 Monthly existing-home sales declined by 1% in September, with year-over-year sales down 3.5%, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR). "Home sales have been essentially stuck at a four-million-unit pace for the past 12 months," said Lawrence Yun, chief economist for the NAR. "But factors usually tied to higher home sales are emerging." Rising inventory, declining mortgage rates, and steady job growth are signs that could drive home sales upward.
More Variety for Buyers The rise in inventory is benefiting buyers by offering more options to consider, according to Yun, who noted, "It gives consumers more properties to view before making a decision." By the end of September, total housing inventory reached 1.39 million units, up 1.5% from the previous month and an impressive 23% from a year ago. This represents a 4.3-month supply at the current sales pace, compared to a 4.2-month supply a month earlier and a 3.4-month supply a year ago. Notably, 30% of September transactions were all-cash sales, with investors and second-home buyers likely among the purchasers. Moderating Prices Offer Relief Median home prices rose by just 3% from September 2023. According to Yun, this slower pace of price growth should be welcome news for buyers: "With wage growth now outpacing home appreciation, housing affordability will improve." Additionally, mortgage rates are beginning to see modest declines, further supporting affordability. Buyers entering the market can either lock in current rates or explore adjustable-rate mortgage options to help manage monthly payments as affordability continues to improve. Sellers Need a Realistic Price and Patience With the market shifting toward buyers, sellers are facing the realities of a slower pace. Homes now stay on the market an average of 28 days, up from 21 days a year ago, according to the REALTORS® Confidence Index. To attract serious buyers, sellers should consider competitive pricing and emphasize their property's unique features. Additional incentives, such as closing cost assistance, can also make listings more appealing. Fewer Distressed Homes Means Stable Home Values Sellers may be facing more competition, but home prices are maintaining their stability in the current market. Distressed properties accounted for only 2% of September's transactions. According to Yun, "The inventory of distressed properties is minimal because the mortgage delinquency rate remains very low." Fewer distressed homes helps keep home prices steady, allowing sellers to list for reasonable prices. Regional Sales Breakdown Northeast: Existing-home sales annual rate of 460,000; a decrease of 4.2% from August 2024 and 6.1% from September 2023. The median sales price of $467,100 represented a 6% increase from September 2023. Midwest: Existing-home sales annual rate of 900,000; a decrease of 2.2% from August 2024 and 5.3% from September 2023. The median sales price of $306,600 represented a 5% increase from September 2023. South: Existing-home sales annual rate of 1.72 million; a decrease of 1.7% from August 2024 and 5.5% from September 2023. The median sales price of $359,700 represented a 0.8% increase from September 2023. West: Existing-home sales annual rate of 760,000; an increase of 4.1% from August 2024 and 5.6% from September 2023. The median sales price of $616,400 represented a 1.7% increase from September 2023.
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 A home energy audit evaluates your home's energy efficiency and identifies areas for potential savings on energy costs. If you have high energy bills or notice uneven temperatures, an audit can pinpoint the issues. It helps uncover energy-wasting spots, from drafty windows to poor insulation, and suggests improvements.
What Happens in a Home Energy Audit? An energy audit usually takes two to four hours, depending on your home's size and system complexity. A certified professional inspects your home from foundation to attic, using tools like blower doors and infrared cameras to detect air leaks, insulation gaps, and inefficiencies. They evaluate insulation, HVAC systems, windows, and appliances to identify energy loss and recommend improvements. What You Need for a Home Energy Audit To ensure an accurate audit, gather your utility bills from the past 12 months to show your energy usage patterns. Provide easy access to areas like the attic and basement, and highlight specific concerns like drafts or uneven temperatures for the auditor to address. How Much Does a Home Energy Audit Cost? On average, a home energy audit costs around $425. However, some utility companies offer free or discounted audits, though these may be less detailed. Additionally, the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Tax Credit (25C) allows homeowners to claim 30% of the audit cost, up to $150 annually. What Are the Benefits of an Energy Efficiency Assessment?
For many homeowners, the initial cost of an energy audit is outweighed by long-term savings on energy bills. If you face high bills or notice drafts and uneven temperatures, an audit can identify improvements. However, newer homes with updated appliances may see less benefit, with a DIY walkthrough being sufficient. The Federal Reserve's recent decision to cut its key interest rate by half a percentage point—the first cut in four years—has significant implications for both buyers and sellers. While the Fed doesn't set mortgage rates directly, its actions influence them. By lowering the federal funds rate—the rate at which banks lend to each other—the Fed indirectly pushes down other interest rates, including mortgages. However, mortgage rates are also shaped by broader economic factors beyond the Fed's control. Here's what to expect:
Don't Wait for the "Perfect" Rate If you're considering buying a home, holding out for lower rates might seem wise, but experts recommend acting now. The 30-year fixed mortgage rate is hovering around 6.5%, down from over 7.6% last year. According to Jessica Lautz, deputy chief economist for the National Association of Realtors (NAR), anticipated rate cuts are likely already factored into current mortgage rates. Buyers should take advantage of today's rates, as refinancing remains an option if rates drop further. Why Lower Rates Work in Buyers' Favor Even a 1% rate reduction can save buyers tens of thousands of dollars over the life of a mortgage. Lower rates offer three key benefits: reduced interest costs, smaller monthly payments, and easier loan approvals. Reduced payments lower the lender's risk, increasing the chances of approval. Modest rate drops alone can lead to long-term savings, making homeownership more affordable for many. More Buyers, More Demand For sellers, falling rates often bring increased buyer activity. Lower borrowing costs boost purchasing power, drawing more buyers into the market—especially in areas with tight inventory. This increased demand can drive up home prices, making it an ideal time for sellers to list their homes. Acting now allows sellers to capitalize on motivated buyers eager to lock in lower rates before competition intensifies. Stay Flexible: Negotiations and Agent Compensation The fall market typically slows, and with buyers holding out for lower mortgage rates, sellers might feel pressure to reduce prices. To avoid this, it's essential to price your home correctly from the beginning to protect your overall return. Additionally, recent changes from the NAR have made negotiations more complex, particularly around buyer's agent compensation. Now that sellers no longer set the buyer's agent fee, offers may include unique terms regarding agent payment. Sellers should be prepared for these new dynamics and stay open to flexible discussions. Adapting in both pricing and compensation can be the key to closing deals and securing the best offers.  A kitchen is one of the most important rooms in the home. If you're planning a kitchen makeover but are tight on square footage, creative interior design can still make a big impact. These tips will bring your small kitchen to life.
Prioritize Must-Have Features Before starting your design, make a list of absolute essentials you can't live without. Maybe you've always dreamed of wall-mounted shelving for your spice jars, a coffee corner with all your gear, or a wall rack for your cast iron collection. Once you've decided on your must-haves, build your design around them. Stick with a Functional Layout Consider the work triangle—arranging the sink, stove, and refrigerator in a triangular layout to minimize movement and maximize efficiency. In small kitchens, galley or L-shaped layouts are the most practical, making the best use of limited space while providing ample room for food preparation and storage. Don't Waste Valuable Space Transform a narrow wall near the fridge into extra storage with a slim cabinet. Kicker drawers below your main cabinets add extra storage, while stacking cabinets can reach the ceiling, allowing you to store seldom-used items higher up. Maximize Light Keep windows clear of decor and heavy treatments. Undercabinet lighting and well-placed overhead lights can brighten the space, creating an inviting atmosphere. Keep It Clean and Simple In a small kitchen, it's essential to keep things clutter-free to enhance that spacious feel. Opt for covered storage instead of open shelving, which can easily become messy. Maximize countertop space by using an appliance garage to store small appliances like a coffee maker, toaster, or blender. Get Smart with Technology Invest in smart appliances that save space and time, like a multicooker or a compact dishwasher. Apps for organizing recipes, meal planning, and shopping lists can also keep your kitchen running smoothly. Light, Neutral Colors Shades of white, cream, or sandstone will contribute to an airy kitchen atmosphere. Use bold accents sparingly to add interest without overwhelming the space; avoid intricate patterns that might make the room feel cluttered. For a two-tone look, paint or stain eye-level cabinets in a lighter shade and go slightly darker for the lower ones. Best Flooring Options Tile and hardwood are timeless choices. Lighter materials prevent the floors from dominating the room, while a slightly darker shade can create a sense of depth. Avoid strong patterns in a small floor area. For tile color, consider lighter variations. Leave Room for Personal Style A small herb garden on the windowsill, unique backsplash tiles, or a favorite piece of art can make the space feel more inviting. Choose a few meaningful items that reflect your personality and make the kitchen feel like home.  A well-maintained roof boosts curb appeal and prepares your home for fall and winter. Extend your roof's life span and save on repairs with these tasks to safeguard your roof and foundation.
Give Your Roof a Checkup Examine your roof for damage, such as missing, cracked, or curling shingles. Even minor damage can lead to leaks and significant problems. If you notice moss, algae, or lichen, it can indicate moisture buildup and decay. Consider hiring a roofer to make repairs before winter sets in. Keep Gutters Working Smoothly Clogged gutters cause water to overflow, leading to roof damage and water pooling around your foundation. Clear out leaves, twigs, and debris from gutters to ensure proper drainage. Downspouts should direct water away from the foundation to prevent erosion and flooding. Installing gutter guards can reduce cleaning and minimize clogs. Trim Overhanging Branches Branches overhanging your roof pose a risk during storms; high winds can cause them to break and damage your roof. These branches also clog gutters with leaves and debris, so trim them back to reduce risks. For large or hard-to-reach branches, hire a tree service. Grade the Soil Around Your Foundation Proper grading around your foundation directs water away and prevents pooling. Check the soil around your foundation to ensure it slopes away from the house. If needed, add soil to create a gentle slope that directs water away. Proper grading helps prevent water from seeping into the foundation, which can cause cracks and damage. Check Basement and Crawl Space for Moisture Excess moisture in your basement or crawl space can indicate water seeping through the foundation, leading to mold growth and structural damage. Look for damp walls, musty odors, or mold. Use a dehumidifier to control humidity, and fix any leaks.  After years of Americans struggling to make purchases in a seller's market, there are signs that the current housing market is swinging back toward favoring buyers. As recent market trends continue, buyers will find themselves with more homes to choose from and greater negotiating power.
Slower Home Sales Give Buyers an Edge According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), monthly existing-home sales in June fell 5.4% both month over month and year over year. What's more, every sales region in the country posted sales declines. Lawrence Yun, chief economist for the NAR, reported that homes are remaining on the market for longer and sellers are typically receiving fewer offers. The average home in June remained available for sale for 22 days, down from 24 days in May but up from 18 days a year earlier. The longer a home remains available for sale, the more time a buyer has to evaluate their options and negotiate a better deal—putting the power back into the hands of homebuyers. More Options on the Market The overall supply of available homes is also increasing, which is another sign that the country is headed into a buyer's market. By the end of June, the total inventory of homes available for sale climbed to 1.32 million units, up 3.1% from a month earlier and a staggering 23.4% from a year earlier. At the current sales pace, this represents a 4.1-month supply. Inventory levels have not been this high since May 2020, when inventory levels peaked at a 4.5-month supply. According to Yun, "Supply and demand dynamics are nearing a balanced market condition." Additionally, an increase in inventory gives buyers more options to choose from and reduces competition between buyers. Sky-High Prices May Start to Fall Although sales are declining and inventory is increasing, the median home sales price climbed to a record high of $426,900 in June, an increase of 4.1% year over year. This marked the second consecutive month of record-setting prices and the 12th consecutive month of year-over-year price gains. Experts, however, expect the trend to be short-lived. "Even as the median home price reached a new record high," commented Yun, "further large accelerations are unlikely." Changing Buyer Trends and Falling Mortgage Rates Mortgage rates have been fluctuating but are starting to trend down, increasing buyers' purchasing power and making homes more affordable, particularly for first-time buyers. This group represented 29% of all buyers in June, up from 27% in June 2023. According to the NAR "2023 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers," the annual share of first-time buyers was 32%. Investors or second-home buyers, who account for many all-cash sales, were responsible for 16% of all purchases in June, down from 18% a year earlier. Regional Sales Breakdown
 Here's a comprehensive marketing plan to help you attract potential clients:
1. Define Your Target Audience
 Creating an energy-efficient landscape can significantly reduce your cooling costs. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, using trees, shrubs, and vines to design an energy-conserving landscape can lower cooling bills by as much as 40%. Here are some ways to passively cool your home through smart landscaping. Trees Provide Shade Deciduous trees provide shade in summer, reducing sunlight and cooling your home through shading and evapotranspiration—the process in which plants release water through their leaves. Plant these trees on the south and west sides for optimal cooling. If you have rooftop solar panels, be mindful that shading can impact their efficiency. To avoid damaging your foundation or roof, plant trees at a distance from your house. Create Shade with Vines Climbing vines, such as ivy, Virginia creeper, or trumpet vine, provide excellent shade when grown on trellises or pergolas. They act as a living insulation layer, absorbing sunlight and preventing heat from penetrating walls. Ensure the vines are grown on structures about six inches away from your home to avoid damage to the siding. Incorporate Ground Covers Ground covers, like ivy, clover, or low-growing shrubs, can reduce the amount of heat radiating from the ground to your home. They act as a natural coolant by shading the soil and reducing heat absorption. Plant these around your home's foundation and in garden beds to lower the overall temperature. Use Reflective Mulch Using reflective mulch in your garden beds can help to reduce heat absorption. Light-colored or reflective mulch materials, such as gravel, marble chips, or light-colored wood chips, reflect sunlight away from the ground, keeping the area cooler. This method is particularly effective when used around plants that are close to your home's foundation. Implement Smart Irrigation Systems Efficient irrigation not only keeps your plants healthy but also helps cool your home. Smart irrigation systems, such as drip irrigation or soaker hoses, reduce water waste and provide targeted watering to your plants. Healthy, well-watered plants maximize the effects of evapotranspiration, which can lower air temperatures by up to 6 degrees Fahrenheit. Design Shaded Outdoor Living Spaces Shaded outdoor living spaces, such as patios, decks, or pergolas, can reduce heat buildup around your home. Use materials that reflect heat and add shading elements like pergolas with climbing vines or retractable awnings. These areas provide a cool retreat and reduce the overall heat absorption of your home's exterior.   On March 15, 2024, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) reached a significant settlement that will change how broker commissions work in real estate transactions. This settlement, which still needs court approval, aims to address complaints from home sellers and will take effect on August 17, 2024. Here's a breakdown of what's coming:
Written Agreements for Homebuyers One major change is the requirement for real estate agents to sign written agreements with buyers before showing any homes. The terms need to be specific and clear, such as a flat fee, a percentage, or an hourly rate, with no open-ended arrangements. Agents cannot receive more compensation than what is agreed upon and the agreement must clearly state that broker fees and commissions are negotiable. These changes are designed to ensure buyers know exactly what they're getting into, with no surprises about costs and services. Traditional Compensation for Buyers' Agents Traditionally, buyers' agents have been paid through a commission covered by the seller. When a home is sold, the seller agrees to pay a commission fee, usually split between the seller's agent and the buyer's agent. This commission is generally a percentage of the home's sale price and is included in the total closing costs. The amount is listed on the multiple listing service (MLS), allowing buyers' agents to know the compensation they will receive. This system has been criticized for potentially leading agents to prioritize properties with higher commissions over those that best fit their clients' needs. New Rules About How Compensation Offers Are Shared Compensation offers can no longer be listed on MLS platforms. However, sellers can offer compensation off an MLS through negotiation with real estate professionals. They can still offer concessions, such as covering closing costs, on an MLS. Implications for Home Buyers and Sellers Buyers will need to sign a written agreement with their agents before touring homes, detailing services and compensation, but this is not required for casual interactions like open houses. Sellers will no longer be required to pay the buyer's agent commission on MLS systems, potentially shifting this cost to buyers. Since most homebuyers will still need a real estate agent to help them purchase a home, sellers should explore alternative ways to compensate buyers' agents, including direct negotiations. Navigating the Changes The only thing constant is change—these new rules for written agreements and compensation offers will cause adjustments for buyers and sellers. As a professional real estate agent, you can trust that I'll keep you informed and prepared for these changes to ensure a smooth buying or selling experience.  Exploring potential homes during open houses is an exciting part of the homebuying journey, but it's also an area where mistakes happen. Here are some essential tips for getting the most out of these opportunities:
Partnering with a Professional It's a smart decision to have a real estate agent accompany you during open houses. Their professional perspective provides valuable insights into a property's value, potential issues, and negotiation strategies. Balancing Personal Connections Building rapport with the seller's agent is natural, but remember that open houses are primarily business transactions. Be cautious about sharing too much personal information that could potentially impact your negotiating position. Preparation Is Key Arriving at an open house unprepared can diminish your chances of finding your dream home. Prior to attending, secure a mortgage preapproval letter and create a list of your homebuying criteria to streamline your decision-making process. Exploring Future Potential Instead of focusing solely on a property's current condition, take into account its future potential. Assess the layout, structural integrity, and potential for renovations or expansions to unlock its true value. Meticulous Examination Don't be swayed by superficial charm; scrutinize the property carefully. Investigate wear and tear, inquire about maintenance history, and keep an eye out for any hidden issues that could affect your long-term satisfaction with the property. Open houses are essential opportunities in your search for the perfect home. By avoiding common pitfalls, you can confidently navigate open houses, making informed decisions that bring you closer to finding your ideal living space. Don't hesitate to reach out to your trusted real estate agent for expert assistance. Happy house hunting! |
AuthorsA variety of real estate related references and pertinent information by various contributors. Get the latest real estate news and helpful tips regularly. |
Avant Properties
1350 Old Bayshore Hwy Suite 520
Burlingame Ca 94010
Main Tel. (650)796-5565
Burbank Office at (818)653-5358
Email: [email protected]
DRE #01352623
1350 Old Bayshore Hwy Suite 520
Burlingame Ca 94010
Main Tel. (650)796-5565
Burbank Office at (818)653-5358
Email: [email protected]
DRE #01352623