Northern Colorado Real Estate BlogRecently posted or modified blog postshttps://www.kittlerealestate.com/blog/Copyright KittleRealEstate.com2024-03-14T11:22:13-07:00tag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:364393 Ways To Discover What Your Home Is Really WorthWhether you're considering selling, refinancing, or simply curious about your property's value, understanding how to determine your home's worth is crucial. Today, we'll explore three essential strategies to help you unveil the mystery behind your home's market value.
1. Research comparable sales (comps). Analyze recently sold properties in your neighborhood that are similar to yours in terms of size, features, and condition. Look for properties that have sold within the last six months. They provide the most accurate reflection of the current market. Pay close attention to factors such as square footage, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and overall condition. Adjust the value of your home based on any significant differences. Take into account the proximity to amenities, schools, and public transportation.
"Determining your home's worth is a crucial step."
2. Get a professional appraisal. While researching comps can give you a good estimate, a professional appraisal provides an authoritative and impartial assessment of your home's value. Appraisers consider various factors, including the property's condition, recent improvements, and the overall real estate market. Clean, organize, and address any necessary repairs before the appraisal to present your property in the best light. Inform the appraiser of any recent renovations or improvements that might positively impact your home's value.
3. Utilize online valuation tools. Various online tools and platforms like Zillow can provide quick and convenient estimates of your home's worth. While these tools may not replace the accuracy of a professional appraisal, they can serve as a useful starting point. Different online tools may provide varying estimates due to differences in algorithms and data sources, so consult multiple platforms. For a more accurate online estimate, use our exclusive Kittle Home Selling System, the quick, easy, and most profitable way to sell your home. <a href="https://kittlerealestate.hifello.com/lp/63f4b230f7bc8b00197eb9ca">Click here to get started!</a>
By using these strategies, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of your home's market value. With our <a href="https://kittlerealestate.hifello.com/lp/63f4b230f7bc8b00197eb9ca">Kittle Home Selling System</a>, you'll be better equipped to make informed decisions regarding your property. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out by phone or email.2024-03-13T14:42:22-07:002024-03-14T11:22:13-07:00Rob Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:36135Get Your House Ready for the Market in 3 Easy StepsSelling your home can be a significant undertaking, but with careful preparation, you can enhance its appeal and increase the likelihood of a successful sale. Whether you're a first-time seller or have experience in the real estate market, taking specific steps to prepare your home is crucial. Today, we'll explore three key points to help you get your home ready for the market.<br /><br />1. Enhance curb appeal. When potential buyers arrive at your property, the first thing they notice is the exterior. A well-maintained and visually appealing exterior creates a positive first impression, setting the stage for a successful home tour. To enhance your home's curb appeal: Invest time in landscaping to create an inviting atmosphere. Trim overgrown bushes, mow the lawn, and plant colorful flowers to add vibrancy. A well-manicured garden not only improves the overall aesthetic but also signals to buyers that the property has been well cared for. Inspect your home's exterior for any needed repairs. Address issues such as peeling paint, cracked siding, or damaged roofing. A well-maintained exterior gives the impression that the entire property is in good condition, reassuring buyers about the quality of their potential investment. Upgrade your front door and entryway to make a lasting impression. Consider a fresh coat of paint, a stylish welcome mat, and well-placed potted plants. A visually appealing entry creates a positive atmosphere from the moment buyers step through the door.<br /><br />2. Declutter and depersonalize. Buyers want to envision themselves living in your home, and that's easier to do when they can see the space without distraction. Follow these steps to declutter and depersonalize your home: Start by decluttering each room. Remove unnecessary items and furniture to create a sense of spaciousness. Consider renting a storage unit for excess belongings or items that may distract potential buyers. Pack away personal items such as family photos and unique decor. Depersonalizing your space allows buyers to visualize their own belongings in the home, making it easier for them to imagine living there. Give your home a thorough cleaning. Pay attention to details like dusty corners, smudged windows, and scuffed baseboards. A clean and well-maintained home suggests to buyers that the property has been cared for and is move-in ready.<br /><br />3. Highlight key features. Consider professional staging to showcase the potential of each room. Stagers can arrange furniture and decor in a way that maximizes space and highlights key features, helping buyers see the full potential of your home. Make minor upgrades to key areas like the kitchen and bathrooms. Updated fixtures, a fresh coat of paint, or modern hardware can make a significant difference. These small investments can contribute to a higher perceived value of your home. Ensure your home is well-lit during showings. Natural light is particularly appealing, so open curtains and blinds to let it in. Consider adding ambient lighting in darker areas to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
By taking these three key steps, you'll not only enhance your home's appeal but also increase its market value. Of course, if you want to ensure a smooth selling experience, <a href="https://kittlerealestate.hifello.com/lp/63f4b230f7bc8b00197eb9ca">just click the link here.</a> If you need more tips on how you can have a successful sale, call or email me. I’m always happy to help.2024-02-28T13:22:39-07:002024-02-29T11:28:13-07:00Rob D Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:35392Our Home Value Software Will Revolutionize Selling
Here’s what you need to know about our new home value online tool.
In my daily interactions with homeowners, one question consistently takes center stage: "What is my home worth?" Understandably, knowing the current market value and its trends is crucial. That's why we've invested in an incredible software tool that I'm excited to share with you.
Allow me to introduce you to this fantastic software by showcasing its capabilities using a property in Fort Collins. It provides an estimated value for your home, and what sets it apart is the ability to customize and refine this estimate. Unlike some technologies that lack detailed information, we work with you to edit and adjust the value to better align with your home's unique features.
While appraisals are often seen as precise assessments, the reality is that they're opinions. If you were to hire ten different appraisers, their evaluations would likely differ. This tool acknowledges the subjective nature of home valuation, offering a range rather than an exact figure.
Fine-tuning is crucial when preparing to put your home on the market. The time of year, the condition of your home, and various other factors play a role. Our software allows us to input and modify this information, illustrating how the value has changed over time.
"This tool is a powerful way to find your home’s value."
Beyond providing a numerical estimate, the tool also reveals your home's equity based on your purchase details and interest rates. Moreover, it offers transparency by explaining the rationale behind the estimated value. You can delve into comparable homes, assessing their condition to gain insights into the valuation.
Our commitment to precision led us to invest in this software. Working closely with a knowledgeable real estate agent, we can make adjustments based on upgrades and remodels. This ensures a more accurate valuation of your property.
If you're intrigued and want a customized valuation, click on <a href="https://kittlerealestate.hifello.com/lp/63f4b230f7bc8b00197eb9ca">this link.</a> This will grant you access to the software, enabling you to input your information and explore the extensive features it offers. We're eager to work with you, providing real-time insights that go beyond what traditional appraisals offer.
Our software empowers you to understand not only the value of your home but also the factors influencing it. By leveraging this innovative tool, we can navigate the dynamic real estate landscape together. Feel free to reach out to us by phone or email. We can offer valuable insights and assist you in every aspect of your home selling process with our exclusive Kittle Home Selling System, the quick, easy, and most profitable way to sell your home. <a href="https://kittlerealestate.hifello.com/lp/63f4b230f7bc8b00197eb9ca">Click here to get started!</a>
Scan this QR code to access our Kittle Home Selling System!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/Whats_My_Home_Worth_QrCode.png" width="300" height="300" />2024-01-24T10:47:27-07:002024-01-26T13:32:43-07:00Rob Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:34580Winter Sale Mastery: Elevate Your Home’s Value This SeasonEmbracing the chillier months as an advantageous time to sell your home might seem counterintuitive, but don't underestimate the unique opportunities that come with showcasing your property during winter. While many homeowners tend to shy away from selling this time of the year, savvy sellers know that with the right strategy, you can get top dollar for your property and reap the benefits of the seasonal change. To help you maximize your home sale price during the colder months, here are three expert tips you can follow:
1. Enhance curb appeal despite the season. First impressions matter, and the exterior of your home sets the tone for a buyer's perception. To make your home stand out, consider adding some winter-friendly decorations, like tasteful outdoor lighting or a seasonal wreath on the front door. Additionally, keep the yard tidy and eye-catching by removing fallen leaves or debris, clearing pathways and driveways of snow and ice, and ensuring that exterior lights are in working order.
"Utilize these expert tips to make your home stand out in the winter market and attract motivated buyers."
2. Create a warm and cozy interior atmosphere. Combat the cold weather by creating a warm and inviting ambiance inside your home. You can make the space feel cozy by using soft, textured fabrics like throws and cushions and staging the fireplace with logs or candles to evoke a sense of comfort. Also, ensure that the heating system is in good working condition to keep the interior comfortably warm during showings.
3. Price competitively and highlight winter advantages: Pricing your home appropriately for the winter market is key to attracting buyers. Analyze comparable properties in your area and work with a real estate agent to set a competitive price. Furthermore, by highlighting the advantages of selling in the colder months, such as lower competition or motivated buyers looking to settle before the new year, you can emphasize the practicality and desirability of purchasing your home during this time of year.
Utilize these expert tips to make your home stand out in the winter market and attract motivated buyers looking for their dream home, regardless of the season. Of course, if you need to remodel, we would be happy to help you out! <a href="https://kittlerealestate.hifello.com/lp/63f4b0b9f7bc8b00197ea74c">Just click the link here.</a> If you need more tips on how you can have a successful sale during winter, call or email me. I’m always happy to help.2023-12-18T10:41:26-07:002023-12-18T10:57:34-07:00Rob Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:341942-1 Buydowns Explained: The Key To Housing Affordability<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/21Buydown.jpg" width="891" height="597" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" />
Here’s how 2-1 buydowns can make purchasing a home more affordable.
Fortunately, there’s a lending product that can counteract high interest rates: 2-1 buydowns. Let’s go over what this product is, how it works, and how it can help you get into your dream home:
1. How 2-1 buydowns work. A 2-1 buydown works by putting money upfront to lower your mortgage interest rate for the first two years of your loan. The first year, your rate will be 2% lower; the year after that, it will be 1% lower. Then, it will return to normal. This is a fantastic way to ease into your mortgage payment and lower the upfront cost of your loan. If you need to sell, they are also a great concession to offer to your buyers.
2. You can get your seller to pay the upfront cost. Good buyers are hard to find in this housing market due to higher rates. Many sellers are willing to offer concessions to ensure they don’t have to lower their asking price, especially if you have a good agent negotiating for you. This means you can have your seller pay the upfront cost of your 2-1 buydown, and you can sit back and enjoy the discount.
"This situation can be a win-win for buyers and sellers."
3. You can refinance when rates come back down. While we probably won’t see rates as low as 3% or 4% again for a long time, most experts agree that interest rates are likely to come down within the next year or two. This timeline fits perfectly with a 2-1 buydown! You can enjoy the benefits and simply refinance to a lower interest rate when your buydown is set to expire.
The bottom line is that 2-1 buydowns are the best way to purchase a home in this market. If you need to sell, they also make a fantastic incentive to offer to your buyers and keep your listing price high. It's a win-win situation!
If you're looking to buy a home, I encourage you to take advantage of our <a href="https://kittle-perfect-home-finder.kittlerealestate.com/?_ga=2.261579789.1622033797.1701729078-838642296.1698099627#home">FREE Northern Colorado 'Perfect Home Finder' Service.</a>
I have plenty of experience negotiating 2-1 buydowns for my clients, so if you have any questions, please call or email me. I am always willing to help! 2023-12-04T15:21:03-07:002023-12-04T15:36:45-07:00Rob Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:32098The True Cost of Waiting To Purchase a Home
The true cost of waiting for interest rates to drop before buying a home.
Today, I’m going to talk to you about the hottest topic in real estate: interest rates. Many people don’t want to purchase a home because they think it’s too expensive; however, due to interest rates and home prices, the cost of waiting might be higher than you think.
For example, if you look at the graph in the video at 0:24, you’ll see that home prices have been appreciating in Colorado by around 5% on average every year. This means that even at a conservative estimate of appreciation, home prices will be much higher in a few years. Meanwhile, rates will likely decrease over that period, but not a crazy amount. This means that if appreciation holds steady and rates decrease to around 5% in three years, your monthly payment will actually be about the same as if you purchased it today.
Saying it that way, it sounds like it doesn’t matter if you wait or buy now. However, waiting also causes you to lose all your potential equity. For example, in the graph at 2:30 in the video, you’ll see that the cost of waiting just six months could be as high as $12,148 when you keep appreciation in mind. Meanwhile, waiting three years for rates to fall could cost as much as $91,490!
"Waiting to buy could cost you a lot of money in the long run."
To learn more about this topic, <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1OeAuimBby3RLJUmSyFmnj3zrV-r9modD/view">click here</a> to download the graph. There’s no guarantee that rates and home prices will follow the exact trajectory of this graph, but this looks like the most likely scenario based on what we know now. If anything, tons of buyers will flood the market when rates decrease, which could cause prices to shoot up again at a rapid pace.
If you have questions about the true cost of waiting to buy a home or anything else, please call or email me. Are you ready to sell your home for top dollar in the shortest amount of time with the least amount of hassle? Our top-notch selling strategy, The Kittle Home Selling System, will help you sell your home for the maximum amount of profit, the easy way! <a href="https://kittlerealestate.hifello.com/lp/63f4b230f7bc8b00197eb9ca">Click here</a> to get started today! I am always willing to help!2023-11-20T13:50:27-07:002023-11-21T14:03:28-07:00Rob Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:31705Buy Now and Sell in the Spring: Get The Best of Both Worlds!
How homeowners can win big time in this unique housing market.
Recently, we’ve shared a blog post about our Thanksgiving pie giveaway. We’re super excited about this event, but the truth is that it isn’t the most exciting thing about this time of year. Instead, we’re looking forward to this housing market! We like to call this market a “have your cake and eat it too” market, and there are a few reasons why.
When you usually go to move, you need to both buy and sell a home. For this reason, it doesn’t really matter if it’s a buyer’s or a seller’s market, since you’ll be in both positions eventually. However, this market is different.
The best time of year to buy a home is actually right now! October to mid-January is when the market is best for buyers. Meanwhile, the best market for sellers is the spring, or from mid-February to May. Under normal circumstances, you usually can’t buy a home in the fall and sell your old one in the spring. However, we’ve partnered with a company called Homelight that will allow you to do exactly that.
"In this market, you can get the best of both worlds."
Essentially, they get you qualified to buy a home even before you sell your old one. That way, you can buy now and wait until spring to sell. This is a phenomenal program that we’ve used to great success before. <a href="https://kittlerealestate.hifello.com/lp/63f4b17bf7bc8b00197eb4bc">Click this link</a> to get started today!
In the meantime, don’t hesitate to call or email us with any questions about this market. We’re always here to help you make the best real estate decision for you!2023-11-06T14:44:07-07:002023-11-13T09:23:23-07:00Rob Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:313633 Tips for Selling Your House Fast and at the Best Price<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/shutterstock_2.jpg" width="1600" height="1067" alt="Three tips that will help you sell quickly and for more money." title="Sharing three projects you shouldn’t take on when preparing to sell." class="img_box_center" style="vertical-align: baseline;" />
Three tips that will help you sell quickly and for more money.
Selling a house can be a complex and daunting process, but with the right strategies, you can expedite the sale and secure the best price for your property. Whether you're a seasoned homeowner or a first-time seller, these top three tips will guide you through the process of selling your house quickly and at the optimal price:
1. Hire a trusted and experienced agent. One of the most crucial decisions you'll make when selling your house is choosing the right real estate agent. A professional and experienced agent can make all the difference in how smoothly the selling process goes and how successful you are in getting the best possible price for your property.
Experienced agents have an in-depth understanding of the local real estate market, which means they can accurately assess your property's value and help you set an appropriate asking price. They also have an extensive network of potential buyers and other agents, which can greatly increase the exposure your property receives. Additionally, agents are skilled negotiators who can advocate for your interests during the negotiation process.
When hiring an agent, make sure to research their track record, read reviews from previous clients, and meet with them in person to gauge their professionalism and communication skills. A trusted agent will guide you through every step of the selling process and ensure that you make informed decisions that benefit you in the long run.
"Selling your house fast and at the best price requires a strategic approach."
2. Improve indoor and outdoor visual appeal. First impressions matter, especially in the real estate market. Potential buyers are more likely to be drawn to your property if it looks well-maintained and inviting. Enhancing both the indoor and outdoor visual appeal of your house can significantly influence a buyer's decision. For the inside, consider cleaning, decluttering, and depersonalizing to help buyers envision themselves living in your property. For the outside, focus on how your home looks from the street. Consider landscaping and making minor repairs.
3. Set a competitive price. Pricing your house competitively is a delicate balance. Setting the right price can attract more buyers and lead to a faster sale, while an overpriced house can deter potential buyers and cause your property to linger on the market.
It's essential to work closely with your real estate agent to determine an accurate and competitive asking price. Agents have access to recent sales data of similar properties in your area, allowing them to perform a comparative market analysis (CMA) and provide you with a realistic price range. Avoid the temptation to overprice your property, as this can lead to extended time on the market and, ultimately, a lower selling price.
Conversely, underpricing your house might attract attention, but it could lead to you leaving money on the table. A competitive price should reflect the current market conditions, the unique features of your property, and your desired timeframe for selling.
These are three key factors that can greatly influence your success in the real estate market. By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to a successful and profitable sale. If you have any questions or are ready to sell, don’t hesitate to reach out by phone or email.
We can offer valuable insights and assist you in every aspect of your home selling process with our exclusive <a href="https://kittlerealestate.hifello.com/lp/63f4b230f7bc8b00197eb9ca" title="Kittle Home Selling System" target="_blank">Kittle Home Selling System</a>, the quick, easy, and most profitable way to sell your home. <a href="https://kittlerealestate.hifello.com/lp/63f4b230f7bc8b00197eb9ca" title="The Kittle Home Selling System" target="_blank">Click here to get started!</a> 2023-10-23T15:09:37-07:002023-10-24T15:18:50-07:00Rob Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:30383Get Top Dollar for Your Home: Here’s What Not To Fix Before Selling<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/1600-carpenter-tools-on-a-desk.jpg" width="1600" height="1067" alt="Here are three essential tips homeowners need to know before selling." title="Sharing three projects you shouldn’t take on when preparing to sell." class="img_box_center" style="vertical-align: baseline;" />
Sharing three projects you shouldn’t take on when preparing to sell.
When preparing to sell your house, you need to make sure it’s appealing to potential buyers. Many homeowners rush to fix every little flaw thinking it will boost their property's value, but not every improvement will yield a significant return on investment. To help you avoid the ones that aren’t worthwhile, here are the top three things you should avoid fixing when getting your house ready to sell:
1. Minor HVAC, electrical, and plumbing issues. While well-maintained and fully functional systems are crucial for any home, addressing minor issues in these areas may not be the best use of your resources. Major problems that could significantly impact the home's livability and safety should be fixed, but minor issues are usually better left for the buyer to handle.
"When selling a house, it's crucial to prioritize your efforts and investments wisely."
2. Old appliances and windows. It's not uncommon for homeowners to believe that installing new appliances and windows will make their homes more appealing to buyers. However, this is not always the case. Homebuyers often have specific preferences, plus these pieces can be expensive. If your existing appliances and windows are still in decent condition, buyers may not see the value in replacing them with newer models, especially if they are already energy-efficient.
3. Partial room upgrades. Giving a room a partial upgrade can lead to an inconsistent look and feel throughout the house. Plus, it might make buyers question the overall quality of the home and create doubts about the other areas that weren’t improved. For example, replacing the kitchen countertops but not the cabinets can create an imbalanced appearance. Similarly, changing the faucet in a bathroom but not the worn-out tiles can make the space look disjointed. Those small changes will just be a waste of time and money.
When selling a house, it's crucial to prioritize your efforts and investments wisely. While preparing a home for sale is essential, fixing certain issues might not offer a significant return on investment or could be better handled by the buyer. If in doubt, feel free to reach out to us by phone call or email. We can offer valuable insights and assist you in every aspect of your home selling process with our exclusive <a href="https://kittlerealestate.hifello.com/lp/63f4b230f7bc8b00197eb9ca" title="Kittle Home Selling System" target="_blank">Kittle Home Selling System</a>, the quick, easy, and most profiable way to sell your home. <a href="https://kittlerealestate.hifello.com/lp/63f4b230f7bc8b00197eb9ca" title="The Kittle Home Selling System" target="_blank">Click here to get started!</a> <br />
2023-09-11T13:41:05-07:002023-09-11T17:09:36-07:00Rob Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:29880The Seller’s Handbook: 3 Essential Steps to Ace Your Home Sale<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/1920-black-wooden-houses-real-estate-property-concept.jpg" width="1920" height="1034" alt="Here are three essential tips homeowners need to know before selling." title="Here are three essential tips homeowners need to know before selling." class="img_box_center" style="vertical-align: baseline;" />
Here are three essential tips homeowners need to know before selling.
Are you looking to sell your home in the near future? If you are, you need a plan to get the most money possible for your home while ensuring a smooth sale. As a real estate agent, I help people buy and sell houses every single day, so I know what it takes to get top dollar for your property. Here are three things you absolutely need to know before you list your home:
1. Find the perfect price. Pricing can make or break a deal. It's like finding the perfect balance between attracting potential buyers and maximizing your profits. To find the best price for your home, lean on your agent to find comparable homes that have sold recently, analyze the market, and factor in market trends. Remember, setting an inflated price can turn buyers away, while pricing too low might make you lose out on some well-deserved cash. It's all about finding that sweet spot.
2. Master your curb appeal. First impressions matter, and when it comes to selling your house, curb appeal can make a world of difference. Think about it—when you're driving through a neighborhood, don't you gravitate towards homes that catch your eye? You want potential buyers to fall in love with your property from the moment they lay eyes on it. So, invest some time and effort in sprucing up the exterior. A fresh coat of paint, a well-maintained lawn, and some tasteful landscaping can work wonders. Remember, you want your house to stand out for all the right reasons and create a lasting impression.
"First impressions matter in real estate."
3. Be upfront about potential issues. Honesty is key when selling a house. You must disclose any known issues or defects to potential buyers. It’s tempting to hide certain things to make your house seem more appealing, but this can lead to serious legal troubles down the road. Be transparent about any past or current problems your property may have. It's better to address them upfront rather than dealing with unhappy buyers later on. Remember, a solid foundation of trust and transparency will help you close the deal smoothly and with a clear conscience.
Overall, the best course of action is to work with an experienced agent who knows these strategies and more. If you’d like more tips on how to ensure a smooth home sale, just call or email. Make it a great day!2023-08-22T14:36:16-07:002023-08-28T08:39:50-07:00Rob Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:29548Interest Rates Are Coming Down Soon: Buyers Need To Act Now
How buyers can take advantage of future rate decreases today.
I know some of you may not want to hear this, but it's essential to consider the current real estate market and future predictions. My crystal ball indicates that rates will be coming down in the future, making the next six months an opportune time to buy real estate.
During this time of the year, sellers become more motivated, leading to potential price reductions. Additionally, the 2-1 buydown option can make rates more favorable for the first two years before returning to the normal rate. However, experts predict that rates will gradually soften and come down in the next 18 to 24 months, possibly reaching the 5% range.
While it's crucial to be comfortable with the current 7% rate, all signs point to rates becoming more buyer-friendly. The Federal Reserve’s stance will likely remain solid, and banks can still be profitable with rates in the 5% range.
"Act now so that you don’t miss out."
In the spring, prices usually go up due to appreciation, which occurs in stair steps. Currently, it's still a seller's market, with limited inventory and high demand. Waiting for rates to drop might lead to missed opportunities and increased competition among buyers when rates become more favorable.
To avoid regret and potential competition, it's wise to take action now. Whether you're a cash buyer or considering a 2-1 buydown, this is the time to make a move. Get started today with our <a href="https://kittle-perfect-home-finder.kittlerealestate.com/#home" target="_blank">FREE Northern Colorado 'Perfect Home Finder' Service</a>. You can also call or email me, and we can discuss how to make the most of the current market conditions and secure the right property for you.2023-08-07T14:49:08-07:002023-08-09T09:14:43-07:00Rob Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:29357Interest Rates Got You Worried? Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Wait!
Here’s why waiting to buy your dream home isn’t the best strategy.
Many people are concerned about interest rates and timing when it comes to buying a home. They tend to wait and see, hoping for interest rates to come down before making a purchase. However, this approach may not be the best strategy. Today I’ll share why this is the case.
Warren Buffett's philosophy of buying when others are selling and vice versa can be applied to real estate. If everyone is waiting for interest rates to drop before buying, it will lead to a surge in demand once rates do decrease. Consequently, prices are likely to rise, making it less favorable for buyers.
The reality is that the best time to buy real estate was yesterday. Those who bought properties in the past years have enjoyed the benefits of appreciation. While interest rates are currently a bit higher than historical averages, experts predict they will likely come down to around 5% or 6% in the next 12 months. So, the present might still be an excellent time to buy. There are strategies like adjustable-rate mortgages that offer better rates for the initial years and can be refinanced when interest rates go down.
"We can confidently expect positive appreciation, even if not at the levels seen in the last couple of years."
Waiting too long to buy may result in competing with others in a market where prices have already skyrocketed. It's better to purchase a home now, take advantage of potential appreciation, and refinance later when interest rates become more favorable.
As for appreciation, this year may be fairly flat, but Northern Colorado has above-average appreciation and desirability. We can confidently expect positive appreciation, even if not at the levels seen in the last couple of years.
If you're looking to buy a home, I encourage you to take advantage of our <a href="https://kittle-perfect-home-finder.kittlerealestate.com/#home" target="_blank">FREE Northern Colorado 'Perfect Home Finder' Service</a>.
If you're interested in discussing this further, we're here to help. Don't let interest rates deter you from finding the home you love, as there are financing strategies available to adapt to changing market conditions. Call or email me anytime; I would love to discuss your options and get you started on your real estate journey.2023-07-26T10:33:31-07:002023-08-07T14:50:56-07:00Rob Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:29088Sellers: Learn the Crucial Compromise Between As-Is and Move-In-Ready
What sellers need to know about the importance of condition and staging.
The No. 1 thing I hear when I talk to sellers is that they want to sell their home as-is, but the No. 1 thing I hear from buyers is that they want to buy a home that is completely ready. Clearly, these expectations are conflicting! Most people are looking for an easy move, which makes sense, but there needs to be compromise. This is especially true when there’s more inventory on the market, and homes are selling at a slower pace.
When you sell your home, you’re entering a beauty contest and a price war. When buyers have choices in the market, the homes that win are always the ones that win the beauty contest. You need to win both, but know that the beautiful, turn-key, move-in-ready home is the one that will get attention.
This being said, know that the condition of your home matters. You need to get someone to fall in love with your home! 70% of negotiations happen before you put your home on the market, so work to win them. If you would fix the hole in the wall or replace the stained carpet if a buyer asked, do it before they get the chance. A lot of times, buyers won’t even get to the point of asking for things because they’ll look at the photos and determine that they don’t love the house.
"When you sell your home, you’re entering a beauty contest and a price war."
As sellers prepare their homes for buyers to see, I tell them to “remove the bowling trophies.” By this, I mean to take down anything that you want to keep but won’t enhance the photos of your home. Take down your clutter and box it up in preparation for your move.
The next step is to meet with the stager that I provide for you. Once you’ve taken care of the things you know need to be fixed, a stager will help you fine-tune the rest. After that, a photographer will come in to capture the perfection. Photography is my No. 1 tool, so know that 99% of the time, homes with great photos will sell over those that don’t.
As you prepare your home for the market, don’t hesitate to call me. I’m here to answer any of your questions, and if you’re wondering about the value of your home, you can <a href="https://kittlerealestate.hifello.com/lp/63f4b230f7bc8b00197eb9ca" title="Home Value">click here</a> to access a tool on my website. I look forward to hearing from you soon!2023-07-11T09:04:44-07:002023-07-26T10:33:25-07:00Rob Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:28789Achieve Your Home Selling Goals: Unveiling My Top-Notch Selling System
The steps sellers need to take to sell faster and for more money.
Every seller has the same desire: To sell their home for top dollar in the shortest amount of time with the least amount of hassle. To accomplish this, I've developed a <a href="https://kittlerealestate.hifello.com/lp/63f4b230f7bc8b00197eb9ca" title="Home Value">top-notch home-selling system</a>.
The first thing you need to do is deal with all of your stuff. We work with professionals who will help you with things like staging and cleaning so you can focus on moving your family to your new location.
To sell your home quickly for the most money possible, start by decluttering your home. You will be moving, so you can start boxing up your bowling trophies and anything that doesn’t enhance your home. This will also improve the photos of your home, which is my No. 1 tool. This will help your home show better, which will help you reach your goal.
"The right preparation will help you sell your home quickly for top dollar."
Once you get all those things cleaned up, eliminate any objects a buyer could have. We all have a honey-do list of deferred maintenance we don’t want to deal with. However, the buyer isn’t going to want to deal with it, either. Therefore, make sure to take the time to work on those things.
We work with vendors who can help you fix any holes in your walls, help you repaint, and allow you to get to all of the things you’ve been putting off. I always tell people that 70% of the negotiations happen before you put your home on the market, so tackle them beforehand and <a href="https://kittlerealestate.hifello.com/lp/63f4b230f7bc8b00197eb9ca" title="Home Value">get top dollar for your home</a>.
If you have any questions about all of this, don’t hesitate to reach out. You can call or email me anytime, and I would be happy to help you. My goal is to help you sell your home for top dollar in the shortest amount of time with the least amount of hassle. <a href="https://kittlerealestate.hifello.com/lp/63f4b230f7bc8b00197eb9ca" title="Home Value">Click here to get started!</a>2023-06-23T13:41:49-07:002023-06-27T07:57:27-07:00Rob D Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:28461Pricing Your Home Right the First Time: 3 Tips
Getting the right price for your home comes down to these three tips.
The real estate market is an ever-changing thing. One day, prices are up, and the very next day, everything has reversed on you. Over the last few years especially, with turbulent markets and economic confusion, the real estate market has become increasingly dynamic. In this era of constant fluctuation, how will you know how much your home is worth?
1. Use the right tools. Online estimators are a great way to get a very rough estimate of where your home’s value is likely to sit. Zillow and other websites offer these services, but the truth is that most real estate teams provide a more accurate online estimate<a href="https://kittlerealestate.hifello.com/p/rob" target="_blank"></a> on their websites. While they aren’t perfect, these tools can give you a general idea of your home’s value.
"The real estate market has become increasingly dynamic."
2. Use more recent comps. In the past, it was common to use comparative home sales from the prior six months. Now, more than ever, it’s important to use comps that are as recent as possible. We believe that in today’s market, comps should be no older than three months. Age isn’t the only factor to consider, either. A good agent will look at homes that are directly competing with you and your target market. For example, there might be new construction neighborhoods in your area that could affect your price.
3. Work with the right team. No matter how well you do your homework, nothing beats working with a professional. We have the experience and training to know how to price your home right the first time. We know what amenities and upgrades can net you the best dollar-for-dollar return and how to beat out the competition with the right marketing plan. Plus, we have an <a href="https://kittlerealestate.hifello.com/p/rob" target="_blank">online home valuation calculator</a> that is more accurate than anything you can get on Zillow.
If you have any questions about this topic or real estate in general, don’t hesitate to call or email us. We would be delighted to serve as your resource for all of your real estate needs.2023-06-08T10:03:00-07:002023-06-08T10:49:23-07:00Rob D Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:21245Moving To and Living In Greeley, Colorado: The Definitive Guide [2023 Edition]<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/moving_to_greeley_co_KITTLE_REAL_ESTATE.jpg" width="300" height="251" alt="Moving To and Living In Greeley, Colorado Kittle Real Estate" style="float: right; margin: 10px;" />Located just 49 miles north-northeast of Denver, Greeley is a fast-growing city in the scenic Weld County. With just over 100,000 residents, Greeley is the most populated city within this county. Home to University of Northern Colorado (UNC), Greeley Colorado is a vibrant college community, with many attractions and activities for young students and professionals to enjoy. Greeley, Colorado is recognized today as a desirable place to live and to work. Home to a growing workforce as well as advanced research and technological facilities, Greeley, Colorado is an attractive location for businesses and startup enterprises to establish their operations. Greeley also has fantastic schools and healthcare facilities for families looking to put down roots within this thriving community. It tends to be a more affordable choice when trying to decide where to settle in the Rocky Mountain area of Colorado.
If you are looking to move to Greeley, CO. there are homes of every type and style, suitable for any living arrangement. Whether you are looking for a condo, a traditional bungalow, an upscale two-story or something else the team of real estate experts here at <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/about/the-kittle-team/">Kittle Real Estate</a> can help you find the perfect place.
<a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/communities/greeley-co-homes-for-sale/">See our up-to-date Greeley, CO. listings.</a>
Jump To:
<a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/#transportation">Transportation in Greeley</a>,
<a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/#schools">Schools in Greeley</a>,
<a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/#employment">Employment in Greeley</a>,
<a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/#todo">Things To Do in Greeley</a>,
<a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/#contact">Contact Us</a>
History of Greeley
Founded in 1870, Greeley is named after New-York Tribune founder and editor, Horace Greeley, as a Union Colony. Horace is best known for popularizing the phrase, “Go West, young man, and grow up with the country.” This rallying cry promoted America’s westward expansion. Greeley, CO was established as an agricultural enterprise and farming still prevails as one of the top industries surrounding Greeley. Over the years Greeley had years of boom, especially around the 1950s when numerous businesses, industries, schools, public institutions and commercial developments were established. The town and the region, Northern Colorado, have continued to see steady growth over the decades and Greeley is now one of the fastest-growing communities in America.
Transportation Near You in Greeley<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/Transportation_in_Greeley_Kittle_Real_Estate.png" width="300" height="300" alt="Transportation_in_Greeley_Kittle_Real_Estate" style="margin: 10px; float: left;" />
Transportation in and around Greeley is easy and convenient. Whether you need a shuttle or taxi to and from Denver International Airport, public transportation within Greeley, or a tour within or around the city, Greeley offers an abundance of options.
Greeley-Evans Transit (GET)<br />Get where you need to go around Greeley and neighboring Evans, CO with this public transport service, providing convenient bus routes running through the downtown core and throughout the city. See their website for full <a href="https://greeleyevanstransit.com/" target="_blank">schedule and fare information</a>.
Taxi Service<br />For a more personalized transportation service Greeley has a taxi cab service called <a href="https://www.ztrip.com/northern-colorado/" target="_blank">zTrip</a> which can be used to get around town with their convenient booking methods of calling, hailing a cab, booking on their website, or using their app to schedule a ride.
Shared Ride Apps<br />Greeley is also a city that utilizes ride-sharing services such as <a href="https://www.uber.com/us/en/ride/" target="_blank">Uber</a> or <a href="https://www.lyft.com/" target="_blank">Lyft</a> that residents can take advantage of when trying to get around the city.
Schools in Greeley
For families looking to move to Greeley, CO understanding the school systems and available schooling options is important. Greeley is part of the Greeley-Evans School District 6 which serves PK - Grade 12. The schools within this district include:
16 Elementary Schools
5 Middle Schools
5 High Schools
7 Charter or Magnet Schools
6 Private Schools
Not only does Greeley offer elementary and high school aged students fantastic educational opportunities, Greeley is home to <a href="https://www.aims.edu/" target="_blank">Aims Community College</a> and the <a href="https://www.unco.edu/" target="_blank">University of Northern Colorado</a>. These two institutions provide excellent post-secondary offerings with a wide range of degree and certificate programs.
<a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/communities/greeley-co-homes-for-sale/">See our up-to-date Greeley, CO. listings.</a>
<br />Employment in Greeley
Greeley is a great place for young professionals or established businessmen and women looking for employment opportunities. There are a wide range of nearby industries that operate and are thriving within the borders of Greeley, including agriculture, energy production, food processing, business services, manufacturing, health and wellness, education and construction sectors. Some of the biggest employers in Greeley include the following companies:
<a href="https://jbsfoodsgroup.com/careers" target="_blank">JBS USA & Affiliates</a>
<a href="https://www.unco.edu/human-resources/careers-at-unc.aspx" target="_blank">University of Northern Colorado</a>
<a href="https://www.bannerhealth.com/careers/job-search" target="_blank">Banner Health: North Colorado Medical Center</a>
<a href="https://www.indeed.com/q-State-Farm-l-Greeley,-CO-jobs.html?vjk=128bef0f4c90eb14" target="_blank">State Farm Insurance</a>
<a href="https://www.indeed.com/cmp/Ttec/reviews?fcountry=US&floc=Greeley%2C+CO" target="_blank">TeleTech</a>
<a href="https://selectenergyservices.jobs.net/en-US/search?keywords=&location=Greeley,CO,USA&placeid=ChIJeV6vyIahbocRHxIKToC6z9I" target="_blank">Select Energy Services</a>
<a href="https://www.startek.com/careers" target="_blank">STARTEK</a>
<a href="https://www.xerox.ca/en-ca/jobs" target="_blank">Xerox Business Services LLC</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/Things_to_do_in_Greeley_CO_Kittle_Real_Estate.png" width="1600" height="700" alt="Things_to_do_in_Greeley_CO_Kittle_Real_Estate" style="vertical-align: middle;" />
Things to Do in Greeley
There is no shortage of activities and attractions to keep residents of Greeley, CO occupied. With a number of <a href="https://greeleygov.com/activities/parks" target="_blank">scenic parks</a>, <a href="https://greeleygov.com/activities/natural-areas" target="_blank">nature trails</a>, and excellent recreational complexes, such as the <a href="https://greeleyrec.com/family-funplex/" target="_blank">Greeley Family Funplex</a>, from mini-golf and water park fun to hiking and picnicking surrounded by the majestic Rocky Mountains your family will never be bored when they live in Greeley, CO.
Not only does the town offer a beautiful selection of parks to visit, they host a variety of town events throughout the year that are not to be missed in the way of fairs, tournaments, and concerts such as the <a href="https://www.visitgreeley.org/event/arts-picnic-2/" target="_blank">Arts Picnic in July</a> and the Festival of the Trees around Christmas. Another fantastic attraction that Greeley offers its residents is <a href="https://www.visitgreeley.org/attractiontype/agritourism/" target="_blank">agritourism</a>. There are many local farms that allow visitors to tour their facilities and try their hand at farming.
If you are a golf fan there is the award-winning <a href="https://golfingreeley.com/highland-hills/" target="_blank">Highland Hills Golf Course,</a> as well as the <a href="https://golfingreeley.com/boomerang-links/" target="_blank">Boomerang Links</a>, <a href="https://eatoncc.net/" target="_blank">Eaton Country Club</a>, and <a href="https://www.greeleycc.org/" target="_blank">Greeley Country Club</a>. The colleges in town offer residents multiple sports teams to cheer on, and for history lovers check out the <a href="https://greeleymuseums.com/locations/greeley-history-museum/" target="_blank">Greeley History Museum</a>, the <a href="https://greeleymuseums.com/locations/centennial-village/" target="_blank">Centennial Village Museum</a>, or the nearby <a href="https://www.cmrm.org/visit/" target="_blank">Colorado Model Railroad Museum.</a>
<a href="https://www.cmrm.org/visit/" target="_blank">Moving to Greeley, CO</a>
If you are looking to move to Greeley, CO we can help. Our <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/about/the-kittle-team/">premier team of real estate agents</a> knows the ins and outs of Greeley and they can find you the perfect place to fit your lifestyle. We can assist you in searching out the best neighborhood to suit your needs and budget with the most up-to-date listings available. Contact our <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/">Greeley real estate agency</a> today. 970-460-4444
<a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/communities/greeley-co-homes-for-sale/">See our up-to-date Greeley, CO. listings.</a>
Also see our: <a target="_blank" class="c-link" data-stringify-link="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/blog/moving-to-fort-collins-colorado/" delay="150" data-sk="tooltip_parent" href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/blog/moving-to-fort-collins-colorado/" rel="noopener noreferrer" tabindex="-1" data-remove-tab-index="true">Definitive Guide for Living in and Moving to Fort Collins, CO.</a> and our <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/blog/moving-to-loveland-colorado/">Moving To and Living In Loveland, Colorado: The Definitive Guide</a> and <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/blog/moving-to-windsor-colorado/">Moving To and Living in Windsor, Colorado</a>.2023-05-29T13:58:00-07:002023-05-30T09:02:49-07:00Trey Carrolltag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:19696Everything You Need To Know About Loveland, Colorado: The Definitive Guide [2023 Edition]<a href="https://www.lovgov.org/" target="_blank" data-uw-rm-brl="false" aria-label="Loveland, Colorado - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.lovgov.org/$loveland,colorado" style="font-size: 17px;"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/Welcome_To_loveland_co.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="moving to loveland colorado guide welcome to loveland kittle real estate" style="margin: 10px; float: right;" />Loveland, Colorado</a>, named in honor of the Colorado Central Railroad president, William Loveland, is located in southern Larimer County, just south of <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/communities/fort-collins-co-homes-for-sale/" data-uw-rm-brl="false">Fort Collins</a>. Nestled against the foothills of the Rocky Mountains this scenic city is only 46 miles north of Denver just off of the I-25. With a population of 77,000 Loveland offers its residents all the amenities of a big city while retaining the charm of a small town. Families will enjoy making Loveland their new home with many outdoor recreation opportunities, parks, pools, and much more. And young professionals can appreciate the concerts, breweries, and many recreational activities as well.
Most notably Loveland is known as The Sweetheart City. Each year, hundreds of thousands of Valentine letters are mailed or processed through Loveland, bearing a special verse and hand-stamped postmark. And the city has a LOVE lock sculpture that couples can attach a lock to.
If you are looking to move to Loveland, CO. there are homes of every type and style, suitable for any living arrangement. Whether you are looking for a condo, a traditional bungalow, an upscale two-story or something else the team of real estate experts here at Kittle Real Estate can help you find the perfect place.
<a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/communities/loveland-co-homes-for-sale/">See our up-to-date Loveland, CO. listings. </a>
Jump To:
<a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/#transportation">Transportation in Loveland</a>
<a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/#schools">Schools in Loveland</a>
<a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/#employment">Employment in Loveland</a>
<a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/#activities">Things To Do in Loveland</a>
History of Loveland
Officially established as a settlement in 1881 Loveland began as a stagecoach station and eventually the location of a federal post office around 1858. It was originally the site of Fort Namaqua which lasted until almost 1878, around that time a settlement known as St. Louis started to flourish in the area, but it was when William A. H. Loveland, the president of the Colorado Central Railroad, brought the railway to the area that the town had its official conception. As a railroad stop, Loveland became a major supplier for farmers, ranchers, and lumber suppliers. This caused the town to continually expand and grow well into the 20th century. For the first half of the century, the town was more or less an agricultural town, but around the halfway point an economic boom hit the town bringing in a new wave of jobs to the area. The town and the region, Northern Colorado, have continued to see steady growth over the decades and is now one of the fastest-growing regions in America.
Transportation in Loveland
Transportation in and around Loveland is easy and convenient. Whether you need a shuttle or taxi to and from <a href="https://www.flydenver.com/" target="_blank" data-uw-rm-brl="false" aria-label="Denver International Airport - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.flydenver.com/$denverinternationalairport">Denver International Airport</a>, public transportation within Loveland, or a tour within or around the city, Loveland offers an abundance of options.
<a href="http://www.ridetransfort.com/flex" target="_blank" data-uw-rm-brl="false" aria-label="Transfort/FLEX - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" uw-rm-external-link-id="http://www.ridetransfort.com/flex$transfort/flex">Transfort/FLEX</a>
This has a limited service bus route through Loveland along US 287 to Fort Collins, Bethoud, Longmount, and Boulder.
<a href="https://ridebustang.com/" target="_blank" data-uw-rm-brl="false" aria-label="Bustang - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://ridebustang.com/$bustang">Bustang</a>
Offering bus service between Denver and Fort Collins
<a href="https://groometransportation.com/fort-collins-loveland/?&sd_client_id=86428708-ea4a-4552-8582-9a1fb036391f" target="_blank" data-uw-rm-brl="false" aria-label="Green Ride (Groome Transportation) - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://groometransportation.com/fort-collins-loveland/?&sd_client_id=86428708-ea4a-4552-8582-9a1fb036391f$greenride(groometransportation)">Green Ride (Groome Transportation)</a>
Groome Transportation provides hassle-free shuttle service between Loveland and surrounding areas and Denver International Airport (DIA). With 18 round trips daily and home and hotel pick-up/drop-off, getting to and from Denver Airport has never been easier. With the following transportation options:
Yellow Cab
Limousines
Uber
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/loveland_colorado_schools_kittle_real_estate.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="/userfiles/2610/image/loveland_colorado_schools_kittle_real_estate" style="margin: 10px; float: right;" />Schools in Loveland
For families looking to move to Loveland CO. it's important to note that Loveland is home to the Thompson School District R-2J which serves PK - Grade 12 and has 35 schools. In total Loveland has 60 schools:
29 Preschools
27 Elementary Schools
14 Middle Schools
9 High Schools
27 Public District Schools
2 Public Charger Schools
31 Private Schools
Employment in Loveland
Loveland is a fantastic place for people to move to that are looking for employment opportunities. Whether you are a young professional starting out or a seasoned pro looking to make a career move there are many options available. Some of the biggest employers in Loveland include the following companies:
Crop Production Services
Pinnacle Agriculture
Thompson School District
Argus of Colorado
Hach
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/kittle_real_estate_ultimate_guide_to_living_in_loveland_colorado.png" width="1600" height="700" alt="ultimate guide to loveland colorado " style="vertical-align: middle;" />
Things to Do in Loveland
When it comes to recreational offerings Loveland has almost an endless supply. The town is situated only 30 miles from Rocky Mountain National Park, with 355 miles of trails and 140 lakes to explore. There are also beautiful scenic drives through Big Thompson Canyon or on Trail Ridge Road. Not only is Loveland surrounded by fantastic outdoor recreation opportunities the town itself has many things to offer in the way of parks, sports, golf courses, pools and other water activities, and so much more.
Attractions Near Loveland
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userFiles/2610/image/loveland_shopping.jpg" width="387" height="258" alt="Real estate photo" data-uw-rm-ima="gn" style="float: left; margin: 10px;" />
Also known as the "Arts and Hearts Capitol of Colorado", Loveland dazzles with its 300 sculptures throughout the city, as well as an internationally recognized sculpture weekend each summer. Several sculpture guilds, museums, galleries, and arts councils encourage a burgeoning art culture. Adding to Loveland's allure is the generous amount of open space, trails, parks, lakes, and entertainment facilities such as the Budweiser Event Center and the Rialto Theater. A newly refurbished downtown, low crime rate, above-average education scores, and short commute times have nudged Loveland to a shortlist of the "Best Places to Live".
As with many Colorado towns, some of the best things to do and places to see are in the parks. Some of the best attractions in Loveland include:
Benson Park Sculpture Garden
Devil's Backbone Nature Trail
Chapungu Sculpture Park
Sweet Heart Winery
Boyd Lake State Park
A step inside the <a href="https://www.colorado.com/node/4901" target="_blank" data-uw-rm-brl="false" aria-label="Loveland Museum/Gallery - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.colorado.com/node/4901$lovelandmuseum/gallery">Loveland Museum/Gallery</a> will bring you close to this town's history; period rooms and changing exhibits, plus educational classes and an art gallery round out its offerings. And a stroll through the stunning works of Zimbabwean artists at the <a href="https://www.colorado.com/art-museums/chapungu-sculpture-park-centerra" target="_blank" data-uw-rm-brl="false" aria-label="Chapungu Sculpture Park - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.colorado.com/art-museums/chapungu-sculpture-park-centerra$chapungusculpturepark">Chapungu Sculpture Park</a> will leave you in awe. While in town, make sure you visit the <a href="https://www.visitlovelandco.org/lovelock/" target="_blank" data-uw-rm-brl="false" aria-label="Love Lock sculpture - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.visitlovelandco.org/lovelock/$lovelocksculpture">Love Lock sculpture</a>, where you can buy a lock, and have it engraved.<br role="presentation" data-uw-rm-sr="" /><br role="presentation" data-uw-rm-sr="" /><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userFiles/2610/image/devils_backbone.jpg" width="388" height="302" alt="Real estate photo" data-uw-rm-ima="gn" style="float: right; margin: 10px;" />There's plenty to do outside here. Loveland is near the foothills and rivers, so natural pleasures from biking, hiking, horseback riding and fishing are close at hand. The <a href="https://www.lovgov.org/Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/FacilityDirectory/113/354" target="_blank" data-uw-rm-brl="false" aria-label="Lake Loveland Swim Beach - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.lovgov.org/home/components/facilitydirectory/facilitydirectory/113/354$lakelovelandswimbeach">Lake Loveland Swim Beach</a> is popular with families during the summer months and <a href="https://www.larimer.org/naturalresources/parks/devils-backbone" target="_blank" data-uw-rm-brl="false" aria-label="Devil's Backbone Open Space - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.larimer.org/naturalresources/parks/devils-backbone$devil'sbackboneopenspace">Devil's Backbone Open Space</a> opens the door to wildlife watching, 12 miles of trails and the keyhole — a unique arch within the backbone that you can hike right through. Or, head to <a href="https://www.colorado.com/state-parks/boyd-lake-state-park" target="_blank" data-uw-rm-brl="false" aria-label="Boyd Lake State Park - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.colorado.com/state-parks/boyd-lake-state-park$boydlakestatepark">Boyd Lake State Park</a> for camping, boating, wakeboarding, biking, hiking and pretty much any outdoor fun you can think of, all with stunning Rocky Mountain views.
<a href="https://www.colorado.com/outlet-mall/outlets-loveland" target="_blank" data-uw-rm-brl="false" aria-label="Outlet shopping - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.colorado.com/outlet-mall/outlets-loveland$outletshopping">Outlet shopping</a>, <a href="https://www.colorado.com/professional/colorado-eagles-pro-hockey-llc" target="_blank" data-uw-rm-brl="false" aria-label="Colorado Eagles - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.colorado.com/professional/colorado-eagles-pro-hockey-llc$coloradoeagles">Colorado Eagles</a> hockey games, the Foote Lagoon Concert Series, craft breweries and distilleries, and an eminently walkable downtown will keep your Loveland itinerary full throughout the year.
Moving to Loveland, CO
If you are looking to move to Loveland, CO we can help. Our premier team of real estate agents knows the ins and outs of Loveland and they can find you the perfect place to fit your lifestyle. We can assist you in searching out the best neighborhood to suit your needs and budget with the most up-to-date listings available. <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/contact/">Contact our Fort Collins</a> real estate agency today. <a href="telk:+19704604444" data-uw-rm-brl="exc">970-460-4444</a>
<a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/communities/loveland-co-homes-for-sale/">See our up-to-date Loveland, CO. listings. </a>
Also see our: <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/blog/moving-to-fort-collins-colorado/">Definitive Guide for Living in and Moving to Fort Collins, CO</a> and our <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/blog/moving-to-greeley-colorado/">Moving To and Living In Greeley, Colorado: The Definitive Guide</a>
About The Author
<a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/agents/rob-kittle/">Rob Kittle</a> has been in the Northern Colorado real estate industry since 1999. Since that time he has built a nationally-recognized real estate team. His commitment to his clients and knowledge of the Colorado area including Loveland, CO. make him a highly sought-after agent for people looking to sell their homes or buy in Northern Colorado. 2023-05-28T10:42:00-07:002023-05-30T09:03:33-07:00Trey Carrolltag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:18426Planning To Move To Fort Collins, Colorado? Here's A Guide To Everything You Need To Know [2023 Edition]The vibrant and friendly city of <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/communities/fort-collins-co-homes-for-sale/">Fort Collins</a> has changed and grown quite a bit over the past few decades and has become one of the most welcoming cities for young professionals and families looking to put down roots in Colorado. As the fourth largest city in Colorado, Fort Collins offers much to its residents in way of amenities, education, and recreation opportunities and has made <a href="https://livability.com/">Livability’s</a> list of top 100 cities to live in America for six years running.
If you are planning to make the move to Fort Collins in 2022 it is helpful to know a little bit more about the city which is why the real estate experts here at <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/">Kittle Real Estate</a> have put together a guide to give you a breakdown of what it is like to live in Fort Collins.
Also see our <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/blog/best-neighborhoods-in-fort-collins/">Best Neighborhoods In Fort Collins</a> article for a closer look at some of the most desirable places to live in the city.
Jump To:
<a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/#transportation">Transportation in Fort Collins</a>
<a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/#schools">Schools in Fort Collins</a>
<a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/#employment">Employment in Fort Collins</a>
<a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/#activities">Things To Do in Fort Collins</a>
<a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/#attractions">Attractions in Fort Collins, CO</a>
HISTORY OF FORT COLLINS
The first Americans who settled in the area were the 9th Kansas Volunteer Cavalry. They established Fort Collins in 1862 near what is now the Old Town area as a military outpost. The Kansas troops were replaced by a group of Colorado infantry who moved to near what is now Wood Street in 1864 after a flood destroyed the camp’s original buildings. Fort Collins remained a military outpost until it was abandoned in 1866 by the U.S. Army. It was opened to settlement in 1872 by Congress after many farmers expressed their interest in settling the area. The Agricultural Colony Land Company soon arrived thereafter to lay out the first formal boundaries for Fort Collins properties. Growth in the Fort Collins area was fueled during the 20th century by sugar industries, several computer technology industries and steady growth in Colorado State University’s enrollment.
The city’s growth encouraged the development of several popular neighborhoods including City Park, Waterglen and Rogers Park. Fort Collins CO homes are now situated in a beautiful Larimer County city that offers Fort Collins home buyers many outdoor recreational activities, a diverse economy, a thriving arts scene and safe neighborhoods. These benefits make <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/properties/">Fort Collins homes</a> a great value for anyone who wishes to relocate to the Fort Collins area. If you are looking for the perfect place to settle here in Fort Collins the team at Kittle Real Estate can help. Contact our office for information on the most up-to-date listings.
TRANSPORTATION IN FORT COLLINS
Whether you prefer to drive, walk, or take public transit it's important to know the best ways to get around Fort Collins and how the community is divided especially when trying to choose where you want to live within the city. Fort Collins breaks down into these six specific neighborhoods:
Oldtown
Midtown
West Fort Collins
Campus West
Southeast Fort Collins
North Fort Collins
Traveling across these neighborhoods is very easy, thanks to the many different options available. There is a robust public transportation bus system, <a href="http://www.ridetransfort.com/" target="_blank">TransFort</a>, with several bus routes that make getting around the city while leaving your car at home very easy.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/FortCollinsBirney_streetcar_MountainAve_moving_to_fort_collins.jpg" width="400" height="247" alt="moving to fort collins transportation trolley" style="float: right; margin: 20px;" />Many parking structures, surface lots, and street parking opportunities can be found in downtown Fort Collins for when you are behind the wheel, and for a step back in time for something a little whimsical, there is even the <a href="https://www.fortcollinstrolley.org/" target="_blank">Fort Collins Trolley</a>, which runs Saturdays and Sundays May through September.
One of the best things about Fort Collins however is its biking community. As a matter of fact, the city has been awarded as a “Bicycle Friendly Town.” Because of how well biking is adapted throughout the community, the locals have bike lanes, bike parking, bike share program, bicycle co-op, Tour de Fat, and many more biking opportunities.
SCHOOLS IN FORT COLLINS
For families moving to Fort Collins understanding how the education system works in Fort Collins and what kind of schools are available is very important. The <a href="https://www.psdschools.org/" target="_blank">Poudre School District </a>provides public K-12 education for over 30,000 students in Northern Colorado including Fort Collins, Laporte, Red Feather, Livermore, Stove Prairie, Timnath, Wellington, and parts of Windsor. The Poudre School District includes:
32 elementary schools
10 middle schools
4 comprehensive high schools
4 alternative high schools
As one of the fastest-growing school districts in Colorado, the Poudre School District is the second-largest employer in the city.
And for post-secondary education, <a href="https://www.colostate.edu/" target="_blank">Colorado State University</a> is also situated in Fort Collins in the Campus West district of the city, as is <a href="https://www.frontrange.edu/" target="_blank">Front Range Community College - Larimer Campus</a> in the southern part of Midtown making it a college town.
EMPLOYMENT IN FORT COLLINS
If you are hoping to not only move to Fort Collins but to find employment in the city there are a number of fantastic employers to choose from. Some of the biggest employers in Fort Collins include the following companies:
Agilent Technologies
City of Fort Collins
Colorado State University
Eastman Kodak
Hewlett Packard
Larimer County
Poudre School District
Poudre Valley Health Systems
With a growth rate of about 3% every year, there is plenty of opportunity for big or small businesses to set up shop in Fort Collins, and with an average median family income of $76,341 per year, it is a thriving community to live and work in.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/kittle_real_estate_ultimate_guide_to_living_in_fort_collins_colorado.png" width="1600" height="700" alt="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/kittle_real_estate_ultimate_guide_to_living_in_fort_collins_colorado.png" style="vertical-align: middle;" />
THINGS TO DO IN FORT COLLINS
PARKS AND RECREATIONAL FACILITIES IN FORT COLLINS, CO
If you are moving to Fort Collins you’ll be pleased with the number of activities available for you and your family to partake in. The city’s recreation department maintains more than 60 community parks and athletic fields located just a short distance from the residential neighborhoods including Fort Collins City Park, Fossil Creek Park, Twin Silo Park, Spring Canyon Park, and many more. Our parks are family-friendly offering activities like creative interactive playground equipment, bike paths and ramps, splash pads, walking trails, and something for everyone in the family to enjoy, even the furry family members at a handful of our dog-friendly parks.
Recreational facilities in Fort Collins include a swimming pool, ice skating rink, pottery studio, a youth activity center, and a seniors’ activity center. One of the best things about Fort Collins is that it offers a number of activities and attractions geared towards families. A visit to <a href="https://www.poudreheritage.org/locations/farm-lee-martinez-park/" target="_blank">The Farm at Lee Martinez Park</a> introduces kids to farm life by meeting the animals up close. During the summer season, the park offers pony rides.
Fort Collins also has an indoor swimming/skating facility known as the EPIC (Edora Pool And Ice Center). This facility is recognized as the largest swimming pool in the city, which regularly hosts amateur hockey league play and open skating events.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/fort_collins_park.jpg" width="400" height="250" alt="moving to fort collins parks " style="float: right; margin: 10px;" />Moreover, the Fort Collins Recreation Department offers many recreational activities that offer home buyers who purchase homes in Fort Collins many ways to learn about hobbies and healthy lifestyle choices. Some of these activities include aquatics classes, ice skating classes, pottery classes, dance lessons, more than 20 recreational sports activities, and many youth recreation camps. Interestingly, a couple of marathons take place in Fort Collins every year.
NIGHTLIFE IN FORT COLLINS
Just like plenty of other bustling towns, Fort Collins has an assortment of nightlife spots to visit. This is largely due to its identity as a college town. As a matter of fact, Fort Collins is recognized as the Craft Beer Capital of Colorado. The town is able to produce 70 percent of craft beer throughout Colorado. It ranks 7 percent of the whole United States. There are 20 award-winning craft breweries in Fort Collins. Anheuser-Busch, one of the most famous and large breweries in the world, can be found in Fort Collins. This popular brewery offers tours to see how Budweiser is made. There is also an option to visit the Odell Brewing Company, known as the first craft brewery that was established in Fort Collins. The brewery offers tasting room experiences for beer lovers. Apart from breweries, Fort Collins has a number of laid-back pubs where you can connect with friends or listen to live music.
ATTRACTIONS IN FORT COLLINS, CO
Fort Collins prides itself on being a community with something for everyone whether it’s an avid outdoor adventure seeker, the craft beer enthusiast, or a modern family looking for fun. When you move to Fort Collins you’ll be sure to fill your weekends in no time with any of these excellent attractions.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/Welcome_To_Fort_Collins_living_in_old_town.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="living in fort collins old town" style="float: right; margin: 20px;" />Fort Collins has been nicknamed as a Certified Colorado Creative District due to its innovative and artistic environment and one of the best places to visit to enjoy this vibe is the Old Town Historic District. This area has an array of bookstores, shops, galleries, local eateries, and a calendar full of fun activities. Stroll the historical streets on a self-guided historic walking tour or enjoy just sitting back and relaxing in the beautiful Old Town Square. And don’t miss the massive music festival, <a href="https://www.bohemiannights.org/" target="_blank">NewWestFest</a>, held in Old Town for a weekend in late August offering patrons free live music, activities and vendors.
A must-visit attraction for the whole family is <a href="https://www.fortfun.biz/" target="_blank">Fort Fun</a>. This is a family-friendly amusement place where various activities are available. Among those activities include arcade games, go-karts, mini-golf, paddle boats, laser tag, and many more. The best part is that it is available for all ages.
And for the science-lovers out there, a visit to the <a href="https://fcmod.org/" target="_blank">Fort Collins Museum Of Discovery</a> is also a great way to inspire young kids who have a curious mind. With 16,000 square feet of exhibits covering everything from energy, music, and the earth to wildlife, animal encounters, and food.
And if you’re someone who enjoys outdoor activities and getting out into nature, there isn’t a better place than Fort Collins and the surrounding Northern Colorado wilderness. There are many parks within the city limits but for more hiking or rock climbing opportunities one destination to visit is the Lory State Park, which is the national park of Fort Collins. Set just west of Horsetooth Reservoir it offers 26 miles of trails, backcountry camping experiences, and canoeing, kayaking, or rafting.
Speaking of <a href="https://www.larimer.org/naturalresources/parks/horsetooth-reservoir" target="_blank">Horsetooth Reservoir</a>, for a fun summer day, it is worth the visit to this scenic open space set in the foothills just west of Fort Collins. Offering various activities, such as horseback riding, swimming, boating, fishing, camping, rock climbing, and mountain biking. It also has areas for hiking, off-road driving, and plenty of other outdoor activities.
The Poudre, or Cache la Poudre River officially, is the river on which Fort Collins was originally founded. Many locals love to go to the river because of its excellent for fly fishing, river rafting, or even tubing. And along its banks, you’ll find the Mishawaka Amphitheater, AKA The Mish, a legendary concert venue and restaurant dating back to 1916. With a fantastic lineup of outdoor concerts in the summer, it’s a great place to go.
And for the golfers out there you can also find solace at the <a href="https://www.fcgov.com/collindale/" target="_blank">Collindale Golf Course</a> in Fort Collins. A championship golf course that is widely regarded as one of the best in the state used as a U.S. Open Qualifying course. It is a public course however annual passes are available.
MOVING TO FORT COLLINS
If you are looking to move to Fort Collins we can help. Our premier team of real estate agents knows the ins and outs of Fort Collins and they can find you the perfect place to fit your lifestyle. We can assist you in searching out the best neighborhood to suit your needs and budget with the most up-to-date listings available. Contact our Fort Collins real estate agency today. <a href="telk:+19704604444" data-uw-rm-brl="exc">970-460-4444</a>
Also see our: <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/blog/moving-to-loveland-colorado/">Definitive Guide for Living in and Moving to Loveland, CO</a> and our <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/blog/moving-to-greeley-colorado/">Moving To and Living In Greeley, Colorado: The Definitive Guide</a><br /><br />2023-05-25T12:09:00-07:002023-05-30T09:06:14-07:00Alex Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:27488Win in a Competitive Market: Strategies to Buy and Sell Homes Without the Fear of Homelessness
Tips to help you not end up homeless when buying and selling.
In the world of real estate, the fear of becoming homeless while buying and selling a home is a common concern for many. However, with the advent of new programs and strategies, there are effective ways to mitigate this fear and achieve a successful transaction. We’ll explore two approaches that can help you avoid the risk of homelessness and make your dream of buying a new home a reality.
1. Buy now, sell later programs. One promising option to address the dilemma of selling your current home before buying a new one is the "buy now, sell later" program. Unlike traditional methods, this approach allows you to go house hunting and secure a new property before putting your current home on the market. By closing the deal on your new home first, you eliminate the risk of being left without a place to live. These programs have gained popularity in recent years and offer an excellent solution to the timing challenges often faced by homebuyers.
"Safeguard yourself against the risk of homelessness while buying and selling a home."
2. Making a contingent offer. For those who may not qualify for a buy now, sell later program due to lacking equity in their current home, a contingent offer remains a viable alternative. This approach involves making an offer on a new home that is contingent upon the successful sale of your existing property. To increase the likelihood of acceptance in a competitive market, it is crucial to present a strong offer. Employing competitive terms, such as an escalation clause, can help you outshine other potential buyers. Collaborating with a skilled Realtor who understands the intricacies of competitive offers can significantly enhance your chances of success.
3. Winning in a competitive market. In today's fast-paced real estate market, competition is fierce. To come out on top and secure your desired home, it is essential to employ effective strategies. A reliable real estate agent can guide you through a ten-step process designed to improve your offer and increase your chances of success. This comprehensive checklist includes tactics to enhance the competitiveness of your offer, ensuring that you are well-prepared to navigate a competitive market.
If you are ready to embark on your home-buying journey, reach out to us by phone or email. We can help you explore the diverse avenues available and ensure a successful and stress-free transition.2023-05-23T10:53:29-07:002023-05-30T10:02:02-07:00Rob Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:19328Find Out The Best Neighborhoods in Fort Collins, Colorado To Move To<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/kittle_real_estate_best_fort_collins_neighborhoods_colorado2.png" width="1300" height="569" alt="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/kittle_real_estate_best_fort_collins_neighborhoods_colorado2.png" style="vertical-align: middle;" />The Best Neighborhoods in Fort Collins, CO for You and Your Family [2023]
Fort Collins is a medium-sized city located in Northern Colorado offering its residents a beautiful and contemporary place to live. The city is full of professionals, sales and office workers, and service providers. Within the city limits, you'll find Colorado State University, which has a big impact on the vibe of the city. The university provides many job opportunities, and the student population keeps the city lively. It’s easy to connect with other young professionals and there are many attractions and activities to participate in.
The unemployment rate in Fort Collins is only 2.2% and 81.19% of the workforce is employed in white-collar jobs, a number well above the national average. Making Fort Collins, CO a fantastic place to relocate for work or to settle down with your family while starting a new career.
There are many great neighborhoods in Fort Collins to choose from when looking for the best place for you and your family to live, and the median home price is $389,700. <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/realtors/top-realtor-in-fort-collins-co/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-uw-rm-brl="false" aria-label="Fort Collins Realtors - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/realtors/top-realtor-in-fort-collins-co/$fortcollinsrealtors">Fort Collins Realtors</a> at Kittle Real Estate can work with you to understand your budget, what part of town you are looking to live in, the type of house you are looking for, and what’s important to you about your neighborhood. With this information, the search for <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/homes-for-sale-results/?cityId%5B%5D=1098&location=&propertyType=SFR%2CCND&status=active&minListPrice=&maxListPrice=&squareFeet=&bedrooms=0&bathCount=0&_openHomesOnlyYn=on&_dateRange=on&_virtualTourYn=on" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-uw-rm-brl="false" aria-label="Fort Collins homes for sale - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/homes-for-sale-results/?cityid%5b%5d=1098&location=&propertytype=sfr%2ccnd&status=active&minlistprice=&maxlistprice=&squarefeet=&bedrooms=0&bathcount=0&_openhomesonlyyn=on&_daterange=on&_virtualtouryn=on$fortcollinshomesforsale">Fort Collins homes for sale</a> can begin where we will help you find your perfect Fort Collins home.
Among the many great neighborhoods to choose from in Fort Collins the real estate experts at Kittle Real Estate have put together a list of what we consider to be the best places to live in Fort Collins as far as amenities, house styles and prices, school, and attractions are concerned.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/Fort_collins_neighborhoods_old_town_KITTLE_REAL_ESTATE.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="old town neighborhoods fort collins co kittle" style="margin: 10px; float: right;" />OLD TOWN
At A Glance:
Old Town Median Sales Price: $580,000
Old Town Neighborhood Schools: Laurel Elementary, Lesher Middle School, Fort Collins High School
Old Town Attractions & Amenities: Old Town Square, Library Park, Restaurants and Shopping, Close to Colorado State University
If you are a young professional or young family looking for homes for sale near a lively historic district, Old Town is one of the best places to live in Fort Collins. Disney’s Main Street USA was actually modeled after downtown Fort Collins because of its artistic and historic feel. Old Town in Fort Collins is a place of shopping, dining, and gathering together along the European-style walkways with potted flowers, lights, and water features. Many festivals and events are held in this part of the city, and the entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well.
There are many <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/homes-for-sale-results/?cityId%5B%5D=1098&location=&propertyType=SFR%2CCND&status=active&minListPrice=&maxListPrice=&squareFeet=&bedrooms=0&bathCount=0&_openHomesOnlyYn=on&_dateRange=on&_virtualTourYn=on" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-uw-rm-brl="false" aria-label="Old Town homes for sale - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/homes-for-sale-results/?cityid%5b%5d=1098&location=&propertytype=sfr%2ccnd&status=active&minlistprice=&maxlistprice=&squarefeet=&bedrooms=0&bathcount=0&_openhomesonlyyn=on&_daterange=on&_virtualtouryn=on$oldtownhomesforsale">Old Town homes for sale</a> in Fort Collins. You'll find condos, smaller homes with two bedrooms, mid-size homes, and larger homes with up to five bedrooms all located within this majestic area. Prices for homes for sale in Old Town Fort Collins CO range from $190,000 for small condos to over $1 million for larger homes. Anyone looking to live in a lively area of Fort Collins surrounded by many entertainment options or is in the market for a historic home should consider searching for homes for sale Old Town Fort Collins and realtors Old Town Fort Collins to find a great partner in your home search.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/kittle_real_estate_Old_Town_fort_collins_neighborhood_map_1.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="old town fort collins neighborhood map kittle " style="margin: 10px; vertical-align: baseline;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/Fort_collins_neighborhoods_old_town_KITTLE_REAL_ESTATE_1.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="huntington hills fort collins best neighborhoods kittle " style="margin: 10px; float: right;" />HUNTINGTON HILLS
At A Glance:
Huntington Hills Median Sales Price: $470,000
Huntington Hills Schools: Werner Elementary, Preston Middle School, Fossil Ridge High School
Huntington Hills Attractions & Amenities: Fossil Creek Park, Southridge Golf Course, Prairie Dog Meadow Natural Area, tennis courts, pool, and shopping
Located in the southern part of Fort Collins, homes for sale in Huntington Hills can be difficult to come by. This area is located near S. College Ave. in between Fossil Creek Park and Prairie Dog Meadow Natural area. It’s a desirable place to live in Fort Collins with its scenic views and large properties. It is also considered one of the most family-friendly neighborhoods in Fort Collins.
Expect typical home values for homes for sale Huntington Hills CO to be near $472,591. Home values have gone up nearly 5% in the past year and they are expected to rise close to 10% in the next year. Look for top realtors Huntington Hills Fort Collins to help you find <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/homes-for-sale-results/?cityId%5B%5D=1098&location=&propertyType=SFR%2CCND&status=active&minListPrice=&maxListPrice=&squareFeet=&bedrooms=0&bathCount=0&_openHomesOnlyYn=on&_dateRange=on&_virtualTourYn=on" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-uw-rm-brl="false" aria-label="Huntington Hills homes for sale - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/homes-for-sale-results/?cityid%5b%5d=1098&location=&propertytype=sfr%2ccnd&status=active&minlistprice=&maxlistprice=&squarefeet=&bedrooms=0&bathcount=0&_openhomesonlyyn=on&_daterange=on&_virtualtouryn=on$huntingtonhillshomesforsale">Huntington Hills homes for sale</a> if this area seems like a good fit.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/kittle_real_estate_huntington_hills_fort_collins_neighborhood_map.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="huntington hills fort collins best neighborhoods map kittle" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/Fort_collins_neighborhoods_old_prospect_KITTLE_REAL_ESTATE.png" width="400" height="335" alt="old prospect fort collins best neighborhoods kittle" style="margin: 10px; float: right;" />OLD PROSPECT
At A Glance:
Old Prospect Median Sales Price: $440,000
Old Prospect Schools: O’Dea or Lopez Elementary Schools, Lesher Middle School, Fort Collins High School
Old Prospect Attractions & Amenities: Gardens on Spring Creek, Spring Park, Shopping, Close to Colorado State University Arts Campus, walking trails and bike paths
Somewhat centrally located within the city, Old Prospect is the perfect location for commuters that love to bike to work. With many biking paths nearby as well as green spaces there is plenty for a family or young professional to do when they live in the Old Prospect area of Fort Collins. It is a popular neighborhood within the city and typically only has a few homes for sale Old Prospect Fort Collins at a time.
Old Prospect is located east of S. College Ave., south of Old Town, and near Spring Park, Creekside Park, and Mallard’s Nest Natural Area. When looking for <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/homes-for-sale-results/?cityId%5B%5D=1098&location=&propertyType=SFR%2CCND&status=active&minListPrice=&maxListPrice=&squareFeet=&bedrooms=0&bathCount=0&_openHomesOnlyYn=on&_dateRange=on&_virtualTourYn=on" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-uw-rm-brl="false" aria-label="Old Prospect Homes for sale - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/homes-for-sale-results/?cityid%5b%5d=1098&location=&propertytype=sfr%2ccnd&status=active&minlistprice=&maxlistprice=&squarefeet=&bedrooms=0&bathcount=0&_openhomesonlyyn=on&_daterange=on&_virtualtouryn=on$oldprospecthomesforsale">Old Prospect Homes for sale</a>, expect prices to be near $440,760. These prices have been steadily rising and it’s expected that prices will go up another 9.7% in the next year. If you are interested in homes for sale Old Prospect Fort Collins CO, search for realtors Old Prospect Fort Collins and find a professional that can help you find your dream home.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/kittle_real_estate_old_prospect_fort_collins_neighborhood_map.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="old prospect fort collins neighborhood map kittle" style="margin: 10px; vertical-align: baseline;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/Fort_collins_neighborhoods_harmony_crossing_KITTLE_REAL_ESTATE.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="harmony crossing fort collins best neighborhoods kittle" style="margin: 10px; float: right;" />HARMONY CROSSING
At A Glance:
Harmony Crossing Median Sales Price: $400,000
Harmony Crossing Schools: Harmony School, Shepardson Elementary School, Kruse Elementary School
Harmony Crossing Attractions & Amenities: Harmony Park, Fossil Creek Park, health clubs, restaurants, and shopping
If you are looking for houses for sale in a newer neighborhood, consider Harmony Crossing, Fort Collins. Homes here were built in the 1990’s and the location just west of Timberline Road is close to Cinemark Fort Collins, restaurants, and the Harmony Campus of UC Health. The neighborhood consists of single-family homes in a variety of floor plans.
A little more affordable, homes for sale in Harmony Crossing tend to be priced at just over $400,000. However, prices have risen 6.8% over the past year and are expected to rise another 10% in the next year. If <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/homes-for-sale-results/?cityId%5B%5D=1098&location=&propertyType=SFR%2CCND&status=active&minListPrice=&maxListPrice=&squareFeet=&bedrooms=0&bathCount=0&_openHomesOnlyYn=on&_dateRange=on&_virtualTourYn=on" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-uw-rm-brl="false" aria-label="Harmony Crossing homes for sale - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/homes-for-sale-results/?cityid%5b%5d=1098&location=&propertytype=sfr%2ccnd&status=active&minlistprice=&maxlistprice=&squarefeet=&bedrooms=0&bathcount=0&_openhomesonlyyn=on&_daterange=on&_virtualtouryn=on$harmonycrossinghomesforsale">Harmony Crossing homes for sale</a> seem like a good fit for you, look for top realtors Harmony Crossing Fort Collins to find a partner in your home buying journey.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/kittle_real_estate_harmony_crossing_fort_collins_neighborhood_map.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="harmony crossing fort collins best neighborhoods map kittle" style="margin: 10px; vertical-align: baseline;" />
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/Fort_collins_neighborhoods_city_park_KITTLE_REAL_ESTATE.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="city park fort collins best neighborhoods kittle" style="float: right; margin: 10px;" />
CITY PARK
At A Glance:
City Park Median Sales Price: $596,000
City Park Schools: Dunn IB World School, Poudre High School, Poudre Community Academy
City Park Attractions & Amenities: City Park, City Park Pool, City Park Nine Golf Course, Fort Collins Municipal Railway, ClubTico, shopping and restaurants
Homes for sale in City Park Fort Collins CO are located just outside of Old Town. This scenic part of the city is full of charming historic homes on large properties and is one of the best places to live in Fort Collins. The neighborhood is situated around the beautiful and lush City Park which has its own outdoor pool with waterslides, perfect for the water-loving family, an event venue, historical railway, and even a miniature replica of the Statue of Liberty. And surrounding the park you'll find many restaurants, bars, and shopping all within walking distance.
Typical homes for sale City Park Fort Collins will be priced around $596,000. Prices have risen nearly 5% in the past year and are expected to go up 10% in the next year. If you are interested in <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/homes-for-sale-results/?cityId%5B%5D=1098&location=&propertyType=SFR%2CCND&status=active&minListPrice=&maxListPrice=&squareFeet=&bedrooms=0&bathCount=0&_openHomesOnlyYn=on&_dateRange=on&_virtualTourYn=on" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-uw-rm-brl="false" aria-label="City Park homes for sale - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/homes-for-sale-results/?cityid%5b%5d=1098&location=&propertytype=sfr%2ccnd&status=active&minlistprice=&maxlistprice=&squarefeet=&bedrooms=0&bathcount=0&_openhomesonlyyn=on&_daterange=on&_virtualtouryn=on$cityparkhomesforsale">City Park homes for sale</a>, search for realtors City Park Fort Collins to start the process.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/kittle_real_estate_city_park_fort_collins_neighborhood_map.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="city park fort collins best neighborhoods map kittle" style="margin: 10px; vertical-align: baseline;" />
Talk To Our Real Estate Experts for Homes for Sale in Fort Collins, CO
If you are thinking of making the move to Fort Collins or relocating within the city don't hesitate to <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/contact/">contact our top-rated real estate agency</a>. We want to work with you to help you find the best neighborhood for your family to meet your budget and needs.
And also see our <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/blog/moving-to-fort-collins-colorado/">Guide For Moving To And Living In Fort Collins</a> for more helpful tips on schools, attractions, and getting around this beautiful city.
About The Author
<a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/agents/rob-kittle/" data-uw-rm-brl="false">Rob Kittle</a> has been in the Northern Colorado real estate industry since 1999. Since that time he has built a nationally-recognized real estate team. His commitment to his clients and knowledge of the Colorado area including Loveland, CO. make him a highly sought-after agent for people looking to sell their homes or buy in Northern Colorado. 2023-05-22T10:16:00-07:002023-05-23T08:54:14-07:00Alex Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:22100Moving To and Living In Windsor, CO [2023 Edition]<br /><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/_KITTLE_REAL_ESTATE_Moving_To_Windsor_CO_1.png" width="350" height="350" alt="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/_KITTLE_REAL_ESTATE_Moving_To_Windsor_CO_1.png" style="float: left; margin: 10px;" />Windsor, CO is one of the fastest growing towns in Colorado. Since 2000, Windsor has experienced extraordinary growth. Windsor is located 58 miles north of Denver and is between the mountains and the plains of Colorado. With a population of 36,000 residents, Windsor continues to attract families and businesses because of its great quality of life and small-town charm. Living in Windsor, CO you will have quick access to Fort Collins, Greeley and Loveland. Windsor prides itself on its historical roots and sense of community.
If you are looking to move to Windsor, CO. there are homes of every type and style, suitable for any living arrangement. Whether you are looking for a condo, a traditional bungalow, an upscale two-story or something else the team of real estate experts near you at <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/">Kittle Real Estate</a> can help you find the perfect place.
<a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/communities/windsor-co-homes-for-sale/">See our up-to-date Windsor, CO. listings.</a>
Jump To:
<a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/#transportation">Transportation in Windsor</a>,
<a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/#schools">Schools in Windsor</a>,
<a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/#employment">Employment in Windsor</a>,
<a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/#todo">Things To Do in Windsor</a>,
<a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/#contact">Contact Us</a>
History of Windsor
Windsor was founded in 1890 and its history stretches beyond its official incorporation. J.L. Hilton was a settler who built a Halfway house between Greeley and Fort Collins in 1873. This served as a stopping point for travelers, stage coaches and mail deliveries. In 1882 the town of Windsor began to steadily grow with the arrival of the Great Salt Lake and Pacific Railroad, connecting Greeley and Fort Collins. The sugar beet played an important role in the growth and development of Windsor bringing large immigrant families to work on these beet farms and in the sugar factory. The Great Western Sugar Company’s factory was in Windsor from 1905 to 1966 when it closed. Today we still see the steady growth of the town of Windsor. Windsor’s population surpasses 35,000 people and yet, still maintains its small-town charm that points to what life might have been like a hundred years ago.
Transportation in Windsor
Transportation in and around Windsor is easy and convenient. Whether you need a shuttle or taxi to and from Denver International Airport, there are transportation options within Windsor.
The Poudre Express Regional Bus Route
<a href="https://greeleyevanstransit.com/regional/">The Poudre Express</a>, is a dedicated commuter bus line connecting Windsor, Greeley, and Fort Collins has been serving northern Colorado since January 2020.
Taxi Service
<a href="https://www.ztrip.com/northern-colorado/">zTrip</a> is a taxi cab service in Windsor that services Northern Colorado, which can be used to get around town with their convenient booking methods of calling, hailing a cab, booking on their website, or using their app to schedule a ride.
Shared Ride Apps
Windsor is also a city that utilizes ride-sharing services such as <a href="https://www.uber.com/us/en/ride/">Uber</a> or <a href="https://www.lyft.com/">Lyft</a> that residents can take advantage of when trying to get around the city.
Schools in Windsor
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/Kittle_Real_Estate_Schools_in_Windsor_CO.png" width="350" height="350" alt="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/Kittle_Real_Estate_Schools_in_Windsor_CO.png" style="float: right; margin: 10px;" />For families looking to move to Windsor, CO understanding the school systems and available schooling options is important. The Town of Windsor is a part of three school districts within its town limits which serves PK - Grade 12.
<a href="https://www.weldre4.org/">Weld RE- 4 School District </a>
<a href="https://www.psdschools.org/">Poudre School District</a>
<a href="https://www.thompsonschools.org/">Thompson RJ-2</a>
The schools within this district include:
5 Elementary Schools
3 Middle Schools
2 High Schools
2 Public Charter Schools
8 Private Schools
Not only does Windsor offer elementary and high school aged students fantastic educational opportunities, Windsor is within a 100 miles of 42 colleges. The closest college is the Institute of Business and Medical Careers in Fort Collins. Aims Community College and the University of Northern Colorado are located in Greeley only 10 miles away. These institutions provide excellent post-secondary offerings with a wide range of degree and certificate programs.
<a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/communities/windsor-co-homes-for-sale/">See our up-to-date Windsor CO. listings.</a>
Employment in Windsor
Windsor is a great place for young professionals or established businessmen and women looking for employment opportunities. There are a wide range of nearby industries that operate and are thriving in Windsor and it has become a hub for green energy companies. These key industries are agriculture, green energy production, food processing, business services, manufacturing, health and wellness, education and construction sectors. Some employers in the Town of Windsor include the following companies:
<a href="https://www.o-i.com/careers/">Owens-Illinois</a>
<a href="https://www.frontrangeenergy.com/jobs">Front Range Energy,</a>
<a href="https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/windsorgov">Town of Windsor</a>
<a href="https://careers.uchealth.org/">UCHealth-Windsor Medical Center</a>
<a href="https://www.bannerhealth.com/careers">Banner Health: North Colorado Medical Center</a>
<a href="https://www.indeed.com/jobs?l=Windsor%20CO&aceid&gclid=Cj0KCQjwxveXBhDDARIsAI0Q0x0A2a9eD9p1MaT53PgaL9_YDPGQtPcRY2ExBF3pD0DKCIjj3wiRjB0aAgjREALw_wcB&from=mobRdr&utm_source=%2Fm%2F&utm_medium=redir&utm_campaign=dt&vjk=6303d47bf88527b0&advn=7394927426531988">State Farm Insurance</a>
<a href="https://www.indeed.com/cmp/Clearview-Library-District?from=mobviewjob&tk=1gap2vj3i23eb000&fromjk=90402f934ac1144b&attributionid=mobvjcmp">Clearview Library District</a>
<a href="https://www.indeed.com/cmp/Greeley--evans-School-District-6-2?from=mobviewjob&tk=1gap3127ch7h1800&fromjk=77dc285c8f248282&attributionid=mobvjcmp">Weld County School District</a>
<a href="https://www.vestas.com/en/careers/job-openings">Vestas</a>
<a href="https://careers.carestream.com/">Carestream</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/Kittle_Real_Estate_Things_To_Do_In_Windsor_Colorado.png" width="1200" height="525" alt="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/Kittle_Real_Estate_Things_To_Do_In_Windsor_Colorado.png" style="margin: 10px; vertical-align: middle;" />
Things to Do in Windsor
Even though Windsor is one of the fastest growing towns in Colorado it still has kept its small-town feel through supporting its small businesses and celebrating its agricultural roots. Windsor offers a variety of retail, recreation and leisure that will meet the needs of all lifestyles and demographics. There is no shortage of activities and attractions to keep residents occupied while living in Windsor, CO. Outdoor recreation is just minutes away. Windsor has access to 20 parks and open spaces. <a href="https://poudretrail.org/kodak-watchable-wildlfie-area/">Kodak Watchable Wildlife Area</a> is a 65-acre open space along the Cache la Poudre River. It’s here you may see such wildlife as wild turkeys, eagles, hawks and other waterfowl. Historic downtown is close to Windsor Lake. <a href="https://www.recreationliveshere.com/facilities/facility/details/Boardwalk-Community-Park-4">Boardwalk Community Park </a>surrounds Windsor Lake and boasts of boating, dog parks, fishing, a playground, trails, beach and volleyball.
Not only does Windsor offer a beautiful selection of outdoor parks to visit, they also host a variety of town events throughout the year. During the summer months, you can enjoy <a href="https://www.recreationliveshere.com/217/Movies-in-the-Park">Movies in the Park</a> or the <a href="https://www.recreationliveshere.com/219/Summer-Concert-Series">Summer Concert Series</a> which happens every week. In the fall you can join in the fun at <a href="https://www.recreationliveshere.com/250/Halloween-Carnival">Halloween Carnival</a> or <a href="https://windsorchamber.net/events/details/oktoberfest-5503">Oktoberfest</a>. Kick off the holiday season by celebrating at <a href="https://www.recreationliveshere.com/227/Windsor-Wonderland">Windsor Wonderland</a>. Windsor is home to the <a href="https://www.highhopsbrewery.com/">High Hops Brewery</a> and a range of restaurants.
Moving to Windsor, CO
If you are looking to move to Windsor, CO we can help. Our premier team of nearby real estate agents knows the ins and outs of Windsor and they can find you the perfect place to fit your lifestyle. We can assist you in searching out the best neighborhood to suit your needs and budget with the most up-to-date listings available. Contact our Windsor real estate agency today. 970-387-6348
<a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/communities/windsor-co-homes-for-sale/">See our up-to-date Windsor, CO. listings.</a>
Also see our: <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/blog/moving-to-fort-collins-colorado/">Definitive Guide for Living in and Moving to Fort Collins, CO</a>. and our <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/blog/moving-to-loveland-colorado/">Moving To and Living In Loveland, Colorado: The Definitive Guide</a>, <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/blog/moving-to-greeley-colorado/">Moving To and Living In Greeley, Colorado: The Definitive Guide</a>2023-05-22T09:54:00-07:002023-05-30T09:03:10-07:00Trey Carrolltag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:27091Retire Rich: How Investing in Real Estate Can Make You a Millionaire
Join our webinar for the secrets of successful real estate investors.
Retire Rich: How Investing in Real Estate Can Make You a Millionaire<br />Live Webinar: Wednesday, May 24th @ 5:30 PM
<a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeKIw66lqDRHqcAQ9ZBZIyfYbV3SybIljIU9PlW4Qy0fDFCvQ/viewform" target="_blank">Register Here</a>
Are you interested in becoming a millionaire? Well, I can tell you that getting on a game show or investing in the stock market might not be the best way to do it. In fact, over the last 20 years, the stock market has only returned just under 5% on your money.
But don't worry; there is a better way to become a millionaire, and that's through real estate. I can personally attest to making a lot of money through real estate investing, and it's not just for Realtors. My team and I are trained to help you become a millionaire through real estate.
"Are you interested in becoming a millionaire?"
In fact, I'll be hosting a webinar in the next couple of weeks to show you how to make millions of dollars in real estate, even just by living in your own home. I can teach you how to get returns of 20%, 30%, 40%, and even up to 140%, which is unheard of in the stock market.
And here's the best part: I can show you how to do it all while minimizing your tax burden. It's rare to find ways to make money and not have to pay taxes, but real estate is one of those ways. So join me for the webinar, and I'll teach you how to become a millionaire through real estate investing, retire rich, and even leave a legacy for your children. Click below to register!
Retire Rich: How Investing in Real Estate Can Make You a Millionaire<br />Live Webinar: Wednesday, May 24th @ 5:30 PM
<a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeKIw66lqDRHqcAQ9ZBZIyfYbV3SybIljIU9PlW4Qy0fDFCvQ/viewform" target="_blank">Register Here</a>2023-05-01T13:27:33-07:002023-05-26T12:51:06-07:00Rob Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:26709Referral Contest Alert: Don’t Miss Your Chance To Win Prizes!
How you can help us with referrals and win big rewards in our contest.
Today, we are excited to announce that we are having a contest! We're trying to drum up as much business as we can during the busy season, as 60% of homes sell in April, May, and June. During this busy season, we would love your referrals.
Many people have asked us how they can help, so you should know that referrals are our biggest source of business. So don’t hesitate to reach out, no matter how unsure you are of how good the referral will be. Then, for everyone who does give us a referral, they will be entered in a contest.
"You can win swag, movie tickets, tumblers, and more."
The market has gotten tough, and interest rates are climbing, so many people are thinking about moving. To find referrals, it is best to think about the people in your life who are going through a transition. Maybe they’re getting a new job, getting married or divorced, becoming empty nesters, or situations like that.
If you have anyone like that in your life, we would love to shower them with our attention and help them with their move. Then you can win some swag, movie tickets, tumblers, and more. If you want to get involved in that, <a href="https://rb.gy/7jb62" title="referral">enter the information for your referral here.</a> Call or email us if you have any questions, and we look forward to hearing from you.2023-04-20T10:55:54-07:002023-04-21T08:44:05-07:00Rob Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:26233Are Zillow Home Values Accurate?
You shouldn’t rely on online home valuations when pricing your home.
Do you use valuation tools such as Zestimate, home bots, and other tools commonly used in the real estate industry? It's always exciting to receive an email from a real estate agent and find out the value of your home by using their online tools. However, these can be unpredictable as they rely on recent sales data in the neighborhood. For instance, if a recent sale in the area had a finished basement and a three-car garage, your home's value might go up based on that.
These valuation tools, including Zillow, Realtor.com, and Redfin, all have different algorithms for calculating the value of your home. While these tools are helpful in keeping an eye on the value of your property, they are not the best way to determine the actual worth of your home. As a Realtor, I always look at what's happening right now rather than just relying on past sales data.
"Valuation tools are not the best way to determine the actual worth of your home."
To get an accurate valuation of your property, we need to assess its condition, floor plan, and location. We also need to consider the competition in the market and position your home strategically to get the best offer. If you're planning to sell your home, I’d like to meet with you so we can come up with a plan to sell your property for the highest possible price.
Whether you're considering selling now or in the future, it's always good to have a plan in place. Give me a call or send an email. I’d love to connect with you.2023-04-04T14:37:49-07:002023-04-06T14:07:35-07:00Rob Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:25565The Truth About Appraisals When Selling Your Home
This is why sellers don’t need an appraisal when listing their homes.
Do you really need an appraisal when selling your home? As a real estate expert, I can tell you the answer is no. While an appraisal provides an opinion on the value of your home based on recent sales data, usually about as far as three months back, it doesn't necessarily reflect current market conditions.
When pricing a home, we consider factors such as competition, supply and demand, and the velocity of the market at the moment. We also take into account your timeline for selling, which an appraiser never asks about. As a result, our pricing strategy may differ depending on when we put your home on the market.
"An appraisal doesn't necessarily reflect current market conditions."
If you need to determine the value of your home for other reasons, such as a divorce settlement or estate planning, a broker's price opinion can provide the necessary information. The truth is that the only time when an appraisal becomes necessary is when you're buying a home and getting a loan. The lender will require an appraisal to substantiate the value of the property, and you'll need to ensure that it's taken care of and paid for. However, when it comes to selling your home, a Realtor can help you price it correctly for the current market and achieve your desired timeline.
If you're thinking of selling your home or have any questions about the appraisal process, give me a call or send an email. I’m always happy to hear from you.2023-03-22T12:14:21-07:002023-03-22T12:20:04-07:00Rob Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:24945We Have Great Options for When You Need To Sell
We have so many options available to you to help you sell your home.
I often hear clients talk about how stressful it is to sell a home. However, I'm here to talk about the different options we have to get your home sold that will reduce your stress. Plus, we have some options that many Realtors don't have. We pride ourselves on having many high-tech options available.
First, 90% of our clients will want to go with the traditional approach to real estate. They get the home ready and looking nice, and we get them top dollar. The problem is that most people don’t know they have other options besides that.
Another way to get peace of mind is to accept a cash offer. We work with multiple investors and hedge funds to provide you with three to five cash offers. With these, you get to pick your closing date and name the terms. This option has been very popular lately.
"We pride ourselves on having many high-tech options available."
Another option we offer is the Guaranteed Sale, where I guarantee to get your home sold within an agreed-upon amount of time. If I don't, I buy it. I also offer the Design To Sell program, where I will invest $10,000 to $20,000 for things like new carpet and paint to help you get your home ready for the market. That will help you get top dollar.
We also have our Buy Now, Sell Later program, which is extremely popular. With this, I can help you buy a new home first, then put your old home on the market. This eliminates the hassle of getting everything prepped and staged because your old home will now be vacant. Plus, you don't have to deal with the hassles of showings.
The list doesn’t end here—I still have more options available to you. We are not your typical real estate company with just the same plan to get your home sold. We just want you to have peace of mind and be able to choose the selling method that is best for you. To hear more, call or email me anytime.2023-03-03T14:09:32-07:002023-03-06T10:59:44-07:00Rob Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:17427Benefits of Owning Rental Properties<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/buying_a_rental_property_in_colorado_kittle_real_estate.jpg" width="640" height="425" alt="buying a rental property colorado kittle real estate" />
Have you been thinking of buying an investment property but have been hesitant about taking action? Perhaps you are worried about the intricate details of <a href="https://bighornrentals.com/">managing the investment</a>. Or you don’t know if there are enough rewards to justify the investment.
If this is you, this post will show you why income properties are a secret weapon of the super-rich. You probably already know you can earn rental income from an <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com">investment property</a>. This article will reveal other hidden opportunities of owning an investment property.
Ten Benefits of Becoming a Property Investor
A reliable source of passive income
As long as your property is in good condition and located in an area with strong demand for rental homes or commercial properties, you can rely on it as a source of income. This income is usually enough to cover all the operational costs of the building – maintenance, marketing, wages, and taxes – with some money left over as your profit. If you want to make the asset completely passive, you may hire a property manager to oversee it.
Buy with high leverage
With only 20% of the purchase price of a property as a down payment, you can own and control the property as if you paid 100% of its sales price. Real estate is arguably the only asset class you can buy with this kind of leverage. Banks and other lending institutions are happy to give money to property investors. That is because they know that a tangible asset, the property, secures the loan.
Unbelievable returns
Investing in real estate with borrowed money gives you returns you can only dream of with other kinds of investments. Although lenders will only require you to produce 20% of the home’s cash value, your returns will be based on 100% of the property’s value. You will get returns through equity growth, and as the property’s value appreciates, on the other hand.
Asset diversification
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/rental_properties_in_colorado_kittle_real_estate.jpg" width="400" height="267" alt="rental property in colorado kittle real estate " style="float: right; margin: 10px;" />Investing in real estate lets you dilute your risks by diversifying your assets. By being active in different markets, you limit the possibility that catastrophic events in one market will wipe out or significantly deplete your entire investments. Real estate is an asset class that is not as volatile as stocks. Its value does not experience the kind of sharp price declines that is possible with money invested in the stock market.
A hedge against inflation
Money invested in properties has insulation from the effects of inflation. Inflation – <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/i/inflation.asp">a constant upward creep in the prices</a> of goods and services – depletes the buying power of money saved in the bank. But the same increase in the price of goods and services also forces your property’s value and rent upwards. Instead of your wealth being reduced because of inflation, it grows when you invest that money in real estate.
Tax benefits
One of the biggest pros of becoming a property investor is that the government recognizes the valuable service you are providing. They will reward you for those contributions with tax incentives. Many of the day-to-day expenses of <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/buyers/tax-considerations/">operating a rental property are eligible for tax deductions</a>. These deductions can add up to thousands of dollars of savings, and they can have a significant positive effect on how profitable your property is.
Total control of your investment
Unlike stock investing, where you sign over the fate of your investment to fund managers or rely on the actions of the management of the company, buying real estate gives you complete control. You have the freedom to undertake <a href="https://www.coloradostructuralrepair.com/blog/how-regular-maintenance-can-increase-your-property-value">repairs or renovations that can improve the value of your property</a> and let you charge a higher rent. You can also choose the kind of real estate investment strategy you want to follow.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/owning_an_investment_property_cash_kittle_real_estate.jpg" width="400" height="267" alt="buying a rental property cash colorado kittle real estate" style="float: left; margin: 10px;" />
Have others pay for the property
Not only can you buy the rental property with a bank loan (other people’s money), you can also use your tenant’s money to pay off that loan. If you have tenants in the property and they pay the rent as and when due, that money can help you settle the mortgage on the property. Effectively, you will not have to put any money into the property beyond the 20% down payment you made at the beginning.
Depreciation
You are allowed to depreciate the purchase price of the home in addition to tax deductions on significant expenses in a rental property. It lets you pay less and less tax on the property as it depreciates. Note that this depreciation only happens on paper because the property will gain value.
Build a failsafe retirement plan
Owning rental real estate is one of the best things for a retiree. The rent from the property is a source of steady income. You can use the cash flow from the rental to support your retirement fund or even pay off the mortgage on your primary home.<br />
Contact Our Award-Winning Real Estate Team About Buying An Investment Property Today
These are just a few of the benefits to owning a rental property. If you’re looking to buy a home to use as a rental property, contact one of our local <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/sellers/what-exactly-is-a-realtor/">Colorado realtors</a> today so you have expert advice each step of the way.
2022-01-06T14:41:00-07:002022-01-06T13:44:13-07:00Chris Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:16875How to Improve a Home’s Curb Appeal this Winter in Just a Few Steps<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2610/image/kittle_curb_appeal_real_estate_colorado.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="colorado real estate agent kittle curb appeal " />
What if you could attract more buyers to your home with just a weekend project? You might not believe it, but the truth is that by giving the front of your home a little TLC, you can improve what agents call your home’s curb appeal. The Northern Colorado real estate market, like housing across the rest of the country, is in flux right now as a result of the pandemic and shifting <a href="https://www.homelight.com/blog/guide-how-to-sell-a-house/">real estate trends</a>. By working on your home’s curb appeal this winter, you can be sure your home is ready to compete no matter what the market has in store.
Trim and Prune
It could be that you already took advantage of fall as a time to check on the health of greenery in your Northern Colorado front yard — especially overgrown trees or bushes. If you haven’t though, it’s not too late, and doing a little cleanup in the front yard is one of the first lines of attack to get your curb appeal in order. If you have trees that you aren’t sure about, hire a professional arborist to come and take a look, to make sure you are ready for winter storms. You want to think about removing anything that could make the front of your home appear dark or heavy, to give a welcoming appearance to potential buyers as well as your holiday guests as a bonus.
Go for Perennials
Not everyone has time to maintain rosebeds or other flowering plants that might take up weekend gardening hours. If you opt for perennials instead, you’ll be selecting plants that have staying power all year long, even as the temperature dips. Your best bet is to consult with a plant shop or nursery to see what is the right fit for you, given the size of your yard and how much maintenance you can honestly handle. Another option is to fill in bare areas with a mix of perennials and a rock garden to fill in the space without too much effort required.
Give Your Front Door That Wow Factor
One curb appeal secret that <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/">real estate agents</a> swear by is taking your front door from boring to wow by painting it in a pop color like red, yellow, or blue. This upgrade can be relatively inexpensive by giving your existing front door some fresh paint and even updating door hardware — but the return you get will be a whole new look for that all-important first impression of your home. Buyers may even stop to ring your doorbell after just driving past your home, without an appointment.
Update Fixtures For a Modern Look
Along with an updated front door, another relatively simple upgrade many qualified real estate agents near you recommend is to replace hardware outside your home, like lights, doorknobs, mailbox, and house numbers, with coordinated and modern designs. The style you pick will depend on the look and feel of your home, but the key is to upgrade with hardware that follows a similar style and finish to streamline everything. This is a DIY upgrade that can change the whole look of your home in just a weekend.
Improve Your Curb Appeal To Sell Your Northern Colorado Home
Curb appeal is one of the most crucial features that will get buyers to stop and take a closer look at your home. By working on your home’s curb appeal this winter, you’ll be ready to go full speed ahead when the peak spring selling season is here. And if you are looking for someone to help you sell your home for top dollar <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/contact/">reach out</a> to the team here at Kittle Real Estate we would be happy to discuss <a href="https://www.kittlerealestate.com/sellers/free-market-analysis/">what your home is worth</a>, what you're looking for with a new home or any other questions you might have. 2021-12-17T10:46:00-07:002021-12-17T16:51:50-07:00Chris Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:16934A Happy Tail: Pets and the Homebuying Process<img width="1046" height="1910" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/08135318/20211210-MEM-1046x1910.png" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" alt="A Happy Tail: Pets and the Homebuying Process [INFOGRAPHIC] | MyKCM" loading="lazy" srcset="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/08135318/20211210-MEM-1046x1910.png 1046w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/08135318/20211210-MEM-329x600.png 329w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/08135318/20211210-MEM-561x1024.png 561w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/08135318/20211210-MEM-768x1402.png 768w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/08135318/20211210-MEM-841x1536.png 841w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/08135318/20211210-MEM-1121x2048.png 1121w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/08135318/20211210-MEM-100x183.png 100w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/08135318/20211210-MEM.png 1300w" sizes="(max-width: 1046px) 100vw, 1046px" style="font-size: 17px;" />
Some Highlights
It’s no secret that we love our furry friends - about 70% of U.S. <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/198086/us-household-penetration-rates-for-pet-owning-since-2007/" title="households" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">households</a> have pets. What may come as a surprise is how large a role they play in the <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/11/30/home-is-where-the-heart-is-more-than-ever-this-year/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="homebuying">homebuying</a> process.
Americans <a href="https://www.lendingtree.com/personal/pet-owners-social-media-survey/" title="spend" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">spend</a> $1,163 a year on their pets, and nearly half of pet owners <a href="https://www.nar.realtor/blogs/economists-outlook/fur-ever-homes-pets-are-a-motivator-to-purchase" title="say" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">say</a> they would <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/12/06/win-when-you-sell-and-when-you-move/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="move">move</a> for better accommodations and <a href="https://cdn.nar.realtor/sites/default/files/documents/2020-animal-house-pets-in-the-home-buying-and-selling-process-04-23-2020.pdf" title="amenities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">amenities</a> for their pets.
If you’re thinking of adding a furry friend, or if you already have, let’s connect to discuss how you can find a home that meets all your pet’s needs.
2021-12-10T09:59:00-07:002021-12-10T10:02:15-07:00Chris Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:16933Two Reasons Why Waiting To Buy a Home Will Cost You<img width="750" height="410" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/08132518/20211209-KCM-Share.jpg" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" alt="Two Reasons Why Waiting To Buy a Home Will Cost You | MyKCM" loading="lazy" srcset="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/08132518/20211209-KCM-Share.jpg 750w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/08132518/20211209-KCM-Share-600x328.jpg 600w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/08132518/20211209-KCM-Share-100x55.jpg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" style="font-size: 17px;" />
If you’re a homeowner who’s decided your current house no longer fits your needs, or a renter with a strong desire to become a homeowner, you may be hoping that waiting until next year could mean better market conditions to purchase a home.
To determine whether you should buy now or wait another year, you can ask yourself two simple questions:
Where will home prices be a year from now?
Where will mortgage rates be a year from now?
Let’s shed some light on the answers to both of these questions.
Where Will Home Prices Be a Year from Now?
Three major housing industry entities are projecting ongoing home price appreciation in 2022. Here are their forecasts:
<a href="https://www.fanniemae.com/research-and-insights/forecast" title="Fannie Mae" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Fannie Mae</a>: 7.4%
<a href="http://www.freddiemac.com/research/forecast/20211015_quarterly_economic_forecast.page" title="Freddie Mac" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Freddie Mac</a>: 7%
<a href="https://www.mba.org/news-research-and-resources/research-and-economics/forecasts-and-commentary" title="Mortgage Bankers Association" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Mortgage Bankers Association</a>: 5.1%
According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the median price of a home today is <a href="https://www.nar.realtor/research-and-statistics" title="$353,900" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">$353,900</a>. Using an average of the three price projections above (6.5%), a home that sold for $353,900 today would be valued at $376,904 at the end of next year. As a prospective buyer, you would therefore pay an additional $23,004 by waiting.
Where Will Mortgage Rates Be a Year from Now?
Today, Freddie Mac <a href="http://www.freddiemac.com/pmms/" title="announced" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">announced</a> their 30-year fixed mortgage rate was at 3.1%. However, most experts believe mortgage rates will rise as the economy recovers. Here are the forecasts for the fourth quarter of 2022 by the three major entities mentioned above:
<a href="https://www.fanniemae.com/research-and-insights/forecast" title="Fannie Mae" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Fannie Mae</a>: 3.4%
<a href="http://www.freddiemac.com/research/forecast/20211015_quarterly_economic_forecast.page" title="Freddie Mac" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Freddie Mac</a>: 3.7%
<a href="https://www.mba.org/news-research-and-resources/research-and-economics/forecasts-and-commentary" title="Mortgage Bankers Association" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Mortgage Bankers Association</a>: 4%
That averages out to 3.7% if you include all three forecasts. Any increase in mortgage rates will increase your costs.
What Does It Mean for You if Home Values and Mortgage Rates Increase?
If both variables increase, you’ll pay a lot more in mortgage payments each month. Let’s assume you purchase a $353,900 home today with a 30-year fixed-rate loan at 3.1% (the current rate from Freddie Mac) after making a 10% down payment. According to <a href="https://www.mortgagecalculator.net/" title="mortgagecalculator.net" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">mortgagecalculator.net</a>, your monthly mortgage payment would be approximately $1,360 (this does not include insurance, taxes, and other fees because those vary by location).
That same home one year from now could cost $376,904, and the mortgage rate could be 3.7% (based on the industry forecasts mentioned above). Your monthly mortgage payment after putting down 10%, would be approximately $1,561.<a href="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/09123710/20211209-MEM-Eng-01.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-100279" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/09123710/20211209-MEM-Eng-01.png" alt="Two Reasons Why Waiting To Buy a Home Will Cost You | MyKCM" width="600" height="450" /></a>The difference in your monthly mortgage payment would be $201. That’s $2,412 more per year and $72,360 over the life of the loan.
Add to that the approximately $23,004 a house with a similar value would build in home equity this year due to home price appreciation, and the total net worth increase you could gain by buying this year is over $95,364 (the $72,360 mortgage savings plus the $23,004 potential gain in equity if you buy now).
Bottom Line
When asking if you should buy a home, you may think of the <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/05/03/americans-find-the-nonfinancial-benefits-of-homeownership-most-valuable/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="non-financial benefits">non-financial benefits</a> of homeownership. When asking when to buy, the financial benefits make it clear that doing so now is much more advantageous than waiting until next year.
2021-12-09T09:49:00-07:002023-05-30T09:06:35-07:00Chris Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:16935Struggling To Find a Home To Buy? New Construction May Be an Option<img width="750" height="410" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/03144005/20211208-KCM-Share.jpg" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" alt="Struggling To Find a Home To Buy? New Construction May Be an Option. | MyKCM" loading="lazy" srcset="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/03144005/20211208-KCM-Share.jpg 750w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/03144005/20211208-KCM-Share-600x328.jpg 600w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/03144005/20211208-KCM-Share-100x55.jpg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" style="font-size: 38px;" />
There’s no question that the financial benefits of <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/11/29/why-now-is-a-great-time-to-sell-your-house/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="selling">selling</a> a house are outstanding today. Now is truly a great time to list if you’re ready to make a change. But if you do sell your house right now, you may be wondering where you’ll go when you move.
With so few homes available to <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/10/27/housing-challenge-or-housing-opportunity-it-depends/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="buy">buy</a> right now, you might be considering building a new home as one of your options. But you may be unsure if that’s the way to go. Let’s compare the benefits of a newly built home versus moving into an existing one, and why working with a <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/11/26/reasons-to-hire-a-real-estate-professional-infographic/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="real estate agent">real estate agent</a> throughout the process is mission-critical to your success no matter what you decide.
The Pros of Newly Built Homes
First, let’s look at the benefits of purchasing a newly constructed home. With a brand-new home, you’ll be able to:
1. Create your perfect home.
If you build a home from the ground up, you’ll have the option to select the custom features you want, including appliances, finishes, landscaping, layout, and more.
2. Cash-in on energy efficiency.
When building a home, you can choose energy-efficient options to help lower your utility costs, protect the environment, and reduce your carbon footprint.
3. Minimize the need for repairs.
Many builders offer a warranty, so you’ll have peace of mind on unlikely repairs. Plus, you won’t have as many little projects to tackle. QuickenLoans puts it like <a href="https://www.quickenloans.com/learn/old-house-vs-new-house" title="this" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">this</a>:
“Buying a new construction vs. existing home typically means you’ll have fewer repairs to do. It can be a huge relief to know that it’s unlikely you’ll have to repair the roof or replace the furnace.”
4. Have brand new everything.
Another perk of a new home is that nothing in the house is used. It’s all brand new and uniquely yours from day one.
The Pros of Existing Homes
Now, let’s compare that to the perks that come with buying an existing home. With a pre-existing home, you can:
1. Explore a wider variety of home styles and floorplans.
With decades of homes to choose from, you’ll have a broader range of floorplans and designs available.
2. Join an established neighborhood.
Existing homes give you the option to get to know the neighborhood, community, or traffic patterns before you commit.
3. Enjoy mature trees and landscaping.
Established neighborhoods also have more developed landscaping and trees, which can give you additional privacy and curb appeal. As Investopedia <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/articles/personal-finance/062614/should-you-buy-or-build-home.asp" title="says" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">says</a>, if you buy an existing home:
“Odds are, too, that the home will have mature landscaping, so you won't have to worry about starting a lawn, planting shrubs, and waiting for trees to grow.”
4. Appreciate that lived-in charm.
The character of older homes is hard to reproduce. If you value timeless craftsmanship or design elements, you may prefer an existing home. According to <a href="https://www.houseopedia.com/finding-value-and-charm-in-an-existing-home" title="Houseopedia" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Houseopedia</a>:
“Charm is priceless. Existing homes, especially those built in the 1950’s or before, often offer architectural elements, historic charm and a quality of craftsmanship not available in new homes.”
The choice is yours. When you start your search for the perfect home, remember that you can go either route – you just need to decide which features and benefits are most important to you. Working with the guidance of your trusted real estate advisor will help you make the most informed and educated decision, so you can move into the home of your dreams.
Bottom Line
If you have questions about the options in your area, let’s discuss what's available and what's right for you, so you’re ready to make your next move with confidence.
2021-12-08T10:03:00-07:002021-12-10T10:05:38-07:00Chris Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:16938Why It Just Became Much Easier To Buy a Home<img width="750" height="410" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/06153054/20211207-KCM-Share.jpg" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" alt="Why It Just Became Much Easier To Buy a Home | MyKCM" loading="lazy" srcset="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/06153054/20211207-KCM-Share.jpg 750w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/06153054/20211207-KCM-Share-600x328.jpg 600w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/06153054/20211207-KCM-Share-100x55.jpg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" style="font-size: 17px;" />
Since the pandemic began, Americans have reevaluated the meaning of the word home. That’s led some renters to realize the many benefits of homeownership, including the feelings of <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/11/30/home-is-where-the-heart-is-more-than-ever-this-year/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="security and stability">security and stability</a> and the financial benefits that come with rising <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/09/30/as-home-equity-rises-so-does-your-wealth/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="home equity">home equity</a>. At the same time, many current homeowners have decided their house no longer meets their needs, so they moved into homes with more space inside and out, including a home office for <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/09/21/remote-work-is-here-to-stay-can-your-home-deliver-the-space-you-need/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="remote work">remote work</a>.
However, not every purchaser has been able to fulfill their desire for a new home. Here are two obstacles some homebuyers are facing:
The ability to save for a down payment
The ability to qualify for a mortgage at the current lending standards
This past week, both of those challenges have been mitigated to some degree for many purchasers. The FHFA (which handles mortgages by Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, and the Federal Housing Administration) is raising its loan limit for prospective purchasers in 2022. The term used to describe the maximum loan amount they will entertain is the Conforming Loan Limit.
What Is the Difference Between a Conforming Loan and a Non-Conforming Loan?
Investopedia explains the difference in a <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/federal-agency-announces-2022-conforming-limits-for-conventional-loans-5211394" title="recent post" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">recent post</a>:
“Conforming loans are the only loans that meet the requirements to be acquired by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Jumbo loans, which exceed the conforming limit, are the most common type of nonconforming loan.”
What Difference Does It Make to Me as a Home Buyer?
A Forbes <a href="https://www.forbes.com/advisor/mortgages/conforming-vs-non-conforming-loan/" title="article" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">article</a> earlier this year explains the benefits of a conforming loan and why they exist:
“Since lenders can’t sell non-conforming loans to Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac to free up their cash, they’re a bit riskier for the lender. This is especially true for jumbo loans, which aren’t backed by any government guarantees. If you default on a jumbo loan, it’s a huge blow to the lender.
Thus, lenders generally charge higher interest rates to compensate, and they can have even more requirements. For example, lenders who give out jumbo loans often require that you make a down payment of at least 20% and show that you have at least six months’ worth of cash in reserve, if not more.”
What Happened Last Week?
The FHFA has significantly increased its Conforming Loan Limits for 2022. Sandra L. Thompson, FHFA Acting Director, explains in the <a href="https://www.fhfa.gov/Media/PublicAffairs/Pages/Acting-Director-Thompson-Statement-on-Increased-Conforming-Loan-Limits-for-2022.aspx" title="press release" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">press release</a> that:
“Compared to previous years, the 2022 Conforming Loan Limits represent a significant increase due to the historic house price appreciation over the last year. While 95 percent of U.S. countie​s will be subject to the new baseline limit of $647,200, approximately 100 counties will have conforming loan limits approaching $1 million.”
This means that more homes now qualify for a conforming loan with lower down payment requirements and easier lending standards – the two challenges holding many buyers back over the last year.
The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) also increased its Conforming Loan Limits for 2022. That could also mean an easier path to homeownership for many prospective buyers. As the Forbes article explains:
“FHA loans can be very beneficial if you don’t have as much savings, or if your credit score could use some work.”
Bottom Line
Buying your first or your next home may have just gotten much easier (less stringent qualifying standards) and less expensive (possibly lower mortgage rate). Let’s connect to discuss how these changes may impact you.
Resources:
To get more information on the new FHFA Conforming Loan Limits, click <a href="https://www.fhfa.gov/Media/PublicAffairs/Pages/FHFA-Announces-Conforming-Loan-Limits-for-2022.aspx" title="here" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>.
To get more information on the new FHA Conforming Loan Limits, click <a href="https://www.hud.gov/press/press_releases_media_advisories/HUD_No_21_197" title="here" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>.
2021-12-07T10:15:00-07:002021-12-10T10:16:23-07:00Chris Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:16940Win When You Sell (And When You Move)<img width="750" height="410" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/01114525/20211206-KCM-Share.jpg" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" alt="Win When You Sell (And When You Move) | MyKCM" loading="lazy" srcset="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/01114525/20211206-KCM-Share.jpg 750w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/01114525/20211206-KCM-Share-600x328.jpg 600w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/01114525/20211206-KCM-Share-100x55.jpg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" style="font-size: 17px;" />
If you’re trying to decide when to sell your house, there may not be a better time than this winter. <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/11/16/sellers-youll-likely-get-multiple-strong-offers-this-season/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="Selling">Selling</a> this season means you can take advantage of today’s strong <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/08/17/what-does-being-in-a-sellers-market-mean/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="sellers’ market">sellers’ market</a> when you make a move.
Win When You Sell
Right now, conditions are very favorable for current homeowners looking for a change. If you sell now, here’s what you can expect:
Your House Will Stand Out – While recent <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/11/18/home-sales-about-to-surge-we-may-see-a-winter-like-never-before/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="data">data</a> shows there are more sellers getting ready to list their homes this winter, there are still more buyers in the market than there are homes for sale. If you sell your house now before more houses are listed, it will get more attention from serious buyers who are eager to find a home.
Your House Will Likely Get Multiple Offers – When supply is low and demand is high, buyers have to compete with each other for a limited number of homes. The latest <a href="https://www.nar.realtor/research-and-statistics/research-reports/realtors-confidence-index" title="Realtors Confidence Index" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Realtors Confidence Index</a> from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows sellers are getting an average of 3.6 offers in today’s market.
Your House Should Sell Quickly – According to the same report from NAR, homes are selling in an average of just 18 days. As a seller, that's great news for you if you’re looking for a quick process.
Win When You Move
In addition to these great perks, you’ll also win big on your next move if you sell now. CoreLogic <a href="https://www.corelogic.com/intelligence/homeowner-equity-insights/" title="reports" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">reports</a> homeowners gained an average of $51,500 in <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/09/30/as-home-equity-rises-so-does-your-wealth/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="equity">equity</a> over the past year. This wealth boost is the result of buyer competition driving home prices up. You can leverage that equity to fuel a move, before <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/11/08/two-graphs-that-show-why-you-shouldnt-be-upset-about-3-mortgage-rates/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="mortgage rates">mortgage rates</a> and <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/11/10/whats-happening-with-home-prices/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="home prices">home prices</a> climb higher. To get a feel for how rates are projected to rise, see the chart below.<a href="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/01114527/20211206-MEM-Eng-1.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-100078" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/01114527/20211206-MEM-Eng-1.png" alt="Win When You Sell (And When You Move) | MyKCM" width="600" height="450" /></a>The longer you wait to make your move, the more it will <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/10/12/dont-wait-for-a-lower-mortgage-rate-it-could-cost-you/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="cost">cost</a> you down the road. As mortgage rates rise, even modestly, it will impact your monthly payment when you purchase your next home. Waiting just a few months to make that change could mean a long-term financial impact.
The good news is today’s rates are still hovering in a historically low range. <a href="https://www.fanniemae.com/newsroom/fannie-mae-news/economic-growth-again-revised-downward-due-supply-chain-and-inflation-concerns" title="According" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">According</a> to Doug Duncan, Senior VP and Chief Economist at Fannie Mae:
“Right now, we forecast mortgage rates to average 3.3 percent in 2022, which, though slightly higher than 2020 and 2021, by historical standards remains extremely low . . .”
Selling before rates climb higher means you can make your move and lock in a low rate on the mortgage for your next home. This helps you get more home for your money and keeps your payments down too.
Bottom Line
As a homeowner, you have a great opportunity to get the best of both worlds this season. You can truly win when you sell and when you buy. If you’re thinking about making a move, let's connect so you have the information you need to get the process started.
2021-12-06T10:18:00-07:002021-12-10T10:18:49-07:00Chris Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:16942A Checklist for Selling Your House This Winter<img width="1046" height="1572" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/01091834/20211203-MEM-1046x1572.png" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" alt="A Checklist for Selling Your House This Winter [INFOGRAPHIC] | MyKCM" loading="lazy" srcset="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/01091834/20211203-MEM-1046x1572.png 1046w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/01091834/20211203-MEM-399x600.png 399w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/01091834/20211203-MEM-681x1024.png 681w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/01091834/20211203-MEM-768x1154.png 768w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/01091834/20211203-MEM-1022x1536.png 1022w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/01091834/20211203-MEM-100x150.png 100w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/12/01091834/20211203-MEM.png 1300w" sizes="(max-width: 1046px) 100vw, 1046px" style="font-size: 17px;" />
Some Highlights
If you’re planning to <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/11/29/why-now-is-a-great-time-to-sell-your-house/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="sell">sell</a> your house this winter, you’ll want it to look its best inside and out.
Take the time and focus on <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/10/04/4-tips-to-prep-for-your-home-sale-this-fall/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="tasks">tasks</a> that make it <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/11/30/home-is-where-the-heart-is-more-than-ever-this-year/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="inviting">inviting</a>, 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 <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/11/16/sellers-youll-likely-get-multiple-strong-offers-this-season/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="buyer’s">buyer’s</a> eye.
2021-12-03T10:25:00-07:002021-12-10T10:26:17-07:00Chris Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:16943Tips for Single Homebuyers: How To Make Your Dream a Reality<img width="750" height="410" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/22133606/20211202-KCM-Share.jpg" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" alt="Tips for Single Homebuyers: How To Make Your Dream a Reality | MyKCM" loading="lazy" srcset="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/22133606/20211202-KCM-Share.jpg 750w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/22133606/20211202-KCM-Share-600x328.jpg 600w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/22133606/20211202-KCM-Share-100x55.jpg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" style="font-size: 17px;" />
If you’re living on your own and <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/10/15/homebuyer-tips-for-finding-the-one-infographic/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="looking to buy">looking to buy</a> a home, know that you can make your dream a reality with thoughtful planning and the right team of experts. <a href="http://www.freddiemac.com/research/insight/20210826_sole_person_households.page" title="Research" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Research</a> from Freddie Mac shows 28% of all households (36.1 million) are sole-person, and that number is growing. Over the past 40 years, the number of sole-person households has nearly doubled, and that’s a trend that’s expected to continue. According to Freddie Mac:
“Our calculation suggests that there will be an additional 5 million sole-person households in the United States by the next decade. This means 42% of the household growth will be contributed by sole-person households, . . .”
If you fall into this category, here are three tips to help you achieve your <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/05/03/americans-find-the-nonfinancial-benefits-of-homeownership-most-valuable/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="homeownership">homeownership</a> goals.
1. Know Your Credit Score
When you buy a home on your own, you have to qualify for your loan based solely on your own finances and credit history. Investopedia <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/articles/investing/010717/buying-house-single-income.asp" title="says" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">says</a>:
“. . . lenders will be looking at just one credit profile: yours. Needless to say, it has to be in great shape. It is always a good idea to review your credit report beforehand, and this is especially true of solo buyers.”
It’s important to find out your score so you know where it falls. If you’re not sure if it’s strong enough or where to focus your energy to improve it, meet with a professional for expert advice on your individual situation.
2. Explore Down Payment Options
Next, look into <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/04/19/how-much-time-do-you-need-to-save-for-a-down-payment/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="down payment">down payment</a> programs so you can get a feel for what you’ll need to save to <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/09/22/is-a-20-down-payment-really-necessary-to-purchase-a-home/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="buy a home">buy a home</a>. Rob Chrane, CEO of Down Payment Resource, <a href="https://downpaymentresource.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/HPI-Q2-2021-press-release.pdf" title="explains" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">explains</a>:
“Buyers should discuss their program options with their loan officer and real estate agent to make sure they choose the program best suited to their personal needs.”
In this step, lean on the pros to determine what you’re <a href="https://downpaymentresource.com/are-you-eligible/" title="eligible" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">eligible</a> for and what’s <a href="https://downpaymentresource.com/down-payment-assistance-program-types-and-features/" title="right for you" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">right for you</a>.
3. Think About Your Future Home and Your Needs
You should also spend time thinking about what you want. What <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/08/10/looking-for-a-place-to-call-home-consider-a-condominium/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="type">type</a> of home do you picture yourself in? To answer that question, Quicken Loans shares this <a href="https://www.quickenloans.com/learn/homes-for-single-people" title="advice" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">advice</a>:
“Think about your lifestyle, what you want out of your home and your needs. Is being close to work important? Do you need a lot of yard space? Do you want an extra bedroom that you can transform into a home office? Condo or detached home? Lots of space for entertaining? It’s all up to you (and your budget).”
Again, a professional can help you balance what you want and how much you should spend on your monthly housing costs to determine what type of home is right for you.
While buying a home solo can feel like a big challenge, it doesn’t have to be. If you lean on the professionals, they can help you navigate these waters and make sure you’re able to take advantage of the great opportunities in today’s housing market (like low <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/11/08/two-graphs-that-show-why-you-shouldnt-be-upset-about-3-mortgage-rates/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="mortgage rates">mortgage rates</a>) to buy your dream home.
Bottom Line
The share of sole-person households is growing. If you’re looking to buy a home on your own, be confident that the dream is achievable. When you’re ready to begin your search, let’s connect so you have expert advice each step of the way.
2021-12-02T10:28:00-07:002021-12-10T10:28:56-07:00Chris Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:16945How To Think Strategically as a Buyer in Today’s Market<img width="750" height="410" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/22090155/20211201-KCM-Share.jpg" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" alt="How To Think Strategically as a Buyer in Today’s Market | MyKCM" loading="lazy" srcset="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/22090155/20211201-KCM-Share.jpg 750w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/22090155/20211201-KCM-Share-600x328.jpg 600w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/22090155/20211201-KCM-Share-100x55.jpg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" style="font-size: 17px;" />
The game of chess can provide incredible lessons to apply to all aspects of life, including the homebuying process. Chess requires you to plan and think about your strategy from the very beginning of the game.
The homebuying process, like chess, requires strategy and planning. Here are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your plan is as strong as possible when you begin your home search.
Pre-Approval: the Best Opening Play To Make as a Homebuyer
It’s important to have a great opening play when you’re buying a home. And the best move you can make when you begin your home search is getting pre-approved by a lender. You’ve probably already heard this is an important step, but what exactly is pre-approval and what benefits does it provide you?
As <a href="https://myhome.freddiemac.com/buying/working-with-your-lender.html" title="Freddie Mac" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Freddie Mac</a> puts it:
“The pre-approval letter from your lender tells you the maximum amount you are qualified to borrow. Getting a pre-approval letter is not a loan guarantee, it simply states how much your lender is willing to lend you. . . .”
And while determining how much you can afford at the start of your search is critical, the pre-approval letter also serves another important purpose. Freddie Mac also notes:
“This pre-approval allows you to look for a home with greater confidence and demonstrates to the seller that you are a serious buyer.”
In the game of chess, a strong opening move signals to your opponent that you’re a serious competitor. As a homebuyer, your pre-approval letter signals to the seller that you’re a serious, interested buyer.
Homebuying: It’s a Team Game, Not a Single-Player Experience
Every step you take to create your strategy as a buyer is important in <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/10/14/what-do-past-years-tell-us-about-todays-real-estate-market/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="today’s market">today’s market</a>. Why? <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/10/12/dont-wait-for-a-lower-mortgage-rate-it-could-cost-you/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="Mortgage rates">Mortgage rates</a> are still low, but increasing. <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/10/19/what-does-the-future-hold-for-home-prices/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="Prices">Prices</a> are going up. There’s a limited <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/10/06/what-do-supply-and-demand-tell-us-about-todays-housing-market/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="supply">supply</a> of homes for sale. These are just a few key variables in today’s market you need to be prepared for.
That means leaning on expert guidance as you plan every move is more important than ever. Have a team of professionals – like your trusted real estate agent and a loan officer – every step of the way to make sure you make the right moves.
Bottom Line
Getting a pre-approval letter isn’t just good strategy, it can be game-changing. It allows you to get a full understanding of what you can afford, and it signals to sellers that you’re serious. Let’s connect today to ensure you’re playing chess and being strategic during the home buying process.
2021-12-01T10:45:00-07:002021-12-10T10:46:11-07:00Chris Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:16717Home Is Where the Heart Is More than Ever This Year<img width="750" height="410" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/19111210/20211130-KCM-Share.jpg" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" alt="Home Is Where the Heart Is More than Ever This Year | MyKCM" loading="lazy" srcset="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/19111210/20211130-KCM-Share.jpg 750w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/19111210/20211130-KCM-Share-600x328.jpg 600w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/19111210/20211130-KCM-Share-100x55.jpg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" style="font-size: 17px;" />
There’s no denying the <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/10/22/your-home-equity-is-growing-infographic/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="financial benefits">financial benefits</a> of homeownership, but what’s often overlooked are the feelings of gratitude, security, pride, and comfort we get from owning a home. This year, those emotions are stronger than ever. We’ve lived through a time that has truly changed our needs and who we are, and as a result, homeownership has a whole new meaning for many of us.
According to the <a href="https://contentimages.o-prod.unison.com/images/press/2021-Unison-SOTAH-Report.pdf" title="2021 State of the American Homeowner" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2021 State of the American Homeowner</a> report by Unison:
“Last year, staying home became a necessity and that caused many homeowners to have renewed gratitude for the roof over their head.”
As a nation, we continue to work through the challenges of a pandemic that’s pushed us all to new limits. Over the past year and a half, we’ve spent more time than ever at home: working, eating, schooling, exercising, and more. 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 are now more emotionally attached to their homes as well:<a href="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/19111213/20211130-MEM-Eng-1.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-99990" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/19111213/20211130-MEM-Eng-1.png" alt="Home Is Where the Heart Is More than Ever This Year | MyKCM" width="600" height="450" /></a>As we’ve learned throughout this health crisis, homeownership can provide the safety and security we crave in a time of uncertainty. That sense of connection and emotional stability genuinely reaches beyond just the financial aspect of owning a home. As JD Esajian, President of CT Homes, LLC, <a href="https://www.fortunebuilders.com/benefits-of-homeownership/" title="says" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">says</a>:
“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, <a href="https://blog.firstam.com/economics/the-reconomy-podcast-what-is-the-fed-signaling-on-interest-rates" title="notes" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">notes</a>:
“Buying a home is not just a financial decision. It's also a lifestyle decision.”
Bottom Line
If you’re considering buying a home, it’s not entirely about the dollars and cents. Don’t forget to weigh the <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/05/03/americans-find-the-nonfinancial-benefits-of-homeownership-most-valuable/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="non-financial benefits">non-financial benefits</a> that may truly change your life when you need them most.
2021-11-30T14:59:00-07:002021-11-30T15:03:16-07:00Chris Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:16718Now is a Great Time to Sell Your House<img width="750" height="410" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/22124553/20211129-KCM-Share.jpg" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" alt="Why Now Is a Great Time To Sell Your House | MyKCM" loading="lazy" srcset="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/22124553/20211129-KCM-Share.jpg 750w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/22124553/20211129-KCM-Share-600x328.jpg 600w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/22124553/20211129-KCM-Share-100x55.jpg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" style="font-size: 17px;" />
As we near the end of the year, more homeowners are realizing the benefits of today’s sellers’ market. Record-breaking <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/11/10/whats-happening-with-home-prices/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="home price appreciation">home price appreciation</a>, growing <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/10/22/your-home-equity-is-growing-infographic/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="equity">equity</a>, low <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/11/09/how-sellers-win-when-housing-inventory-is-low/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="inventory">inventory</a>, and competitive <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/11/03/experts-project-mortgage-rates-will-continue-to-rise-in-2022/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="mortgage rates">mortgage rates</a> are motivating homeowners to make a move that addresses their <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/10/28/does-your-house-have-what-buyers-want/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="changing lifestyles">changing lifestyles</a>.
In fact, recent <a href="https://www.realtor.com/research/home-sellers-autumn-2021/" title="data" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">data</a> from realtor.com shows a larger share of homeowners are planning to list their houses this winter. So, that means <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/11/18/home-sales-about-to-surge-we-may-see-a-winter-like-never-before/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="more homes">more homes</a> are about to hit the market, which will lead to more choices for buyers too.
According to George Ratiu, Manager of Economic Research at <a href="https://news.move.com/2021-11-11-Low-Temps,-High-Expectations-Realtor-com-R-Survey-Shows-65-of-Prospective-Sellers-Plan-to-Enter-the-Market-this-Winter" title="realtor.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">realtor.com</a>:
"The pandemic has delayed plans for many Americans, and homeowners looking to move on to the next stage of life are no exception. Recent survey data suggests the majority of prospective sellers are actively preparing to enter the market this winter."
If you’re thinking of waiting until the spring to sell your house, know that your neighbors may be one step ahead of you by selling this winter. If you want to stand out from the crowd, this holiday season is the best time to make sure your house is available for buyers. Here’s why.
Sellers Are Still Firmly in the Driver’s Seat
Historically, a 6-month supply of homes for sale is needed for a normal or neutral market. That level ensures there are enough homes available for active buyers (see graph below):<a href="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/22124557/20211129-MEM-Eng-1.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-100020" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/22124557/20211129-MEM-Eng-1.png" alt="Why Now Is a Great Time To Sell Your House | MyKCM" width="600" height="450" /></a>The latest <a href="https://www.nar.realtor/research-and-statistics/housing-statistics/existing-home-sales" title="Existing Home Sales Report" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Existing Home Sales Report</a> from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows the inventory of houses for sale sits at a 2.4-month supply. This is well below a neutral market.
What Does That Mean for You?
When the supply of homes for sale is as low as it is today, it’s much harder for buyers to find homes to purchase. This drives up competition among buyers, who then submit increasingly competitive offers to win out against others in the home search process. As this happens, prices rise and <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/11/02/sellers-have-incredible-leverage-in-todays-market/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="your leverage">your leverage</a> as a seller rises too, putting you in the best position to negotiate a contract that meets your ideal terms.
And while the low housing supply we're facing won't be solved overnight, sellers this season should move quickly to maximize their potential. As the data shows, with more prospective sellers planning to list their homes this winter, selling sooner rather than later helps your house rise to the top of a holiday buyer’s wish list so you can close the best possible deal.
Bottom Line
Listing your home over the next few weeks gives you the best chance to be in front of buyers competing for homes this holiday season. Let’s connect today to discuss how you can benefit from today’s sellers’ market.
2021-11-29T15:04:00-07:002021-11-30T15:05:06-07:00Chris Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:16944Reasons To Hire a Real Estate Professional <img width="1046" height="1941" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/23100643/20211126-MEM-1046x1941.png" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" alt="Reasons To Hire a Real Estate Professional [INFOGRAPHIC] | MyKCM" loading="lazy" srcset="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/23100643/20211126-MEM-1046x1941.png 1046w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/23100643/20211126-MEM-323x600.png 323w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/23100643/20211126-MEM-552x1024.png 552w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/23100643/20211126-MEM-768x1425.png 768w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/23100643/20211126-MEM-828x1536.png 828w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/23100643/20211126-MEM-1104x2048.png 1104w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/23100643/20211126-MEM-100x186.png 100w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/23100643/20211126-MEM.png 1300w" sizes="(max-width: 1046px) 100vw, 1046px" style="font-size: 17px;" />
Some Highlights
Whether you’re <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/10/15/homebuyer-tips-for-finding-the-one-infographic/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="buying">buying</a> or <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/11/16/sellers-youll-likely-get-multiple-strong-offers-this-season/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="selling">selling</a>, there are many perks that come from working with a real estate advisor.
Real estate professionals are <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/06/14/the-right-expert-will-guide-you-through-this-unprecedented-market/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="experts">experts</a> at navigating all aspects of the buying and selling process, including negotiating on your behalf. We can also explain today’s market and break down what it means for you.
Don’t go at it alone. Let’s connect today so you have advice and an expert to count on each step of the way.
2021-11-26T10:43:00-07:002021-12-10T10:44:09-07:00Chris Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:16720How Smart Buyers Are Approaching Rising Mortgage Rates<img width="750" height="410" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/22124553/20211129-KCM-Share.jpg" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" alt="Why Now Is a Great Time To Sell Your House | MyKCM" loading="lazy" srcset="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/22124553/20211129-KCM-Share.jpg 750w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/22124553/20211129-KCM-Share-600x328.jpg 600w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/22124553/20211129-KCM-Share-100x55.jpg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" style="font-size: 17px;" />
As we near the end of the year, more homeowners are realizing the benefits of today’s sellers’ market. Record-breaking <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/11/10/whats-happening-with-home-prices/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="home price appreciation">home price appreciation</a>, growing <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/10/22/your-home-equity-is-growing-infographic/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="equity">equity</a>, low <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/11/09/how-sellers-win-when-housing-inventory-is-low/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="inventory">inventory</a>, and competitive <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/11/03/experts-project-mortgage-rates-will-continue-to-rise-in-2022/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="mortgage rates">mortgage rates</a> are motivating homeowners to make a move that addresses their <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/10/28/does-your-house-have-what-buyers-want/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="changing lifestyles">changing lifestyles</a>.
In fact, recent <a href="https://www.realtor.com/research/home-sellers-autumn-2021/" title="data" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">data</a> from realtor.com shows a larger share of homeowners are planning to list their houses this winter. So, that means <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/11/18/home-sales-about-to-surge-we-may-see-a-winter-like-never-before/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="more homes">more homes</a> are about to hit the market, which will lead to more choices for buyers too.
According to George Ratiu, Manager of Economic Research at <a href="https://news.move.com/2021-11-11-Low-Temps,-High-Expectations-Realtor-com-R-Survey-Shows-65-of-Prospective-Sellers-Plan-to-Enter-the-Market-this-Winter" title="realtor.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">realtor.com</a>:
"The pandemic has delayed plans for many Americans, and homeowners looking to move on to the next stage of life are no exception. Recent survey data suggests the majority of prospective sellers are actively preparing to enter the market this winter."
If you’re thinking of waiting until the spring to sell your house, know that your neighbors may be one step ahead of you by selling this winter. If you want to stand out from the crowd, this holiday season is the best time to make sure your house is available for buyers. Here’s why.
Sellers Are Still Firmly in the Driver’s Seat
Historically, a 6-month supply of homes for sale is needed for a normal or neutral market. That level ensures there are enough homes available for active buyers (see graph below):<a href="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/22124557/20211129-MEM-Eng-1.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-100020" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/22124557/20211129-MEM-Eng-1.png" alt="Why Now Is a Great Time To Sell Your House | MyKCM" width="600" height="450" /></a>The latest <a href="https://www.nar.realtor/research-and-statistics/housing-statistics/existing-home-sales" title="Existing Home Sales Report" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Existing Home Sales Report</a> from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows the inventory of houses for sale sits at a 2.4-month supply. This is well below a neutral market.
What Does That Mean for You?
When the supply of homes for sale is as low as it is today, it’s much harder for buyers to find homes to purchase. This drives up competition among buyers, who then submit increasingly competitive offers to win out against others in the home search process. As this happens, prices rise and <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/11/02/sellers-have-incredible-leverage-in-todays-market/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="your leverage">your leverage</a> as a seller rises too, putting you in the best position to negotiate a contract that meets your ideal terms.
And while the low housing supply we're facing won't be solved overnight, sellers this season should move quickly to maximize their potential. As the data shows, with more prospective sellers planning to list their homes this winter, selling sooner rather than later helps your house rise to the top of a holiday buyer’s wish list so you can close the best possible deal.
Bottom Line
Listing your home over the next few weeks gives you the best chance to be in front of buyers competing for homes this holiday season. Let’s connect today to discuss how you can benefit from today’s sellers’ market.
2021-11-24T15:06:00-07:002021-11-30T15:07:24-07:00Chris Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:16721Don’t Believe Everything You Read: The Truth Many Headlines Overlook<img width="750" height="410" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/18154523/20211123-KCM-Share.jpg" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" alt="Don't Believe Everything You Read: The Truth Many Headlines Overlook | MyKCM" loading="lazy" srcset="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/18154523/20211123-KCM-Share.jpg 750w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/18154523/20211123-KCM-Share-600x328.jpg 600w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/18154523/20211123-KCM-Share-100x55.jpg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" style="font-size: 17px;" />
There are a lot of questions right now regarding the real estate market as we head into 2022. The forbearance program is coming to an end and mortgage rates are beginning to rise.
With all of this uncertainty, anyone with a megaphone – from the mainstream media to a lone blogger – has realized that bad news sells. Unfortunately, we’ll continue to see a rash of troublesome headlines over the next few months. To make sure you aren’t paralyzed by a headline, turn to reliable resources for a look at what to expect from the housing market next year.
There are already alarmist headlines starting to appear. Here are two recent topics you may have seen in the news.
1. Foreclosures Are Spiking Today
There are a number of headlines circulating that call out the rising foreclosures in today’s real estate market. Those stories focus on an overly narrow view on that topic: the current volume of foreclosures compared to 2020. They emphasize that we’re seeing far more foreclosures this year compared to last.
That seems rather daunting. However, though it’s true foreclosures have been up over the 2020 numbers, it’s important to realize that there were virtually no foreclosures last year because of the forbearance plan. If we compare this September to September of 2019 (the last normal year), foreclosures <a href="https://www.attomdata.com/news/market-trends/foreclosures/attom-september-and-q3-2021-u-s-foreclosure-market-report/" title="were down 70%" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">were down 70%</a> according to ATTOM.
Even Rick Sharga, an Executive Vice President of the firm that issued the report referenced in the above article, <a href="https://dsnews.com/daily-dose/11-10-2021/foreclosures-tick-up-in-october" title="says" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">says</a>:
“As expected, now that the moratorium has been over for three months, foreclosure activity continues to increase. But it's increasing at a slower rate, and it appears that most of the activity is primarily on vacant and abandoned properties, or loans in foreclosure prior to the pandemic.”
Homeowners who have been impacted by the pandemic are not generally the ones being burdened right now. That’s because the <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/11/04/why-a-wave-of-foreclosures-is-not-on-the-way/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="forbearance program">forbearance program</a> has worked. Ali Haralson, President of Auction.com, <a href="https://image.adc.auction.com/lib/fe391570756404787c1774/m/3/c441fd11-2b21-40ac-9da2-ce7836e5e0ae.pdf" title="explains" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">explains</a> that the program has done a remarkable job:
“The tsunami of foreclosures many feared in the early days of the pandemic has not materialized thanks in large part to the swift and decisive foreclosure protections put in place by government policymakers and the mortgage servicing industry.”
And the government is still making sure homeowners have every opportunity to stay in their homes. Rohit Chopra, the Director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), issued this <a href="https://themreport.com/daily-dose/11-10-2021/stepping-up-efforts-to-avoid-a-wave-of-foreclosure" title="statement" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">statement</a> just last week:
“Failures by mortgage servicers and regulators worsened the impact of the economic crisis a decade ago. Regulators have learned their lesson, and we will be scrutinizing servicers to ensure they are doing all they can to help homeowners and follow the law.”
2. Rising Mortgage Rates Will Slow the Housing Market
Another topic that’s generating frequent headlines is the rise in <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/11/08/two-graphs-that-show-why-you-shouldnt-be-upset-about-3-mortgage-rates/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="mortgage rates">mortgage rates</a>. Some people are expressing concern that rising rates will negatively impact the housing market by causing home sales to dramatically decline. The resulting headlines are raising unneeded alarm bells. To counteract those headlines, we need to take a look at what history tells us. Looking at data over the last 20 years, there’s no evidence that an increase in rates dramatically forces sales to come to a halt. Nor does home <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/11/10/whats-happening-with-home-prices/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="price appreciation">price appreciation</a> come to a screeching stop. Let’s look at home sales first:<a href="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/18154526/20211123-MEM-Eng-1.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-99975" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/18154526/20211123-MEM-Eng-1.png" alt="Don't Believe Everything You Read: The Truth Many Headlines Overlook | MyKCM" width="600" height="450" /></a>The last three times rates increased (shown in the graph above in red), sales (depicted in blue in the graph) remained rather consistent. It’s true that sales fell rather dramatically from 2007 through 2010, but mortgage rates were also falling at the time. The next two instances showed no meaningful drop in sales.
Now, let’s take a look at home price appreciation (see graph below):<a href="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/18154530/20211123-MEM-Eng-2.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-99976" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/18154530/20211123-MEM-Eng-2.png" alt="Don't Believe Everything You Read: The Truth Many Headlines Overlook | MyKCM" width="600" height="450" /></a>Again, we see that a rise in rates didn’t cause prices to depreciate. Outside of the years following the crash, prices continued to appreciate, just at a slower rate.
Bottom Line
There’s a lot of misinformation out there. If you want the best advice on what’s happening in the current housing market, let’s connect.
2021-11-23T15:09:00-07:002021-11-30T15:09:54-07:00Chris Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:167234 Ways Homeowners Can Use Their Equity<img width="750" height="410" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/18151516/20211122-KCM-share.jpg" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" alt="4 Ways Homeowners Can Use Their Equity | MyKCM" loading="lazy" srcset="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/18151516/20211122-KCM-share.jpg 750w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/18151516/20211122-KCM-share-600x328.jpg 600w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/18151516/20211122-KCM-share-100x55.jpg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" style="font-size: 17px;" />
Your <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/07/23/pop-quiz-can-you-define-these-key-terms-in-todays-housing-market-infographic/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="equity">equity</a> is a powerful tool that can help you achieve your goals as a homeowner. And chances are, your equity grew substantially over the past year. According to the latest <a href="https://www.corelogic.com/intelligence/homeowner-equity-insights/" title="Equity Insights Report" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Equity Insights Report</a> from CoreLogic, homeowners gained an average of $51,500 in equity over the past year.
If you’re looking for the best ways to use your <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/10/22/your-home-equity-is-growing-infographic/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="growing equity">growing equity</a>, here are four options:
1. Use Your Equity To Buy a Home That Fits Your Needs
If you’re finding you no longer have the <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/09/21/remote-work-is-here-to-stay-can-your-home-deliver-the-space-you-need/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="space">space</a> you need, it might be <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/09/20/is-it-time-to-move-on-to-a-new-home/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="time to move">time to move</a> into a larger home. Or, it’s possible you have too much space and would like something <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/04/13/some-buyers-prefer-smaller-homes/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="smaller">smaller</a>. No matter the situation, consider using your equity to power a move into a home that fits your changing lifestyle. Moving into a larger home can provide extra space for remote work or loved ones. Downsizing, on the other hand, may mean saving time and money by caring for a smaller home.
2. Move to the Location of Your Dreams
If the size of your home isn’t a challenge but your current location is, it could be time to relocate to a new area. Maybe you enjoy vacationing in the mountains, at the beach, or another area, and you’re dreaming of living there year-round. Or perhaps the distance between you and your loved ones is greater than you’d like, and you want to close the gap. No matter what, your home equity can fuel your move to the location where you really want to live.
3. Start a New Business
If you’re not ready to move into a new home, you can use your equity to invest in a new business venture. As the U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy <a href="https://cdn.advocacy.sba.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/04144224/2020-Small-Business-Economic-Profile-US.pdf" title="says" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">says</a>:
“There is an estimate of 31.7 million small business owners in the United States, many of them started their business with the equity they had in their home.”
While it’s not recommended that homeowners use their equity for unnecessary spending, leveraging your equity to start a business that you’re passionate about can potentially grow your nest egg further.
4. Fund an Education
Whether you have a loved one preparing to head off to college or you’re planning to go back to school yourself, the thought of paying for higher education can be daunting. In either situation, using a portion of your growing equity can help with those costs, so you can make an investment in someone’s future.
Bottom Line
Your equity can help you achieve your goals. If you’re unsure how much equity you have in your home, let’s connect today so you can start planning your next move.
2021-11-22T15:11:00-07:002021-11-30T15:12:20-07:00Chris Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:16512Home Sales About to Surge? We May See a Winter Like Never Before<img width="750" height="410" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/17135256/20211118-KCM-Share.jpg" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" alt="Home Sales About To Surge? We May See a Winter Like Never Before. | MyKCM" loading="lazy" srcset="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/17135256/20211118-KCM-Share.jpg 750w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/17135256/20211118-KCM-Share-600x328.jpg 600w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/17135256/20211118-KCM-Share-100x55.jpg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" style="font-size: 17px;" />
Like most industries, residential real estate has a seasonality to it. For example, toy stores sell more toys in October, November, and December than they do in any other three-month span throughout the year. More cars are sold in the U.S. during the second quarter (April, May, and June) than in any other quarter of the year.
Real estate is very similar. The number of homes sold in the spring is almost always much greater than at any other time of the year. It’s even labeled as the spring buying season. Historically, the number of buyers and listings for sale significantly increase in the spring and remains strong throughout the summer. Once fall sets in, the number of buyers and sellers typically drops off.
Last year, however, that seasonality didn’t happen. The outbreak of the virus and subsequent slowing of the economy limited sales during the spring market. These sales were pushed back later in the year, and last fall and winter saw a dramatic increase in home sales over previous years. The only thing that held the market back was the extremely limited supply of homes for sale.
What About This Winter?
Some experts thought we’d return to the industry’s normal seasonality this winter with both the number of purchasers and houses available for sale falling off. However, data now shows that neither of those situations will likely occur. Buyer demand is still extremely strong, and it appears we may soon see a somewhat uncharacteristic increase in the number of homes coming to the market.
Buyer Demand Remains Strong
The latest <a href="https://www.showingtime.com/showingtime-showing-index/" title="Showing Index" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Showing Index</a> from ShowingTime, which tracks the average number of monthly showings on available homes, indicates buyer activity was slightly lower than at the same time last year but much higher than any of the three previous years (see chart below):<a href="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/17135258/20211118-MEM-Eng-1.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-99952" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/17135258/20211118-MEM-Eng-1.png" alt="Home Sales About To Surge? We May See a Winter Like Never Before. | MyKCM" width="600" height="450" /></a>A <a href="https://news.move.com/2021-11-10-Realtor-com-R-October-Housing-Report-Homes-Sell-at-Breakneck-Speed-for-the-Eighth-Month-in-a-Row" title="report" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">report</a> from realtor.com confirms buying activity remains strong in the existing home sales market:
“New housing data shows 2021's feverish home sales pace broke a yearly record in October, . . . with last month marking the eighth straight month of buyers snatching up homes more quickly than the fastest pace in previous years. . . .”
Buyer activity for newly constructed homes is also very strong. Ali Wolf, Chief Economist for Zonda, <a href="https://twitter.com/AliWolfEcon/status/1458180004366356488" title="recently reported" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">recently reported</a> that Stuart Miller, the Executive Chairman of Lennar, one of the nation’s largest home builders, said this about demand:
“There is still a great deal of demand at our sales centers with people lining up and not enough supply.”
The only question heading into this winter is whether the number of listings available could come close to meeting this buyer demand. We may have just received the answer to that question.
Sellers Are About To List – Right Now
Instead of waiting for the normal spring buying market, new research indicates that homeowners thinking about selling are about to put their homes on the market this winter.
Speaking to the release of a report on this <a href="https://news.move.com/2021-11-11-Low-Temps,-High-Expectations-Realtor-com-R-Survey-Shows-65-of-Prospective-Sellers-Plan-to-Enter-the-Market-this-Winter" title="recent research" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">recent research</a>, George Ratiu, Manager of Economic Research for realtor.com, said:
“The pandemic has delayed plans for many Americans, and homeowners looking to move on to the next stage of life are no exception. Recent survey data suggests the majority of prospective sellers are actively preparing to enter the market this winter.”
Here are some highlights in the report:
Of homeowners planning to enter the market in the next year:
65% - Have just listed (19%) or plan to list this winter
93% - Have already taken steps toward listing their home, including working with an agent (28%)
36% - Have researched the value of their home and others in their neighborhood
36% - Have started making repairs or decluttering
The report also discusses the reasons sellers want to move:
33% - Have realized they want different home features
37% - Say their home no longer meets their family's needs
32% - Want to move closer to friends and family
23% - Are looking for a home office
Data shows buyer demand remains unusually strong going into this winter. Research indicates the supply of inventory is about to increase. This could be a winter real estate market like never before.
Bottom Line
If you’re thinking of buying or selling, now is the time to have a heart-to-heart conversation with a real estate professional in your market, as things are about to change in an unexpected way.
2021-11-18T10:50:00-07:002021-11-18T10:53:30-07:00Chris Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:16724Retirement May Be Changing What You Need in a Home<img width="750" height="410" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/16112900/20211117-KCM-Share.jpg" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" alt="Retirement May Be Changing What You Need in a Home | MyKCM" loading="lazy" srcset="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/16112900/20211117-KCM-Share.jpg 750w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/16112900/20211117-KCM-Share-600x328.jpg 600w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/16112900/20211117-KCM-Share-100x55.jpg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" style="font-size: 17px;" />
The past year and a half brought about significant life changes for many of us. For some, it meant entering retirement earlier than expected. Recent data shows more people retired this year than anticipated. According to the Schwartz Center for Economic Policy Analysis, 2021 saw a retirement <a href="https://www.economicpolicyresearch.org/jobs-report/the-pandemic-retirement-surge-increased-retirement-inequality" title="boom" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">boom</a>:
“At least 1.7 million more older workers than expected retired due to the pandemic recession.”
If you’ve recently retired, your home may not fit your new lifestyle. The good news is, you’ve likely built-up significant equity that can fuel your next move. According to the latest <a href="https://www.corelogic.com/intelligence/homeowner-equity-insights/" title="Homeowner Equity Insights" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Homeowner Equity Insights</a> report from CoreLogic, homeowners gained more than $50,000 in equity over the past 12 months alone. That, plus today’s sellers’ market, presents a great <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/10/27/housing-challenge-or-housing-opportunity-it-depends/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="opportunity">opportunity</a> to sell your house and address your <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/09/20/is-it-time-to-move-on-to-a-new-home/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="evolving needs">evolving needs</a>.
You Can Move Closer to the Ones You Love
The <a href="https://cdn.nar.realtor/sites/default/files/documents/2021-home-buyers-and-sellers-generational-trends-03-16-2021.pdf" title="2021 Home Buyers and Sellers Generational Trends" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2021 Home Buyers and Sellers Generational Trends</a> report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) provides a look at the reasons people buy homes. For those reaching retirement age, the number one reason to buy is the opportunity to be closer to loved ones, friends, or relatives.
If you find yourself farther from your loved ones than you’d like to be, retirement and the equity you’ve built in your home may enable you to move closer to the people in your life who matter most.
You Can Find the Right Home for Your Needs
Not only can your equity power a move to a new location, but it can also help you purchase the right size home. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at NAR, <a href="https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/as-boomers-downsize-competition-grows-for-simpler-homes/" title="says" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">says</a> many homebuyers 55 and older choose to downsize – or buy a smaller home – when they make a purchase:
“Clearly from the age patterns, young people want to upsize, and the older generation is looking to downsize. . . .”
Whatever your home goals are, a trusted real estate advisor can help you to find the best option for your situation. They’ll help you sell your current home and guide you as you <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/10/26/there-are-more-homes-available-now-than-there-were-this-spring/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="buy">buy</a> your next one while you move into this new phase of life.
Bottom Line
If you’ve recently retired and your needs are changing, you’re not alone. Let’s connect so you can get a better sense of how to find a home that will match your situation.
2021-11-17T15:19:00-07:002021-11-30T15:22:14-07:00Chris Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:16470Sellers: You'll Likely Get Multiple Strong Offers This Season<img width="750" height="410" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/10110426/20211116-KCM-Share.jpg" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" alt="Sellers: You’ll Likely Get Multiple Strong Offers This Season | MyKCM" loading="lazy" srcset="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/10110426/20211116-KCM-Share.jpg 750w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/10110426/20211116-KCM-Share-600x328.jpg 600w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/10110426/20211116-KCM-Share-100x55.jpg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" style="font-size: 17px;" />
Are you thinking about <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/11/05/numbers-dont-lie-its-still-a-great-time-to-sell-infographic/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="selling">selling</a> your house right now, but you’re not sure you’ll have the time to do so as the holidays draw near? If so, consider this: even as the holiday season approaches, there are plenty of buyers out there, and they really want <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/10/28/does-your-house-have-what-buyers-want/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="your house">your house</a>. Here’s why selling this winter is a win for you.
Today’s buyers are still dealing with a limited number of homes for sale. Thanks to continued <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/10/27/housing-challenge-or-housing-opportunity-it-depends/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="low inventory">low inventory</a>, those buyers are competing with one another for their dream home. And when that happens, if your house is one of the few on the market, it will rise to the top of the pool – and it will be worth it.
According to the latest data from the <a href="https://cdn.nar.realtor/sites/default/files/documents/2021-09-realtors-confidence-index-10-21-2021.pdf" title="National Association of Realtors" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">National Association of Realtors</a> (NAR), the average seller received 3.7 offers on their house in September. For a view into what’s happening at the state level, take a look at the map below:<a href="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/15102757/20211115-MEM-Eng-1-1.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-99933" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/15102757/20211115-MEM-Eng-1-1.png" alt="Sellers: You’ll Likely Get Multiple Strong Offers This Season | MyKCM" width="600" height="450" /></a>Nationwide, the average seller today is getting nearly four offers. That number is significant because it means you’ll likely have multiple offers to pick from if you sell your house this season. To put things into perspective, no matter where your state falls, remember that you really only need one good offer to close the deal.
Any offer you receive will likely be from a highly motivated buyer who’s doing everything they can to beat the <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/10/08/whats-causing-todays-competitive-real-estate-market-infographic/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="competition">competition</a>. The stakes for buyers are high. They’ve been looking for a house and they want to lock in their dream home before <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/10/19/what-does-the-future-hold-for-home-prices/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="prices">prices</a> and <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/11/03/experts-project-mortgage-rates-will-continue-to-rise-in-2022/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="mortgage rates">mortgage rates</a> rise further next year. Chances are, they’ll get creative with the terms of their offer, which could include waiving contingencies and offering over the asking price – both of which are great news for <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/11/02/sellers-have-incredible-leverage-in-todays-market/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="you">you</a>.
If you’re on the fence about when to sell, remember your house is a hot commodity this season. As other sellers take a break for the holidays with plans to re-list their homes in the new year, you can put your house in front of motivated buyers by making your move today. That means your house will be the <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/10/18/sellers-your-house-could-be-an-oasis-for-buyers-seeking-more-options/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="center of attention">center of attention</a>, and likely the center of a bidding war too.
Bottom Line
Selling now gives you even more opportunity to win big as buyers compete for your house in today’s market.
2021-11-16T16:20:00-07:002021-11-16T16:22:17-07:00Chris Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:164714 Things Every Renter Needs to Consider<img width="750" height="410" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/09165307/20211115-KCM-Share.jpg" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" alt="4 Things Every Renter Needs To Consider | MyKCM" loading="lazy" srcset="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/09165307/20211115-KCM-Share.jpg 750w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/09165307/20211115-KCM-Share-600x328.jpg 600w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/09165307/20211115-KCM-Share-100x55.jpg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" style="font-size: 17px;" />
As a renter, you’re constantly faced with the same dilemma: keep renting for another year or purchase a home? Your answer depends on your current situation and future plans, but there are a number of <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/06/18/owning-a-home-has-distinct-financial-benefits-over-renting-infographic/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="benefits to homeownership">benefits to homeownership</a> every renter needs to consider.
Here are a few things you should think about before you settle on <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/10/01/reasons-renters-buy-infographic/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="renting">renting</a> for another year.
1. Rents Are Rising Quickly
Rent increasing each year isn’t new. Looking back at <a href="https://www.census.gov/housing/hvs/files/currenthvspress.pdf" title="Census" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Census</a> data confirms rental prices have gone up consistently for decades (see graph below):<a href="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/09165309/20211115-MEM-Eng-1.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-99903" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/09165309/20211115-MEM-Eng-1.png" alt="4 Things Every Renter Needs To Consider | MyKCM" width="600" height="450" /></a>If you’re a renter, you’re faced with payments that continue to climb each year. Realtor.com recently shared the <a href="https://news.move.com/2021-10-28-Realtor-com-R-September-Rental-Report-Big-Tech-City-Rents-Are-Back" title="September Rental Report" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">September Rental Report</a>, and it shows price increases accelerating from August to September (see graph below):<a href="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/09165312/20211115-MEM-Eng-2.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-99904" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/09165312/20211115-MEM-Eng-2.png" alt="4 Things Every Renter Needs To Consider | MyKCM" width="600" height="450" /></a>As the graph shows, rents are still on the rise. It’s important to keep this in mind when the time comes for you to sign a new lease, as your monthly rental payment may increase substantially when you do.
2. Renters Miss Out on Equity Gains
One of the most significant advantages of buying a home is the wealth you build through equity. This year alone, homeowners gained a substantial amount of equity, which, in turn, grew their <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/08/30/the-difference-in-net-worth-between-homeowners-and-renters-is-widening/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="net worth">net worth</a>. As a renter, you <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/11/01/renters-missed-out-on-51500-this-past-year/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="miss out">miss out</a> on this wealth-building tool that can be used to fund your retirement, buy a bigger home, downsize, or even achieve personal goals like paying for an education or starting a new business.
3. Homeowners Can Customize to Their Heart’s Content
This is a big decision-making point if you want to be able to paint, renovate, and make home upgrades. In many cases, your property owner determines these selections and prefers you don’t alter them as a renter. As a homeowner, you have the freedom to decorate and personalize your home to truly make it your own.
4. Owning a Home May Provide Greater Mobility than You Think
You may choose to rent because you feel it provides greater flexibility if you need to move for any reason. While it’s true that selling a home may take more time than finding a new rental, it’s important to note how quickly houses are selling in today’s market. According to the <a href="https://www.nar.realtor/research-and-statistics/research-reports/realtors-confidence-index" title="National Association of Realtors" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">National Association of Realtors</a> (NAR), the average home is only on the market for 17 days. That means you may have more flexibility than you think if you need to relocate as a homeowner.
Bottom Line
Deciding if it’s the right time for you to buy is a personal decision, and the timing is different for everyone. However, if you’d like to learn more about the benefits of homeownership, let’s connect so you can make a confident, informed decision and have a trusted advisor along the way.
2021-11-15T16:24:00-07:002021-11-16T16:25:46-07:00Chris Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:16376VA Loans: Helping Veterans Achieve Their Homeownership Dreams<img width="750" height="410" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/08135630/20211111-KCM-Share.jpg" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" alt="VA Loans: Helping Veterans Achieve Their Homeownership Dreams | MyKCM" loading="lazy" srcset="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/08135630/20211111-KCM-Share.jpg 750w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/08135630/20211111-KCM-Share-600x328.jpg 600w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/08135630/20211111-KCM-Share-100x55.jpg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" style="font-size: 17px;" />
The purpose of Veterans Affairs (VA) home loans is to provide a pathway to homeownership for those who have sacrificed so much by serving our nation. As the <a href="https://www.benefits.va.gov/REPORTS/abr/docs/2020_loan_guaranty.pdf" title="Veterans Administration" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Veterans Administration</a> says of the program:
“The objective of the VA Home Loan Guaranty program is to help eligible Veterans, active-duty personnel, surviving spouses, and members of the Reserves and National Guard purchase, retain, and adapt homes in recognition of their service. . . .”
For over 75 years, VA home loans have provided millions of veterans and their families the opportunity to purchase their own homes.
2020 Data on VA Home Loans
1,246,817 home loans are guaranteed by the Veterans Administration
The average VA loan amount totals $301,044
178,171 of those using a VA Loan are first-time homebuyers
Top Benefits of the <a href="https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/home-loans/loan-types/purchase-loan/" title="VA Home Loan Program" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">VA Home Loan Program</a>
As we reflect on their sacrifice and honor our nation’s veterans, it’s important to ensure all veterans know the full extent of benefits <a href="https://www.benefits.va.gov/REPORTS/abr/docs/2020_loan_guaranty.pdf" title="VA home loans" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">VA home loans</a> offer. As Jeff London, Director of the VA Home Loan Program, <a href="https://www.realtor.com/advice/finance/millennial-buyers-love-va-loans/" title="says" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">says</a>:
“VA loans offer an extraordinary opportunity for veterans because of lower interest rates, lower monthly payments, no or low-down payments, and no private mortgage insurance.”
Those who qualify for a VA home loan are eligible for the following:
Borrowers can often purchase a home with no down payment. In 2020, 350,094 individuals using a VA Loan were able to purchase their homes without putting money down.
Many other loans with down payments under 20% require Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI). VA Loans do not require PMI, which means veterans can save on their monthly housing costs.
Finally, VA-Backed Loans often offer the most competitive terms and interest rates.
Bottom Line
One way we can honor and thank our veterans this year is to ensure they have the best information about the benefits of VA home loans. Homeownership is the American Dream. Our veterans sacrifice so much in service to our nation and deserve to achieve their homeownership goals. Thank you for your service.
2021-11-11T09:59:00-07:002021-11-11T10:01:34-07:00Chris Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:16472What's Happening With Home Prices?<img width="750" height="410" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/05135352/20211110-KCM-Share.jpg" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" alt="What’s Happening with Home Prices? | MyKCM" loading="lazy" srcset="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/05135352/20211110-KCM-Share.jpg 750w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/05135352/20211110-KCM-Share-600x328.jpg 600w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/05135352/20211110-KCM-Share-100x55.jpg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" style="font-size: 17px;" />
Many people have questions about home prices right now. How much have prices risen over the past 12 months? What’s happening with home values right now? What’s projected for next year? Here’s a look at the answers to all three of these questions.
How much have home values appreciated over the last 12 months?
According to the latest <a href="https://www.corelogic.com/intelligence/u-s-home-price-insights/" title="Home Price Index" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Home Price Index</a> from CoreLogic, home values have increased by 18.1% compared to this time last year. Additionally, prices have gone up at an accelerated pace for each of the last eight months (see graph below):<a href="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/05135354/20211110-MEM-Eng-1.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-99865" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/05135354/20211110-MEM-Eng-1.png" alt="What’s Happening with Home Prices? | MyKCM" width="600" height="450" /></a>The increase in the rate of appreciation that’s shown by CoreLogic coincides with data from the other two main home price indices: the <a href="https://www.fhfa.gov/AboutUs/Reports/ReportDocuments/FHFA-HPI-Monthly-10262021.pdf" title="FHFA Home Price Index" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">FHFA Home Price Index</a> and the <a href="https://www.spglobal.com/spdji/en/documents/indexnews/announcements/20211026-1444567/1444567_cshomeprice-release-1026.pdf" title="S&amp;P Case Shiller Index" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">S&P Case Shiller Index</a>.
The last year has shown tremendous home price appreciation, which is resulting in a major gain in wealth for homeowners through rising <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/10/22/your-home-equity-is-growing-infographic/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="equity">equity</a>.
What’s happening with home prices right now?
All three indices mentioned above also show that while appreciation is in the high double digits right now, that price acceleration is beginning to level off (see graph below):<a href="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/05135358/20211110-MEM-Eng-2.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-99866" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/05135358/20211110-MEM-Eng-2.png" alt="What’s Happening with Home Prices? | MyKCM" width="600" height="450" /></a>Year-over-year appreciation is still close to 20%, but it’s clearly plateauing at that rate. Many experts believe it will drop below 15% by the end of the year.
Keep in mind, that doesn’t mean home values will depreciate. It means the rate of appreciation will slow, yet stay well above the 25-year average of 5.1%.
What about next year?
The recent surge in prices is the result of heavy buyer demand and a <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/10/26/there-are-more-homes-available-now-than-there-were-this-spring/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="shortage">shortage</a> of homes available for sale. Most experts believe that as more housing inventory comes to market (both new construction and existing homes), the supply and demand for housing will come more into balance. That balance will bring a lower rate of appreciation in 2022. Here’s a look at home price forecasts from six major entities, and they all project future appreciation:
<a href="https://www.fanniemae.com/research-and-insights/forecast" title="Fannie Mae" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Fannie Mae</a>
<a href="http://www.freddiemac.com/research/forecast/index.page" title="Freddie Mac" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Freddie Mac</a>
<a href="https://www.mba.org/news-research-and-resources/research-and-economics/forecasts-and-commentary" title="Mortgage Bankers Association" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Mortgage Bankers Association</a>
<a href="https://pulsenomics.com/surveys/#home-price-expectations" title="Home Price Expectation Survey" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Home Price Expectation Survey</a>
<a href="https://www.zelmanassociates.com/" title="Zelman &amp; Associates" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Zelman & Associates</a>
<a href="https://cdn.nar.realtor/sites/default/files/documents/forecast-Q4-2021-us-economic-outlook-10-28-2021.pdf" title="National Association of Realtors" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">National Association of Realtors</a>
<a href="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/05135401/20211110-MEM-Eng-3.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-99867" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/05135401/20211110-MEM-Eng-3.png" alt="What’s Happening with Home Prices? | MyKCM" width="600" height="450" /></a>While the projected rate of appreciation varies among the experts, due to things like supply chain challenges, virus variants, and more, it’s clear that home values will continue to appreciate next year.
Bottom Line
There have been historic levels of home price appreciation over the last year. That pace will slow as we finish 2021 and enter into 2022. Prices will still rise in value, just at a much more moderate pace, which is good news for the housing market.
2021-11-10T16:27:00-07:002021-11-16T16:29:10-07:00Chris Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:16255Why a Wave of Foreclosures Is Not on the Way<img width="750" height="410" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/01113422/20211104-KCM-Share.jpg" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" alt="Why a Wave of Foreclosures Is Not on the Way | MyKCM" loading="lazy" srcset="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/01113422/20211104-KCM-Share.jpg 750w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/01113422/20211104-KCM-Share-600x328.jpg 600w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/01113422/20211104-KCM-Share-100x55.jpg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" style="font-size: 17px;" />
With forbearance plans coming to an end, many are concerned the housing market will experience a wave of foreclosures similar to what happened after the housing bubble 15 years ago. Here are a few reasons why that won’t happen.
There are fewer homeowners in trouble this time
After the last housing crash, about <a href="https://economics.cmail20.com/t/ViewEmail/d/6DD5AA0E9F6529292540EF23F30FEDED/5323CD85A2087AFD22947492D9797BBC" title="9.3 million households" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">9.3 million households</a> lost their homes to a foreclosure, short sale, or because they simply gave it back to the bank.
As stay-at-home orders were issued early last year, the fear was the pandemic would impact the housing industry in a similar way. Many projected up to <a href="https://blog.firstam.com/economics/this-time-its-different-why-a-wave-of-foreclosures-is-unlikely" title="30% of all mortgage holders" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">30% of all mortgage holders</a> would enter the forbearance program. In reality, only 8.5% actually did, and that number is now <a href="https://www.mba.org/2021-press-releases/october/share-of-mortgage-loans-in-forbearance-decreases-to-221-percent" title="down to 2.2%" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">down to 2.2%</a>.
As of last Friday, the total number of mortgages still in forbearance <a href="https://www.blackknightinc.com/blog-posts/forbearances-flat-for-second-consecutive-week/" title="stood at 1,221,000" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">stood at 1,221,000</a>. That’s far fewer than the 9.3 million households that lost their homes just over a decade ago.
Most of the mortgages in forbearance have enough equity to sell their homes
Due to rapidly rising home prices over the last two years, of the 1.22 million homeowners currently in forbearance, <a href="https://cdn.blackknightinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/BKI_MM_Apr2021_Report.pdf" title="93% have at least 10% equity" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">93% have at least 10% equity</a> in their homes. This 10% equity is important because it enables homeowners to sell their homes and pay the related expenses instead of facing the hit on their credit that a foreclosure or short sale would create.
The remaining 7% might not have the option to sell, but if the entire 7% of those 1.22 million homes went into foreclosure, that would total about 85,400 mortgages. To give that number context, here are the <a href="https://www.newyorkfed.org/microeconomics/hhdc.html" title="annual foreclosure numbers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">annual foreclosure numbers</a> for the three years leading up to the pandemic:
2017: 314,220
2018: 279,040
2019: 277,520
The probable number of foreclosures coming out of the forbearance program is nowhere near the number of foreclosures that impacted the housing crash 15 years ago. It’s actually less than one-third of any of the three years prior to the pandemic.
The current market can absorb listings coming to the market
When foreclosures hit the market back in 2008, there was an oversupply of houses for sale. It’s exactly the opposite today. In 2008, there was over a nine-month supply of listings on the market. Today, that number is less than a <a href="https://www.nar.realtor/research-and-statistics/housing-statistics/existing-home-sales" title="three-month supply" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">three-month supply</a>. Here’s a graph showing the difference between the two markets.<a href="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/01113425/20211104-MEM-Eng-1.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-99825" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/11/01113425/20211104-MEM-Eng-1.png" alt="Why a Wave of Foreclosures Is Not on the Way | MyKCM" width="600" height="450" /></a>Bottom Line
The data indicates why <a href="https://www.tomferry.com/our-podcast/experience-91/" title="Ivy Zelman" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ivy Zelman</a>, founder of the major housing market analytical firm Zelman and Associates, was on point when she stated:
“The likelihood of us having a foreclosure crisis again is about zero percent.”
2021-11-04T14:46:00-07:002021-11-04T14:48:27-07:00Chris Kittletag:kittlerealestate.com,2012-09-20:16214Experts Project Mortgage Rates Will Continue To Rise in 2022<img width="750" height="410" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/10/29134054/20211103-KCM-Share.jpg" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" alt="Experts Project Mortgage Rates Will Continue To Rise in 2022 | MyKCM" loading="lazy" srcset="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/10/29134054/20211103-KCM-Share.jpg 750w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/10/29134054/20211103-KCM-Share-600x328.jpg 600w, https://files.mykcm.com/2021/10/29134054/20211103-KCM-Share-100x55.jpg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" style="font-size: 17px;" />
Mortgage rates are one of several factors that impact how much you can afford if you’re buying a home. When rates are low, they help you get more house for your money. Within the last year, mortgage rates have hit the <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/10/12/dont-wait-for-a-lower-mortgage-rate-it-could-cost-you/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="lowest point">lowest point</a> ever recorded, and they’ve hovered in the historic-low territory. But even over the past few weeks, <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/10/05/the-main-key-to-understanding-the-rise-in-mortgage-rates/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="rates">rates</a> have started to rise. This past week, the average 30-year fixed rate was <a href="https://freddiemac.gcs-web.com/node/23986/pdf" title="3.14%" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">3.14%</a>.
What does this mean if you’re thinking about making a move? Waiting until next year will cost you more in the long run. Here’s a look at what several experts project for mortgage rates going into 2022.
<a href="http://www.freddiemac.com/fmac-resources/research/pdf/Quarterly_Forecast_October2021_Press_Release.pdf" title="Freddie Mac" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Freddie Mac</a>:
“The average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) is expected to be 3.0 percent in 2021 and 3.5 percent in 2022.”
Doug Duncan, Senior VP & Chief Economist, <a href="https://www.fanniemae.com/newsroom/fannie-mae-news/economic-growth-again-revised-downward-due-supply-chain-and-inflation-concerns" title="Fannie Mae" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Fannie Mae</a>:
“Right now, we forecast mortgage rates to average 3.3 percent in 2022, which, though slightly higher than 2020 and 2021, by historical standards remains extremely low and supportive of mortgage demand and affordability.”
<a href="https://www.firstam.com/news/2021/rising-rates-dull-house-buying-power-20211026.html" title="First American" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">First American</a>:
“Consensus forecasts predict that mortgage rates will hit 3.2 percent by the end of the year, and 3.7 percent by the end of 2022.”
If rates rise even a half-point percentage over the next year, it will impact what you pay each month over the life of your loan – and that can really add up. So, the reality is, as <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/10/19/what-does-the-future-hold-for-home-prices/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="prices">prices</a> and mortgage rates rise, it will cost more to purchase a home.
As you can see from the quotes above, industry experts project rates will rise in the months ahead. Here’s a table that compares other expert views and gives an average of those projections:<a href="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/10/29134056/20211103-MEM-Eng-1.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-99789" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2021/10/29134056/20211103-MEM-Eng-1.png" alt="Experts Project Mortgage Rates Will Continue To Rise in 2022 | MyKCM" width="600" height="338" /></a>Whether you’re thinking about buying your first home, moving up to your dream home, or downsizing because your needs have <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/09/20/is-it-time-to-move-on-to-a-new-home/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="changed">changed</a>, purchasing before mortgage rates rise even higher will help you take advantage of today’s homebuying <a href="https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2021/10/21/important-distinction-homes-are-less-affordable-not-unaffordable/?a=609724-108c61e1e02cbddd99b8fd56c9bdbd7c" title="affordability">affordability</a>. That could be just the game-changer you need to achieve your homeownership goals.
Bottom Line
If you’re thinking of buying or selling over the next year, it may be wise to make your move sooner rather than later – before mortgage rates climb higher.
2021-11-03T09:55:00-07:002021-11-03T09:57:35-07:00Chris Kittle