This Month in Real Estate August 2014 - Aguilera Real Estate Team

This Month in Real Estate Video for August 2014 in the U.S.

According to the National Association of Realtors, the number of projected home sales rose to 5.04 million homes. The national median home price for existing homes increased to $223,300. That's up 5.3 percent from last month, and up 4.3 percent from the same time period last year. If you're looking to sell your home, now might be a good time to list your home on the housing market. According to Freddie Mac, the national average for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage is up from last month at 4.13 percent. List your home this summer while interest rates are low and homes prices are up! Contact your local Tracy California real estate experts, The Aguilera Real Estate Team for more information.

This Month in Real Estate August 2014 - Aguilera Real Estate Team

Market Trends Real Estate Newsletter August 2014 - Aguilera Real Estate Team

August 2014

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EXISTING HOME SALES ON RISE

Increased inventory levels in June helped push existing-home sales to their highest levels since October 2013, according to a recent report by the National Association of REALTORS (NAR). Existing-home sales, which include recently purchased single family, townhomes, condominiums, and co-ops rose 2.6 percent in June to a seasonally adjusted 5.04 million units for the year.

NAR chief economist Lawrence Yun believes the market is moving in the right direction. "Inventories are at their highest level in over a year and price gains have slowed to much more welcoming levels in many parts of the country. This bodes well for rising home sales in the upcoming months as consumers are provided with more choices," he said. "On the contrary, new home construction needs to rise by at least 50 percent for a complete return to a balanced market because supply shortages – particularly in the West – are still putting upward pressure on prices."

Nationally, total housing inventory increased 2.2 percent during June to 2.3 million units. The median time for homes to sell was 44 days in June, down from 47 days in May. Forty-two percent of June home sales were on the market for less than a month.

MAKE YOUR OFFER COUNT

With today's competitive housing market, it is more important than ever for home buyers get their financial house in order when applying for a loan. Be sure to review your credit report with your mortgage professional and get pre-approved for your loan before making an offer on a home. A little preparation goes a long way and can mean all of the difference when it comes to closing on that dream home. Contact us today to get the right loan for your current needs!

TIPS FOR HOME SELLERS

When preparing your home for sale, a number of simple cosmetic changes often provide the biggest return on investment. Here are three tips to upgrade your house without breaking the bank:

• Bring in the light. The right light creates the right mood. Adding lights to dark rooms can make your home feel warm and inviting. Bring outdoor light inside by opening curtains and installing economical suntubes.
• Create Space. Many of today's buyers are looking for open rooms. Consider removing unwanted walls to make your home feel more spacious. Buyers will often pay a premium to get a bit of extra room.
• Replace Flooring. Get rid of that old carpet in the den and replace it with today's newer hardwoods and laminates. You don't have to spend a lot to make a big impression!

These simple tips can help you sell your home and take advantage of today's market. Please contact us if you have any questions about selling your home. We are here to help!

Market Trends Real Estate Newsletter August 2014 - Aguilera Real Estate Team

Market Trends Real Estate Newsletter July 2014 - Aguilera Real Estate Team

July 2014

EXISTING-HOME SALES CONTINUE CLIMB

Existing-home sales rose again during the month of May while sellers benefited with a lift in home prices, according to a recent report by the National Association of REALTORS (NAR). Existing-home sales, which include recently purchased single family, townhomes, condominiums, and co-ops rose 4.9 percent in May to a seasonally adjusted 4.89 million units for the year.

NAR chief economist Lawrence Yun believes the increased inventory benefits our current market. "Home buyers are benefiting from slower price growth due to the much-needed, rising inventory levels seen since the beginning of the year," he said. "Moreover, sales were helped by the improving job market and the temporary but slight decline in mortgage rates."

Nationally, total housing inventory increased 2.2 percent during May to 2.28 million units. The median time for homes to sell was 47 days in May, roughly the same duration reported in April. Fourty-one percent of May home sales were on the market for less than a month.

ARE BI-WEEKLY PAYMENTS RIGHT FOR YOU?

Many people ask about bi-weekly payment plans designed to reduce the interest paid out over the course of your loan. These programs help the borrower budget an extra payment a year, and over time this can knock years off the repayment schedule. Many people are surprised to learn that they can do this themselves without any special programs, simply by submitting an extra principle payment as they are able. By submitting an extra payment, you get the advantages of an early payout, without the extra contractual obligation. Want more information on other mortgage options? Contact us today for our list of preferred local mortgage experts.

INVESTING IN REAL ESTATE

Today's low interest rates and stabilized home prices have created some great investment opportunities!  Investing in real estate has unique advantages over other types of investments:

• Interest in mortgage loans are tax-deductible.  Investors can lower their tax liability while increasing their equity.
• Renters pay down your mortgage loan.  Investors reap the benefits of rental income, which offsets your mortgage cost and build equity.
• Real Estate values increase over the long term.  Real Estate is limited and will always be in demand. 
• 1031 exchanges are available to defer taxable income when you are ready to sell.

Many investors are taking advantage of these great market conditions. Have questions? Give us a call. Get a free market value analysis of your home. We are happy to help!

Market Trends Real Estate Newsletter July 2014 - Aguilera Real Estate Team

This Month in Real Estate June 2014 - Aguilera Real Estate Team

This Month in Real Estate June 2014

According to the National Association of Realtors, the number of projected home sales rose to 4.65 million in June 2014. The national median home price for existing homes increased to $201,700. That's up 2.5 percent from last month, and up 5.2 percent from the same time period last year in June 2013. If you're looking to sell your home, now might be a good time to enter the market.

According to Freddie Mac the national average for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is down from last month to 4.14 percent. Contact your local real estate experts, The Aguilera Real Estate Team for more information on pricing your home to sell!

This Month in Real Estate June 2014 - Aguilera Real Estate Team

Market Trends Real Estate Newsletter June 2014

Market Trends Real Estate Newsletter June 2014 June 2014 Subscribe to this Free Real Estate Newsletter! EXISTING-HOME SALES GAIN STEAM For the first time in 2014, existing-home sales rose during the month April while inventories increased, according to a recent report by the National Association of REALTORS (NAR). Existing-home sales, which include recently purchased single family, townhomes, condominiums, and co-ops rose 1.3 percent in January to a seasonally adjusted 4.65 million units for the year. NAR chief economist Lawrence Yun anticipated the market improvement. "Some growth was inevitable after sub-par housing activity in the first quarter, but improved inventory is expanding choices and sales should generally trend upward from this point," he said. "Annual home sales, however, due to a sluggish first quarter, will likely be lower than last year." Nationally, total housing inventory increased 16.8 percent during April to 2.29 million units. The median time for homes to sell was 48 days in April, a decrease from 55 days in March, while 41 percent of April home sales were on the market for less than a month. MORTGAGE AFFORDABILITY UPDATE Freddie Mac reports the national average commitment rate for a conventional, 30-year fixed-rate mortgage at 4.34 percent in April, which is unchanged from March but up from 3.45 percent recorded in April 2013. Approximately 70 percent of investors paid cash during the month. Steve Brown, NAR President, sees a lot of opportunity in the current market. "The typical time on market shrunk in April, with four out of 10 homes selling in less than a month," he said. "Homes that show well and are properly priced tend to sell the fastest. More housing inventory gives buyers better choices, and takes the pressure off of the buying process, which is a welcome sign, especially for first-time buyers." SUMMER SELLING OPPORTUNITIES Sellers, you have an excellent opportunity to sell your home this season if you have the right pricing strategy in place from the start! Studies show that the longer a property stays on the market, the less the seller will net upon the sale. It is very important to price your property at a competitive market value at the signing of your listing contract. The market is so competitive that even over-pricing by a few thousand dollars could mean that your house will not sell. An Overpriced Home: · Minimizes offers · Lowers agents response · Limits qualified buyers · Lowers showings · Lowers prospects · Limits financing · Wastes advertising dollars · Nets less for the seller When you are ready, contact us today for a personal free market value analysis of your home. No hassles or obligation - just honest advice on how to get top dollar for your home!

Market Trends Real Estate Newsletter April 2014

Market Trends Real Estate Newsletter April 2014

Existing-Home Sales Report Existing-home prices were up across much of the country in February due to a lag in inventory levels, according to a recent report by the National Association of REALTORS (NAR). However, overall existing-home sales, which include recently purchased single family, townhomes, condominiums, and co-ops fell 0.4 percent during February to a seasona Continue Reading...    Low Rates Available Freddie Mac reports the national average commitment rate for a conventional, 30-year fixed-rate mortgage at 4.3 percent in February, down from 4.43 percent recorded in January 2014. Buyers were accessing rates of 3.53 percent in February 2013. First-time buyers were responsible for 28 percent of purchases in February, up from 26 percen Continue Reading...    The Best Selling Strategy Sellers, you have an excellent opportunity to sell your home this season, if you have the right pricing strategy in place from the start! Studies show that the longer a property stays on the market, the less the seller will net upon the sale. It is very important to price your property at a competitive market value at the signing of your listi Continue Reading...

The Aguilera Real Estate Team, Keller Williams Realty 2311-A North Tracy Blvd, Tracy CA 95376 Office: 209-597-8256   Visit http://www.tracyrealestatetoday.com

This Month in Real Estate March 2014 (US)

Savvy investors always seem to find great deals in the housing market. But the truth is there are always great deals out there. You just have think and act like an investor. In the last several years most areas have been in a buyer's market. However, with inventory at the lowest supply since 2005, chances are most of us are now in a seller's market. What does a housing market shift mean for home buyers?

Expect competition. Multiple offers are back. Homes with the best pricing, in the best condition, and in the best location go first. Be ready. It's more important than ever to be pre-qualified so that you're ready to write an offer at any time. An offer with a pre-qualification letter looks stronger and has a better chance at getting accepted. Prioritize. Being clear on your wants and needs is especially important in a seller's market.

You may have to compromise on some of your wants. However, you should never compromise on your needs. So work with your agent to be very clear on what you'd like to have your next home and what your "must-haves" are.

Home Sales Activity for March 2014 in the US:

Home sales activity was at an annual pace of $4.6 million with the median home price of $189,000. Home prices are down 4.5 percent from last month but are up almost 11 percent from the same month last year. The average national rate on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage edged back to 4.33 percent.

TracyRealEstateBlog - This Month in Real Estate February 2014 (US)

The secret to getting your house sold, more than a month faster than the competition is pricing your home right to start! If you're selling your house, the idea of pricing high to test the waters might sound appealing. But if your house is priced too high, you may be highlighting for buyers what a steal the house down the street is. Pricing your house right the first time will help ensure that you not only get offers, but that the offers come in earlier than if you'd priced too high.

According to KW Research, almost half of home sellers who priced their house according to their real estate agents' interpretation of its market value, sold almost twice as fast, and for more money than the competition.

Home Sales Activity for February 2014 in the US:

Annual Projected Home Sales for February 2014 was 4.9 million, with a Median Home Price of $198,000.

Home Prices are Up 1.3% since January 2014, and Up 9.9% since Last Year 2013!

This Month in Real Estate February 2014 (US) - Aguilera Real Estate Team Tracy Real Estate

TracyRealEstateBlog - This Month Real Estate US January 2014

This Month Real Estate US January 2014

According to a national survey of real estate transactions, over 90% of buyers start their search on the internet -- and then spend almost two months looking for homes before finally settling on the right one for them. That two month lag time means that houses that are on the market right now are in the best position to close in the early spring. So if you're looking to sell in the spring, you'll want to list the house now - and get a head-start on the competition.

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This Month Real Estate US January 2014 - Aguilera Real Estate Team | Tracy California Real Estate | Search Tracy CA Homes For Sale | Mountain House CA Real Estate

TracyRealEstateBlog - Housing Market Predictions for 2014

Housing Market Predictions for 2014

The road to recovery will continue through 2014. The chief economist for the National Association of Realtors (NAR) predicts home prices to increase an additional 6% next year. As a result, many now realize that it is a great time to buy a home before prices spike and a great opportunity to sell before inventory drastically increases. The following are 5 reasons to place your home on the market early in 2014.

1. Demand is High
The most recent Existing Home Sales Reports by the NAR show a double digit increase in sales year-over-year; home sales have remained above last year's levels for over 25 months now. There are buyers out there now that are serious about purchasing.
2. Supply Is Beginning to Increase
Total housing inventory has been gradually rising locally in Tracy up to a 1.9 month supply compared to a 0.9 supply back in April. Nationally, many expect inventory to continue to rise as 3.2 million homeowners escaped the shackles of negative equity in the last 12 months and an additional 1.9 million are expected to enter positive equity in the next 12 months. Selling now while demand is high and before supply starts to increase may obtain you your best price for your home.
3. New Construction Is Coming Back
Over the last several years, most homeowners selling their home did not have to compete with new construction projects around the block. As the market continues to recover, more and more builders are jumping back in to the market. These "Brand New" homes will again become competition as they are an attractive alternative for many buyers. 
4. Interest Rates Will Again Rise
Although Freddie Mac's Primary Mortgage Market Survey shows that interst rates for a 30-year mortgage have softened recently, most experts predict that they will begin to rise later this year. The Mortgage Bankers Association, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and the National Association of Realtors are all predicting that rates will be up almost a full percentage point by this time next year. Whether you are moving up or moving down, your housing expense a year from now when you purchase your next home. 
5. It's Time Move On with Your Life
Look at the reason you are thinking about selling and decide whether it's worth waiting. Is the possibility of a few extra dollars more important than being with family; more important than your health; more important than having the luxury and freedom to go on with your life the way you think you should? The answers to this are evident. You have the power to take back control of your situation by putting YOUR house on the market today. The time may be right for you and your family to start living the life you desire. That is what is most important. 

TracyRealEstateBlog - This Month In Real Estate(US) December 2013

Updating your house will not only make it more appealing to buyers when you decide to put it on the market, but it could also save you money on your utilities until you decide to sell.



This Month In Real Estate (US) December 2013 - Aguilera Real Estate Team Tracy California Real Estate

TracyRealEstateBlog - Monthly Market Trends Real Estate Newsletter December 2013

Market Trends
Real Estate Market Update Despite lower inventory and increased home prices, existing-home sales slid in October for the second consecutive month according to a recent report by the National Association of REALTORS (NAR). Existing-home sales, which include recently purchased single family, townhomes, condominiums, and co-ops declined 3.2 percent and are currently on pa Continue Reading...  Ready For Winter Winter is one of our favorite times of the year! It's often easy to overlook your home's needs with so much going on. Here is a simple checklist of items that can save you money through the winter: Check for leaks and drafts around the house. Replace weather stripping and re-caulk around doors and windows. Drafty doors and w Continue Reading...  Save Thousands In Interest Many people ask about bi-weekly payment plans designed to reduce the interest paid out over the course of your loan. These programs help the borrower budget an extra payment a year, and over time this can knock years off the repayment schedule. You might be surprised to learn that you can do this yourself without any special programs, Continue Reading...
Lisa Aguilera, Keller Williams Realty 2311-A North Tracy Blvd, Tracy CA 95376 Office: 209-597-8256 Visit http://www.tracyrealestatetoday.com

Monthly Market Trends Real Estate Newsletter December 2013 - Aguilera Real Estate Team Tracy California Real Estate

TracyRealEstateBlog-California Association of Realtors Market Snapshot

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California Association of Realtors Market Snapshot - Aguilera Real Estate Team Tracy California Real Estate