by Shawn Boday | Aug 9, 2023 | Housing Market, Real Estate, Real Estate Tips, Shawn Boday
As we dive into the third quarter of 2023, it’s a perfect moment to reflect on the housing market’s journey so far this year and project what lies ahead. The real estate landscape has been marked by some notable shifts, and understanding these trends can help both homebuyers and sellers make informed decisions in the coming months.
The second quarter of the year saw a significant rise in mortgage interest rates. Starting at 6.32 percent in early April, the average 30-year mortgage loan rate climbed to 6.84 percent by late June. Alongside this, the national median home price rose from $375,400 in March to $396,100 by May. These changes in rates and prices have set the stage for an intriguing Q3.
Experts are cautiously optimistic about the upcoming quarter. Despite traditionally buoyant summer months for real estate, Q2’s elevated rates led to a somewhat subdued environment. The ongoing challenge remains a severe shortage of housing inventory, with new listings for sale hovering around 25-30 percent below last year’s levels. This scarcity of homes, coupled with higher mortgage rates, suggests that the third quarter of 2023 might not witness robust home-buying activity.
Mortgage interest rates, a pivotal factor, are projected to remain within the 6.4 to 6.7 percent range for a 30-year fixed mortgage, according to financial analysts. While recent data suggests that inflation may ease in the coming months, leading to a potential drop in mortgage rates, the predictions vary. Some experts believe rates could even dip below 6.5 percent, while others expect them to hover around 6.75 percent initially and eventually decline toward 6.0 percent by September.
The lack of housing inventory will continue to exert pressure on home prices throughout Q3. Buyers may encounter fierce competition, with a higher percentage of homes selling above the asking price. While home price growth is predicted to average around 4 percent this year, median home prices are anticipated to slightly decrease, settling around $385,000 in Q3.
For potential homebuyers, the current market presents affordability challenges. High home prices combined with elevated mortgage rates mean careful consideration is essential before making a purchase. Experts advise potential buyers to ensure job stability and steady earnings before committing to a home transaction.
On the flip side, sellers continue to have the upper hand in many markets due to tight inventory levels. However, sellers should weigh the benefits of selling against the potential challenge of finding a new home in a market with elevated rates. The decision to sell should take into account the balance between current low mortgage rates and potentially higher ones in the future.
The real estate market in the third quarter of 2023 promises a mix of challenges and opportunities. While the housing shortage and increased mortgage rates pose hurdles, the potential for stabilized or slightly reduced home prices may provide some respite for both buyers and sellers. As you navigate this complex landscape, remember that careful consideration and expert guidance are essential to make the right decisions for your unique circumstances.
by Shawn Boday | Aug 9, 2023 | Real Estate, Real Estate Tips, Shawn Boday
Selling your home can be a daunting process, especially if you’re not familiar with the real estate world. With this guide, we aim to simplify the journey and provide you with valuable tips to ensure a successful sale while avoiding common pitfalls.
Set the Right Price
Overpricing your home is a common mistake. Instead, research comparable properties in your area and set a competitive asking price. Studies show that properly priced homes sell faster and often for more than overpriced ones.
Create a Welcoming Atmosphere
During showings, give potential buyers space to explore without your presence. Allow them to envision themselves in the house without feeling observed. Remember, first impressions matter, so declutter, stage, and enhance curb appeal to make your home look its best.
Emotion vs. Objectivity
While you may have invested time and money into upgrades, buyers assess your home based on its current condition and comparable properties. An experienced agent can help you detach emotionally and set a reasonable price.
Professional Photography
As the majority of buyers start their search online, high-quality photos are essential. Hiring a professional photographer will showcase your home in its best light and attract more potential buyers.
Choose a Skilled Agent
Partnering with an experienced real estate professional is crucial. They can guide you through the process, help with pricing strategies, marketing, negotiation, and handle paperwork efficiently.
Feedback is Valuable
Be open to buyer and agent feedback. If a consistent issue arises, like lighting or color choices, consider making adjustments. Adapting to feedback shows your commitment to meeting buyers’ preferences.
Data-Driven Pricing
Study the market and comparable home prices in your area. Price your home realistically, considering market trends and recent sales. Slightly underpricing can attract more buyers and lead to quicker sales.
Don’t DIY Marketing
Utilize a variety of marketing channels, including online listings, to reach a wider audience. A strong online presence increases your home’s visibility and generates more interest.
Selling your home requires a balanced approach between emotional attachment and practical decision-making. By setting the right price, presenting a well-maintained home, using professional resources, and listening to expert advice, you can navigate the process smoothly. Remember, the real estate market is data-driven, so staying informed and adaptable will increase your chances of a successful and profitable sale.
by ireilly | Aug 23, 2022 | Business, Real Estate, Shawn Boday
So many factors need to be considered when it comes to selling a property, such as a price, the time frame, and the person who will be hired to sell it. One of the most common questions people ask when it comes to selling a home is, “Should I stage it or sell it empty?” This is an excellent question to ask.
There is much conflicting information regarding the pros and cons of home staging. Since so many factors go into making a decision, it is vital to consider each option’s advantages and disadvantages.
Staged Home Considerations
Staging a home can be very beneficial as it allows potential buyers to see the inside of the house and feel like they are in the home. In addition to being able to set the stage for what the buyers see, staging a home also helps boost its value.
Another significant advantage of staging a home is that it can make listing photos look more appealing. This is because potential buyers usually see the pictures of your home when they are first looking at it. Having the photos taken professionally can help make them look better. Some companies also offer virtual staging services, which allow them to add furniture to the images.
One of the most significant disadvantages of staging a home is that it can take time and money to get it done correctly. It can take days for a home stager to bring all necessary materials into the property and then organize it properly.
The cost of staging a home can also be prohibitive. It can be very different depending on the type of work the company will perform and the amount of money you have available. Most home stagers will try to use what they have on hand, but those resources aren’t always a good fit for your house.
Empty Home Considerations
One of the most significant advantages of selling an empty home is that it allows potential buyers to visualize themselves living in the house. However, when the house is staged, these buyers might be unable to visualize how their lives would fit into the picture. Staging a home is also often designed to appeal to the most potential buyers. However, this can lead to it being too generic or too specific to a particular demographic.
On the other hand, having a vacant home can also make it hard to sell. Since potential buyers might not feel welcomed or can’t picture the functional space, they might overlook the house’s charm.
One of the most significant issues when selling an empty home is how the defects can show. Without any help, the small details stand out to potential buyers. This can include the cracks in the wall, the stains on the carpet, and the tilt of the ceiling.
Conclusion
Although staging has disadvantages, it is still important to realize that it does not sell a house. Some real estate agents might try to pressure you into staging. They might be friends with a home stager, or they might be working with a staging business.
An excellent real estate agent can sell an empty home without issues. Besides having the necessary skills to market the property, a successful real estate agent must also have the connections required to attract potential buyers. If you are planning on hiring a real estate agent, make sure they do not insist that staging is the answer. Most of the time, staging is not necessary.
by Shawn Boday | Apr 13, 2018 | Home Buying Process, Real Estate
