2022 was marked by some unfamiliar territory in the residential real estate market. Most principally, mortgage interest rates increased from the low 3's in late 2021 to the mid 6's at the time of this writing. There is no way of sugar-coating how these numbers hinder many buyers' purchasing power. Broader macroeconomic factors such as …
Continue reading Residential Real Estate in 2023: Is There a “Standoff?”
Today's economy has many of us a bit unsettled. Persistent inflation, stock market volatility and the prospect of recession have given homebuyers and sellers more to think about as they consider entering the residential real estate market. When asked "how's the market?," as we regularly are, we have these thoughts in response to today's economic …
Continue reading Economic Uncertainty and How it Affects Real Estate
One year ago on these pages, I wrote a piece on what the real estate market might look like "post-pandemic." I accept responsibility for what may have been wishful thinking. 2022 has begun with the Delta and Omicron variants that will certainly affect the economy as a whole, including the residential real estate sector. The …
Whether buyers are just browsing or actively looking to purchase a home, one of the most prominent criteria they consider is the list price. A home's "list price," "offer price" or "asking price" plays a critical role in motivating or discouraging buyers and sellers from reaching agreement on a contract to an eventual closing. As you are …
Here's to you, 2020 - Good Riddance! If you're like me, you are looking forward to a return to normalcy as we start the new year. We want kids to be back to school, people back at work, some normal social interaction and safe travels. As the pandemic hopefully enters our rear-view mirror, many are …
Continue reading Residential Real Estate Post-Pandemic: What’s in Store for 2021?
During these uncertain times, I am often asked how the global pandemic has impacted the residential real estate market. To answer that it is necessary to understand what is required on a practical basis to be a buyer or seller of real property.Buying a home affords you a significant amount of control over the process, …
As the 2010's come to an end, many folks are wondering what next year - and, in fact, what the next decade - will bring to residential real estate and the economy in general. These questions from our clients and friends compelled me to take particular interest in the first ever Real Estate Forecast Summit, …
Continue reading What’s in Store for 2020 for Real Estate and Beyond?
Recalling the various holiday parties I attended, it generally took about 5 minutes of conversation before someone asked, "What does the Amazon HQ2 move mean for real estate?" It is not surprising that people want to know how such significant news affects what is usually their biggest investment (their residence). The questions of when and …
Continue reading The Amazon Decision: What Does it Mean for Residential Real Estate in Arlington?
Clients and friends often ask me what home improvements are the smartest ones to make, both short-term when listing a home for sale, as well as generally over the long-term. The question is always - will I get this money back when I sell?When listing a home for sale, my experience has convinced me that …
Continue reading Home Improvements: What Gets You the Greatest Bang for the Buck?
In recent weeks, I have often been asked what the new tax law means for real estate. Friends and clients want to know if and when should they buy or sell, or more generally how the law affects them. Of course, I recommend that both homeowners and prospective buyers and sellers consult their accountant and/or …
Continue reading The New Tax Law: What Does it Mean for Residential Real Estate?
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