How 3 Recent Bank Failures Could Impact Housing Market

The demise of three banks last week has been sending shockwaves through an already fragile economy. Could it have an impact on real estate, too?

“The Silicon Valley Bank failure, along with a few other banks, means that the Federal Reserve cannot be so aggressive in raising its short-term interest rates,” says Lawrence Yun, chief economist of the National Association of REALTORS®. “Therefore, mortgage rates will decline.”

Mortgage rates had been steadily rising in recent weeks, with the 30-year fixed-rate loan averaging 6.73% last week, according to Freddie Mac. The Fed has been making a series of aggressive rate increases, which may indirectly influence mortgage rates, over the last few months. Home buyers have been up against affordability woes, as mortgage rates are nearly double what they were just a year ago.

Read Full Article Here!

 

What Steps Can Be Taken To Control Indoor Allergens? 

 

Spring is arriving and that means allergies are too! Dust mites, mold, and outdoor allergens are no stranger from entering your home this season. The EPA has created a few ways to improve indoor air quality to make sure you and your family aren’t battling the Spring time snuffles!

Allergy and asthma control begins at home. Many people with allergies stay indoors when pollen and mold is high. But dust mites, pet dander and even cockroaches can cause problems indoors.1

The Environmental Protection Agency recommends three ways you can improve indoor air quality:

  • Control your contact with indoor airborne allergens
  • Ventilate your indoor areas well
  • Use air cleaners to clean indoor air

What Size Are Allergens?

Allergens are substances that cause allergic reactions and trigger asthma symptoms in some people. The air spreads allergens around. They settle onto furniture and floors. They vary in size and are measured in microns (also called micrometers).

Read Full Article Here!

 

Fun Valentine’s Day Activities For the Family

Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching! Even if your family is spending most of your days at home, there are still plenty of fun activities you can do to show your love for each other.

Check out these five cute Valentine’s Day activities that are fun for the entire family!

  1. Homemade Valentine’s Day Cards – A classic tradition for many, crafting homemade Valentine’s Day cards is a fun way to raid your craft box (or closet) and get creative. Have your kids make a list of people they’d like to send these to – aunts, cousins, best friends, grandparents, etc. Spend a day dreaming up different designs and get to crafting! Be sure to mail or drop off the cards to the recipients shortly after.
  2. Host a Family-Friendly Brunch – Ever heard of “Galentine’s Day”? Coined by TV’s favorite city councilwoman Leslie Knope on the show Parks and Rec, this holiday is when a group of gal pals get together the day before Valetine’s Day to eat breakfast food and celebrate friendships. Bring this TV holiday tradition to your family celebration by hosting a family brunch and sharing what you love about each other. Don’t forget the waffles!
  3. Valentine’s Day Bake-Off – Search for Valentine’s themed recipes on sites like Pinterest. Anything pink or heart-shaped is usually a good place to start! Host a bake-off where you split your family into teams to craft your sweet treats. Taste everything at the end to see whose dessert spread takes the heart-shaped cake.
  4. Go On a Treasure Hunt – Hold a Valentine’s Day-themed treasure hunt for your kids using items around the house. This example of an at-home treasure hunt features clues with cute holiday references to get things started. If you’re feeling creative, you may even write your own! The “treasure” can be whatever you want, whether that’s a bag of candy or a healthier alternative.
  5. Decorate Your Home – Why not go all out with the home decor? Hang up homemade Valentine’s Day decorations, and break out all the heart-shaped pillows, blankets, and anything else that fits the vibe. Encourage your family to dress up in red or pink as well!

You can still make this Valentine’s Day special for your family, even without leaving the home!

10 Tips for Buying Secondhand Furniture

Secondhand furniture is a great alternative if you want to add vintage pieces to your home, especially if you’re on a budget.

“Buying vintage or gently used furniture is smart, chic and kinder to the Earth,” says Noel Fahden Briceno, vice president of merchandising at Chairish, an online marketplace for high-end vintage furnishings. “People tend to lean towards buying new because it’s been culturally ingrained, but in many cases vintage furniture costs 70% to 80% less and it’s actually better made. Vintage also brings character, uniqueness and style to a room.”

Finding the right item can be challenging, and even more so if you’re buying online. Here are some important tips to keep in mind while shopping for secondhand furniture:

  • Buy from a trusted source.
  • Pay attention to the description.
  • Look carefully at photos.
  • Avoid the old mattress.
  • Check for damage.
  • You can refinish or reupholster old furniture.
  • Try negotiating the price.
  • Do some research to find the best deal.
  • Quality over quantity.
  • Try before you buy.

“It’s important to only shop at reputable retailers,” Briceno says. Having a team dedicated to vetting each piece as well as a fair return policy are vital assurances to help build trust and confidence with shoppers.

In addition to secondhand furniture stores, Briceno recommends flea markets. “You’ll find a wonderful high-low mix of art, textiles, tableware, decor and furniture, and at great prices. I have made the pilgrimage many times to Brimfield (Flea Market in Brimfield, Massachusetts) and Round Top (Antique Fair in Carmine, Texas), my favorite antique fairs,” Briceno says.

Jennifer Ma, principal designer of Dwell & Oak Interiors based in San Mateo, California, recommends Facebook Marketplace, which is her No. 1 go-to place to find local vintage or secondhand furniture. “You can snag some pretty sweet deals or high-quality vintage furniture on there.”

If you do decide to purchase online, be on the lookout for scammers, especially on websites where individual sellers can list goods and arrange a sale with potential buyers. In the absence of a physical store, sellers can stay anonymous and upload images that look nothing like what they’re actually selling – if they’re selling anything at all.

When shopping for secondhand furniture, always read the description. Some pieces may look authentic, but they could be a replica.

“When a description says ‘in the style of’ that can mean a number of things,” Briceno says. “It can be a modern-day reproduction, or it can be an authentically vintage piece that was made in the style of an iconic design or maker. A vintage ‘in the style of’ piece can still offer great quality at a more approachable price point; it’s really a matter of what provenance and price you are looking for.”

If the description says it’s authentic, auction houses and vintage dealers typically have the paperwork that proves they were authenticated. Request to see their authentication papers and make sure to ask for additional information, such as if it was refurbished and if there is any damage.

When you’re shopping for used furniture online, look at each photo closely, especially for vintage pieces. “Minor scratches are part of the aging process and will most likely add character to the piece,” Briceno says. “When looking at silver or brass decor pieces, aging adds a wonderful patina.”

That used mattress may be cheaper, but it’s considered one of the worst items to buy secondhand. Not only can mattresses absorb smells and stains, but they can also carry bacteria, mold, dust mites and bed bugs.

If the mattress has already been slept on for several years, this also reduces the length of time it will last. Over time, a mattress can lose its shape and begin to sag, interfering with your good night’s sleep.

While it’s possible to fix damage or imperfections, some may be there to stay. Deep gouges on wood typically can’t be removed, Briceno explains, and upholstered pieces can absorb smells. “Be cognizant about whether or not the person smoked, because cigarette smoke smell does not go away,” Briceno warns. “You’re in the reupholstery zone.”

You should also check the connection, like where the table meets the leg, to see if it’s sturdy. “Avoid anything with a broken frame – I’m talking chairs or tables – that is not repairable,” Briceno says.

It may take some work, but the old coffee table with water stains on its surface and the upholstered chair with a few stains can still be restored.

Briceno says that most pieces of furniture can be refinished or reupholstered. Furniture refinishing can help retain and preserve its original beauty; however, if you think it may be a valuable antique, you may want to consult with a professional first.

But small imperfections can give a piece some character. “Sometimes you want that old farm table that has the gouges and the black rings because it looks cool – it was a working farm table,” Briceno says.

Your ability to negotiate the price of furniture depends on the item as well as the seller. “Often, we see sellers accepting offers of 10% to 20% off the listed price,” says Briceno. “My advice is if you don’t like the price, make an offer.”

If you’re looking to bargain, point out any problems or flaws that you see with the piece. Start off with a low price, but be reasonable. Be willing to compromise if the seller isn’t willing to lower the price more. However, if you aren’t 100% set on the item, you can always check back later or walk away.

There’s no set price for vintage items, so finding the best bargain may require doing some homework. “I would research the piece online and see if there are any comparables and look at the construction, materials and brand. Take a look at the retail price and manufacturer to see what others have to say,” Ma says.

You don’t have to buy the first piece of furniture you see or even everything you need at the same store.

“Quality over quantity,” Briceno says. “Look for original pieces by iconic makers. While these pieces might be an investment – unless you’re a grade-A bargain hunter – it’s a great place to start because these pieces were built to last.”

Ma also suggests looking for quality materials that are sure to last a while. “You’ll want to look for solid wood pieces versus pieces made of MDF or pressed woods. Look for areas where the wood has buckled, as well as any deep scratches in the finish. These flaws can be difficult to repair,” Ma adds. MDF furniture, or medium-density fiberboard, and pressed wood are both engineered wood furniture construction materials and can be easily damaged.

Along with avoiding MDF and pressed woods, Ma says to stay away from wood laminate or veneer. “This is a layer of plastic or paper that has been printed with a reproduction of wood grain and glued on top of cheaper materials, such as particle board. Over time, this will eventually peel away from the base and bubble up,” Ma clarifies. “Also, if you see pieces that have an uneven frame, a lot of glue or staples, it’s perhaps an indication that it is not good quality.”

When you’re shopping in a brick-and-mortar store, you can see exactly how big the furniture is and get the chance to inspect it for any imperfections. But online, it can be more of a challenge.

“There’s nothing worse than getting a piece and finding out it’s too big or too small for your space. Always measure your space in advance,” Briceno suggests. “Take the extra time to tape out the measurements on your floor to really understand sizing.”

There are also apps you can download that use augmented reality technology, Briceno says, so you can virtually test out items in your space before you buy.

 

Source: Dec. 5, 2022, https://realestate.usnews.com/real-estate/articles/tips-for-buying-secondhand-furniture

5 Tips for Navigating Supply Chain Issues When Renovating a House

2022 is proving tough for all aspects of home renovation, from hiring contractors, to buying supplies. Here’s what to expect — and ways to cope.

If you have plans to renovate your home — or if you’re shopping for a fixer upper to buy, you might be wondering whether now is a good time to remodel or whether you should wait. The cost of many construction materials and home goods has increased and their availability has become more limited due to economic disruption caused by COVID-19. And, in some markets, a shortage of skilled construction labor can make it hard to find contractors. Both of these things can affect the timeline and cost of your renovation plans.

How much more you’ll pay and how much longer you might have to wait for supplies or skilled help depends on the size and complexity of your plans. But, with some planning and flexibility, you may be able to work around the supply issues, minimize them or scale back your plans until the global economy gets back on a more normal footing.

Here are some options:

Do a “temporary” remodel

A temporary remodel involves changing some small things to achieve big results. For example, if you were planning to replace tile on a backsplash in the kitchen, consider applying some peel and stick tiles until you can remove and replace the old ones. Paint is a simple fix that can transform space. Use paint in ways that make a space appear larger or paint your kitchen cabinets and replace the hardware to give it a fresh look if you can’t afford new cabinets. Look for small ways to brighten and refresh your space until you can tackle the bigger project.

Consider using salvaged and alternative materials

Salvaged materials are usually less expensive than new ones, and can often infuse a space with unique design elements you wouldn’t be able to find in off-the-shelf products at a hardware store. You may be able to find salvaged or reclaimed trim, cabinets, tile and other home improvement supplies at your local salvage business or on online forums where people sell and give things away. You also can switch up your plans for things like new flooring or fixtures to take into account what is currently available at a price you can afford.

Consider doing some of the work yourself

If you have the confidence and the skills to tackle some of your projects, you can winnow down the list of things you need to hire experts to do. Some projects may require specialty equipment, which you can rent or borrow from your local tool lending library or rental business in town. Unless you have a lot of experience in home renovations, you might make mistakes you’ll have to live with or hire a professional to fix later.

Wait and use the time to shop for deals

Some of the most expensive projects are the ones where you have to buy everything at once. Consider making a list and shopping around for deals instead. For instance, if you’re remodeling a laundry room, you could wait for September and October when washers and dryers typically go on sale. If you’re looking for window replacements, you might get a better price from a contractor during their slow time of year. Or if you’re replacing a boiler or furnace, you might get a better price in the off-season. If you’re working with contractors, see if they have time between their big projects to get to your smaller ones.

Postpone the project until costs come back down

This is the easiest option if you can live with the thing you’re planning to change. If you’re buying a fixer upper, make sure the house is liveable until you can get started on your remodeling plans.

As with everything home-related, there is no one answer for everyone. It’s your home. Do what makes you happy.

Source: May 10, 2022. https://www.zillow.com/resources/stay-informed/is-now-a-good-time-to-remodel/

7 Best Things About Buying A House In The Fall

The summertime real estate season is as hot as the weather, but you might want to postpone your purchase until fall. For the first time in recent history, October surpassed June as the most popular month to get married. And these autumn-loving brides may be on to something: Although the spring months are notoriously the best time to buy real estate (as well as have a wedding), fall may be the new ideal season to buy a home.
Hear us out: One obvious reason is that it’s easier to get from open house to open house without questioning if you’ll need an AC repair ASAP upon moving into that home. Also, families on a mission to move into a new home before school starts are out of the picture. Besides these two more obvious reasons, here are seven expert insights on why you should consider a fall real estate purchase.
1. There’s less competition
Competition for houses drops off in the fall, a time many people consider to be off-season in real estate. But there are still homes for sale — and in some cases, there’s just as much inventory as there was during the spring and summer. “[Fall] means new inventory and repositioned old inventory that did not sell in the prime season,” says Wesley Stanton.
This puts you in a great position to negotiate. “Fall homebuyers should consider [making] lowball offers, followed by more aggressive negotiation,” says Brian Davis, a real estate investor and director of education at Spark Rental. Davis points out that many sellers are very motivated to sell before the holidays. If possible, buyers should let these sellers know that they can close before Thanksgiving or before the school winter break.
2. Sellers are worn-out
Some sellers who put their homes on the market during the prime selling times of spring and summer might have been a tad overconfident by listing their homes for more than buyers were willing to spend. After months of no action, these sellers are often ready to make a deal. “Sellers who were unrealistic earlier in the year about price will now be more willing to reduce the price come fall,” says Thomas Miller. “Because there [are fewer buyers] and because the sellers are now eager to sell, they are more inclined to take the low offer than wait another six months for spring to come around.”
3. Sellers are serious
Not all homes on the market in fall are summer leftovers. Some people need to sell in the fall because the timing is right. Maybe they were having a home built, and it’s now ready. Maybe they need to move because of a job. “The sellers with houses on the market in the fall tend to be serious,” says Sam Heskel. “That means sellers could be more open to negotiating and accepting a lower offer.”
4. You can take advantage of tax breaks
First-time homebuyers, take note: Although you can’t escape paying income tax, you can make a dent in what you owe when you become a homeowner. “Property tax and mortgage interest are both deductions you can take for your whole year’s worth of income, even if you closed on your home in December,” says David Hryck. “Any payments that are made prior to the closing of the loan are tax-deductible. This can make a serious difference in the amount you owe the government at the end of the year.”
5. Fall is a safer time of year
Did you know that burglars have peak seasons? They do, says Sarah Brown, a home safety expert for SafeWise.com. “July and August are prime months for burglaries to take place,” she says. “Waiting until the fall [to buy] gives you an advantage when learning about a home and the neighborhood.” You’ll be settled in your home and can take precautions — like setting up that new alarm system — before the next burglary season rolls around.
6. You’re the center of attention
Because spring and summer are ideal times to buy a home, real estate agents are usually busier then. And that could mean you might not always get the attention you want. This is also true for other professionals you’re working with to buy a house. “Service providers, such as mortgage lenders and title companies, are moving out of the summertime sales swamp and can often respond more quickly,” says John Lazenby.
The same goes for movers. “Because summer is peak moving season, people often experience more delays and service issues, such as moving companies reaching capacity and running out of trucks to pick up shipments,” says Jack Griffin. “The probability of experiencing a delay goes way down in the fall season.”
7. You can take advantage of end-of-year sales to outfit your home
There are bound to be improvements you’ll want to make after buying a house. You’ll also probably need to buy items to maintain your home, and if appliances weren’t part of the deal, you’ll need those too. Wouldn’t it be great to coordinate your home purchase with sales on items you’ll need? According to Consumer Reports, the calendar determines when it’s a good time to buy all sorts of consumer goods. In particular, September is a great time for buying carpet and paint. October means lawn mowers go on sale, and appliances and cookware are cheaper in November.
Source: https://www.trulia.com/blog/best-things-about-fall-real-estate/

What Hurts Property Value? 8 Things to Address Now

Property values fluctuate as a result of many factors, and as a homeowner, it’s important to be aware of factors that can drive home value down. Some of these factors are out of your control, such as market conditions, interest rates, and the economy, while others are very much in your control. From unappealing renovations to neglecting maintenance on your home, some projects, or lack thereof, can negatively impact your property value. It’s best to be aware of what hurts property value so you can protect your home and get the most ROI when it comes time to sell.

1) DIY projects gone wrong

Many homeowners take on home improvement projects to not only make their space more livable and enjoyable but to also add value to their greatest investment. Whether it be a bathroom addition, adding a deck, or purchasing a fixer-upper with the promise of profit for flipping it – most people start a project with the idea that it will increase the value of the home. As exciting as the projects may be, they can sometimes turn out not as expected and hurt your property value.

Are you wanting to build a deck, extend the kitchen, or remodel the bathroom? Even if you’re an expert at smaller DIY projects, it’s better to leave the bigger remodels and renovations to a professional. If not executed properly, they can hurt your property value.

 2) Lack of curb appeal

First impressions make a difference when selling a home. So, your curb appeal should entice prospective buyers and help your home sell faster. If you’ve noticed the exterior paint is chipping off or your trees and shrubs have seen better days, chances are potential buyers will notice too. Luckily, you can achieve great curb appeal with some minor adjustments.

  • Update the exterior paint. The color of your home is oftentimes one of the first things a buyer will notice. Faded, chipped, and flaking paint can dramatically decrease your curb appeal and hurt your property value. Hire a professional painter and try to stick with a neutral color for the exterior of your home. A fresh coat of paint will do wonders for your home’s appearance.
  • Update the exterior lighting. If the pathway leading to your front door is dimly lit or your fixtures are outdated, now is the time to update the exterior lighting. Exterior lighting helps your home feel more inviting and complements your landscaping. From post lights, LED lights, solar lights, and wall mounts, the options are endless.
  • Switch out your old fence. Worn fences are an eye-sore and can take the attention away from your home and hurt your property value. Replacing your fence for a new one can give your yard the boost it needs by enhancing the greenery, and showing prospective buyers that you care. Fencing comes in a variety of different options such as wood, vinyl, aluminum, wrought iron, and composite. Consult with professionals to determine what material is best for you.
  • Hire a professional landscaper. When selling your home, it’s best to go with an easy-to-care-for and clean landscape design to appeal to buyers, and increase the property value of your house. Simply edging the beds, mulching the garden, and pruning the trees and hedges can transform any landscape. Consider working with a professional landscaper to maximize your curb appeal.
  • Wash the windows and the siding. It doesn’t take long for your house and windows to form a layer of dust, dirt, fingerprints, or even algae. This can leave your house looking dingy and gray and hurting your property value. Hire a professional for regular cleaning to avoid paint stripping, splinters, and mold and mildew problems.
  • Replace your front door. It’s no surprise that front doors quickly begin to look worn and tired with daily use and harsh weather. Replacing your front door is a quick and cost-effective way to add curb appeal or add a pop of color to your home.

3) Unsightly interior wall paint

Just like exterior house paint, streaky, chipped, or low-quality paint could discourage potential homebuyers and hurt your property value. A fresh coat of neutral paint on the cabinets, walls, and trim can make all the difference. Consider leaving the painting to the professionals. This way, you’ll avoid the chances of buying the wrong brush or roller, using too much, or not enough paint, or any other common painting mistakes homeowners can make.

Busy and bright wallpaper, tiles, or flooring can also divert the attention of the buyers away from your home. The best rule of thumb is to always choose neutral options for permanent items. Then incorporate color with your decor and furnishings.

4) Lack of upkeep

It’s important and necessary to keep your home in great condition and regularly perform general home maintenance chores. Letting your home fall into disarray and neglecting it will hurt your property value and could have dire consequences on your list price. Buyers will want to negotiate repairs to avoid any major expenses following the sale. This is why most buyers require an inspection contingency in their contract.

If something breaks, be sure to fix it. And if you don’t know how to fix it, hire someone who does. This will prevent any issues from getting out of hand. It’s often more expensive to remedy any problems the longer you wait. Keep an eye out for any problems with your roof, foundation, HVAC system, gutters, and if a rodent or pest infestation emerges. If you develop any of these issues it’s important to hire a professional immediately.

5) Wall to wall carpeting

Your carpet will be in great condition during the first few years of owning your home, but will quickly begin to show signs of use, start retaining odors, and can be difficult to keep clean. Not only will buyers be wary of wall to wall carpeting because it can be expensive to replace, but it can also collect indoor allergens. If possible, it’s best to stray away from carpet and opt for hardwood, laminate, or tile flooring.

If your home does have carpet, be sure to get it professionally cleaned periodically to prolong the life of it. It’s also a good idea to have it deep cleaned before listing your home for sale.

6) Excessive clutter can hurt property value

Every home manages to accumulate belongings throughout the years, and you usually don’t realize just how much clutter you’ve collected until you’re about to list your home. Just as dirt and grime build-up, so can clutter. If your room is overcrowded with stuff, it’s a good idea to clear some of your belongings out. Donate items you no longer need or want, and find hidden, permanent homes for the items you use just once in a while.

Decluttering is an inexpensive way to add value. It can, however, be a big job for just one person. Consider hiring a professional organizer and tackle the project together. After you’ve donated what you can, research a local junk removal company and hauling service to collect the rest of your stuff – anything from mattresses and old appliances to electronics and unwanted furniture.

7) Unpleasant smells

Not only do offensive smells leave a bad and lasting impression, but they can also hurt your property value. Whether the lingering odor is cigarette smoke, pet odor, or mold, it’s best to identify the root of the smell and eliminate it. Avoid masking the smell with a strong perfume or fragrance.

To avoid unpleasant smells altogether, it’s best to keep your home clean. Routine cleaning includes vacuuming and dusting regularly, wiping down countertops and surfaces, and cleaning the bathroom and kitchen. Consider having your home professionally cleaned as you see fit. Most services allow you to choose the frequency of visits to suit your needs.

8) Unnecessary upgrades

Most of the time, home renovations and projects will increase the property value of a home. However, there are certain upgrades that can actually make your home less attractive at resale and can backfire. For example, if you live somewhere where the climate is generally cooler, perhaps Portland, OR or Twin Cities, MN, adding a backyard pool could make your home less desirable and hurt the property value. Or, ripping out a closet or bathroom to create a larger bedroom is generally unappealing to a lot of buyers and could be a costly mistake.

Other updates such as installing a new roof, adding insulation, and replacing windows will generally increase property value because you’re improving the efficiency and safety of the home. Updating your home’s electrical and refinishing hardwood floors can also add to your home appraisal value.

As a homeowner, keeping your home in optimal condition and making necessary updates over the years is key to getting top dollar when it comes time to sell.

Source: April 16th, 2021 | https://www.redfin.com/blog/what-hurts-property-value/

The Truth Behind Inflation and House Prices in California

According to the American Housing Council, the average home price in the United States has risen by more than 200% since 2000. Many potential homebuyers are wondering if they’ll be priced out of the housing market forever. To make matters worse, recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis shows that inflation in California is currently on the rise — with a Consumer Price Index (CPI) of 2%. In fact, California is one of nine states where prices have increased at an above-average rate during this period. 

In California, things have gone a bit haywire. In fact, housing is so unaffordable for many residents that some are calling it a crisis. For example, the median sale price of homes in California increased from $305,000 in 2011 to over $615,000 in 2017—a 136% increase in just six years! During this same period, nationwide home prices only rose by 33%. With all this information in mind, you may be wondering: Is it even possible to buy a house in California right now? And how much will that process cost you? Do you need to buy soon before prices increase further? 

In this article, we’ll examine these questions and more as we explore some of the facts about inflation and house prices in California.

What is Inflation and How Does It Generally Affect Home Prices?

First and foremost, inflation is the general rise in prices of commodities and services that happens when there is an excess of money in circulation. This excess money drives up the prices of goods and services, thus increasing the overall price level of an economy. When it comes to housing, the relationship between CPI and home prices is not that complex. For instance, consider an economy with only $20 as the total money supply and five identical houses throughout the economy. Each house would be priced at $4 (assuming there are no other goods in the economy). Suppose the central bank decides to print more money, increasing the total money supply to $40. Each house would now cost $8. In this simple illustration, increasing the money supply creates inflation and an increase in price of each house.

Why Are House Prices So High in California?

A big part of the reason that house prices are so high in California is due to the fact that housing construction has been below the norm for many years. No one knows this better than the state’s real estate agents. According to the California Association of Realtors, the construction of new homes has been below the state’s long-term average since the year 2000. As a result, there has been a significant shortage in the number of new homes available for sale. This shortage, combined with increased demand, has led to higher prices for existing homes.

A lot of things contribute to the state’s housing deficit. The lack of arable land, however, is still the most significant obstacle. While California is a massive state—the third largest in the United States in terms of land area—the largest part of its acres are hills and mountains that spread across a harsh desert. Almost every part of the usable land has been taken up, and this is especially true as you go nearer the coast.

Another notable factor contributing to the high prices of houses in California is the rising demand for housing in urban parts of the state. Asides the fact that there is not enough housing, many California residents are rushing into urban areas. For example, the Bay Area, which includes San Francisco, Oakland, and their nearest suburbs, is one of fastest-growing areas in California. While the Bay Area used to contribute to only 4% of California’s growth between 2000 and 2007, it is now responsible for about 20% of the state’s growth.

Housing Price Trends in California

The housing market in California is one of the most competitive markets in the U.S. The latest report by Zillow, a real estate company, claims that the median home value in California is $543,400. The housing price trend in California is a complicated issue. It’s not just a matter of supply and demand. There are many other factors at play, such as the increasing population, the limited land availability, and the changing demographics.

In the past few years, California has seen some of the highest home price increases in the country. In 2017 alone, home prices increased by 11% from 2016-2017 which is a significant jump from previous years (Zillow). Housing prices in California are still on a rise. The median home price in the state is currently around $500,000 which is 3.2% higher than the average of the last 5 years. This means that it costs now more than ever to purchase a home in California. The median list price to sale price ratio stands at 98% which means that for every 100 listings on Zillow, 98 are asking for more than they are worth and 2 are asking for less than they are worth.

With these numbers and trends, it’s almost certain that house prices in California will keep going higher. Unless the house supply deficit will be met somehow soon, the ideal time to buy a house in California still remains NOW (once you have the money for it).

In short, house prices are high in California because the demand for real estate is high.

The state is one of the most desirable places to live in the world, and many people want to live in California. Unfortunately, supply lags demand; there are not enough homes to meet the needs of the population in California right now. Because of this, the price of housing will probably remain high for the foreseeable future. If you’re a first-time homebuyer in California, it’s important to understand that buying a house is likely to be more expensive than ever before. That’s because the state’s high demand and low supply have resulted in high prices. Fortunately, there are few things you can do to combat high prices and ensure you find a great house at a price you can afford. You can research price trends in your area, shop around for the best deals, and get pre-approved for a mortgage before you even start your search for a house.

How to Boost Your Credit Score: Advice for First-Time Home Buyers

Are you a first-time home buyer wondering how to improve your credit score? If you need a mortgage, a good credit score, also called a FICO score, is essential—and it’s within your control.

In a nutshell, a credit score is a simplified calculation of your history of paying back debts and making regular payments on loans. If you’re borrowing money to buy a home, lenders want to know you’ll pay them back in a timely manner, and a credit score is an easy estimate of those odds.

Here’s your crash course from Realtor.com on this all-important little number, and how to whip it into the best home-buying shape possible.

Pull your credit report

There are three major U.S. credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion), and each releases its own credit scores and reports (a more detailed history that’s used to determine your score). Their scores should be roughly equivalent, although they do pull from different sources. For example, Experian considers on-time rent payments while TransUnion has detailed information about previous employers.

To access these scores and reports, financial planner Bob Forrest of Mutual of Omaha recommends using AnnualCreditReport.com, where you can get a free copy of your report every 12 months from each credit-reporting company. It doesn’t include your credit score, though—you’ll have to go to each company for that, and pay a small fee.

Or check with your credit card company: Some offer free access to scores and reports. Once you’ve got your report, thoroughly review it page by page, particularly the “adverse accounts” section that details late payments and other slip-ups.

Assess where you stand

It’s simple: The better your credit history, the higher your score—and the better your opportunities for a home loan. The Federal Housing Administration requires a minimum credit score of 580 to permit a 3.5% down payment, and major lenders often require at least 620, if not more. So what can you do if your credit report is in less than shipshape? Don’t panic, there are ways to clean it up.

How to improve your credit score with error disputes

A 2013 Federal Trade Commission study found that 5% of credit reports contain errors that can erroneously ding your score. So if you spot any, start by sending a dispute letter to the bureau, providing as much documentation as possible, per FTC guidelines. You’ll also need to contact the organization that provided the bad intel, such as a bank or medical provider, and ask it to update the info with the bureau. This may take a while, and you may need documentation to make your case. But once the bad info is removed, you should see a bump in your score.

Erase one-time mistakes

So you’ve made a late payment or two—who hasn’t? Call the company that registered the late payment and ask that it be removed from your record. “If you had an oopsy and missed just a payment or two, most companies will indeed tell their reporting division to remove this from your credit report,” says Forrest. Granted, this won’t work if you have a history of late payments, but for accidents and small errors, it’s an easy way to improve your credit score.

Increase your limits

One no-brainer way to increase your credit score is to simply pay off your debt. Not an option right now?  Here’s a cool loophole: Ask your credit card companies to increase your credit limit instead. This improves your debt-to-credit ratio, which compares how much you owe to how much you can borrow.

“Having $1,000 of credit card debt is bad if you have a limit of $1,500. It isn’t nearly as bad if your limit is $5,000,” Forrest says. The simple math: Although you owe the same amount, you’re using a much smaller percentage of your available credit, which shines well on your borrowing practices.

Pay on time

If you’re often late with payments, now’s the time to change. You have the power to improve your credit score yourself. Commit to always paying your bills on time; consider signing up for automatic payments so it’s guaranteed to get done.

Give yourself time

Unfortunately, negative items (such as those habitually late or nonexistent payments) can stay on your report for up to seven years. The good news? Changing your habits makes a big difference in the “payment history” segment of your report, which accounts for 35% of your score. That’s why it’s essential to start early so that you’re sitting pretty once you’re shopping for homes and find one that makes you swoon.

Once you’ve set your credit on a better path, it’s time to tackle the next major hurdle: saving for a down payment.

Source: July 17, 2022. https://www.realtor.com/advice/buy/how-to-boost-your-credit-score-first-time-home-buyer-advice/

Conserving Water During a Drought

Nearly every part of the U.S. experiences periods of reduced rainfall. Planning in advance for a drought can protect us in dry years. Here are some tips from Ready.gov.

Before a Drought

The best way to prepare for a drought is to conserve water. Make conserving water a part of your daily life.

Indoor Water Conservation Tips Before a Drought
GENERAL
  • Never pour water down the drain when there may be another use for it. For example, use it to water your indoor plants or garden.
  • Fix dripping faucets by replacing washers. One drop per second wastes 2,700 gallons of water a year.
  • Check all plumbing for leaks and have any leaks repaired by a plumber.
  • Retrofit all household faucets by installing aerators with flow restrictors.
  • Install an instant hot water heater on your sink.
  • Insulate your water pipes to reduce heat loss and prevent them from breaking.
  • Install a water-softening system only when the minerals in the water would damage your pipes. Turn the softener off while on vacation.
  • Choose appliances that are more energy and water efficient.
BATHROOM
  • Consider purchasing a low-volume toilet that uses less than half the water of older models.
  • Install a toilet displacement device to cut down on the amount of water needed to flush. Place a one-gallon plastic jug of water into the tank to displace toilet flow. Make sure it does not interfere with the operating parts.
  • Replace your showerhead with an ultra-low-flow version.
KITCHEN
  • Instead of using the garbage disposal, throw food in the garbage or start a compost pile to dispose it.
Outdoor Water Conservation Tips Before a Drought
GENERAL
  • If you have a well pump, check it periodically. If the automatic pump turns on and off while water is not being used, you have a leak.
  • Plant native and/or drought-tolerant grasses, ground covers, shrubs and trees. Once established, your plants won’t need as much watering. Group plants together based on similar water needs.
  • Don’t install ornamental water features (such as fountains) unless they use re-circulated water.
  • Consider rainwater harvesting where practical.
  • Contact your local water provider for information and assistance.
LAWN CARE
  • Position sprinklers so water lands on the lawn and shrubs and not on paved areas.
  • Repair sprinklers that spray a fine mist.
  • Check sprinkler systems and timing devices regularly to be sure they operate properly.
  • Raise the lawn mower blade to at least three inches or to its highest level. A higher cut encourages grass roots to grow deeper and holds soil moisture.
  • Plant drought-resistant lawn seed. Reduce or eliminate lawn areas that are not used frequently.
  • Don’t over-fertilize your lawn. Applying fertilizer increases the need for water. Apply fertilizers that contain slow-release, water-insoluble forms of nitrogen.
  • Choose a water-efficient irrigation system such as drip irrigation for your trees, shrubs and flowers.
  • Water manually in fall and winter only if needed.
  • Use mulch around trees and plants to retain moisture in the soil. Mulch also helps control weeds that compete with plants for water.
  • Invest in a weather-based irrigation controller – or a smart controller. These devices will automatically adjust the watering time and frequency based on soil moisture, rain, wind, and evaporation and transpiration rates. Check with your local water agency to see if there is a rebate available for the purchase of a smart controller.
POOL
  • Install a water-saving pool filter. A single back flushing with a traditional filter uses 180 to 250 gallons of water.
  • Cover pools and spats to reduce water evaporation.

During a Drought

Always observe state and local restrictions on water use during a drought. Contact your state or local government for current information and suggestions.

Indoor Water Conservation Tips During a Drought
BATHROOM
  • Avoid flushing the toilet unnecessarily. Dispose of tissues, insects and other similar waste in the trash rather than the toilet.
  • Take short showers instead of baths. Turn on the water only to get wet and lather and then again to rinse off.
  • Avoid letting the water run while brushing your teeth, washing your face, or shaving.
LAUNDRY
  • Operate clothes washers only when they are fully loaded or set the water level for the size of your load.
KITCHEN
  • Operate automatic dishwashers only when they are fully loaded. Use the “light wash” feature to use less water.
  • Hand wash dishes by filling two containers – one with soapy water and the other with rinse water containing a small amount of chlorine bleach.
  • Clean vegetables in a pan filled with water rather than running water from the tap.
  • Avoid wasting water waiting for it to get hot. Capture it for other uses such as plant watering or heat it on the stove or in a microwave.
  • Don’t rinse dishes before placing them in the dishwasher, just remove large particles of food.
  • Avoid using running water to thaw meat or other frozen foods. Defrost food overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
Outdoor Water Conservation Tips During a Drought
LAWN CARE
  • A heavy rain eliminates the need for watering for up to two weeks. Most of the year, lawns only need one inch of water per week.
  • Check the soil moisture levels with a soil probe, spade, or large screwdriver. You don’t need to water if the soil is still moist. If your grass springs back when you step on it, it doesn’t need water yet.
  • If your lawn does require watering, do so early in the morning or later in the evening, when temperatures are cooler.
  • Water in several short sessions rather than one long one, in order for your lawn to better absorb moisture and avoid runoff.
  • Use a broom or blower instead of a hose to clean leaves and other debris from your driveway or sidewalk.
  • Avoid leaving sprinklers or hoses unattended. A garden hose can pour out 600 gallons or more in only a few hours.
  • In extreme drought, allow lawns to die in favor of preserving tress and large shrubs.
CAR WASHING
  • Use a commercial car wash that recycles water.
  • If you wash your own car, use a shut-off nozzle that can be adjusted down to a fine spray on. your hose.

Source: May 5, 2022, https://www.ready.gov/drought

Contact

Wayne Ishimine
Broker Associate

DRE#01192074
Phone: 562.619.6356
Email: wayneish@kw.com

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