Consumers Agree: It’s a Good Time To Sell

In today’s sellers’ market, many homeowners are weighing their options and trying to decide if they should sell their house. If you’re in that group, you may be balancing things like the ongoing health crisis, rising mortgage rates, and your own changing needs to determine your best time to make a move.

However, recent data shows that time may already be here. According to the latest Home Purchase Sentiment Index (HPSI) by Fannie Mae, 76% of consumers believe now is a good time to sell.

Looking back over the past few years, its clear consumers are incredibly optimistic today. The graph below shows the percent of survey respondents who say it’s a good time to sell a house, and their positive outlook is on the rise. The big dip near the middle of the chart indicates how consumer sentiment about selling dropped at the beginning of the pandemic as uncertainty about the health crisis and its impact grew. The good news is, the trend today shows a continued, drastic improvement, and people are feeling more and more confident with time about selling a home.

In fact, survey respondents think it’s an even better time to sell a house today than they did in the lead-up to the health crisis. The latest survey results indicate we’re at one of the strongest peaks in seller sentiment since March of 2019, hitting highs when 77% of people thought it was a good time to sell only twice before in June and October of 2021.

Why Are Consumers So Optimistic About Today’s Housing Market?

From record-high equity gains to record-low housing supply and significant buyer demand, homeowners have more motivation than ever to sell. There are more buyers in today’s market than there are homes for sale, and that’s driving home prices up, making it a great time to sell your house.

According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the current supply of homes for sale today is at a 1.8-month supply, which is an all-time low. When the supply of homes for sale is low, sellers will likely see more offers, which is exactly what’s happening right now. As NAR notes:

“The average home for sale is receiving 3.8 offers today, up from 3.3 offers just one year ago.”

Bottom Line

With the inventory of houses for sale so low today pushing home prices in an upward direction, it’s no wonder consumers think it’s a good time to sell. If you’re ready to take advantage of today’s favorable sellers’ market, let’s connect today. And if you’re wondering, “should you take down family photos when selling house?” – it’s just one of the many strategies we can discuss to ensure your property shines in this competitive market.

Don’t Let Student Loans Delay Your Homeownership Dreams

If you’re looking to buy a home, you may be wondering how your student loan debt could impact those plans. Do you have to wait until you’ve paid off your student loans before you can buy your first home? Or could you qualify for a home loan with that debt?

To give you the answers you’re searching for, let’s take a look at what recent data shows. That way, you know what to expect and what to do next to achieve your dream of becoming a homeowner. While everyone’s situation is unique, your goal may be more within your reach than you realize.

Do you have to delay your plans because of student loans?

If you’re worried your student loans mean you have to put your homeownership goals on hold, you’re not alone. In fact, many first-time buyers believe they have to delay their plans. According to data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR):

“When asked specifically about purchasing a home, half of nonhomeowners say student loan debt is delaying them from purchasing a home (51%).”

When asked why their student loans are putting their plans on the back burner, three key themes emerged:

47% say their student loans make it harder to save for a down payment
45% say they think they can’t qualify for a home loan because of existing debt
43% say they believe the delay is necessary even though they’ve never applied for a mortgage

No matter which reason resonates most with you, you should know a delay may not be necessary. Here’s why.

Can you qualify for a home loan if you have student loans?

In the same NAR report, data shows many current homeowners have student loan debt themselves:

“Nearly one-quarter of all home buyers, and 37% of first-time buyers, had student debt, with a typical amount of $30,000.”

That means other people in a similar situation were able to qualify for and buy a home even though they also had student loan debt. You may be able to do the same, especially if you have a steady source of income. Apartment Therapy drives this point home:

“. . . buying a home with student loans is possible, experts say. The proof is in the numbers, too: Some 40 percent of first-time homebuyers have student loan debt, according to the NAR study.”

The key takeaway is, for many people, homeownership is achievable even with student loans.

The best way to make a decision about your goals and next steps is to talk to the professionals. A real estate advisor can walk you through your specific situation, your options, and what has worked for other buyers like you. They can also connect you with other professionals in the industry who can help. You don’t have to figure this out on your own – lean on the experts so you have the information you need to make an informed, confident decision.

Bottom Line

Many other buyers with student loan debt are already achieving their homeownership dreams. Maybe it’s time to take the next step toward making yours a reality. Let’s connect to discuss your options and find out how close you are to achieving your goal.

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Want Top Dollar for Your House? Now’s the Time To List It.

When you’re selling any item, you usually want to sell it for the greatest profit possible. That happens when there’s a strong demand and a limited supply for that item. In the real estate market, that time is right now. If you’re thinking of selling your house this year, here are two reasons why now’s the time to list.

1. Demand Is Very Strong This Winter

A recent article in Inman News explains:

“Spring, the hottest time of year for homebuyers and sellers, has started early, according to economists. . . . ‘Home shopping season appears to already be in full swing!’”

And they aren’t the only ones saying buyers are already out in full force. That claim is backed up with data released last week by ShowingTime. The ShowingTime Showing Index tracks the average number of monthly buyer showings on active residential properties, which is a highly reliable leading indicator of current and future trends for buyer demand. The latest index reveals this December was the most active December in five years (see graph below):

As the data indicates, buyers are very active this winter. Last December saw even more showings than December of 2020, which was already a stronger-than-usual winter. And remember – you want to sell something when there’s a strong demand for that item. That time is now.

2. Housing Supply Is Extremely Low

Each month, realtor.com releases data on the number of active residential real estate listings (listings currently for sale). Their most recent report reveals the latest monthly number is the lowest we’ve seen in any January since 2017 (see graph below):

And don’t forget, the best time to sell an item is when there’s a limited supply of it available. This graph clearly shows how extremely low housing supply is today.

Even Though Supply Is at a Historic Low, Home Sales Are at a 15-Year High

According to the latest Existing Home Sales Report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), existing-home sales totaled 6.12 million in 2021 – the highest annual level since 2006. This means the market is hot and homeowners are in a great place to sell now while sales are so strong.

NAR also reports available listings by calculating the current months’ supply of inventory. They explain:

“Months’ supply refers to the number of months it would take for the current inventory of homes on the market to sell given the current sales pace.”

The current 1.8-months’ supply is the lowest ever reported. Here are the December numbers over the last five years (see graph below):

The ratio of buyers to sellers favors homeowners right now to a greater degree than at any other time in history. Buyer demand is high, and supply is low. That gives sellers like you an incredible opportunity.

Bottom Line

If you agree the best time to sell anything is when demand is high and supply is low, let’s connect to begin discussing the process of listing your house today.

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How To Win as a Buyer in a Sellers’ Market [INFOGRAPHIC]

Some Highlights

Even in today’s sellers’ market, there are still ways for buyers to win big.
Build a team of trusted professionals and make strategic plays as you budget and pick your desired neighborhoods. Then, be ready for the competition by getting a pre-approval letter and leaning on your expert advisors to draft a winning offer.
In a sellers’ market, you can still be the champion if you have the right team and strategy. Let’s connect today to make your game-winning play.

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What Every Seller Needs To Know About Renovating This Year

If you’re planning to sell this year, you’re probably thinking about what you’ll need to do to get your house ready to appeal to the most buyers. It’s crucial to work with a trusted real estate professional who knows your local market to get your home ready to sell. But there are a few things you should consider when deciding what to renovate and update before listing this season. Here are three things to keep top of mind as you’re making your list of projects to tackle this year.

1. The Number of Homes for Sale Is Very Low

Housing inventory sits far below what is normally considered a balanced market. In fact, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the latest data indicates inventory is hitting an all-time low. Because there’s such a limited supply of homes available for sale, you’re in a unique position when you sell your house to benefit from multiple offers and a quick process.

But you want to do so while buyers are still scooping homes up as fast as they’re being listed. Spending time and money on renovations before you sell could mean you’ll miss your key window of opportunity. Of course, certain repairs may be important or even necessary such as residential roof repair and commercial roof replacement. If your home has a basement, waterproofing it with the help of companies like Foundation Waterproofing By Moe may help boost the value of your home. The best way to determine where to spend your time – and your money – is to work with a real estate advisor to confirm which improvements are truly needed and which ones aren’t likely to be deal-breakers for buyers.

2. Buyers May Be Willing To Take on Projects When They Purchase Your House

Today, many buyers are more willing to take on home improvement projects themselves to get the house they’re after, even if it means putting in a little extra work. For those looking to enhance privacy and light control, blockout roller blinds Melbourne offer a stylish and practical solution for any home. These blinds effectively reduce glare and heat, making them ideal for maintaining a comfortable indoor environment year-round. A recent survey from Freddie Mac finds that:

“. . . nearly two-in-five potential homebuyers would consider purchasing a home requiring renovations.”

If more buyers are willing to tackle repairs on their own, it may be wise to let future homeowners remodel the bathroom or kitchen to suit their specific taste and lifestyle. For example, homeowners may consider replacing their old tiles with new ones like carrara marble tiles. In addition, incorporating stylish and functional elements like a skjutdörr från Naturfönster can add a modern touch while maximizing space efficiency in any home renovation.. Depending on the structural condition of your house, your efforts may be better spent working on small cosmetic updates and maintenance, like refreshing some paint, furnace repair, temporary fencing installation, and power washing the exterior to make sure the home stands out. nstead of over-investing in upgrades the buyer may change anyway, work with a real estate professional to determine the key projects to tackle that will give you the greatest return on your investment.

One crucial area to assess is your HVAC system. Ensuring that your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system is in good working order can be a significant selling point for buyers. Many homebuyers prioritize energy efficiency and indoor air quality, making a well-maintained HVAC system a valuable asset, you just have to hire professionals like RC Air Conditioning to get proper maintenance. Simple maintenance tasks such as servicing your furnace, replacing air filters, or even upgrading to a more energy-efficient unit can enhance your home’s appeal and potentially increase its market value. Roof Quotes can also help ensure your roof is in top shape, complementing your home’s overall efficiency.

3. Your Agent Will Help You Spotlight the Upgrades You’ve Made

Over the past year, many people made a significant number of updates to their homes. The most recent State of Home Spending report finds:

“Home improvement spending rose 25% year-over-year to $10,341. Homeowners who invested in home improvement did an average of 3.7 projects, up from 2.7 in 2020, . . .”

With more homeowners taking on more projects in the past 12 months, there’s a good chance you’ve already made updates to your home that could appeal to buyers. If that’s the case, your real estate advisor will find ways to highlight those upgrades in your listing. A Cash Purchase for Your Land means the buyer pays the full amount upfront, eliminating the uncertainties of mortgage approvals or financial contingencies. This can lead to a smoother transaction and provides assurance that the deal is less likely to fall through due to financing issues.

when it comes to renovating your home, it’s essential to consult a local real estate professional for expert advice. They can guide you on the necessary improvements and help you enhance your property’s appeal to potential buyers. One key aspect to consider is the cladding of your home, which plays a significant role in its aesthetics and durability. If you’re looking for a reliable cladding painting company, consider reaching out to experts at https://claddingsprayers.co.uk/. Their expertise can transform your home’s exterior, adding value and visual appeal. Consulting with professionals like them, alongside your real estate agent, ensures you make the right moves to sell your home successfully this season. Contact Alex Trend Painters if you plan to repaint the rooms in your home.

Bottom Line

In a sellers’ market like today’s, it’s important to spend your time and money wisely when you’re getting ready to move. Let’s connect today so you can find out where to target your efforts before you list.

Are You Ready To Fall in Love?

Are You Ready To Fall in Love with Homeownership?

Financial benefits are always a key aspect of homeownership, but it’s also important to understand that the nonfinancial and personal benefits are why so many people genuinely fall in love with their homes. When you own your home, you likely feel a sense of emotional attachment because of the comfort it provides, but also because it’s a space that’s truly yours.

Over the past two years, we’ve learned to love our homes even more as we’ve stayed home more than ever due to the ongoing pandemic. As a result, the personal and emotional benefits our homes provide have become even more important to us.

As the most recent State of the American Homeowner from Unison puts it:

“Despite the upheaval and uncertainty of the past year, one thing has stayed the same: the home continues to be of the utmost importance and a place of security and comfort.”

When the health crisis began, the world around us changed almost overnight, and our homes were redefined. Our needs shifted, and our shelters became a place that protected us on a whole new level. The same study from Unison notes:

91% of homeowners say they feel secure, stable, or successful owning a home
64% of American homeowners say living through a pandemic has made their home more important to them than ever
83% of homeowners say their home has kept them safe during the COVID-19 pandemic

It’s no surprise this study also reveals that homeowners now love their homes even more as our emotional attachments to them have grown:

That sense of emotional connection genuinely reaches far beyond the financial aspect of homeownership. Because they’re our shelters – ones that we can genuinely call our own. Our homes touch our hearts and can also positively impact our mental health.

As JD Esajian, President of CT Homes, LLC, says:

“Aside from the financial factors, there are several social benefits of homeownership and stable housing to consider. It has long been thought that buying a home contributes to a sense of accomplishment. Still, most individuals fail to realize that homeownership can benefit your mental health and the community around you.”

Whether you’re thinking of buying your first home, moving up to your dream home, or downsizing to something that better fits your changing lifestyle, take a moment to reflect on what Mark Fleming, Chief Economist at First American, notes:

“Buying a home is not just a financial decision. It’s also a lifestyle decision.”

Bottom Line

There are so many reasons to fall head over heels for homeownership. Your home will provide a place to customize and call your own, in addition to stability and security. If you’re ready to fall in love with homeownership, let’s connect so you can get started on your homebuying journey today.

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We Are Back!!

It took us 5 days working to restore our site and we are finally back! In the past week we were the unlucky recipients of a cyber attack. This attack took down most of our site and attempted to redirect you to other websites not supported by All About Anthem.

In the past week we have learned more about website security than we should have to know. But, we quickly found out our vulnerabilities and worked to make the site more secure.

We appreciate your patience and everyone using our site. We get plenty of positive feedback and we appreciate that.

Things to Do February 2022 in Phoenix

Things to Do February 2022

Hashknife Pony Express arrives | Feb 4 | Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West

Parada Del Sol Parade and Trails End Festival | Feb 5 | Old Town Scottsdale

Arizona Indian Festival | Feb 5 – 6 | Historic Old Town Scottsdale

Monster Energy AMA Supercross | Feb 5 | State Farm Stadium

Street Eats Food Truck Festival | Feb 5 – 6 | SALT RIVER FIELDS

Arizona Renaissance Festival | Feb 5 – April 3 | Festival Village

Merchantile Market | Through Apr 9 | Big Surf Waterpark

Arizona Bao and Dumpling Festival with the Arizona Donut and Ice Cream Festival | Feb 5 – Feb 6 | Dr. AJ Chandler Park

Waste Management Phoenix Open | Feb 7 – 13 | TPC Scottsdale

Waterfront Fine Art & Wine Festival | Feb 11 – 13 | Downtown Scottsdale

Monster Jam | Feb 12 | State Farm Stadium

I Heart Pluto Festival 2022 | Feb 12 – Feb 21 | Lowell Observatory

World Championship Hoop Dance Contest| Feb 12 – 13 | Heard Museum

Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show| Feb 17 – 27 | WestWorld of Scottsdale

Arizona Beer Week | Feb 17 – 27 | Various Locations

Downtown Chandler Fine Art & Wine Festival | Feb 18 – 20 | Downtown Chandler

Buckeye Air Fair | Feb 18 – 20 | Buckeye Airport

Zuzu African Acrobats | Feb 18 – Feb 20 | Madison Center for the Arts

Wigwam Fine Art Festival | Feb 18 | Litchfield Park

Arizona Strong Beer Festival | Feb 19 | Bell Bank Park

CARS & COFFEE | Feb 19 | PENSKE RACING MUSEUM

Devour Phoenix: Seven Chefs Dinner | Feb 20 | The Gladly & Devour at Home | Feb 26 | Your Home!

Angry Crab Shack Southwest Cajun Fest | Feb 26 | Dr. AJ Chandler Park

Arizona Cocktail Weekend | Feb 19 – 21 | Multiple Locations

Spring Fountain Festival | Feb 25 – 27 | Avenue of the Fountains

The Arizona Wine Garden Party | Feb 26 – 27 | Singh Meadows

Spring Training 2022| Feb 26 – Mar 29 | Various Ballparks

Innings Festival | Feb. 26-27 | Tempe Beach Park

Thanks to American Title Service Agency

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Checklist for Selling Your House

A Checklist for Selling Your House This Winter [INFOGRAPHIC]

Some Highlights

If you’re planning to sell your house this winter, you’ll want it to look its best inside and out.
Take the time and focus on tasks that make it inviting, show it’s cared for, and boost your curb appeal.
Let’s connect so you have an expert opinion on what to focus on, so it shows well and catches a buyer’s eye.

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Also, check out our mini-series North Valley Spotlight

Your Journey to Homeownership in 2021

Your Journey to Homeownership [INFOGRAPHIC]

Some Highlights

When it comes to buying a home, there are a number of key milestones along the way.
The process includes everything from building your team and understanding your finances to going house hunting, making an offer, and more.
When you’re ready to start your journey, let’s connect so you have trusted guidance at every milestone in the process.

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