Dave Stevens, CEO of the MBA of America and former FHA Commissioner, spoke recently in Richmond. He addressed the inventory levels in housing and the huge Echo boomer generation of buyers that is coming of age.
There are some signs of bright spots out there! And a bullish future. The attached Wall Street Journal article looks like we are taking a step in the right direction.
http://blogs.wsj.com/developments/2011/12/20/already-low-housing-inventory-drops-more/
Wishing everyone a very merry Christmas and all the best in 2012!
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Lower Housing Inventory & Prices Are On the Rise
Posted by pmgee84 at 11:09 AM 0 comments
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Westover Hills - SOLD
Posted by pmgee84 at 7:43 AM 0 comments
Friday, December 9, 2011
Positive Predictions for 2012 Housing Market
Posted by pmgee84 at 7:52 AM 0 comments
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
New Listing - (Chesterfield - Area 62)
Posted by pmgee84 at 10:43 AM 0 comments
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
NEW LISTING - West End/Henrico Townhome
Posted by pmgee84 at 4:19 PM 0 comments
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
SOLD/CLOSED - 59 Days!!!
Posted by pmgee84 at 10:45 AM 0 comments
Luxury 2 Bed/2 Bath Condo FOR LEASE - Downtown Richmond
Posted by pmgee84 at 8:40 AM 0 comments
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Westhampton Cape OPEN HOUSE - 10-2
Posted by pmgee84 at 8:02 AM 0 comments
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Luxury 2 Bed/2 Bath Condo FOR LEASE - Downtown Richmond
Posted by pmgee84 at 1:36 PM 0 comments
Monday, October 31, 2011
SOLD - 10 days!!! (Chesterfield - Area 64)
Posted by pmgee84 at 8:45 AM 0 comments
UNDER CONTRACT - Westover Hills (Area 60)
Posted by pmgee84 at 8:38 AM 0 comments
UNDER CONTRACT - Bon Air (Area 64)
Posted by pmgee84 at 8:15 AM 0 comments
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Near WestEnd Cape - Price Reduction & Bocca Toscana Gift Certificate
Posted by pmgee84 at 11:20 AM 0 comments
Monday, October 24, 2011
Rumors Aside, Housing Lives!!!
In the Commentary section of yesterday's Richmond Times Dispatch, Laura Lafayette (COO of the Richmond Association of Realtors) wrote a beautiful article about the vitality of our local real estate market.
Using Mark Twain's "the rumors of my death have been greatly exaggerated," she illustrates the current state of our housing industry, understanding we have suffered a mighty blow, but we are not dead yet!
"In fact, for individuals who wish to purchase their first home, for homewaners who need a bigger house or for investors who want to increase their portfolio of rental property, it's hard to imagine a more favorable housing market than the one that currently exists."
The national media constantly pushes negative headlines regarding the national unemployment crisis, the influx of foreclosures that have saturated our markets and driven down prices, and how difficult it is to qualify for a mortgage in today's lending market; instead of focusing on these issues that plague our economy, we need to concentrate on our own employment status, our own financial status, and the current conditions of the Richmond market.
The Fed has committed themeselves to keeping interest rates low through the end of 2012, but they will have to rise at some point and when it does, those who have not purchased will have lost out!
"The next time you drive by that For Sale sign, think about the ownership opportunity that sign represents for you or others, and think about the difference that sign makes for our collective, economic health. When the housing market performs well, we all win!"
http://www2.timesdispatch.com/news/commentary/2011/oct/23/tdcomm01-rumors-aside-housing-lives-ar-1401037/
Posted by pmgee84 at 11:06 AM 0 comments
Friday, October 21, 2011
Richmond Home Sales Up From 2010!!!
The number of people who purchased resales Nationwide in September dropped about 3%, according to an article in the Richmond Times Dispatch this morning.
"The Richmond area has been hurt as well but is on track to do better this year than a year ago. Thus far, home sales in the Richmond region continue to outpace 2010 sales, which is remarkable considering last years production was stimulated by a tax credit that spured a great deal of buying."
This is due in large part by historically low interest rates, which the Fed has assured will remain low through December of 2012. Two weeks ago, a 30 year fixed rate mortgage fell below 4% to 3.94% which was the lowest ever recorded, according to the National Bureau of Economic Research...today, rates on a 30 year fixed mortgage are still hovering around 4% and even better on a 15 year mortgage.
If you have good credit, can afford a down payment, and have job security there has surely never been a better time to buy. Money can't stay this cheap forever and housing market trends indicate that conditions are beginning to improve, so don't miss this opportunity and CALL ME TODAY!
Posted by pmgee84 at 8:59 AM 0 comments
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Don't Miss This Opportunity!!!
In an article from this past weekend's Washington Post, Danielle Douglas explores the age old question of renting or buying for young professionals.
With historically low mortgage rates (dipping below 4% for the first time EVER this month), depressed home values (bubble burst in '07), and signs of the real estate market stabalizing in the stronger areas of the Richmond market (2011-12), could their be a better time to buy?
"A new analysis by research firm Capital Economics this week found that U.S. median mortgage payments have reached the same price as median rental payments."
http://www.washingtonpost.com/realestate/young-professionals-contemplate-the-rent-vs-buy-debate/2011/10/02/gIQA6eqzjL_story.html
Posted by pmgee84 at 11:29 AM 0 comments
$40K Price Reduction!!! Area 64 - Chesterfield
Posted by pmgee84 at 10:32 AM 0 comments
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
UNDER CONTRACT - Hanover (Area 44)
Posted by pmgee84 at 8:36 AM 0 comments
Saturday, October 1, 2011
What's Your Equity?
All we hear in the news today is how bad the real estate market is; however in today's Richmond Times Dispatch, Kenneth R. Harney puts a different spin on home values for homeowners. Although property values may not be what they were a few years ago, many people in this market still have equity in their home. It all depends on location, improvements, and how long you have been in the home. Homes were never meant to be bought and sold every few years; that market was inflated and artificial! People who have lived in their homes for more than a few years and made improvements over that period, more than likely would be pleasantly suprised.
http://www2.timesdispatch.com/business/business/2011/oct/01/tdbiz04-kenneth-r-harneys-the-nations-housing-for--ar-1350196/
To find out what kind of equity you have in your home, or learn more about buying a home, don't hesitate to let me know!
Posted by pmgee84 at 10:01 AM 0 comments
Thursday, September 29, 2011
NEW LISTING - (Hanover - Area 36)
Posted by pmgee84 at 9:29 AM 0 comments
Saturday, September 24, 2011
UNDER CONTRACT - SALISBURY
Posted by pmgee84 at 11:55 AM 0 comments
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Negative Equity Rampant in the 804
A recent study by CoreLogic revealed nearly a quarter of Richmond area homeowners were underwater in their mortgages, meaning they owe more on their property than what the home is worth in today's market.
Many Richmonder's who bought their home during the real estate height (between 2004 & 2007) have little to no equity today. This bubble burst combined with sporadic predatory lending practices during that period, have caused an influx of short sale and foreclosure inventory.
If you are in the market to buy, this is the time to do it while interest rates are historically low and home values are depressed during this real estate pandemic. If you don't have to sell, DON'T! If you do have to sell because you are being relocated, you cannot afford to stay in your home, etc. you need a dedicated real estate professional to get the job done, now more than ever!
Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can be of service in any capacity...
http://www2.timesdispatch.com/business/business/2011/sep/14/under-water-mortgages-mount-in-richmond-area-ar-1307266/
Posted by pmgee84 at 10:19 AM 0 comments
Sunday, September 11, 2011
New Listing - Area 64 (Reeds Hill Subdivision)
Posted by pmgee84 at 12:39 PM 0 comments
SOLD in 10 Days!!! Area 64 (Kings Farm Subdivision)
This wonderful 5 bedroom, 4 bath home on a corner lot features spacious formal Living Room & Dining Room, Chef's Kitchen, & spectacular 2 story Family Room with stone gas Fireplace and surround sound. Rare 1st Floor Bedroom/Office with Private Bath is a plus as is the Finished 3rd Floor Bonus Room with attic access and surround sound. Offering many amenities such as Upgraded Stainless Appliances, Granite Counters, Cherry Cabinets, Member Crown & Chair Rail Mouldings & much more. There is a 2-Car Garage, 3 zone Heat and A/C, Irrigation System. Master Bath has 2 spacious vanities, Shower and Jetted Tub, 2 Bedrooms are joined by a Jack & Jill bath and there is an additional Bedroom with Full Bath. The 2-Car Attached Garage is located to the side, Large Deck overlooking backyard & mature trees. Front & side yard irrigation system.
Posted by pmgee84 at 12:23 PM 0 comments
Saturday, September 3, 2011
HUGE Price Reduction - Hanover
Posted by pmgee84 at 10:33 AM 0 comments
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
New Listing - Chesterfield 4 bed,2.5 bath Dutch Colonial
Posted by pmgee84 at 1:47 PM 0 comments
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Open House (1-4pm) - Cute 3 bed,1.5 bath Cape in Westhampton Area
Posted by pmgee84 at 7:05 AM 0 comments
Friday, August 19, 2011
NEW LISTING - Westhampton Area
Quaint 3 Bedroom 1.5 Bath Cape Located on Extremely Charming Block, Set on Freshly Landscaped Lot. Interior Includes Hardwood Floors Throughout, Brick Wood Burning Fireplace, Bedroom on First Floor with Attached Half Bath, Recently Renovated Kitchen with Pantry, Full Dormer Windows Along Rear, Gas Heat, Security System, Detailed Mouldings Throughout, & Updated Hall Full Bath Upstairs. Exterior has a Spacious Screened-In Side Porch with a Ceiling Fan, Rear Shed, Drainage System, Large Rear Slate Patio, Privacy Fenced In Backyard, All Brick Maintenance Free Exterior. New High End Energy Efficient Windows Throughout. Freshly Painted. Just a walk from Shopping, Restaurants, & Your Every Day Necessities. Easy Access to All Major Interstates. City Living + County Taxes = Ultimate Location!!!
Posted by pmgee84 at 11:20 AM 0 comments
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
UNDER CONTRACT - Brandermill
Posted by pmgee84 at 9:55 AM 0 comments
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Good Tips For Home Buyers in Today's Market...
Erratic trends in the stock market make it unappealing to many. If you have money to invest, and are sceptical of our current financial market conditions, it may not be a bad time to turn to Real Estate...with Historically Low Interest Rates, Attractive Mortgage Products, and Depressed Real Estate Values, it looks to be a recipe for a home run.
Whether you are looking to invest in rental property, or looking to leave renting behind and become a first time home owner, or looking to step up into your next home, there are some factors worth considering in the link below.
http://realtytimes.com/rtpages/20110809_decide.htm
I am here to help in any capacity...should you have any interest in buying or selling your home, please contact me for more information.
Posted by pmgee84 at 9:46 AM 0 comments
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
New Listing - Chesterfield Ranch with Basement
Finished Walk Out Basement |
Informal Living Room and Dining Room |
Mud Room |
Family Room |
Huge Bedroom |
Remodeled Kitchen |
Posted by pmgee84 at 1:07 PM 0 comments
Monday, August 8, 2011
UNDER CONTRACT
Posted by pmgee84 at 9:26 AM 0 comments
Thursday, July 28, 2011
New Listing - Salisbury
Posted by pmgee84 at 8:23 AM 0 comments
Monday, July 25, 2011
UNDER CONTRACT
Posted by pmgee84 at 1:21 PM 0 comments
Friday, July 15, 2011
PRICE REDUCTION - Gaslight (Maybeury,Tuckahoe,Freeman/Collegiate)
Posted by pmgee84 at 8:41 AM 0 comments
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Great Time to Buy!!!
With all the negativity surrounding our current real estate market, an editorial in today's Time Dispatch looks at the glass half full, finding some positive out of all this mess. Although buying a home may not be the investment vehicle we all thought at one time it was, and values may not ever get back to where they once were, there are still some great opportunities out there. Should you be in the market to take advantage of these opportunities, I am here to help any way I am able...please don't hesitate to let me know!
http://www2.timesdispatch.com/news/rtd-opinion/2011/jul/12/tdopin01-housing-now-affordable-ar-1165978/
Posted by pmgee84 at 8:26 AM 0 comments
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Selling Your Home In A Down Market!!!
http://www.usatoday.com/money/economy/housing/2011-07-02-home-sellers-down-market_n.htm
In the above article, Dave Carpenter discusses a game plan for selling your home in today's market; although market conditions are not ideal with an abundance of foreclosures and standing inventory, there are certain steps you can take to sell your home as quickly and for as much as possible.
These tips, coupled with my expertise and marketing strategy, can help you sell your home in "probably the worst time you could find to sell a house in the late '70's or early '80's." If you need to sell, or have any interest in finding out more about the process, please do not hesitate to let me know!!!
Posted by pmgee84 at 8:15 AM 0 comments
Friday, July 1, 2011
Richmond Home Prices Down From A Year Ago, But Signs of Stability Becoming Evident
Although prices are down from last year averages in the Richmond Metro Area, we have had two months in a row of growth in that sector, indicating the market is beginning to stabalize.
"The sell-off of distressed inventory, particularly foreclosures, obviously is contributing to the continued softness in sale prices," Lafayette said. "If we were to exclude foreclosures, the numbers would bump up."
It's a great time to buy before home prices begin bouncing back and while interest rates are still at all time lows!!!
http://www2.timesdispatch.com/business/business/2011/jul/01/TDBIZ01-area-home-prices-still-down-from-a-year-ag-ar-1144928/
Posted by pmgee84 at 9:39 AM 0 comments
Thursday, June 30, 2011
3 New Listings!!!
Posted by pmgee84 at 12:21 PM 0 comments
Monday, June 27, 2011
PRICE REDUCTION - FAN CONDO
Posted by pmgee84 at 10:04 AM 0 comments
Thursday, June 23, 2011
MAJOR PRICE REDUCTION - Westover Hills
Posted by pmgee84 at 9:16 AM 0 comments
Learn Before You Leap Into Your Mortgage...
In today's Talking Money with Jean Chatzky, she discusses the importance of understanding your loan product and the process itself when purchasing a home. In this article she poses numerous questions about the process that can help you when applying for your next mortgage.
http://www.heraldextra.com/business/article_80090c1b-1e43-5c3e-9e10-41b065c37c47.html
When you are ready to purchase your next home, allow me to assist you. I have access to our top, local professionals in the mortgage industry who have the experience and knowledge you can count on to get the best deal on the market!
Posted by pmgee84 at 9:01 AM 0 comments
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Signs of Housing Market Recovery in 2011
http://www2.timesdispatch.com/business/business/2011/jun/21/TDBIZ01-housing-market-improves-this-year-ar-1121934/
Home values are still lower than they were a year ago, mostly stemming from a foreclosure saturated market, but new data reveals that more homes are selling at a faster rate.
Recently, everyone has been talking about how "the time to buy is now!" It may be a good time to put your home on the market as well!
If you have any questions about your home's value or the process of listing your home, please do not hesitate to let me know!
Posted by pmgee84 at 9:19 AM 0 comments
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
New Listing - Westhampton
Great location on charming street. Brick home with wood floors, lots of space and built-ins, full bath off utility room on first floor, fenced yard, 2 outside storage areas, screened porch. Convenient to St. Mary's Hospital, Willow Lawn, UofR, Westwood Club, Interstates, Restaurants, etc. Don't miss this opportunity!
Posted by pmgee84 at 10:20 AM 0 comments
Monday, June 13, 2011
Time to Buy NOW & Here is Why!!!
Despite all the doom and gloom out there in the news, the attached article from the Wall Street Journal makes some strong arguments as to why THE Time to Buy is NOW!
Depressed market conditions combined with historically low rates will not last forever! "Once the foreclosure mess begins to clear up, say housing economists, the traditional drivers of the housing market—demographics, affordability, loan availability, employment and psychology—should take over." This will give the upper hand back to Seller's and you will have missed your chance at taking advantage of this once in a lifetime opportunity.
The long-term case for home ownership is looking stronger than ever. If you have any interest in learning more about this opportunity, don't hesitate to let me know.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702304563104576361522020024248.html
Posted by pmgee84 at 9:11 AM 0 comments
Friday, June 10, 2011
Lot's of Negative Equity in the 804
Nearly one fifth or 19% of mortgaged residential property in the Richmond, VA market are underwater...meaning the home is worth less than what is owed on the property should the property sell today!
As long as foreclosures continue to saturate areas of our market, property values will continue to decline...however in certain areas of Richmond, we are seeing an uptick of activity and values seem to be bottoming out if they have not already.
Richmond as a whole is better off than the nationwide statistics, and our historically strong markets are head and shoulders above nation averages...I believe we are on the road to recovery and with interest rates still at rock bottom rates, this is the time to buy while home prices are as depressed as they might get!!!
http://www2.timesdispatch.com/business/2011/jun/09/tdbiz01-nearly-19-percent-of-mortgaged-properties--ar-1095415/
Posted by pmgee84 at 8:09 AM 0 comments