Real Estate facts today: Inventory levels have slightly improved, which may bring some relief to buyers. The market remains robust, with homes typically selling close to their list prices, and a significant percentage of sales occurring above the asking price due to high competition. Higher mortgage rates, rising prices, and limited inventory are impacting today's housing market. But, buyers are still out there. Some buyers are holding off as demand has dipped since the "unicorn years",  but here is data to inform interested sellers that some buyers are wisely looking to beat the competition before rates are predicted to decline, and they are very active.

Facts about your Realtor: I am quite extroverted. I don't mind the spotlight and although I'm quite communicative and friendly, active listening is one of my superpowers when I hunker down to business in my professional life.  And, believe it or not that's one of the most important parts of my job.  It's one of the "hard to explain" ways I add value to the real estate process.  I need to understand the many reasons and goals for selling your home or why you're interested in buying one. That takes conversation and active listening. 

In addition to listening, I also use the best industry tools to price your house to attract buyers. Goal: to set you apart and sell for the highest price, in the shortest amount of time, with the most favorable terms. It's accomplished by first: conducting a complete market analysis using  my real estate databases which help me generate inventory absorption rates and calculate current conditions and recent sales of comparable properties in your area. This comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights in the local market trends, demands and pricing benchmarks.  "Prices are going up because there still aren’t enough homes available for sale right now compared to today’s buyer demand. So, if you work with an agent to price your house right, you might receive multiple offers and sell quickly. "

It remains true that you will start building equity if you purchase a home today.  Home ownership is a powerful investment.  Despite current market conditions, there are still opportunities to empower and position today's buyer for success in purchasing a home, especially if you're represented by a real estate agent. If you are in the market to purchase a home, you need a pre-approval from a trusted mortgage lender. (Yes!, you can ask me and I can refer you to several.) Their job is to empower you financially and guide you toward make the best decisions in home ownership with what you can afford.

For my first time home buyers there are  many options today even in this competitive market. You should also know that home prices are rising in the top 18 of 20 cities. Data also shows that home prices are increasing nationally. It's my job as your Realtor to inform you.  And, my job starts here with you reading, me educating and empowering you no matter the market conditions, and of course, my listening to you.

Maybe you're still thinking about your next move, but you are not quite ready to delve into conversation yet you're interested in learning more? I can send you my buyer or seller e-book. Reply to my email and I'll text or email it to you today. My personalized service starts with you! Let's connect.

Julie Gustafson

REALTOR^®

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate - The Shanahan Group

552 Main Street Winchester

Massachusetts 01890

mobile: 781-382-5950 

julie.gustafson@shanahanre.com

*I put a lot of links in here to facts and data from professional sources for your reading pleasure. They include: *Forbes 2022, *Keeping Current Matters March, May 2024*, Fannie Mae Home Price Index Q1 2024