It’s that time of year when I’m asked to look into the crystal ball and predict what the future in real estate will look like. It seems despite all of the full moons we’ve had; the crystal balls weren’t fully charged in 2024. Remember mortgage interest rates were supposed to come down to 5%. Continue reading
We have entered spooky season, and the housing market is no exception. I’m not going to candy coat this. As a whole, the Austin real estate market may seem like it’s moving at the speed of winter, but change may be in the air. Remember, markets are local, subject to change without notice and often do.
The Austin housing market may be moving faster or slower than other markets nationwide on any given day. Even within Austin, or any other city, on a micro level certain locations may be hotter than others.
When is the best time to buy a house? Many buyers think of springtime. The weather is nice to take a good look at a potential home on the outside, take a walk around the yard, and tour the neighborhood amenities.
Closing on a home in June or July also gives people a chance to transition schools over the summer. There are typically more choices too. April and May often give buyers the most inventory, because many sellers list their homes during that time. When considering the best real estate season, spring certainly makes sense. Continue reading
Buyer’s remorse is real. We experience it all of the time in little ways. You cheat on your preferred brand of shampoo because of a sale and regret it the first time you use it. Bought a new shade of lipstick and your life didn’t change the way you thought it would? Participated in the latest diet fad, and only lost money? You live, you learn, you reboot – most of the time.
In real estate, buyer’s remorse isn’t that easy to wipe from your memory. Continue reading
For home sellers entering the Austin real estate market today, the experience can be like deciding to drive for vacation on a holiday weekend.
It’s a great idea until you hit the road and realize how many others share that same thought.
Homeowners think ‘spring and summer are the right time to move and sell their houses. Due to affordability, current homebuyers think a staycation is in order. This has created quite the inventory traffic jam right now. The good news is that many sellers are ready to get off at the nearest exit, which creates an opportunity to negotiate for those buyers with cabin fever.
Add a swimming pool to the backyard and the story gets more interesting. Continue reading
In any housing market, homebuyers ultimately determine value. Home prices go up in a strong seller’s market because the demand is high. In a buyer’s market prices come down when the supply is high and the demand is low. The Austin housing market is very value-driven right now. The exact formula factoring in how price, condition, and location are weighted is up to the buyer in any market. What’s different about now? The other factor you need is motivation and the lack of it presents a unique situation for buyers and sellers. Continue reading
The MAYcember real estate market is here. Spring has arrived, but it doesn’t quite look or feel like it, at least not in Central Texas. I think Mother Nature is a bit confused this month. April showers are supposed to bring May flowers – but we had them early this year. Instead of stopping to smell the roses, we have to hustle. It’s Maycember, after all. This is the month when there is not enough time in the day like December, only without gifts at the end. Our plates are full with prom season, graduation, college move-out, end-of-school, wedding season, and for many the start of home buying and selling season. Continue reading