BuyersReal Estate MarketSellers March 28, 2024

Market Movers: Life Changing Events That Move the Housing Market

Market Movers: Life Changing Events That Move the Housing Market

Life is a journey filled with unexpected twists and turns, like the excitement of welcoming a new addition to your family, retiring, or the bittersweet feeling of an empty nest. If something like this is changing in your own life, you may be considering buying or selling a house. Through all these life-altering events, there is one common denominator — the need to move.

Reasons People Still Need To Move Today
According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR) there have been a lot of  life changing events over the last two years (see graph below):

And, these big life changes are going to continue to impact people moving forward, even with the current affordability challenges brought on by higher mortgage rates and rising home prices.

Because high mortgage rates, elevated home prices, and stubbornly low inventory make today’s housing market particularly challenging, many of today’s buyers are motivated by life changes, such as growing families, supporting elderly parents or grown children, or accommodating professional needs.

Lean On a Real Estate Professional for Help
Whether you’re beginning your search for a home or preparing to sell your current house, you don’t have to go it alone. A real estate agent is an invaluable partner who can help you smoothly transition through these big moments in your life. Here are just a few examples.

When Buying a Home
If you’re welcoming a new addition and want more space, the need for a new home may be a top priority. While higher home prices and mortgage rates are creating challenges for buyers, you may have to find a way to meet your changing needs, even with today’s mortgage rates.

A skilled real estate agent can help. Our expertise and knowledge of the local housing market can save you a considerable amount of time and stress. An agent will take the time to understand your specific needs, budget, and preferences, allowing us to narrow down your search and present you with suitable options.

When Selling a House
If you’re retiring or going through a separation or divorce, your main focus may be to make the most out of your investment when selling your house, so you can find one that works better for you moving forward.

This is another place where a real estate agent’s expertise truly shines. We can  assess your home’s market value, suggest improvements to enhance its appeal, and craft a strategic marketing plan. Our negotiation skills are a big asset when it comes to making sure you get a fair price for your house, allowing you to move on to the next chapter of your life with confidence and peace of mind.

No matter your situation, lean on a trusted professional for help as you buy or sell a home.

Bottom Line
If recent life changing events have you wanting or needing to move, connect with me today.

DaRhonda Morgan

BuyersSellers March 26, 2024

Moving Forward: How Buyers and Sellers Are Overcoming Affordability Hurdles

Moving Forward: How Buyers and Sellers Are Overcoming Affordability Hurdles

If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home, you might have heard that it’s tough right now because mortgage rates are higher than they’ve been over the past few years, and home prices are rising. While affordability is definitely tighter right now, that doesn’t mean the housing market is at a standstill.

According to the National Association of Realtors, based on the pace of sales right now, just under 4 million homes will sell this year. With some simple math, let’s break down what that really means for you:

  • 3.96 million homes divided by 365 days in a year = 10,849 houses sell each day

  • 10,849 divided by 24 hours in a day = 452 houses sell per hour

  • 452 divided by 60 minutes in an hour = about 8 houses sell each minute

So, on average, over 10,000 homes sell each day in this country. Whether you’re a buyer or a seller, this goes to show there are still ways to make your move possible, even at a time when affordability is tight.

An Agent Can Help You Make Your Move a Reality

You may be wondering how other homebuyers and sellers are making this happen now. One of the biggest game-changers in today’s market is working with a trusted local real estate agent. Great agents are helping other people just like you navigate today’s market and the current affordability situation, and their insight is invaluable right now.

True professionals will be able to offer advice tailored to your specific wants, needs, budget, and more. Not to mention, they’ll also be able to draw on their experience of what’s working for other buyers and sellers right now. This could mean broadening your search, if needed, to include other housing types like condos, townhouses, or neighborhoods a bit further out to help offset some of the affordability challenges today.

Bottom Line

You might think there aren’t many people buying or selling homes right now since affordability is tighter than it’s been in quite some time, but that’s not the case. It’s true that buying a home has become more expensive over the past couple of years, but people are still moving.

If you’re hoping to buy or sell a home today, know that other people are still making their goals a reality – and that’s happening in large part because of the help and advice of skilled local real estate agents. Want to talk to a trusted professional about your own move? Let’s connect.

DaRhonda

Bedroom IdeasDecorating IdeasHome Decor March 21, 2024

Charm Alert: Upgrade Your Bedroom With These Easy Tricks

 

Charm Alert: Upgrade Your Bedroom With These Easy Tricks

With a new season upon us, you may be wanting to spruce up your bedroom and add a little “newness” to your space. Here are some tips to decorating your bedroom by adding some charm and elegance.

1. BEDROOM FURNITURE

Your bedroom furniture is what makes the biggest impression on you – first thing in the morning and at the end of each day. You will want to add pieces to your bedroom that you will love seeing. Consider adding unique pieces that add character and charm to your personal space.

  • Canopy Beds

A modern style canopy bed can add simple beauty into your bedroom. Use a four-poster frame that is clean and matches your current finishes. A simple design allows you to dress up the bed as you please. Keep it clean for a masculine touch, or add a soft look by hanging gauzy panels.

  • Daybed

Have an empty corner in your bedroom? You can consider adding a traditional style daybed and bring it to life with an elegant French countryside flair. Add lots of layered pillows and throws to bring out the character of your set.

  • Antiques

Don’t be afraid to incorporate antique pieces throughout your modern decor. Adding a fun vintage trunk or even an antique dresser with a crisp bedding set can really pull together a beautiful theme. Antiques can give your bedroom personality and provide a conversation piece.

 

2. LUXURY BEDDING

Sometimes, all a bed needs is a new bedding set. Brands these days carry an array of fabric options, allowing you a large variety of textures and patterns to fit any bedroom style or mood.

  • Silk Bedding

If you want to do something other than cotton, you can add a luxurious touch with some silk bedding. It is naturally hypoallergenic and provides less friction on your skin while you sleep. Silk is beautiful and really stands out in a bedding set.

  • Linen Bedding

If you want a more lived-in look, linen helps achieve that in a modern and classic way. Use neutral colors to create a layered look that’s simple and relaxed.

  • Cable Knit Bedding

Expanding beyond the typical sofa throw, cable knit blankets are soft enough to use as your coverlet and add the right amount of texture for your decorative shams. Cable knits are the perfect blend of practicality, elegance, and comfort.

 

3. BEDROOM DECOR

Your bedroom furniture and bedding have a large role in making your master functional, but it is the little things that will really bring out the personality and charm. Consider the type of mood you want your bedroom to have and decorate to match that mood. Do you want a dark cozy room? Do you want a spa-like feel? Or do you prefer a beach theme? Whichever mood you want to go with, adding decorative pieces can bring it together.

  • Throws & Quilts

Piling up on extra blankets can be a great way to add decorative pieces throughout your bedroom that can also be functional. Quilts and silks add a cozy element to the room, where cotton can add a modern clean feel. Drape bed scarves over chairs to add a lived-in look.

  • Flowers & Candles

The aroma of fresh flowers or a scented candle can help you unwind and enjoy the quiet moments in your bedroom. Scents can elevate the mood, but they also help you relax. Find scents that aren’t too strong, can be enjoyed long term, and fit the decorative mood of your room.

  • Style Your Nightstand

Keep your nightstand free of cords and electronics. Clutter can bring a negative mindset. Your nightstand is often the first place you look at in the morning, so you want to keep the electronics and mess off of it. Add a stack of timeless books, an elegant tray, or a decorative piece of art. Only keep the necessities, like reading glasses, a glass of water, or your favorite book.

Buyers March 16, 2024

7 Clear Signs You’re Ready to Buy a Home

Are you feeling the itch to make a big move? Wondering if it’s time to take the leap into homeownership? Here are 7 signs that indicate you might be more than ready to buy a home.

  1. Financial Stability: You have a steady income, manageable debt levels, and a good credit score, making you financially prepared for the responsibilities of homeownership.
  2. Long-Term Plans: You’re thinking about settling down for the long haul and are ready to invest in a place to call your own.
  3. Rent Frustrations: Tired of dealing with rent increases, noisy neighbors, or limited customization options? Owning a home could be the solution.
  4. Growing Family: Whether you’re expanding your family or planning to do so in the future, the need for more space and stability is a clear sign that homeownership could be right for you.
  5. Investment Mindset: You see a home purchase as a smart investment in your future, building equity and potentially increasing in value over time.
  6. Stable Job Situation: You feel secure in your current job or have a stable career path ahead, providing the confidence needed to take on the commitment of homeownership.
  7. Emotional Readiness: You have a strong desire to put down roots, personalize your living space, and enjoy the pride of homeownership.

If these signs resonate with you, it may be time to start exploring your options in the housing. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to make a move, I’m here to help you navigate the process and find your dream home.

Ready to take the next step towards homeownership? Contact me today to start your journey to finding the perfect home sweet home.

DaRhonda