5 Things for Home Buyers and Sellers to Consider in 2024

Does 2024 include a big move for you? From first-time buyers to seasoned investors, here’s a list of five things for home buyers and sellers to consider in 2024 to better prepare them for the real estate journey ahead.

Interest and mortgage rates.

It’s always a good idea for potential home buyers and sellers to keep an eye on interest and mortgage rates. Since October 2023, mortgage rates have begun to steadily decline from 8% to 7–6%. But rates will most likely remain volatile.

Experts suggest paying attention to the Federal Reserve’s interest rate decisions for a hint at where mortgage rates are going in 2024. 

The long-term value of owning a home. 

Homeownership is one of the most reliable and quickest ways to build wealth for a variety of reasons. First of all, it stabilizes a homeowner’s housing expenses with fixed monthly payments. Second of all, as you continue to pay off your mortgage loan, you build equity in the home.

Hence, you add value to your net worth.

Think about what you need versus what you would like. 

Whether you are a first-time home buyer or you’ve done it before, figuring out your needs versus what you want helps you narrow your search. And, from there, you can begin adding on those wants. 

Industry experts have predicted that a few of those key features for 2024 include sustainability, luxury amenities and seamless outdoor-indoor living spaces. 

Calculate your budget. 

Knowing your budget is not a new idea, but it remains one of the top things for home buyers and sellers to consider in 2024. In general, designating about 25% of your net income toward a mortgage payment is a good rule of thumb. 

It’s a good idea to work with your local Realtor or mortgage lender to help calculate your budget. 

Working with an experienced local Realtor. 

Finally, when it comes to things for home buyers and sellers to consider in 2024, working with a knowledgeable local expert is key. In terms of finding the right Realtor for you, talk to a few different Realtors. Ask them questions, read their reviews and ask about their rates and fees, for example.

If you aren’t sure where to start when it comes to finding a Realtor in Lee County, our member search offers a listing of Realtors, real estate offices, affiliates and more. 

Summary

A new year goes hand-in-hand with new possibilities and opportunities, and that includes investing in real estate. Become more familiar with our local market and the opportunities ahead by connecting with us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn, where we share local statistics, insights and more. For more buying and selling tips, local news and trends, continue to read our blogs. 

Real Estate Defined: An Overview of Seller Concessions

Buying a home is a big deal. Selling a home is a big deal. There are a lot of moving parts and factors to consider on both sides, including the cost. But costs can quickly go beyond a list price. Let’s look at an overview of seller concessions as an example.

What are seller concessions?

The best way to begin an overview of seller concessions is to explain what seller concessions are exactly. To simplify, seller concessions can sweeten the deal and could help expedite the selling process.

More specifically, seller concessions cover specific costs associated with buying a house that the seller agrees to pay. Seller concessions could include certain home improvements or repairs as well as some of the closing costs.

For instance, seller concessions may include several different fees such as the inspection fees, appraisal fees and the attorney fees.

Even though seller concessions can help lower the upfront costs and attract buyers, there are pros and cons for both buyers and sellers.

Seller concessions for buyers and sellers

For buyers, the upside to seller concessions is it can save you a significant amount at the closing table, making a home more affordable. This can also allow potential buyers the chance to make a higher offer, which may have a better chance of standing out in a competitive market.

From the seller’s perspective, seller concessions may speed up the sale of your property by making it more attractive to buyers in a crowded market.

Summary

Now that you’ve read an overview of seller concessions and what they could mean for you as a buyer or seller, reach out to your local Realtor to discuss your next move within our market. You can also learn more about our local market, real estate trends and other industry news by reading our blogs!

3 Tips for Selling Your Home During the Holiday Season

Selling your home takes work, and during the holiday season, unique circumstances could come up. However, buyers during this time are often more serious, and typically there are fewer homes being listed to compete with. Check out these tips for selling your home during the holiday season.

Make your home cozy.

It is important your home feels inviting during showings; that’s why decorating is vital. Homes often look their best during the holiday season, but be careful not to overdo the seasonal decorations.

As buyers tour homes, they will want to be welcomed by an inviting environment. Add décor pieces such as candles, throw blankets, traditional holiday patterns, and even foliage when styling your home. Avoid using personalized holiday décor, such as stockings with names and personal holiday cards.

Take good listing photos. 

While these holiday decorations make buyers touring your home feel welcome, your listing photos should have a timeless feel. Make sure the photos on your listing aren’t just a snapshot of a moment in time during a holiday.

Using a holiday photo on your listing may remind buyers that your home has been sitting on the market for some time.  

Hire a dependable real estate agent.

A good real estate agent will help guide you through the process of selling your home. It is important you hire an agent who won’t disappear during Thanksgiving, Christmas, or the New Year.

Find a reliable agent by asking your friends and family if they have any recommendations. Ease your stress by doing this and utilizing other tips for selling your home during the holiday season.

Summary

Are you thinking about selling your home? Keep in mind these tips for selling your home during the holiday season. These strategies will be sure to help you prepare to list your home and get it sold as quickly as possible.

Continue reading our blogs for more real estate news and tips!