MiamiValleyDreamHomes.com Blog - Your Ultimate Source for Real Estate News, Insights, and Tips in the Greater Dayton Area of Ohio

Welcome to our real estate blog on MiamiValleyDreamHomes.com, your ultimate source for real estate news, insights, and tips in southwest Ohio! Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, our blog is designed to provide you with the latest news and trends in the Miami Valley real estate market, as well as insider tips and advice to help you navigate the buying or selling process with confidence.

With our team of expert Realtors, including top Dayton realtors and the best Beavercreek listing agent with great online reviews, you can rest assured that you're in good hands. We're committed to providing you with a stress-free and seamless real estate experience, whether you're buying, selling, or just looking for valuable insights about the local market.

So what are you waiting for? Start exploring our blog today and discover why MiamiValleyDreamHomes.com is the top choice for real estate buyers and sellers in the Miami Valley area!

 

April 2, 2023

Cracking the Code: Navigating the Thrilling Chaos of the Sellers' Market

We’re in a Sellers’ Market. What Does That Mean?




Even though activity in the housing market has slowed from the frenzy we saw over a year ago, today’s low supply of homes for sale is still a sellers’ market. But what does that really mean? And why are conditions today so good if you want to list your house?

It starts with the number of homes available for sale. The latest Existing Home Sales Report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows housing supply is still astonishingly low. Today, we have a 2.6-month supply of homes at the current sales pace. Historically, a 6-month supply is necessary for a ‘normal’ or ‘neutral’ market in which there are enough homes available for active buyers (see graph below):

What Does This Mean for You?

When the supply of homes for sale is as low as it is right now, it’s much harder for buyers to find one to purchase. That creates increased competition among purchasers and keeps upward pressure on prices. And if buyers know they’re not the only one interested in a home, they’re going to do their best to submit a very attractive offer. As this happens, sellers are positioned to negotiate deals that meet their ideal terms. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at NAR, says:

“Inventory levels are still at historic lows. Consequently, multiple offers are returning on a good number of properties.”

Right now, there are still buyers who are ready, willing, and able to purchase a home. If you list your house right now in good condition and at the right price, it could get a lot of attention from competitive buyers.

Bottom Line

Today’s sellers’ market holds great opportunities for homeowners ready to make a move. Listing your house now will maximize your exposure to serious, competitive buyers. Let’s connect to discuss how to jumpstart the selling process.

March 29, 2023

Spring into Action: 4 Expert Tips for Successfully Selling Your Home

4 Key Tips for Selling Your House This Spring




Spring has arrived, and that means more and more people are getting their homes ready to sell. But with recent shifts in real estate, this year’s spring housing market will be different from the frenzy of the past several years. To sell your house quickly, without hassles, and for the most money, be sure to follow these four simple tips:

1. Make Sure You Give Buyers Access

One of the biggest mistakes you can make as a seller is limiting the days and times when buyers have access to view your home. In any market, if you want to maximize the sale of your house, you can’t limit potential buyers’ access to view it. If it’s not accessible, it could cost you by sitting on the market longer and ultimately selling for a lower price.

2. Make Your Home Look as Good as Possible on the Inside

For anything to sell, especially your home, it must look inviting. Your real estate agent can give you expert advice on ideal staging for your home. Even updating a room with fresh paint, steam cleaning carpets, or removing clutter from the garage can make a big impact.

3. First Impressions Matter

The old saying “you never get a second chance to make a first impression” matters when selling your house. Often, the first impression a buyer gets is what they see as they walk up to the front door. Putting in the work in on the exterior of your home is just as important as what you stage inside. Freshen up your landscaping to improve your home’s curb appeal so you can make an impact with potential buyers.

4. Price It Right

This is probably the most important aspect of selling your home in today’s real estate market. If a house is priced competitively, it’s going to sell. Period. To do this, you have to know what’s happening with home prices in your area and understand the factors that are affecting the market right now. That’s why it’s best to work with a trusted real estate professional who can ensure you list your house at the right price.

Bottom Line

Everyone selling their home wants three things: to sell it for the most money they can, to do it in a certain amount of time, and to do all of that with the fewest hassles. To accomplish these goals, let’s connect so you can understand the steps you need to take to sell your home this spring. 

March 28, 2023

Wonding When Is The Best Time To Sell Your Home?

Get Ready: The Best Time To List Your House Is Almost Here




If you’re thinking about selling this spring, it’s time to get moving – the best week to list your house is fast approaching.

Experts at realtor.com looked at seasonal trends from recent years (excluding 2020 as an uncharacteristic year due to the onset of the pandemic) and determined the ideal week to list a house this year:

“Home sellers on the fence waiting for that perfect moment to sell should start preparations, because the best time to list a home in 2023 is approaching quickly. The week of April 16-22 is expected to have the ideal balance of housing market conditions that favor home sellers, more so than any other week in the year.

If you’ve been waiting for the best time to sell, this is your chance. But remember, before you put your house on the market, you’ve got to get it ready. And if you haven’t started that process yet, you’ll need to move quickly. Here’s what you should keep in mind.

Work with an Agent To Determine Which Updates To Make

Start by prioritizing which updates you’ll make. In February, realtor.com asked more than 1,200 recent or potential home sellers what updates they ended up making to their house before listing it (see graph below):

 

As you can see, the most common answers included landscaping and painting. Work with a trusted real estate agent to determine what projects make the most sense for your goals and local market.

If Possible, Plan To Have Your House Staged

Once you’ve made any necessary repairs and updates to your house, consider having it staged. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 82% of buyers’ agents said staging a home made it easier for a buyer to visualize the property as a future home. Additionally, almost half of buyers’ agents said home staging had an effect on most buyers’ view of the home in general. Homes that are staged typically sell faster and for a higher price because they help potential buyers more easily picture their new life in the house.

Bottom Line

Are you ready to sell this spring? Let’s connect to plan your next steps. You can start by making a checklist of what you think your house needs to get ready. Then, we can work together to prioritize your list and move forward together.

Posted in Sell your house
March 19, 2023

Unleash Your Next Adventure: Sell Your Kettering, Ohio Home with Confidence!

Sell your Kettering Ohio HomeSell Your Kettering, Ohio Home with Confidence and Start Your Next Adventure!

Are you ready to hit the jackpot and sell your Kettering, Ohio home? Get ready to cash in on all your hard work and accumulating equity and start living your best life! Selling your home can be a wild ride, but it doesn't have to be a scary one. With our team by your side, we'll help you navigate the twists and turns of the Kettering housing market and land a deal that'll make your head spin. We'll help you spruce up your space, attract the right buyers, and close the sale with ease. So let's kick this sale into high gear and make it a thrilling adventure – the road to your next chapter starts now!

Kettering is a city located in Montgomery County, Ohio, and is known for its excellent schools, diverse neighborhoods, and vibrant business community. With a population of over 55,000 people, Kettering offers a great quality of life for its residents, making it a desirable place to live and invest in property.

Kettering Ohio homes for sale are in demand for several reasons.

Kettering real estate

Firstly, Kettering is an attractive place to live due to its excellent schools – both public and private. Kettering, Ohio is home to some of the best schools in the area. The Kettering City School District consists of seven elementary schools, two middle schools, and one high school, all of which are known for their exceptional education programs and dedicated staff. The district offers a wide range of academic and extracurricular activities, including athletics, music, and art programs, allowing students to explore their interests and reach their full potential. 

Kettering, Ohio is also home to several Catholic schools, providing families with a faith-based education option. The local catholic schools include Ascension Catholic School, St Albert the Great School,  St Charles School,  Archbishop Alter High School, which offer a comprehensive education that combines academic excellence with spiritual development.

The Montessori School of Dayton is a highly regarded private non-profit educational institution also located in Kettering, Ohio

Kettering entertainment venue The Fraze

Secondly, the city offers a high quality of life for residents, with many amenities such as parks, recreational facilities, and a wide range of shopping and dining options.  The Fraze pavilion in the heart of Kettering attracts nationally acclaimed musicians to the outdoor concert venue and also is the location for several festivals throughout the year, including the popular Holiday At Home Festival!  Residents also enjoy the Kettering location of the YMCA and the Kettering Recreation Complex for fun and fitness. Shopping in the community is easy with many great shopping areas including the Town & Country Shopping Center with a Trader Joes, Declark’s Cards & Gifts, First Watch, and many other stores and dining options.

Thirdly, Kettering is in a great location within the Dayton metropolitan area, making it a convenient place to live and work. The city is close to major highways, making it easy to commute to nearby cities. However, the city has its own vibrant business environment, with a diverse range of industries and businesses located throughout the city. The Kettering Business District is a bustling hub of activity, with a mix of local and national businesses, including restaurants, cafes, retail shops, and professional services. The city also has a strong healthcare sector, with Kettering Health Network, the second-largest employer in the Dayton region, based in Kettering. Other major employers in the city include GE Aviation, Reynolds and Reynolds, and Synchrony Financial. The Kettering Economic Development team works closely with businesses to support their growth and success, providing assistance with site selection, business incentives, and workforce development. With a supportive business community and a strategic location within the Dayton metropolitan area, Kettering is an ideal place for businesses of all sizes and industries to thrive.

Finally, Kettering has a strong and stable housing market, with a reputation for quality affordable real estate in a wide price range, for first-time home buyers and successful professionals. This means that if you invest in a Kettering home, you can feel confident that your investment will hold its value and appreciate over time.  In the first quarter of 2023, the city is experiencing a low inventory of Kettering homes for sale, which creates a winning environment for residents thinking of selling their homes.

All of these factors combined make Kettering, Ohio homes in high demand, and a desirable place to live and invest in property.

Is Kettering Ohio a good place to live?

Why Are Kettering Homes A Good Investment?

Kettering homes are a good investment for several reasons.

Firstly, owning a home allows you to build equity over time, which means that as you pay down your mortgage and your home increases in value, you will have an asset that you can financially leverage in the future. Simply, when you sell your home you’ll get most of the money you paid monthly toward your mortgage back, homeownership is like a savings account that you live in!  The longer you own the house the greater the likelihood you’ll acquire even more money because of the healthy appreciation rates in Kettering!

Secondly, the Kettering government and city leaders wisely govern and position the city for financial stability by attracting new businesses to the city and improving the city’s infrastructure and services to the residents.  All this creates a sense of city pride and resident security and enjoyment, which also benefits homeowners when they want to sell their Kettering house through the power of community attraction.

Additionally, owning a home can offer tax benefits, such as the ability to deduct mortgage interest and property taxes from your income taxes. Because of all the items mentioned so far, Kettering also benefits from a strong rental market.  If an owner decides not to sell the home but desires a new house, they can retain ownership and easily rent the property.

Furthermore, the city is now landlocked, with little to no land available for development.  So the number of homes in Kettering will not increase significantly in the future.  So as the desire to live in this thriving community grows with little new home construction occurring, the demand will lift the value of Kettering homes! 

Kettering Ohio Real Estate OfficeFinally, the city has done an excellent job of assisting lower-income neighborhoods to make neighborhood improvements and allowing distressed properties to be purchased by the city or other housing organizations for demolition and rebuilding a new house on the lot.  This allows the home values in the neighborhood to rise with improvements that benefit homeowners in the neighborhood and the city as well!  

Maximizing Your Kettering Home's Potential: Expert Tips for Preparing Your Property for Sale!

If you're preparing to sell your Kettering home, there are a few steps you can take to help make the process smoother and potentially increase the value of your home.

Declutter and Clean: Before you put your home on the market, it's important to declutter and clean your space. This means getting rid of any excess clutter or personal items and thoroughly cleaning your home from top to bottom. This will make your home look more spacious and inviting to potential buyers.

Paint any rooms that need painting:  Painting is the least expensive home improvement and offers a big bang for a buck.  But pick the wrong color and it could backfire and make your home look dated.

Make Repairs: Make any necessary repairs to your home before putting it on the market. This includes fixing any broken appliances, replacing light fixtures or ceiling fans, and repairing any damage to walls or floors.

Home Improvements: Make a list of recent updates and home improvements.  Include any item that has been updated in the last 10 years of your home ownership and include the age of the roof and all mechanical systems.

Realtor Expertise: Contact the highly rated and reviewed Kettering Realtors Don & Cyndi Shurts to discuss the Kettering real estate market and how to maximize your proceeds when your house is sold.  Their team of experts will help with the selection of the right paint colors to work with your home and furnishings, too!

When is the best time to sell your Kettering home?

Kettering Realtor with online reviewsThe best time to sell your home is when you and your house are ready to sell!   Many people worry about whether to sell in the spring, summer, fall, or winter.  For the most part, the season is less important than hiring a Kettering real estate agent that understands the ebb and flow of the housing market and has a marketing strategy for each season of the year.

Selling your Kettering, Ohio home can be made even more stress-free and successful by working with the right real estate agent. Don & Cyndi Shurts of Keller Williams are experienced Kettering listing agents who can help guide you through the process of selling your home, from pricing and marketing to negotiating offers and closing the sale. When they list a home for sale, the home will be staged and receive professional photos and video. With their knowledge of the Kettering housing market and commitment to exceptional customer service, they can help you make the most of your investment and sell your home with confidence. So if you're considering selling your Kettering home, consider reaching out to Don & Cyndi Shurts via phone or text to learn more about how they can help you achieve your real estate goals.

 

March 17, 2023

Score Your Dream Home with Our Exclusive Physician Loan Program!

Hey Residents, Get Ready to Live it Up in Your New Home with Our Physician Loan Program!

Welcome incoming residents, and congratulations on this exciting new chapter in your lives! We are thrilled to have you join our community. If you are considering purchasing a home, we have some fantastic news for you.

Physician Loans

Our Physician Loan program offers a wide range of benefits, including 100% financing, no private mortgage insurance, and reduced interest rates. You can choose between fixed or adjustable options, whichever works best for your unique situation.

Plus, we are offering an exclusive promotion for those who close with a fixed Physician Loan: a one-time interest rate reduction, valid for the next three years, completely free of charge! This is a great opportunity to save money and achieve your dream of owning a home.

Absolutely! We understand that purchasing a home can be a big financial decision, which is why we want to make sure you feel completely confident every step of the way. If you have any questions or concerns about our Physician Loan program, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to help and support you throughout the entire home-buying process.

In addition to our support, we highly recommend contacting Realtors Don & Cyndi Shurts at 937-241-2124 for expert guidance in finding your dream home. With their years of experience and knowledge of the local real estate market, they can help you make informed decisions and find the perfect home for you.

Together, we are committed to helping you achieve your homeownership goals and creating a smooth, stress-free experience. So don't wait any longer, give us a call today and let's get started!

 

March 16, 2023

Things You Should Know About Living in Beavercreek Ohio

Before You Buy a Home in Beavercreek, Ohio: Specific Things You Should Know About Living Here

Beavercreek Ohio Homes For SaleBuying a home in Beavercreek, Ohio and the surrounding area can be an exciting adventure. From the quaint small-town charm of Beavercreek to the rolling hills and natural beauty of the surrounding countryside, there's a lot to love about this area. However, before you start shopping for your dream home, it's important to understand the local housing market, your budget, and your specific needs and preferences. By doing your research and working with a trusted real estate agent, you can find a home that fits your lifestyle and meets your financial goals. In this blog post, we'll share some helpful tips and insights about what you need to know about homes for sale in Beavercreek and the surrounding area.

Radon Gas is common in Beavercreek and surrounding areas

Radon gas is a naturally occurring, radioactive gas that seeps from the ground and can enter homes throughout the Beavercreek, Ohio area. Radon is odorless, colorless, and tasteless, which makes it difficult to detect without specialized equipment. Exposure to high levels of radon gas over a long period of time can be dangerous and has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer. In fact, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, after smoking. While radon gas can pose a potential health risk in homes throughout the Beavercreek, Ohio area, there's no need to panic. By understanding the potential risks and taking proactive steps to address them, you can ensure that your home is safe and healthy for you and your family. Radon testing is a simple and affordable process that can help you identify if your home has elevated levels of radon, and if so, there are effective mitigation strategies that can be used to reduce the levels of radon gas in your home. By working with a qualified radon testing and mitigation company, you can ensure that your home is safe and healthy for you and your family. If you're considering buying a home in the Beavercreek area, it's important to have the home tested for radon gas as part of the inspection process. Radon testing in the area costs about $150 and is completed in a 48-hour period.

Discover the Hidden Gem of Ohio: Beavercreek's No City Income Tax

Buying a home in Beavercreek OHIf you're looking for a place to live and work in Ohio, you might want to consider Beavercreek real estate. This city offers an attractive perk for residents - it has no city income tax. That means if you live and work in Beavercreek, you won't have to pay any city income tax. This can be a significant savings compared to other cities in Ohio that have an income tax. However, it's important to note that if you work in another city that has a city income tax, you will likely have to pay personal income tax to that city. Nonetheless, Beavercreek's lack of city income tax can make it an appealing option for those looking to save money on taxes.

You may be curious about the total governmental tax burdens of Beavercreek compared to other communities in the area. Beavercreek stands out with its no city income tax policy, which means residents who live and work within the city limits won't have to pay any city income tax. This is a significant benefit, as some surrounding communities have an income tax rate as high as 2.5%. Additionally, Beavercreek has a relatively low property tax rate compared to other cities in the area, making it a more affordable place to own a home. If you're looking for a community with lower governmental tax burdens, Beavercreek may be a great choice. For more information about community taxes in comparison to Beavercreek, visit our webpage about this topic, Compare Tax Rates Of Various Cities and Villages around the Dayton Ohio Area.

Ensuring Safe and Reliable Well Water in Beavercreek: What Homebuyers Need to Know

Beavercreek ohio water qualityIf you're considering purchasing a home in Beavercreek, Ohio, it's important to be aware that most homes receive city/county water; however, many older homes may have well water.  In Greene County, wells usually are productive and safe. Generally, the quality of well water in Beavercreek and surrounding areas is good, and the quantity of water produced by the wells is typically sufficient for household use. However, it's important to have the well inspected during the buying process to ensure that it meets your needs. In communities more south of the Dayton region, wells can be a little more problematic.

During the inspection period, it's recommended that potential homebuyers have the well water tested for potential contaminants, such as bacteria, viruses, nitrates, and other chemicals. This will give you an idea of the quality of the water and any potential issues that may need to be addressed. Additionally, it's a good idea to have the quantity of water produced by the well tested, as this can vary depending on factors like the size of the well and the amount of rainfall in the area.

We had city water when we lived in Beavercreek and it was fine.  A few years ago we moved outside of town and have well water and we love it!  By having the well inspected and tested during the buying process, you can ensure that the well water meets your needs and that there are no underlying issues that could affect the quality or quantity of the water. This can help you make an informed decision when purchasing a home in Beavercreek, and give you peace of mind knowing that you have a reliable supply of safe, high-quality water for your household.

One More Thing To Know About Beavercreek Water!

It's important to be aware that Beavercreek has hard water. This means that the water in the area contains high levels of minerals such as calcium and magnesium, which can cause issues such as scale buildup, decreased water pressure, and damage to plumbing and appliances over time. To combat these issues, many homes in the area are equipped with water softeners, which remove the minerals from the water and make it softer and more usable. However, if the home you are considering does not have a water softener installed, you may need to factor in the cost of installing one when budgeting for your new home.

Skip the Gridlock: Enjoy Stress-Free Traffic in Beavercreek, Ohio!

Beavercreek High School Graduation Ceremony at Wright State University's Nutter CenterYou'll be happy to know that traffic levels are relatively low compared to rush hour traffic in larger metropolitan areas. Beavercreek is a suburban city located just east of Dayton, Ohio, and while it does have its fair share of traffic during peak hours, it's nowhere near as congested as larger cities like New York or Los Angeles.

During the morning and evening commutes to work and school traffic will be heavier of course, but will likely only add 5-10 minutes to a normal travel time.

Like everywhere, you’ll experience a longer delay caused by an accident

Though ODOT and city road crews do an excellent job preparing and clearing local roads during inclement winter weather, you should plan on giving yourself extra time to get to work or school during the winter.

About the only time traffic can become “nightmarish” is when a large event is occurring at Wright State University’s Nutter Center!  When a couple of thousand people are arriving and leaving special events like high school graduations, popular concerts or well-attended events can cause traffic backups on Fairfield Rd near the Mall at Commons and on Colonel Glenn Highway.

This means that you'll have a much easier time getting around town, running errands, and commuting to work or school. Plus, you'll be able to spend less time stuck in traffic and more time with your loved ones enjoying all the great things Beavercreek has to offer.

Indulge in Culinary and Shopping Bliss: Exploring the Flavors and Boutiques of Beavercreek, Ohio

Beavercreek Ohio DiningBeavercreek, Ohio is home to a plethora of shopping, dining, and entertainment venues that cater to a diverse range of tastes and interests.  There are more restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues in Beavercreek than any other community in the Dayton region.  For shopping, visitors can check out the popular Fairfield Commons Mall, which features over 100 stores, including major retailers like Macy's, JCPenney, Dicks Sporting Goods, H & M, Carters, and more. Round One Bowling and Amusement Center is also located within the mall. The AMC movie theater at the Fairfield Commons Mall shows all the latest released movies, while the Beavercreek Community Theatre puts on a variety of plays and musicals throughout the year.

The Greene, another popular shopping destination, is an outdoor mall that offers a unique shopping experience with a mix of national and local retailers, as well as a variety of dining and entertainment options.  The Funny Bone Comedy Club is located at the Greene Towne Center and attracts crowds for local and national comedy acts.  The Cinemark At The Greene shows the latest blockbuster films and offers an IMAX theatre, with reclining seats, and food service

When it comes to dining, Beavercreek has an impressive selection of restaurants that serve up a range of cuisine, from classic American fare to international flavors. Some notable dining spots include Pasha Grill, a Mediterranean restaurant known for its kebabs and hummus, Old Scratch Pizza, which serves up delicious, artisan-style pizzas, and Osaka Japanese Steakhouse, which offers hibachi-style dining and sushi.  El Toro Mexican restaurant has three dining locations in Beavercreek.  For an amazing steak dinner, Black Rock Bar & Grill and Fleming Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar are popular restaurants.

Final Warning: Chickens Aren't Welcome In Beavercreek

Are chickens allowed in Beavercreek ohio?Well, it seems that the good people of Beavercreek, Ohio are missing out on the joys of chicken ownership! Unfortunately, the city council has put their foot down and declared that chickens are strictly off-limits within city limits. Now, I'm not sure why they would want to deny their citizens the opportunity to have fresh eggs every morning or to watch those silly birds running around their backyard, but hey, maybe they're just not "clucky" enough.

Buying a home in Beavercreek, Ohio and the surrounding area is an exciting and worthwhile investment that offers a unique blend of amenities, including a vibrant dining and shopping scene, no city income tax, and easy access to major highways. However, it's important to be aware of potential issues like radon gas and well water in some homes, as well as traffic congestion in certain areas. 

By keeping these factors in mind and working with knowledgeable real estate agents, like Don & Cyndi Shurts of Keller Williams, you can find the perfect home in Beavercreek and enjoy all that this thriving community has to offer.  Beavercreek Realtors Don & Cyndi Shurts have over 40 years of combined experience in the industry, they have a deep knowledge of the Miami Valley real estate market and can help you navigate the buying process with ease.  Don & Cyndi are known for their commitment to providing excellent customer service and attention to detail. They take the time to understand their client's unique needs and preferences, and they work tirelessly to help them find the perfect home that meets their criteria.

 

March 14, 2023

2 Things Sellers Need To Know This Spring

2 Things Sellers Need To Know This Spring

2 Things Sellers Need To Know This Spring | MyKCM

A lot has changed over the past year, and you might be wondering what’s in store for the spring housing market. If you’re planning to sell your house this season, here’s what real estate experts are saying you should keep in mind.

1. Houses That Are Priced Right Are Still Selling

Houses that are updated and priced at their current market value are still selling. Jeff Tucker, Senior Economist at Zillowsays:

“. . . sellers who price and market their home competitively shouldn’t have a problem finding a buyer.”

The need to price your house right is so important today because the market has changed so much over the past year. Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at realtor.comexplains:

“With a smaller pool of buyers today and more competition from other homes on the market, homesellers will likely need to adjust their price expectations in the market this spring.”

While this spring housing market is different than last year’s, sellers with proper expectations who lean on a real estate expert for the best advice on pricing their house well are still finding success. And that’s great news if you’re thinking about selling.

2. Buyers Are Still Out There

As mortgage rates have risen and remain volatile, some buyers have pressed pause on their plans. But there are still plenty of reasons people are buying homes today. Lisa Sturtevant, Chief Economist at Bright MLSspells out the mindset of today’s buyers:

“For some buyers, higher mortgage rates simply means buying a home is out of the question unless home prices fall. For others, higher mortgage rates will be a hurdle but ultimately will not keep them from getting back into the market after sitting on the sidelines for months.”

That’s why, if you’re interested in selling your house this spring, it’s helpful to work with a real estate agent who can help connect you with those buyers who are ready to purchase a home.

Bottom Line

There are still clear opportunities for sellers this spring. If you’re wondering if it’s the right time to make a move, let’s connect today.

2 Things Sellers Need To Know This Spring | MyKCM

A lot has changed over the past year, and you might be wondering what’s in store for the spring housing market. If you’re planning to sell your house this season, here’s what real estate experts are saying you should keep in mind.

1. Houses That Are Priced Right Are Still Selling

Houses that are updated and priced at their current market value are still selling. Jeff Tucker, Senior Economist at Zillowsays:

“. . . sellers who price and market their home competitively shouldn’t have a problem finding a buyer.”

The need to price your house right is so important today because the market has changed so much over the past year. Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at realtor.comexplains:

“With a smaller pool of buyers today and more competition from other homes on the market, homesellers will likely need to adjust their price expectations in the market this spring.”

While this spring housing market is different than last year’s, sellers with proper expectations who lean on a real estate expert for the best advice on pricing their house well are still finding success. And that’s great news if you’re thinking about selling.

2. Buyers Are Still Out There

As mortgage rates have risen and remain volatile, some buyers have pressed pause on their plans. But there are still plenty of reasons people are buying homes today. Lisa Sturtevant, Chief Economist at Bright MLSspells out the mindset of today’s buyers:

“For some buyers, higher mortgage rates simply means buying a home is out of the question unless home prices fall. For others, higher mortgage rates will be a hurdle but ultimately will not keep them from getting back into the market after sitting on the sidelines for months.”

That’s why, if you’re interested in selling your house this spring, it’s helpful to work with a real estate agent who can help connect you with those buyers who are ready to purchase a home.

Bottom Line

There are still clear opportunities for sellers this spring. If you’re wondering if it’s the right time to make a move, let’s connect today.

March 13, 2023

Leverage Your Equity When You Sell Your House

Leverage Your Equity When You Sell Your House

Leverage Your Equity When You Sell Your House | MyKCM

One of the benefits of being a homeowner is that you build equity over time. By selling your house, that equity can be used toward purchasing your next home. But before you can put it to use, you should understand exactly what equity is and how it grows. Bankrate explains it like this:

“Home equity is the portion of your home you’ve paid off – in other words, your stake in the property as opposed to the lender’s. In practical terms, home equity is the appraised value of your home minus any outstanding mortgage and loan balances.”

Majority of Americans Have a Large Amount of Equity

If you’ve owned your home for a while, you’ve likely built up some equity – and you may not even realize how much. Based on data from the U.S. Census Bureau and ATTOM, the majority of Americans have a substantial amount of equity right now (see graph below):

Leverage Your Equity When You Sell Your House | MyKCM

And having such large amounts of equity is a benefit to homeowners in more ways than one. Rick Sharga, Executive Vice President of Market Intelligence at ATTOMexplains:

“Record levels of home equity provide security for millions of families, and minimize the chance of another housing market crash like the one we saw in 2008.”

Over time, your home equity grows. In addition to providing financial stability while you own your house, when you’re ready to sell it, that money could go a long way toward paying for your next home.

Bottom Line

By selling your house and leveraging your equity, it can be easier to pay for your next home. Let’s connect today so you can find out how much home equity you have and start planning your next move.

Posted in home equity
March 13, 2023

4 Tips for Making Your Best Offer on a Home

4 Tips for Making Your Best Offer on a Home

4 Tips for Making Your Best Offer on a Home | MyKCM

Are you planning to buy a home this spring? Though things are more balanced than they were at the height of the pandemic, it’s still a sellers’ market. So, when you find the home you want to buy, remember these four tips to make your best offer.

1.Lean on a Real Estate Professional

Rely on an agent who can support your goals. As Bankrate notes:

“. . . select the best real estate agent for your needs. They will be a critical part of your home buying process.”

Agents are local market experts. They know what’s worked for other buyers in your area and what sellers may be looking for in an offer. It may seem simple, but catering to what a seller needs can help your offer stand out.

2.Know Your Budget

Understanding your budget is especially important right now. As Sandy Higgins, Senior Wealth Advisor at Capstone Financial Advisorsputs it:

“Understand your current budget … what are your expenses, how’s your spending, would you need to make changes?”

The best way to understand your numbers is to work with a lender so you can get pre-approved for a loan. It helps you be more financially confident, and it shows sellers you’re serious. That can give you a competitive edge.

3.Think Through Everything Before Making an Offer

Today’s market isn’t moving at the record pace it did during the pandemic. That means you may have a bit more time to think before you need to make an offer. According to Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at realtor.com:

“In general, you likely have more time to make an offer, although that’s certainly not a guarantee. If you’re on the fence about a home or its asking price doesn’t quite fit your budget, you might want to keep an eye on it, and if it doesn’t sell right away, you may have some room to negotiate with the seller.”

While it’s still important to stay on top of the market and be prepared to move quickly, there can be more flexibility today. Lean on the advice of your agent as you explore the options in your market.

4. Work with Your Advisor To Negotiate

During the pandemic, some buyers skipped home inspections or didn’t ask for concessions from the seller in order to submit the winning bid on a home. Fortunately, today’s market is different, and you may have more negotiating power than before. When putting together an offer, your trusted real estate advisor will help you think through what levers to pull.

Bottom Line

When you buy a home this spring, let’s connect so you have the guidance to make your best offer.

March 12, 2023

Could a Multigenerational Home Be the Right Fit for You?

Could a Multigenerational Home Be the Right Fit for You?

Could a Multigenerational Home Be the Right Fit for You? | MyKCM

During the pandemic, many of us reexamined the meaning of home for ourselves and our loved ones. Today, that can be seen in the recent rise in multigenerational householdsAccording to Jessica Lautz, Deputy Chief Economist and Vice President of Economic Research at the National Association of Realtors (NAR):

“Multi-generational buying may be a home where families live in the same home with elderly parents, children who have boomeranged back home, or other extended family members. While this is not a new concept of living, it is one which has gained recent popularity.”

And citing data from Pew Research Center, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) says:

“. . . multigenerational living has made a comeback in recent years, particularly after the 2008 financial crisis and during the pandemic.”

So, if buying a multigenerational home has crossed your mind, you aren’t alone. Depending on what stage of homeownership you’re in, there are different reasons it could be the right fit. The chart below shows responses to a recent survey from NAR about the reasons people have bought a multigenerational home:

Whether your motives are financial or focused on the people you’ll share your home with, a multigenerational home has distinct advantages. It can make homeownership more affordable, and it can help you best support your loved ones. As Lautz explains:

“Multi-generational home buying is a way for families to care for one another, support one another, and often buy a home that may have been previously out of reach. . . . The trend of multigenerational buying appears to be firmly established and one that could expand in the future.”

Bottom Line

If you’re ready to buy a house, consider the opportunities of a multigenerational home. Let’s connect so you can explore your options in our area.