Monday, April 28, 2014

New Type of Investor in Today's Market


 

A new type of investor is emerging in today's real estate market. Gradually fading is the "all cash" investor or institution that has been buying up distressed properties as quickly as they came up for sale.  

 
Cash  investors played an important part of the housing recovery, erasing shadow inventory and driving prices upward. Now reports show that this investor, along with  the foreign investor is retreating.

 
Today, a more conservative and value oriented investor has emerged.  These value investors are  looking for nice homes in areas where the market is sustainable and they are thinking "long term investment".  As the housing recovery continues I believe that we will see more and more of this reliable type of investor.

 
Our Central Coast has always been an attractive place for future retirees and for those who are interested in purchasing a second home or investment property.   The beautiful coastline, mild weather and easy style of living continues to be a wonderful place to call home!

 
Nancy Puder is a real estate broker in Arroyo Grande, CA. with Nancy Puder & Associates. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your own property, contact Nancy at (805)710-2415 or email Nancy@NancyPuder.com.  You may also go to Facebook.com/Nancy Puder Realtor and "like" her page to access other real estate related articles.

 

 

Tuesday, April 22, 2014

Home Enhancement Checklist for Sellers


 
 
After toughing it out through the recession, many homeowners are now ready to put their home on the market.

 
If that is you, here is a checklist to get your property ready for sale.

  • Tidy Up
 
When a home is cluttered, a buyer cannot see the potential that the home has to offer.  Storing unnecessary items will help you get your home sold and often for a higher price. Remember "less is more".

  • Clean Up

A clean home gives the impression that a home has been well cared for. Remember that paint in the can is worth $20 but up to $1000 on the wall!
 
  • Patch Up

Minor repairs can distract potential buyers and become major stumbling blocks. Avoid this issue by taking care of those minor repairs. 
 
  • The Finishing Touch

Make your home stand out by doing the little extras.  Remember that your home is competing with others.  Small details like a quality doormat at the entry helps set the stage for a great first impression.

 
Nancy Puder is a real estate broker in Arroyo Grande, CA. with Nancy Puder & Associates. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your own property, or would like to receive a FREE complete Home Enhancement Checklist, contact Nancy at (805)710-2415 or email Nancy@NancyPuder.com.  You may also go to Facebook.com/Nancy Puder Realtor and "like" her page to access other real estate related articles.

Monday, April 7, 2014

First-Time Home Buyers Face Challenge


The desire to purchase a home remains strong among potential first-time home buyers as do some of the challenges they face when the decision is finally made to move forward.  Here are some challenges that first-time home buyers have to deal with.

 
  • All Cash Offers - One of the most frustrating situations for the first-time homebuyer is the investor. Investors paying with all cash often snatch up homes that the first-time buyers are hoping to purchase.  Generally speaking, sellers will consider the "all cash" offer less risky and choose to take the investor's offer instead of a financed one.  Fortunately, there are still some sellers who actually prefer to sell to someone who will love their home as they do, but we find this situation less often.  

 
  • Low Inventory - Sellers are not moving up to a "bigger and better"  home at the same pace that they have in the past.  This component of the market has caused a shortage of inventory, especially in the lower priced homes.

 
  • Lending Conditions - The good news is that mortgage rates remain low at approximately 4.4 % for a 30-year fixed rate loan.  A mortgage loan today is not as hard to get as it was during the recession, however, there are continued strict lending rules which will continue to hamper first-time buyers entry into the market.  

 
Traditionally first-time home buyers have been the pillar of a strong housing market.  For the market to remain strong in this area, homes will need to be available and affordable.

 
My advice to the first-time home buyer who wants to buy now is this.  First, meet with a reputable lender in your area. Do not rely on internet qualification as obtaining a mortgage can be complicated.  Next, find a real estate agent who knows the market and has a proven track record.  A good agent will guide you through this challenging but not insurmountable journey.  And yes, it is worth it!

 
Nancy Puder is a real estate broker in Arroyo Grande, CA. with Nancy Puder & Associates. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your own property, contact Nancy at (805)710-2415 or email Nancy@NancyPuder.com.  You may also go to Facebook.com/Nancy Puder Realtor and "like" her page to access other real estate related articles.