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Monthly Archives: November 2017

    The Real Reason Home Prices are Increasing

    By Keeley Ryan | November 30, 2017

    There are many unsubstantiated theories as to why home values are continuing to increase. From those who are worried that lending standards are again becoming too lenient (data shows this is untrue), to those who are concerned that prices are again approaching boom peaks because of “irrational exuberance” (this is also untrue as prices are... Read More

    2 Charts That Show the Truth about Home Affordability

    By Keeley Ryan | November 29, 2017

    There is a lot of discussion about the current state of housing affordability for both first-time and move-up buyers, and much of the narrative is tarnished with a negative slant. However, the truth is that housing affordability is better today than at almost any time in our history. The naysayers are correct in the fact... Read More

    Low Interest Rates Have a High Impact on Your Purchasing Power

    By Keeley Ryan | November 28, 2017

    According to Freddie Mac’s latest Primary Mortgage Market Survey, interest rates for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage are currently at 3.92%, which is still near record lows in comparison to recent history! The interest rate you secure when buying a home not only greatly impacts your monthly housing costs, but also impacts your purchasing power. Purchasing power, simply put, is... Read More

    The Cost of NOT Owning Your Home

    By Keeley Ryan | November 27, 2017

    Owning a home has great financial benefits, yet many continue to rent! Today, let’s look at the financial reasons why owning a home of your own has been a part of the American Dream for as long as America has existed. Zillow recently reported that: “In reality, buying or renting a home is an intensely personal decision,... Read More

    Existing Home Sales Slowed by a Lack of Listings [INFOGRAPHIC]

    By Keeley Ryan | November 24, 2017

    Some Highlights: The inventory of existing homes for sale has dropped year-over-year for the last 29 consecutive months and is now at a 3.9-month supply. Existing home sales are currently at an annual pace of 5.48 million, the highest pace since June of this year, but down 0.9% from October 2016. NAR’s Chief Economist, Lawrence Yun, had this to say: “While the housing market gained a little more momentum last month, sales are still below year ago levels because low inventory is limiting choices for prospective buyers and keeping price growth elevated.” Read More

    Thank You For Your Support!

    By Keeley Ryan | November 23, 2017

    Have a great holiday! Read More

    Bubble Alert! Is it Getting Too Easy to Get a Mortgage?

    By Keeley Ryan | November 22, 2017

    There is little doubt that it is easier to get a home mortgage today than it was last year. The Mortgage Credit Availability Index (MCAI), published by the Mortgage Bankers Association, shows that mortgage credit has become more available in each of the last several years. In fact, in just the last year: More buyers... Read More

    Access is an Important Factor in Getting Your House SOLD!

    By Keeley Ryan | November 21, 2017

    So, you’ve decided to sell your house. You’ve hired a real estate professional to help you with the entire process, and they have asked you what level of access you want to provide to potential buyers. There are four elements to a quality listing. At the top of the list is Access, followed by Condition,... Read More

    Homeowners: Your House Must Be Sold TWICE

    By Keeley Ryan | November 20, 2017

    In today’s housing market, where supply is very low and demand is very high, home values are increasing rapidly. Many experts are projecting that home values could appreciate by another 5%+ over the next twelve months. One major challenge in such a market is the bank appraisal. If prices are surging, it is difficult for... Read More

    Top 4 Home Renovations for Maximum ROI [INFOGRAPHIC]

    By Keeley Ryan | November 17, 2017

    Some Highlights: Whether you are selling your home, just purchased your first home, or are a homeowner planning to stay put for a while, there is value in knowing which home improvement projects will net you the most “Return On Investment” (ROI). While big projects like adding a bathroom or a complete remodel of a kitchen are popular ways to increase a home’s value, something as simple as updating landscaping and curb appeal can have a quick impact on a home’s value. Read More

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Our agents write often to give you the latest insights on owning a home or property in the Coastal Virginia area.