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Higher Rates and Short Supply: The State of Real Estate in 2022

June 20, 2022 Kathleen Sullivan No Comments

Higher Rates and Short Supply: The State of Real Estate in 2022

The last two years caught many of us off guard—and not just because of the pandemic. They also ushered in the hottest housing market on record, with home prices rising nationally by nearly 19% in 2021, driven primarily by low mortgage rates and a major supply shortage.¹

But while some had hoped 2022 would bring a return to normalcy, the U.S. real estate market continues to boom, despite rising interest rates and decreasing affordability.

So what’s driving this persistent demand? And is there an end in sight?

Here are three factors impacting the real estate market right now. Find out how they could affect you if you’re a current homeowner or plan to buy or sell a home this year.

MORTGAGE RATES ARE RISING FASTER THAN EXPECTED

Over the past couple of years, homebuyers have faced intense competition for new homes—in part due to historically low mortgage rates that were a result of the Federal Reserve’s efforts to keep the economy afloat during the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, in response to a concerning level of inflation, the Fed is now reversing those efforts by raising the federal funds rate. And as a result, mortgage rates are rising, as well. Few experts predicted, though, that mortgage rates would go up as quickly as they have.

In January 2022, the Mortgage Bankers Association projected that rates would reach 4% by the end of this year.² By mid-April, however, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate had already hit 5%, up from around 3% just one year prior.³ On a $400,000 mortgage, that 2% difference could translate into an additional $461 per monthly payment.

Since then, mortgage rates have continued on an upward trend. So what impact are these rising rates having on demand? While many buyers had hoped for a cooling effect, experts warn that may not be the case.

Ali Wolf, chief economist at housing market research firm Zanda, told Fortune magazine, "Rising mortgage rates are having a counterintuitive effect on the housing market. Home shoppers are actually sprung into action in an attempt to buy a home before mortgage rates rise any higher."⁴

Since inventory remains low, the resulting “race” has kept the homebuying market highly competitive–at least for now.

What does it mean for you?

While current 30-year fixed mortgage rates represent an increase over previous months, they remain well below the historical average of 8%.⁵ As inflation across the economy continues, the Fed is likely to raise rates further this year. Buyers should act fast to secure a good mortgage rate. We’d be happy to refer you to a lender who can help.

For sellers, speed is also of the essence. The pool of potential buyers may shrink as mortgages become more expensive. And if you plan to finance your next home, you’ll want to act quickly to secure a favorable rate for yourself. Contact us today to discuss your options.

HOME PRICES KEEP CLIMBING

History shows that higher interest rates don’t necessarily translate to lower home prices. In fact, home prices rose 5% between 1980 and 1982, a period of significantly higher mortgage rates and inflation.⁵

Forecasters expect that home prices will continue to go up throughout 2022, though likely at a slower pace than the 18.8% increase of the last 12 months.⁴ Bank of America predicts that prices will be up approximately 10% by the end of this year, while Fannie Mae estimates 11.2%.^6,7

In addition to limited supply and a race to beat rising mortgage rates, home values are also climbing because of positive economic indicators, like low unemployment.⁸ Plus, rents are soaring–up 17% from a year ago–which is prompting more first-time homebuyers to enter the market.⁹ Add to that the continued popularity of remote work, and it’s easy to see why property prices continue to surge.

However, it’s not all bad news for prospective homebuyers. Economists expect that as mortgage rates rise, the rate of appreciation will continue to taper, though the effect may be gradual.

“Eventually mortgage rates will slow down home prices,” according to Ken Johnson, an economist at Florida Atlantic University interviewed by Marketwatch.¹⁰ “We should not see rapid upticks in prices as mortgage rates rise.” Forecasters agree—Fannie Mae expects price increases to slow to 4.2% in 2023.⁷

What does it mean for you?

While the pace of appreciation is likely to decrease next year, home prices show no signs of going down. However, current labor shortages are leading to higher salaries and better job opportunities for many workers. You may find that your income growth outpaces home prices, making homeownership more affordable for you in the future.

For homeowners, the outlook’s even brighter. You could find yourself sitting on a nice pile of equity. Contact us for a free home value assessment to find out.

INVENTORY REMAINS EXTREMELY LO

As noted, one of the largest hurdles to homeownership is a lack of inventory. According to a February 2022 report by Realtor.com, there’s an expanding gap between household formation and home construction, which has resulted in a nationwide shortage of 5.8 million housing units.¹¹

The origins of this shortage date back to the 2008 housing crisis, during which crashing home values led contractors to stop building new properties—a trend that has not been fully reversed.¹²

That decline in home construction also resulted in a decrease in the number of home building professionals, a trend that was exacerbated by job losses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, many builders are limited by their ability to find qualified labor.

Another major challenge is a staggering increase in the cost of materials. Pandemic-related supply chain shortages have been a significant driver, with home building material costs rising on average 20% on a year-over-year basis. The price of framing lumber alone has tripled since August 2021.¹³

These trends add tens of thousands of dollars to the cost of a typical home. Factors like a lack of buildable land in many areas, restrictive zoning, and a shortage of developers are also contributing to the issue.¹⁴

Most homebuying experts agree that the lack of inventory is the primary factor driving rising housing prices and unprecedented competition for homes. With available housing units near four-decade lows, the end of the current housing boom is not yet in sight.¹⁵

What does it mean for you?

Prospective buyers should be prepared to compete for a home, since low inventory can lead to multiple offers. You may also need to expand your search parameters. If you’re ready to look, we’re ready to help.

For sellers, the picture is rosier. In this strong market, your home may be worth more than you realize. Contact us to find out how much your home could sell for in today’s market.

WE’RE HERE TO GUIDE YOU

While national real estate trends can provide a “big picture” outlook, real estate is local. And as local market experts, we can guide you through the ins and outs of our market and the local issues that are likely to drive home values in your particular neighborhood.

If you’re considering buying or selling a home, contact us now to schedule a free consultation. We can help you assess your options and make the most of this unique real estate landscape.

Sources:

Essex County Housing Report June 2022

June 13, 2022 Kathleen Sullivan No Comments

Essex County June Housing Report 6/12/2022

Year Over Year, May 2022 vs May 2021, Home Prices (Singles + Condos) continued to rise, but at a more modest pace. Unit sales declined and Active Listings and Inventory continued to Fall.

Month Over Month, May 2022 vs April 2022, Home Prices (Singles + Condos) were up. Unit Sales were up strongly which offset any increase in Active Listings which resulted in falling inventory.

30 year mortgage rates have risen dramatically since Jan 3rd from 3.27% to 5.85% and will likely rise to 6+% as the Federal Reserve fights inflation by raising interest rates and reducing its purchase of Government and Mortgage Backed Securities. This will dampen housing demand and slow the rate of price increases.

Bottom line, the Sellers’ Market remains intact as inventory remains at an extremely low level. However, home price increases are slowing down as rising mortgage rates take effect.

Month Over Month, May 2022 vs April 2022,

Median Sold Prices:â€¨
Single Families +6.9%; Condos -1.1%; Multi-Families +14.7%
Unit Sales: â€¨
Single Families +41.0%, Condos +22.5%, Multi-Families -4.8%
Active Listings:â€¨
Single Families +12.9%, Condos -8.2%, Multi-Families +9.8%
Current Months of Inventory:â€¨
Single Families 1.2, Condos 0.9, Multi-Families 2.1.

Year Over Year, May 2022 vs May 2021

Median Sold Prices: â€¨
Single Families +5.8%; Condos +9%; Multi-Families +22.5%
Unit Sales:â€¨
Single Families -4.9% , Condos +2.9%, Multi-Families -26.8%.
Active Listings:â€¨
Single Families -15.3%; Condos -36.8%; Multi-Families -28.5%
Months of Inventory:â€¨
Single Families -7.7%, Condos -35.7%, Multi-Families 0%.

To view data for every Essex County town, go to: http://www.sullivanteam.com/Properties/Reports/Public/Charts.php
To Download the full housing report go to: http://sullivanteam.com/pages/EssexCountyHousingReports

Essex County Housing Report May 2022

May 9, 2022 Kathleen Sullivan No Comments

Essex County May Housing Report 5/07/2022

After a sluggish Jan and Feb, the April Housing Market (single family & condos) continues to improve. Active Listings and Unit Sales rose 11% and 13% respectively from March. However, compared to April 2021, Active Listings and Unit Sales are still down -34% and -19% respectively. Months of Inventory remains at record low levels: Single Family 1.2 months, Condos 1 Month, Multi-Family 1.4 months. Thus, the strong Sellers’ Market continues.

30 year mortgage rates have risen dramatically since Jan 1st from 3.27% to 5.64% and will likely rise to 6+% as the Federal Reserve fights inflation by raising interest rates and reducing its purchase of Government and Mortgage Backed Securities. This will dampen housing demand and slow the rate of price increases.

Bottom line, the strong Sellers’ Market and rising prices will continue but the rate of price increases will slow.

Month Over Month, April 2022 vs March 2022,

Median Sold Prices up for Singles and Condos but fell for Multies:â€¨

Single Families +4.4%; Condos +7.3%; Multi-Families -2.9%
Unit Sales up markedly: â€¨

Single Families +13.9%, Condos +9.9%, Multi-Families +14.5%
Active Listings (Inventory) up double digit:â€¨

Single Families +10.4%, Condos +12.1%, Multi-Families +12.2%

Year Over Year, April 2022 vs April 2021, Prices Up but Inventory and Unit Sales Down Double Digit

Median Sold Prices Up: â€¨

Single Families +3.7%; Condos +20.1%; Multi-Families +8%
Unit Sales Fell as inventory fell:â€¨

Single Families -23% , Condos -11.5%, Multi-Families -25%.
Active Listings (Inventory) continued to Plummet:â€¨

Single Families -29.8%; Condos -40.7%; Multi-Families -42.9%
- To view data for every Essex County town, go to: http://www.sullivanteam.com/Properties/Reports/Public/Charts.php
- To Download the full housing report go to: http://sullivanteam.com/pages/EssexCountyHousingReports

Seller's Checklist: A Timeline to Prep Your Home for Sale

April 19, 2022 Kathleen Sullivan No Comments

Seller’s Checklist: A Timeline to Prep Your Home for Sale

We’re still in a seller’s market, but that doesn’t mean your home is guaranteed to easily sell.¹ If you want to maximize your sale price, it’s still important to prepare your home before putting it on the market.

Start by connecting with a real estate agent as soon as possible. Having the eyes and ears of an insightful real estate professional on your side can help you boost your home’s appeal to buyers. What’s more, beginning the preparation process early allows you to tackle repairs and upgrades that can increase your property’s value.

Use the checklist below to figure out what other tasks you should complete in the months leading up to listing your home. While everyone’s situation is unique, these guidelines will help you make sure you’re ready to sell when the time is right. Of course, you can always call us if you’re not sure where to start or what to tackle first. We can help customize a plan that works for you.

AS SOON AS YOU THINK OF SELLING

Some home sellers want to plan their future move far in advance, while others will be required to pack up on very short notice. Whatever your circumstances, these first steps will help assure you’ll be ahead of the listing game.

Contact Your Real Estate Agent

We go the extra mile when it comes to servicing our clients, and that includes a series of complimentary, pre-listing consultations to help you prepare your home for the market.

Some sellers make the mistake of waiting until they are ready to list their home to contact a real estate agent. But we’ve found that the earlier we’re brought into the process, the better the result. That often means a faster sale—and more money in your pocket after closing.

We know what buyers want in today’s market, and we can help devise a plan to maximize your property’s appeal. We can also connect you with our trusted network of contractors, vendors, and service professionals, so you’ll be sure to get the VIP treatment. This network of support can alleviate stress and help ensure you get everything done in the weeks or months leading up to listing.

Address Major Issues and Upgrades

In most cases, you won’t need to make any major renovations before you list. But if you’re selling an older home, or if you have any doubt about its condition, it’s best to get us involved as soon as possible so we can help you assess any necessary repairs.

In some instances, we may recommend a pre-listing inspection. Although it's less common in a seller's market, a pre-listing inspection can help you avoid potential surprises down the road. We can discuss the pros and cons during our initial meeting.

This is the time to address major structural, systems, or cosmetic issues that could hurt the sale of your home down the line. For example, problems with the frame, foundation, or roof are likely to be flagged on an inspection report. Issues with the HVAC system, electrical wiring, or plumbing may cause the home to be unsafe. And sometimes outdated or unpopular design features can limit a home’s sales potential.

Remember, when you’re dealing with major repairs or renovations, it’s best to give yourself as much time as possible. Given rampant labor and material shortages, starting right away can help you avoid costly delays.² Contact us so we can guide you on the updates that are worth your time and investment.

1 MONTH (OR MORE) BEFORE YOU LIST

Once any large-scale renovations have been addressed, you can turn your attention to the more minor updates that still play a major role in how buyers perceive your home.

Make Minor Repairs

Look for any unaddressed maintenance or repair issues, such as water spots, pest activity, and rotten siding. This is the time to take care of those small annoyances like squeaky hinges, sticking doors, and leaky faucets, too.

Many of these issues can be handled by going the DIY route and using a few simple tools. Tackle the ones you can and be sure to call a professional for the ones you’re not comfortable doing yourself. We can refer you to local service providers who can help.

Remember that it’s easy to overlook these small issues because you live with them. When you work with us, you get a fresh set of eyes on your home—so you don’t miss any important repairs that could make a big difference to buyers.

Refresh Your Design

This is a great time to think about some simple design updates that can make a significant impression on buyers. For example, a fresh coat of paint is an easy and affordable way to spruce up your home. One survey found that interior paint offered a 107% return on investment.³ For broad appeal, opt for warm, neutral colors.

And never underestimate the importance of good curb appeal. Homes with good curb appeal sell for 7% more, on average, than similar homes with an “uninviting exterior.”⁴ If weather permits, lay fresh sod where needed, plant colorful flowers, and add some new mulch to your beds.

Even just repositioning your furniture can make a huge difference to buyers. A survey by the Real Estate Staging Association found that staged homes sold faster, and 73% sold over list price.⁵ We can refer you to a local stager or offer our insights and suggestions if you prefer the DIY route.

Declutter and Depersonalize

Doing a little bit of decluttering every day is a lot easier than trying to take care of it all at once right before your home hits the market. A simple strategy is to do this one room at a time, working your way through each space whenever you have a bit of free time.

Start by donating or discarding items that you no longer want or need. Then pack up any seasonal items, family photos, and personal collections you can live without for the next few weeks. Bonus: This will give you a head start on packing for your move!

1 WEEK BEFORE YOU GO TO MARKET

With just one week before your home is available for sale, all major items should be crossed off your to-do list. Now it’s time to focus on the small details that will really make your home shine. Here are a few key areas to focus on during this last week.

Check-In With Your Agent

We’ll connect again to make sure we’re aligned on the listing price, marketing plan, and any remaining prep. We will be there every step of the way, ensuring you’re fully prepared to maximize the sale of your home.

Tidy Your Exterior

You’ve already done the major landscaping—now it’s time to tackle the last few details. Make sure your lawn is freshly mowed, hedges are trimmed, and flower beds are weeded.

In addition, now is the time to clean your home’s exterior if you haven’t already. Power wash your siding, empty the gutters, and wash all your windows and screens.

Deep Clean Your Interior

Your house should be deep cleaned before listing, including a thorough deodorizing of the home’s interior and steam cleaning for all carpets. Consider hiring a professional cleaning company to ensure the space smells and looks as fresh as possible.

In addition to cleaning, take some time to tidy up. Buyers will look inside your closets, pantries, and cabinets, so make sure they are neat and organized. Small appliances and toiletries should be cleared off the countertops.

DAY OF SHOWING

Now you’re all set to go and there are just a few small things you need to handle on the day of showings or open houses. Do a final walk-through and take care of these finishing touches to give potential buyers the best possible impression.

Pre-Showing Prep

Happy and comfortable buyers are more likely to submit offers! Make them feel at home by adjusting the thermostat to a comfortable temperature. Open any blinds and curtains throughout the house, and turn on all lights so buyers can see all the potential in your home.

Then tidy up by vacuuming and sweeping floors, emptying (or hiding) trash cans, and wiping down countertops. In the bathrooms, close toilet lids and hang clean hand towels.

Don’t forget to secure firearms, jewelry, sensitive documents, prescription medications, and any other items of value in a safe or store them off-site.

Finally, it’s best to have pets out of the house during showings. If possible, you should also remove evidence of pets (litter box, dog beds, etc.), which can be a turn-off for some buyers.

DON’T WAIT TO PREP YOUR HOME FOR SELLING

If you want to get top dollar for your home, don’t put it on the market before it’s ready. The right preparation can make all the difference when it comes to maximizing the offers you get. The upgrades and changes you need to make will depend upon your home’s condition, so don’t wait to speak with an agent.

Call our team if you’re thinking about selling your home, even if you’re not sure when. It’s never too early to seek the guidance of your real estate agent and start preparing your home to sell.

Sources:

Real Estate Staging Association -
https://www.realestatestagingassociation.com/content.aspx?page_id=22&club_id=304550&module_id=164548

Essex County Housing Report April 2022

April 15, 2022 Kathleen Sullivan No Comments

30 Year Mortgage rates rise to 5.15%

Essex County housing market snapped back in March from a dismal February.

Month Over Month, March 2022 vs Feb 2022,

Median Sold Prices up strongly:â€¨

Single Families +6.3%; Condos +17.7%; Multi-Families +8.2%
Unit Sales up double digit: â€¨

Single Families +26.4%, Condos +29.3%, Multi-Families +37.5%
Active Listings (Inventory) Mixed:â€¨

Single Families +3.3%, Condos -7.3%, Multi-Families +10.3%

Year Over Year, March 2022 vs March 2021, Prices Up and Inventory Down Double Digit

Median Sold Price Up : â€¨

Single Families +9.2%; Condos +7.7%; Multi-Families +19.2%
Unit Sales Fell from a lack of inventory:â€¨

Single Families -7.4% , Condos -7.7%, Multi-Families -12.7%.
Active Listings (Inventory) continued to Plummet:â€¨

Single Families -33.7%; Condos -47%; Multi-Families -47.9%

To view data for every Essex County town, go to: http://www.sullivanteam.com/Properties/Reports/Public/Charts.php
To Download the full housing report go to: http://sullivanteam.com/pages/EssexCountyHousingReports

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March 22, 2022 Kathleen Sullivan No Comments

Hedge Against Inflation With These 3 Real Estate Investment Types

March 14, 2022 Kathleen Sullivan No Comments

Hedge Against Inflation With These 3 Real Estate Investment Types

The annual inflation rate in the United States is currently around 7.5%—the highest it has been since 1982.¹ It doesn’t matter if you’re a cashier, lawyer, plumber, or retiree; if you spend U.S. dollars, inflation impacts you.

Economists expect the effects of inflation, like a higher cost of goods, to continue.² Luckily, an investment in real estate can ease some of the financial strain.

Here’s what you need to know about inflation, how it impacts you, and how an investment in real estate can help.

WHAT IS INFLATION AND HOW DOES IT IMPACT ME?

Inflation is a decline in the value of money. When the rate of inflation rises, prices for goods and services go up. Therefore, a dollar buys you a little bit less with every passing day.

The consumer price index, or CPI, is a standard measure of inflation. Based on the latest CPI data, prices increased 7.5% from January 2021 to January 2022.¹ A little bit of inflation is considered healthy for the economy, but 7.5% in a single year is high.

How does inflation affect your life? Here are a few of the negative impacts

Decreased Purchasing Power

We touched on this already, but as prices rise, your dollar won’t stretch as far as it used to. That means you’ll be able to purchase fewer goods and services with a limited budget.

Increased Borrowing Costs

In an effort to curb inflation, the Federal Reserve is expected to raise the federal funds rate. Therefore, consumers are likely to pay a higher interest rate on new mortgages, car loans, and variable-rate credit cards.³

Lower Standard of Living

Wage growth tends to lag behind price increases. According to Moody Analytics, when adjusted for inflation, average weekly earnings in January were down 3.1% from a year earlier.⁴ As such, life is becoming less affordable for everyone. Inflation can force those on a fixed income, like retirees, to make lifestyle changes and prioritize essentials.

Eroded Savings

If you store all your savings in a bank account, inflation is even more damaging. As of February 2022, the national average interest rate for a savings account is 0.06%, not nearly enough to keep up with inflation. And economists don’t expect that rate to go much higher.³

One of the best ways to mitigate these effects is to find a place to invest your money other than the bank. Even though interest rates are expected to rise, they’re unlikely to get high enough to beat inflation. If you hoard cash, the value of your money will decrease every year and more rapidly in years with elevated inflation.

REAL ESTATE: A PROVEN HEDGE AGAINST INFLATION

So where is a good place to invest your money to protect (hedge) against the impacts of inflation? There are several investment vehicles that financial advisors traditionally recommend, including:

Stocks
Some people invest in stocks as their primary inflation hedge. However, the stock market can become volatile during inflationary times, as we’ve seen in recent months.⁵

Commodities
Commodities are tangible assets, like oil, livestock, and minerals. The theory is that the price of commodities should climb alongside inflation. But the classic choice–gold–hasn’t risen consistently during periods of inflation since the 1970s, according to data from Morningstar Direct.⁶

Inflation-Indexed Bonds
Treasury inflation-protected securities, or TIPS, are U.S. government-issued bonds that are indexed to the inflation rate. Bonds are considered low risk, but the returns they offer are generally low, as well.⁷

Real Estate
Real estate prices across the board tend to rise along with inflation and often rise faster than inflation.⁸That’s one of the reasons demand for real estate is soaring right now.⁹

We believe real estate is the best hedge against inflation. Owning real estate does more than protect your wealth—it can actually make you money. For example, home prices rose nearly 17% from 2020 to 2021, 10% ahead of the 7% inflation that occurred in the same timeframe.¹⁰

Plus, certain types of real estate investments can help you generate a stream of passive income. In the past year, property owners didn’t just avoid the erosion of purchasing power caused by inflation; they got ahead.

TYPES OF REAL ESTATE INVESTMENTS

Though there are myriad ways to invest in real estate, there are three basic investment types that we recommend for beginner and intermediate investors. Remember that we can help you determine which options are best for your financial goals and budget.

Primary Residence

If you own your home, you’re already ahead. The advantages of homeownership become even more apparent in inflationary times. As inflation raises prices throughout the economy, the value of your home is likely to go up concurrently. At the same time, you’ve locked in a set mortgage payment for the next 30 years, so you’ll be immune to rising rental costs.

If you don’t already own your primary residence, homeownership is a worthwhile goal to pursue.

Though the task of saving enough for a down payment may seem daunting, there are several strategies that can make homeownership easier to achieve. If you’re not sure how to get started with the home buying process, contact us. Our team can help you find the strategy and property that fits your needs and budget.

Whether you already own a primary residence or are still renting, now is a good time to also start thinking about an investment property. The types of investment properties you’ll buy as a solo investor generally fall into two categories: long-term rentals and short-term rentals.

Long-Term (Traditional) Rentals

A long-term or traditional rental is a dwelling that’s leased out for an extended period. An example of this is a single-family home where a tenant signs a one-year lease and brings all their own furniture.

Long-term rentals are a form of housing. For most tenants, the rental serves as their primary residence, which means it’s a necessary expense. This unique quality of long-term rentals can help to provide stable returns in uncertain times, especially when we have high inflation.

To invest in a long-term rental, you’ll need to budget for maintenance, repairs, property taxes, and insurance. You’ll also need to have a plan for managing the property. But a well-chosen investment property should pay for itself through rental income, and you’ll benefit from appreciation as the property rises in value.

We can help you find an ideal long-term rental property to suit your budget and investment goals. Reach out to talk about your needs and our local market opportunities.

Short-Term (Vacation) Rentals

Short-term or vacation rentals function more like hotels in that they offer temporary accommodations. A short-term rental is defined as a residential dwelling that is rented for 30 days or less. The furniture and other amenities are provided by the property owner, and today many short-term rentals are listed on websites like Airbnb and Vrbo.

A short-term rental can potentially earn you a higher return than a long-term rental, but this comes at the cost of daily, hands-on management. With a short-term rental, you’re not just entering the real estate business; you’re entering the hospitality business, too.

Done right, short-term rentals can be both a hedge against inflation and a profitable source of income. As a bonus, when the home isn’t being rented you have an affordable vacation spot for yourself and your family!

Contact us today if you’re interested in exploring options in either the long-term or short-term rental market. Mortgage rates are expected to rise, so you’ll want to act fast to maximize your investment return.

WE’RE INVESTED IN HELPING YOU

Inflation is a fact of life in the U.S. economy. Luckily, you can prepare for inflation with a carefully managed investment portfolio that includes real estate. Owning a primary residence or investing in a short-term or long-term rental will help you both mitigate the effects of inflation and grow your net worth, which makes it a strategic move in our current financial environment.

If you’re ready to invest in real estate to build wealth and protect yourself from rising inflation, contact us. Our team can help you find a primary residence or investment property that meets your financial goals.

The above references an opinion and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be financial advice. Consult the appropriate professionals for advice regarding your individual needs.

Sources:

Essex County Housing Report March 2022

March 11, 2022 Kathleen Sullivan No Comments

Essex County Housing Report March 2022

February Inventory remains at a record low for Singles, Condos and Multis.

30 Year Mortgage Rate have risen to 4.28%.

Prices and Unit Sales fell from Jan to Feb for Singles, Condos, Multis.

Month Over Month, Feb 22 vs Jan 21,

Median Sold Prices fell:
Single Families -2.6%; Condos -12.7%; Multi-Families -1.2%
Unit Sales were Down:
Single Families -30.3%, Condos -16.8%, Multi-Families -34.4%
Active Listings (Inventory) Down:
Single Families -3.3%, Condos -19.7%, Multi-Families 0%

Year Over Year, Feb 2022 vs Feb 2021, Unit Sales and Inventory Down

Median Sold Price Mixed:
Single Families +1.6%; Condos -5.9%; Multi-Families +9.4%
Unit Sales Fell:
Single Families -21.3% , Condos -15.7%, Multi-Families -23.1%.
Active Listings (Inventory) Down:
Single Families -34.0%; Condos -46.6%; Multi-Families -54.3%

To view data for every Essex County town, go to: http://www.sullivanteam.com/Properties/Reports/Public/Charts.php
To Download the full housing report go to: http://sullivanteam.com/pages/EssexCountyHousingReports

8 Popular Home Design Features for 2022

February 25, 2022 Kathleen Sullivan No Comments

There’s a lot to consider when selling your home, from the market and appraisals to where you’ll go next. Don’t forget, however, that design is also a key factor. It’s often one of the first things buyers notice when they walk into a home, and it’s also a detail that you, as a seller, can easily control.

According to Realtor.com’s 2022 housing market forecast, home for-sale inventory will increase from last year, as will the projected number of overall sales.¹ This means, if you’re looking to sell in the near future, now is the time to consider how you can stand out.

Updating your home design is one way to do that. Changes like new security features or upgraded siding can add value to your home now and be highlighted when you market it for sale later. To get the most out of your updates, focus on these popular home design features that will wow buyers in 2022.

Keep in mind, not all of these will work well in every house. If you plan to buy, list, or renovate a property, give us a call. We can help you realize your vision and maximize the impact of your investment.

Eco-Friendly Fixtures

Millennials account for the largest share of current homebuyers, according to the National Association of Realtors.²Sustainable living tops the list of priorities for this generation. A recent Deloitte survey found that nearly one-third of millennials initiate or deepen their consumer investment in products or services that help the environment—this also includes the houses they choose to live in.³

Here are a few eco-friendly design features that will be attractive to these millennial buyers in 2022. Bonus, they can net a significant return on investment (ROI) for you, as a seller, too.

Energy-Efficient Windows: Heat gain or loss from low-performance windows drives 25–30 percent of home heating and cooling costs, according to Energy.gov.⁴ Therefore, energy-efficient windows can help homeowners save money.
Low-Flow Water Fixtures: According to the EPA, replacing your shower head with one that’s labeled with WaterSense can save four gallons of water with each shower.⁵ Doing the same with your faucet can save 700 gallons per year. This leads to cost savings and environmental support.
Native Landscaping: According to the American Society of Landscape Architects, 58 percent of members report increased client demand for native trees and plants as a means to combat biodiversity loss from climate change..⁶ Enhance the eco-friendly appeal of your home with some native plants in the front yard.

Wellness Retreat Nooks

The pandemic has had a significant impact on mental health. For example, in an effort to prioritize mental health, many people are relocating to quieter, more peaceful homes, with 22 percent of city dwellers planning a move to less congested residential areas, according to the Home Improvement Research Institute’s (HIRI) 2021 Insights Summit.⁷

However, no matter where you live, you can still intrigue buyers by jumping on this trend. At-home wellness amenities, which were once viewed as luxuries, are now on many homeowners’ must-have lists. Indoor spaces that function as a retreat for wellness and self-care have become extremely popular, according to HIRI.

Improve your quality of life in your home with reading nooks, spa-inspired bathrooms, and exercise or meditation spaces. Even if your house doesn’t have the square footage to section off an entire room for relaxation, making simple tweaks to natural light, air purifiers, and indoor plants can help you feel better in your home now while enabling future buyers to see the opportunity for their own space.

Calming Paint Colors

Paint colors that produce a calming atmosphere will also be a key selling point in 2022. Soft earth tones and natural hues will prevail this year, including various shades of blue, green, brown, and beige. Recent research suggests steering clear of trendy paint colors in favor of a more classic palette to bring the feel of nature indoors in a subtle and soothing way.⁸

In fact, the same research found that buyers are often willing to pay an extra $4,698 for a house with a light blue bathroom or an extra $1,491 for a house with a dark blue bedroom. Another crowd-pleasing hue to refresh the walls with is BEHR’s 2022 paint color of the year, known as Breezeway.⁹

This shade of green with silver undertones was created to mimic sea glass. As the BEHR website describes it, Breezeway “evokes feelings of coolness and peace, while representing a desire to move forward and discover newfound passions.”

Home Safety Features

Buyers want peace of mind more now than ever before. According to a 2021 survey from the American Institute of Architects, members report seeing an increase in the popularity of these home safety features¹⁰:

Emergency backup power generation
Accommodations for multiple generations
Wider accessible doorways and hallways
Home security monitoring equipment
Interior ramps and home elevator features

Consider how you can build home safety features like these into the design of your home to enhance your quality of life now and attract more buyers later. For example, you could install a backup generator in the garage and sell it with the house or update your major doorways to be wider.

Before making an investment in expensive home safety upgrades, contact us. We can help you determine what will deliver the greatest ROI for your location and goals.

Designated Work Spaces

It may come as no surprise that after the pandemic, 63 percent of homebuyers want their next house to feature room for a designated office, according to the National Association of Home Builders.¹¹ In addition, 70 percent of these buyers want the office to be at least 100 square feet (or a 10x10 room).

If you can, consider turning a bedroom or a den into a work-from-home office. When designing the space, make it both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Position a desk near the window for natural light, install a bookshelf unit, arrange a few succulents on the work surface, and hang a few framed posters or a cork bulletin board on the wall. You want the space to foster productivity as well as be a place in your home you enjoy spending time.

When you get ready to sell, we can help you highlight your designated work space. Given the high demand for this design feature, it can help you interest more buyers and attract more competitive offers—if marketed creatively.

Luxury Kitchen Retouches

The kitchen has always been a main focal point of interior design, and that’s no different in 2022. Families will always need this space to come together in their own homes.

This year’s buyers want a kitchen with new upgrades and retouches, but you don’t have to renovate the entire kitchen to make an impact. If you’re not sure where to start, here are a few tips on how to create a kitchen that buyers will love without spending too much money on renovations:

Repaint the kitchen, keeping the calm and nature-inspired colors in mind that are most popular right now. Taking a kitchen from dark to light by painting cabinets and walls can make all the difference.
Update the hardware. These kitchen “accessories” stand out and add personality to an otherwise standard kitchen.
Update light fixtures to bring in more light while also adding a fresh look and feel to the space.

Unique Accent Walls

In a recent interview with the National Association of Realtors, Brian Santos, the director of education for Fresh Coat Painters, explains that bold, unique accent walls are trendy right now.¹² An accent wall gives a home character while maintaining the calming feel of natural- and neutral-colored walls.

Santos also explains that this is part of a design aesthetic that draws inspiration from the Roaring Twenties, and it’s likely to remain a sought-after home feature in 2022. Here are some bold colors to consider for your home’s accent walls:

Solid black
Jewel or metallic tones
Textured wallpaper
Painted ceilings
Built-in shelves

If you’re planning to sell in the next year, talk to us before adding an accent wall. Depending on your target buyer, it may be a design feature that actually hurts your home’s value. We can run a free Comparative Market Analysis on your home to help you understand what would resell best in your neighborhood.

Exterior Siding Updates

A new exterior siding refresh is one of the most affordable renovation projects you can do to help increase a home’s resale value. The average cost is just $12 per square foot, but higher-end material options can push costs closer to $50 per square foot.¹³ What’s more, there are many siding materials available, from fiber-cement, brick, and wood to vinyl, metal, and stone.

While all these options can infuse the exterior with character and add curb appeal, fiber-cement and vinyl deliver the highest ROI. In fact, according to a 2021 Cost vs. Value Report, a vinyl siding replacement can boost resale value by $11,315 (68.3 percent cost recoup), and a fiber-cement siding replacement can boost resale value by $13,618 (69.4 percent cost recoup).¹⁴

Give your home this simple, affordable, and attractive facelift before putting it on the market. If you’re not sure how to get started yourself, our team can connect you with a trusted vendor to guide you through the process.

Keep These Home Design Features on Your Radar in 2022

These design features can infuse personality into your home while helping to close the deal if you plan to sell in 2022. The average buyer knows just what they’re looking for in a space they plan to call home, so with some investment and foresight, you can give your house an edge over the competition—and boost resale value in the process.

However, you don’t need to make all these changes to attract more buyers. We can help you determine which design features you should add to your home by sharing insights and tips on how to maximize the return on your investment. We can also run a Comparative Market Analysis on your home to find out how it compares to others in the area, which will help us decide what changes need to be made. Contact us to schedule a free consultation!

Sources:

Realtor -
https://www.realtor.com/research/2022-national-housing-forecast/
National Association of Realtors -
https://www.nar.realtor/research-and-statistics/research-reports/home-buyer-and-seller-generational-trends
Deloitte -
https://www2.deloitte.com/content/dam/Deloitte/global/Documents/2021-deloitte-global-millennial-survey-report.pdf
Energy.gov -
https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/update-or-replace-windows
EPA.gov -
https://www.epa.gov/watersense/about-watersense
American Society of Landscape Architects -
https://www.asla.org/NewsReleaseDetails.aspx?id=60427
Home Improvement Research Institute -
https://www.hiri.org/blog/4-major-home-wellness-trends-from-hiri-summit-speaker-dr-jie-zhao
Zillow -
http://zillow.mediaroom.com/2021-07-15-Homes-With-Light-Blue-Bathrooms,-Dark-Blue-Bedrooms-Could-Sell-for-Up-to-4,698-More-Than-Expected
Behr -
https://www.behr.com/colorfullybehr/behr-announces-2022-color-of-the-year-and-trends-palette/
American Institute of Architects -
http://info.aia.org/AIArchitect/2021/0910/aia-interactive/index.html#
National Association of Home Builders -
â€‹â€‹https://www.nahb.org/-/media/NAHB/news-and-economics/docs/housing-economics-plus/special-studies/2021/special-study-what-home-buyers-really-want-march-2021.pdf?_ga=2.188050984.1824982414.1639512139-1247360189.1639512139
National Association of Realtors -
https://www.nar.realtor/blogs/styled-staged-sold/hot-home-trend-the-accent-wall-is-back
Forbes -
https://www.forbes.com/advisor/home-improvement/how-much-does-siding-cost-to-install/
Remodeling Magazine -
https://www.remodeling.hw.net/cost-vs-value/2021/

Essex County Housing Report February 2022

February 8, 2022 Kathleen Sullivan No Comments

Essex County February Housing Report 2/7/2022

January Inventory was a record low for Singles, Condos and Multis.

30 Year Mortgage Rate have risen to 3.87%.

Month Over Month, Jan 22 vs Dec 21,

Median Sold Prices fell for Singles and Multis but rose for Condos:
Single Families -4.2%; Condos +1.3%%; Multi-Families -1.5%
Unit Sales were Down:
Single Families -38.5%, Condos -38.2%, Multi-Families -45.9%
Active Listings (Inventory) Down:
Single Families -40.6%, Condos -27.4%, Multi-Families -51.7%

Year Over Year, Jan 2022 vs Jan 2021, Prices Up, Unit Sales and Inventory Down

Median Sales Price Up:
Single Families +9.1%; Condos +14.0%; Multi-Families +8.9%
Unit Sales Fell:
Single Families -8.2% , Condos -16.2%, Multi-Families -22.1%.
Active Listings (Inventory) Down:
Single Families -45.3%; Condos -44.3%; Multi-Families -66.9%

Terry

To view data for every Essex County town, go to: http://www.sullivanteam.com/Properties/Reports/Public/Charts.php
To Download the full housing report go to: http://sullivanteam.com/pages/EssexCountyHousingReports

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