By Barbara Lehrer
Real Talk
Barbara Lehrer.
New listings are sprouting up on the hot sheet as the spring market goes into full swing. If you’re considering a jump into the market you must be on your toes.
This plan has to include a few different areas of study. For one, the house should be ready inside and out for showings. I find that basements and attics that are especially clean and neat command a higher price. Buyers need to see the space, have room for a good inspection in these areas and rely on all this storage for their future needs.
If you’re selling, you need to first get out there and look at your options. Open houses on a Sunday afternoon are a good idea, but many new listings are not open in the first few weekends on the market. You need an experienced realtor someone savvy in the complete process, from the numbers to the logistics. A relator will filter through the available properties and help you remember your specific needs. A seller has to work through a million things, starting with the preparation of the listing and ending with the closing of the deal. Your realtor protects you.
One of the main reasons to think about upsizing or downsizing now is that rates are near an all-time low. Everyone seems to be watching the rates – open houses are averaging 20 prospects on a Sunday afternoon.
According to a March 31 article in the New Haven Register by Christopher Rugaber, the average 15-year mortgage rate fell to 3.57 percent from 3.71 the week before. Government surveys are done across the country between Monday and Wednesday each week to compile the mortgage loan figures.
Growing inventory means more homes to choose from, but it also means more competition. Have your agent assist you in deciding the necessary things you need to do to get the house ready to go on the market. Review the rates and let your children know that the first-time homebuyer market has many levels of loans. This opportunity to own a home has never been easier.
Investors take note also: mortgage demand strengthens when rates decline.
We are looking forward to a busy spring market.