Spring Cleaning Checklist for Sellers [INFOGRAPHIC]

Posted on March 18, 2022 by Jim Armstrong

Spring Cleaning Checklist for Sellers [INFOGRAPHIC] | MyKCM

Some Highlights

If you’re thinking about selling your house this spring, here are some things you’ll want to tackle before you list.
Spend your time on tasks that make it feel inviting, show it’s cared for, and boost your curb appeal.
To determine the full list of things you’ll want to tackle for your home, you need the opinion of a trusted expert. Let’s connect to help make sure your house shows well this season.

Jim Armstrong
Broker/Owner
Armstrong Field Real Estate
978-394-6736

Are You Wondering if This Is the Year To Buy a Home?

Posted on March 16, 2022 by Jim Armstrong

Are You Wondering if This Is the Year To Buy a Home? | MyKCM

Every year, many renters ask themselves the same question: Should I continue renting, or is it time to buy a home? If you’re a renter, chances are you’ve asked yourself that question at least once, and it’s likely because you’ve faced an increase in your monthly housing costs over time. After all, according to Census data, rents have risen consistently for decades.

To make an informed and powerful decision, the first step is understanding what’s happening in today’s housing market so you can determine which option is the better long-term financial decision for you.

Rents Are Going Up Again This Year

Rents are skyrocketing right now. Data from realtor.com shows just how much rental prices are surging throughout the country. The graph below highlights rental unit price increases over the past year:

If you’re a renter and plan on signing a new lease, your monthly costs are likely to go up when you do. Those rising costs can have a big impact on your financial goals, including any plans you’re making to save for a home purchase.

Homeownership Offers Stable Monthly Costs

Of course, one of the key benefits of owning your home is that you’re able to lock in and stabilize your payments for the duration of your loan. That’s not the case when you rent.

While rents are already on the rise, there’s a good chance many people will see their rental costs increase even more this year. As Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at realtor.com, says:

“With rents already at a high and expected to keep going up, rental affordability will increasingly challenge many Americans in 2022. For those thinking about making the transition from renting to buying their first home, rising rents will remain a motivating factor. . . .”

So, if you’re ready to become a homeowner, waiting any longer may not make financial sense. Instead, escape the cycle of rising rents and enjoy the many benefits that come with homeownership today.

Bottom Line

Starting your journey towards homeownership can pay off significantly this year. If you’re financially ready today, let’s connect so we can discuss your options.

Jim Armstrong
Mobile 978-394-6736
REALTOR/Broker
Armstrong Field Real Estate
www.ArmstrongField.com
HomeinSalem.com

Spring 2022 Residential Real Estate Market Outlook

Posted on March 9, 2022 by Jim Armstrong

The spring 2022 market is right around the corner and many people are wondering what is in store for potential home buyers and sellers. Here is my brief take on it, with the caveat that it’s almost impossible to predict it with absolute accuracy, no matter how experienced a person is (and I have 20+ years as a real estate professional).

If you’re looking to buy:

Similar to last spring, low inventory and high demand will create a strong seller’s market, but it won’t be quite as intense as in 2021. Instead of a 20% hike in prices, you can expect appreciation to hover around 5%-6%.
You may still face bidding wars, but the good news is they aren’t likely to be as intense or frequent as more homes come on the market this spring.
However, you still need to head into the process with a hefty helping of patience and an open mind. The last thing you want to do is panic buy and end up with a home you and your budget regret. That said, consider all your options (single-family, townhome, condo, new construction) even if it’s a deviation from what you initially set out to purchase.
Mortgage rates jumped in early 2022 to an average of 3.92% by mid-February. Most housing experts agree rates will continue to inch upwards due to inflation, Federal Reserve tapering, and the war in Ukraine. That said, it’s essential to prepare now for buying a home. If you haven’t already, get pre-approved by a trusted mortgage lender.

If you’re looking to sell:

As mentioned above, this spring will be a strong seller’s market; however, you’ll need to keep both feet on the ground. Compared to 2021, you’re less likely to see a fierce bidding war drive up your sale price.
The sooner you can get your home on the market, the better. Sellers on the front end of the spring selling season are more likely to see their homes sell quickly as inventory hasn’t had time to build up. The further we get into the spring and summer, the more homes buyers will have to choose from.
Go ahead and prep your home for the market. Schedule any repairs or upgrades ASAP since things are taking longer to complete due to supply and labor shortages.

If you’re looking to buy or sell this spring or summer and need guidance along the way, I’d love to help. Give me a call at your convenience—I look forward to hearing from you.

Jim Armstrong

jarmstrong@armstrongfield.com

978-394-6736