.

Holiday decorations are perfect for staging your home

A beautiful winter living room.

Decorating for the holidays can give your house that extra bit of charm and make it more appealing to potential buyers. Decorating with subtlety is key: hanging up bold red and green decorations or festively-themed banners might be a little too much for some viewers. Instead, go for tasteful touches like wreaths, string lights, and pine garlands in doorways and window ledges to bring alive the holiday spirit while not overwhelming buyers. This way, you’ll create an inviting atmosphere in your home that will make it stand out from competitors in the market.

Get the Gift You Want

The holidays are the perfect time to sell your home and get top dollar. With less competition and serious buyers, plus some cheer thrown in for good measure, now is the time to move quickly. Selling during the holidays can be a great way to start the new year in your new home. Our experienced real estate team can help, so contact us today to get started!

Read our article about selling in other seasons, as well.

Why Now Is a Good Time to Enter the Housing Market

Key Takeaways:

  • Low default rates are a positive sign of the housing market’s resiliency
  • There are signals that the market is shifting to favor homebuyers
  • Our team is ready to help you achieve your goals, so contact us today!

As with any investment, the best time to enter the housing market is when prices are low. It’s no different when it comes to real estate. With one historic and unprecedented event after another these days, knowing when to move in today’s market can be complicated and intimidating, but it doesn’t need to be.

Analysts agree about where the market is likely headed. So as 2022 winds down, let’s review the latest news to help you better understand where your opportunity lies (and why now may actually be the best time to buy!).

Low loan defaults are keeping the housing market healthy

Portrait Of Happy Family Showing Key, Standing In Living Room.

The current housing market is not a repeat of the previous financial crisis in 2008. The two primary factors that contributed to the housing market crash back then were cheap credit and lax lending standards. Remember the terms subprime, mortgage-backed securities, CDOs, and adjustable rate mortgage? Thankfully, that’s not what’s making headlines this time around.

Today, lending standards are more strict than they were 15 years ago, and because of this, most homeowners are not teetering on loan default like they were back in 2008. In response to the global COVID-19 pandemic, banks introduced various programs to help homeowners stay current on their mortgages and avoid default. The result is historic mortgage balance lows, with loans that are 90 days past due pegged at just 0.5%. That’s a far cry from the staggering 11.36% rate back in 2010 when homeowners struggled to make payments.

Economic signals indicate this is becoming a buyer’s market

real estate agent Delivering sample homes to customers, mortgage loan contracts. Make a contract for hire purchase and sale of a house. and home insurance contracts, home mortgage loan concepts

Putting today’s housing market in proper historical context is paramount to making an informed decision. While the current 7% mortgage interest rates are certainly higher than the pandemic-induced low of 2.65% in December 2020 (the lowest in history!), that doesn’t mean you should avoid buying a home. Compared to the all-time high of 18.45% set back in 1981, today’s average rate of 7% is suddenly far less imposing.

Experts all agree: home equities are going to decline. The only dispute between analysts is by how much, with some analysts projecting an average decline of about 20%. According to Black Knight, a mortgage technology and data provider, home prices have declined slightly, but mortgage holders possess $11.5 trillion in tappable equity.

Even though recent news and numbers seem to suggest that the real estate market may be experiencing a slowdown, Black Knight added that the “market is on strong footing to weather a correction” given that the total market leverage (including both first and second liens) was just 42% of mortgaged homes’ values – the lowest number on record.

Homes are always a solid investment strategy

Beautiful, Newly Built Luxury Home Exterior

Eager would-be homebuyers waiting for home prices to enter the housing market to fall have some good news ahead of them. But, homeowners have good news, too. While there’s plenty of panic around a “decline” in home prices, the Case-Shiller Index reports it’s just 2.2%—meaning homeowners are still in command of a 38.33% increase in the last two years.

With mortgage interest rates hovering around 7% and home values stabilizing, the tail-end of 2022 or 2023 may be the best time for you to finally make that move, especially as two-thirds of major regional housing markets (98 out of 148) prices continue to drop.

We’ll Help You Buy For the Right Price

When you’re ready to make your move, reach out and contact our trusted real estate team. We know the local housing market and can help guide you to the best deals available on the market today. And, there’s plenty of ways to extend your buying power and reduce your interest rates! Our team can’t wait to share our proven strategies with you, so contact us today!

Entering the market as a first-time buyer.

What’s Happening in Your Local Housing Market?

Key Takeaways:

  • Today’s market conditions are unique, and there’s plenty of ways to win
  • Let’s explore the steps you can take to pave your path to homeownership
  • Our team is ready to help you achieve your goals, so contact us today!

Amid high inflation, increasing mortgage rates, and limited housing inventory, the headlines make it seem like there’s no good news in the real estate market. But when you listen closely to expert economists and look at your local market, you’ll learn that there’s plenty of opportunity. Let’s take a closer look to understand the complete picture of what’s really going on in the housing market.

Low inventory keeps home prices high

Magnifying glass in front of an open newspaper with paper houses.

It’s easy to hear snippets of today’s news cycle and get swept up into a maelstrom of doom and gloom. You don’t need to fear that the Great Recession of 2008 is happening all over again.  Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist for the National Association of Realtors (NAR), gave a talk this month in Orlando. Mr. Yun pointed out why the housing market will remain stable and profitable.

One of the leading factors behind his assertion is that “housing inventory is about a quarter of what it was in 2008.” The historic low inventory of available housing in the US is a positive. That limited inventory will prevent large price drops for most of the country. Mr. Yun went on to say that “distressed property sales are almost non-existent, at just 2%, and nowhere near the 30% mark seen during the housing crash (of 2008). Moreover, short sales are almost impossible because of the significant price appreciation of the last two years.”

The national housing market is not your local market

Gainesville, Florida, USA downtown cityscape at twilight.

The national news won’t give you an accurate snapshot of what’s happening in your area. It’s a collection of data that makes for wonderful headlines but has little to do with what you need to know to buy or sell a home. It’s our job to dive deep into the microdata and help guide our clients to making smart moves.

Despite inventory remaining limited nationally, there are still housing markets with increases in available units. This is true especially for starter homes, making this a wonderful time to buy. Other pockets are holding onto a seller’s market, with prices staying steady. It’s always best to speak to your trusted agent to know what’s happening in the area where you live or want to move. And, with rental prices continuing to rise as well, it’s never a bad time to consider purchasing a home.

How to start planning your next move

Full length body size view of four cheery people dad mom small little kids brother sister carrying cardboard boxes moving new residence cottage town.

As a homeowner or prospective homebuyer, there are always ways you can stay ahead of the market. No one purchases a home overnight, so give yourself plenty of time and take smart steps to ensure success when the time is right.

First, contact us today to find the latest, up-to-the-minute value of your home, backed by local data. This will give you accurate insights into the value of your home and what your best move may be. From there, you’ll be able to make data-backed decisions about whether you should remodel, list your home, what kind of return you can expect, and more.

If you’re looking to buy, contact us to learn more about our market and how much inventory is available. Stay flexible, and consider different styles of homes, from townhouses and condos to older homes ready for some modern upgrades. Or, maybe a new construction home is right for you, with special financing and other incentives offered by the builders.

You Can Win Your Local Housing Market

Ultimately, real estate is always local! The best thing you can do before making a move in today’s real estate market is to contact your local real estate agent. As your local, trusted real estate professionals, we know what’s happening and are your best resource for determining your next best step. So contact us today!

Top 5 Tips for Home Buying in Today’s Market

Key Takeaways:

  • There’s plenty of strategies to successfully buy in today’s market.
  • Lean in on the expertise of your local real estate—we’ve seen it all!
  • Our team is ready to help you achieve your goals, so contact us today.

Whether you’re shopping for your first home or relocating to a new area, purchasing a home in today’s real estate market can be daunting. However, the good news is that today’s housing market can actually be helpful if you’re a prospective homebuyer who knows how to play the game well. When it comes to making a winning offer on your dream home, you must know certain particulars of the homebuying process to be successful.

So, let’s look at the top five tips that will help to play the real estate game more effectively and pave your path to home ownership.

1. Determine and know your budget

Woman looking over finances to buy a home

Before you begin the house-hunting process and start picking your paint colors, potential homebuyers should receive pre-approval. Ideally, get approved by one or more lenders to verify the amount of money you are qualified to borrow. Being pre-approved tells sellers you’re serious about buying and have the means to do so. It also helps narrow your search by allowing you to determine which neighborhoods are within your budget.

Remember to consider the additional costs of homeownership, such as taxes, utilities, maintenance, and insurance. Finally, be realistic about how much you can comfortably afford in today’s tight real estate market. Availability is at historic lows . Rising mortgage rates mean you’ll have to be able to move quickly when the right home presents itself. That means having your finances ready to go.

2. Distinguish between your wants and your needs

Smiling Family Carrying Boxes Into New Home On Moving Day

To play the real estate game well, you need to know what it is, specifically, that you want from a home. Certain wants, such as stainless steel appliances, new cabinets, or hardwood floors, can always be obtained later. Therefore they shouldn’t be deal-breakers.

However, if you want to be in a specific school district, need to live close to work, or have a decent-sized backyard to try your hand at homesteading, those cannot be addressed later and must factor in throughout the house-hunting process. As you contemplate a purchase, consider your other financial goals as well. It can be easy to get swept up in the frenzy of a tight housing market, so it’s essential to keep your financial goals top of mind during this process.

3. Be Prepared to Act Quickly in Today’s Market

Couple buying home from real estate agent.

A well-priced property in good condition in a good neighborhood with plenty of nearby amenities will always draw many interested buyers during the first few days of being on the market. In a tight seller’s market like today, such homes rarely stay on the market for very long.

So, when you find the right home that fits your budget and satisfies your wants and needs, you’ll want to sign an offer immediately and get it presented. Serious buyers should always be ready to submit an offer quickly, or they may risk missing out on the property altogether.

4. Bid competitively and stay flexible

Real estate agent holding house key to his client after signing contract.

Prepare to bid competitively to make your offer stand out, but remain pragmatic and know your limits. It may be tempting to submit a low offer as a starting bid, but in a tight seller’s market, buyers must put forward their highest offer from the very beginning to avoid losing out on the home. In multiple bidding situations, the highest offer is only sometimes accepted by the seller. In many instances, buyers with the fewest contingencies and who are flexible with things like their move-in date are the ones whose bid stands out to the seller.

5. Always work with a certified real estate agent

Smiling broker standing with documents, happy family hugging near their new home

What’s trending nationally is certainly different from the area where you’re looking to buy, sell, or relocate to. Work with us, your local real estate experts. Our team is certified, experienced, and familiar with the areas and neighborhoods you’re considering. As your local agents, we are the most trusted resource for accurate information that you have at your disposal. Our unparalleled knowledge of our local community will give you the competitive advantage you need in this housing market.

In Today’s Market You Deserve to Work With the Best

If you’re ready to make your move, we know the housing market trends. We have decades of experience in the natural ups and downs of the market. We know how to help you best navigate what’s happening right now. Contact us today to get started exploring your options and crafting a winning strategy.

For another perspective on mistakes to avoid when homebuying, read our list for first-time homebuyers.