Uncategorized September 29, 2020

Where Are Home Values Headed Over the Next 12 Months?

As shelter-in-place orders were implemented earlier this year, many questioned what the shutdown would mean to the real estate market. Specifically, there was concern about home values. After years of rising home prices, would 2020 be the year this appreciation trend would come to a screeching halt? Even worse, would home values begin to depreciate?

Original forecasts modeled this uncertainty, and they ranged anywhere from home values gaining 3% (Zelman & Associates) to home values depreciating by more than 6% (CoreLogic).

However, as the year unfolded, it became clear that there would be little negative impact on the housing market. As Mark Fleming, Chief Economist at First American, recently revealed:

“The only major industry to display immunity to the economic impacts of the coronavirus is the housing market.”

Have prices continued to appreciate so far this year?

Last week, the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) released its latest Home Price Index. The report showed home prices actually rose 6.5% from the same time last year. FHFA also noted that price appreciation accelerated to record levels over the summer months:

“Between May & July 2020, national prices increased by over 2%, which represents the largest two-month price increase observed since the start of the index in 1991.”

What are the experts forecasting for home prices going forward?

Below is a graph of home price projections for the next year. Since the market has changed dramatically over the last few months, this graph shows forecasts that have been published since September 1st.

Bottom Line

The numbers show that home values have weathered the storm of the pandemic. Let’s connect if you want to know what your home is currently worth and how that may enable you to make a move this year.

Uncategorized April 1, 2020

Your March Market Update

Uncategorized February 18, 2020

Closing Costs Cleared Up

You’ve made an offer — you’re almost there.

In your excitement don’t forget closing costs. Set funds aside to cover these before signing!! 

Need more information? Call me anytime to discuss.

Uncategorized February 14, 2020

Reasons to Fall in Love with Homeownership [INFOGRAPHIC]

Reasons to Fall in Love with Homeownership [INFOGRAPHIC]

Some Highlights:

·       There are many benefits to love about homeownership, and they’re not all financial.

·       Being a part of a neighborhood, driving academic achievement, and improving mental health are just a few of these advantages.

·       Let’s get together today to determine if you’re ready to embrace the rewards of owning your own home.

Uncategorized February 5, 2020

Buyer Tips: The Importance of Pre-Approval

Hi Friend,

When you want to buy something, it all comes down to money. Therefore, I recommend that your home buying experience starts with Pre-Approval. Understanding your finances will help focus your efforts for everything else after. Don’t get the cart in front of the horse and the process at an open house, as that typically ends in heartache. Here are some benefits of pre-approval and what you will need to get pre-approved.

Pre-approval perks:
• Discuss and learn about loan options and budgeting with the lender.
• Run a check on your credit and alert you to any problems.
• Informs you of the maximum amount you can borrow, which helps set a price range for your search.
• Allows you to make an offer instantly.
• Sets you above the competition without pre-approval.
• Legitimizes your offer, as sellers will be more willing to negotiate with you knowing you can obtain financing.
• Lock in your loan and Rate for 90 days to protect you against market changes.

If you are not quite ready to commit, a Pre-qualification might be a better route to go, as this will give you an idea of what you can afford and help with your home search, without the credit and financial check.

Items needed for Pre-approval:
• Proof of income
• Verification of employment
• Proof of Assets
• Credit check
• Identification – Social Security #, driver’s license, and current address

Keep in mind that different lenders will pre-approve you for different amounts, so if you are looking for some guidance as to which lender to do this with, I have a few recommendations for lenders that I’ve worked with in the past and trust.

I’m always available for any questions you might have, so don’t hesitate to give me a call, text, or shoot me an email!

Best,
Virginia Acio
#02082033
Intero Real Estate
(650) 515-6249
vacio@intero.com