January 2020

Strength of the Economy Is Surprising the Experts

We’re currently in the longest economic recovery in U.S. history. That has caused some to ask experts to project when the next economic slowdown (recession) could occur. Two years ago, 67% of the economists surveyed by the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) for the Economic Forecasting Survey predicted we would have a recession no later than the end of this year (2020). The same study done just...

Should I Sell My House This Year?

If one of the questions you’re asking yourself today is, “Should I sell my house this year?” the current Housing Opportunities and Market Experience (HOME) Survey from the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) should boost your confidence as it relates to the current selling sentiment in the housing market. Even with all the information overload in the media circling around talk of a...

First-Time Buyers Are Searching for Existing Homes This Year

In the latest Housing Trends Report, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) measured the share of adults planning to buy a home over the next 12 months. The report indicates the percentage of all buyers that will be first-time buyers looking to purchase a home grew from 58% in Q4 2018 to 63% in Q4 2019. The results revealed, “Millennials are the most likely generation to be making...

Make the Dream of Homeownership a Reality in 2020

In 1963, Martin Luther King, Jr. led and inspired a powerful movement with his famous “I Have a Dream” speech. Through his passion and determination, he sparked interest, ambition, and courage in his audience. Today, reflecting on his message encourages many of us to think about our own dreams, goals, beliefs, and aspirations. For many Americans, one of those common goals is owning a home: a piece...

“Our house sold in two days after receiving several offers – four of which were above the asking price.”

There are many good realtors around.  We chose Tony not only based on his very impressive sales record, but also his thorough knowledge of English Hill.  Because Tony has lived on English Hill for many years, he knew facets of the community as a whole that we weren’t aware of, even after living here for 37 years.  That was very reassuring to us. Tony guided us through the selling process the...

The 2 Surprising Things Homebuyers Really Want

In a market where current inventory is low, it’s normal to think buyers might be willing to give up a few desirable features in their home search in order to make finding a house a little easier. Don’t be fooled, though – there’s still an interest in the market for some key upgrades. Here’s a look at the two surprising things buyers seem to be searching for in today’s market, and how...

“Tony made the process simple and easy and was always there to help me understand even the most complicated steps.”

Being a first time home buyer, I was often overwhelmed thinking about all the demands required to purchase a home. Tony made the process simple and easy and was always there to help me understand even the most complicated steps. He went above and beyond my expectations to make sure I was represented well.  I would (and do) recommend Tony to anyone ready to take their next steps. Kellen...

Housing Inventory Vanishing: What Is the Impact on You?

The real estate market is expected to do very well this year as mortgage rates remain at historic lows. One challenge to the housing industry is the lack of homes available for sale. Last week, move.com released a report showing that 2020 is beginning with the lowest available housing inventory in two years. The report explains: “Last month saw the largest year-over-year decline of housing...

“Overall, our experience with Tony was fantastic!”

Overall, our experience with Tony was fantastic! From the first minute that I called him Tony was responsive, giving of his time and attention, honest, and transparent. We had a very short window to buy our new house and sell our existing house, and Tony was instrumental in every aspect. He helped us find contractors and supplies on incredibly short notice, provided excellent guidance on how to make...

2020 Luxury Market Forecast

By the end of last year, many homeowners found themselves with more equity than they realized, and at the same time their wages were increasing. When those two factors unite, it can spark homeowners to think about making a move to a larger or more expensive home in the luxury space. That said, now is a perfect opportunity to take a look at the forecast for the 2020 luxury market. Three Things to Think...

NWMLS December 2019 Real Estate Market Report – Eager Home Buyers Were Plentiful in December But Choices Were Meager

KIRKLAND, Washington (January 6, 2020) - "The buyers are out there and are showing up at open houses and making multiple offers on new listings," was how one industry leader summarized December's housing activity involving members of the Northwest Multiple Listing Service. Frank Wilson, Kitsap regional manager and branch managing broker at John L. Scott Real Estate in Poulsbo, also said the severe...

3 Benefits to Buying Your Dream Home This Year

Outside of a strong economy, low unemployment, and higher wages, there are three more great reasons why you may want to consider buying your dream home this year instead of waiting. 1. Buying a Home is a Great Investment Several reports indicate that real estate is a good investment, topping other options such as gold, stocks, bonds, and savings. Why? Real estate helps build equity, a form...