Positive News for the Real Estate Market
As the media goes on and on about how the real estate market is in turmoil. I wanted to write an article about the positive side of real estate. So this is what I’m thankful for this season.
I wrote my first real estate article for the Hour in January 2010. Through the series of year long articles I have educated both the buyers and sellers through the trying times of this market; I appreciate all the great feedback and questions from people that I meet everyday.
The beginning of the year came and with it brought fear and uncertainty to the real estate market. No one knew what to expect or what the year would bring. Well I am happy to say things are looking much brighter and there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
There was a buyer incentive program that many people took advantage of. The buyers that purchased through June 30th were eligible for a tax credit of up to $8000 dollars.
This incentive really brought a much needed boost to the housing market in our area. Sales were up and the buyers that ventured out into this market bought at fantastic prices that have not been seen in very many years.
April started off pretty slow but at the last minute, tax credit intoxicated buyers flooded the market scrambling to cash in before the deadline. There had been a pent up demand and the buyers went out to find that new home. As a result of this tax credit, momentum was created and followed into the remainder of the year.
Sellers were happy to see the buyers come out this year too. Homes were selling. It is interesting to note which ones had the best success. It is a mixed bag but it came down to price (number 1) then location, if it was remodeled or if it was new. If the price was below market value it had a buyer within a few days to a few weeks. The same goes for newly built homes that were on the market. Buyers still want new and it didn’t matter on location or quality of workmanship.
How do I put a positive spin on all the foreclosures and short sales? Well unfortunately foreclosures are part of the current economy. But if you’re an owner that has falling into hard times and can no longer afford your home a short sale will allow you work with the bank to come to a mutual agreement in order to sell your house without it falling into foreclosure. As time goes on and the market stabilizes these kinds of sales will be a thing of the past.
This year the mortgage rates are at an all time low. I believe this to be a very positive side of the real estate market. Fifteen year rates are currently below 4%. Thirty year rates are currently around 4 ½ %. Qualified buyers are able to take advantage of these rates and save themselves many hundreds of dollars a month on their mortgage. Rates like these are still available and smart buyers should be out in the market researching and buying homes.
As we approach the end of 2010, I can honestly say this year was better for both buyers and sellers. Home sales are up, prices are low and interest rates are the best they have been in years. But most of all we am thankful for the clients that we have had the privilege to work with through the year. It was a wonderful feeling to see our first time home buyers get really excited with their purchase.
We believe that things will be better for everyone in the future as we continue to move in the right direction. Have faith and focus on the positive and joyful times in life as we enter the holiday season. All of us from Bondi Realty Group want to wish each and every one of you a very Happy Holiday and a Happy New Year!!
We are the best in our business and have many happy clients to prove it!!
Betty & Peter Bondi
Bondi Realty Group LLC
203-899-9990