Friday, November 19, 2010

What's the best season to buy/sell a house? (You may be surprised!)

It's the question of the day... when's the best time to buy or sell a house.  Well, logic would tell you that the best time to buy a house and the best time to sell a house would be two distinctly different times, and that would be a good general statement. 

Let's start by checking out a graph showing the number of closing each month since January 2008...


Suprisingly to most, December has been a VERY high month for the last two years.  Not so surprisingly, May through August were high months in 2008 and 2009.  Of course, a tax credit was supposed to end around the end of both years, and then ran until April 30, 2010 which may have contributed to a 'less than desirable' summer season. 

The best months vary from year to year and are certainly affected by outside influences, including government incentives, grant programs, interest rates, the overall economy, and much more.  So, if you are looking to sell, it's really when is the best time for you with your individual needs and goals in mind.  If you are looking to buy, it's finding the perfect house for your needs at a price you are comfortable with.

Call today for a personalized consultation on when it's the right time for you.

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

How’s the market… seriously!?

The truth is, the market is always great.  The question is… who is it great for?  We all know there is an abundance of opportunity for those looking to purchase or ‘trade in’ their home.  With an “all time high” affordability rate combined with an “all time high” inventory to choose from, it’s a no brainer.
But, how about our “seller” friends?  Well, because there are distressed properties everywhere you turn, it is getting more and more difficult to find clean, up-to-date houses that you have the history/disclosures on as well as a reasonable price tag.  If you have kept your house up and it is move in ready, you have already beat out the majority of your competition.  If you have a house that’s not in the best condition, and you NEED to get top dollar for it… then you are in luck, because the rental market is alive and well, too.
Owe more than it’s worth?  There are great options available for a new start to many who find themselves in a difficult situation.  This is because of the unique circumstance with housing and the overall economy. 
Actually, I would venture to say that the only one the market’s not looking great for may be our lenders.  And while that stinks for them… let’s be honest, better them than you, right?
So, if you are considering selling your property, contact me today for a Market Analysis, and while you’re at it, go ahead and get one for the rental market in your area as well.  If you are considering becoming a homeowner OR investor, contact me today WHILE you are checking out all of the AWESOME homes for sale on the MS Gulf Coast at www.realestatewithcassie.com. 
Not sure what in the heck you want to do?  Call me and we’ll talk about where to go from here.
Talk to you soon!

With Love,
Cassie Purcell

Monday, October 4, 2010

I wish I had a MILLION DOLLARS...

...but since I don't, I hope to help as many people as possible find opportunity in this unique real estate market. Guys, seriously!!! I don't know if there was EVER a time like this to purchase a home, land, or investment property. I know, I know, we've heard it for so long it's become cliche "now is the time to buy - interest rates are historically low - BLAH, BLAH, BLAH". So, how else can it be said... if you have money for a down payment OR you don't have money for a down payment... if you have extra money each month OR you are paying rent right now... if you have a rich friend OR a stingy uncle... whatever your situation may be, DON'T miss out on the opportunity if you don't have to. No-one has a crystal ball to know when, but presumably very soon the real estate market will turn around and buyers will be looking at the same houses available today BUT with a much higher price tag!

I realize this post does not come as great news to people who may have purchased a home when prices were higher. However, there are also opportunities and assistances available for many people who find themselves in a difficult situation with their home (or even investment properties).

Make sure to visit http://www.realestatewithcassie.com/ to search properties, sign up for foreclosure updates, find out the value of your home, or recieve market updates on your neighborhood!

Contact me today to see how you can benefit best from today's market!!!


Cassie Purcell, SFR
REALTOR(R)
Keller Williams Realty
MS Gulf Coast

Monday, September 13, 2010

What is a "Short Sale"

A "Short Sale" is when the sellers lender is willing to accept "short" of what is owed to avoid foreclosing on the property. They are a great opportunity for people who are having difficulties (or will be having difficulties) making their mortgage payment due to a hardship. They are also a great opportunity for homebuyers or investors who want to purchase property (usually) below market value. Sound like a great deal? It is, but usually doesn't come without some additional difficulties. First of all, some short sales are not "pre-approved" by the lender, so the asking price is not set by the lender (who is the one making the decision) but rather by the seller and/or their agent. That means that even a "full price offer" could be denied, wasting precious time for the seller and possibly lost opportunity for the buyer. The approval process can be a lengthy one, depending on the bank who owns it, so don't expect an overnight response... or even close to it.

However, despite the difficulties, many times they prove to be a win-win for everyone involved... and, like any other real estate transaction, your Realtor(R) can advise you on whether a Short Sale may be a great opportunity for you to explore.

Cassie Purcell, SFR
REALTOR(R)
Keller Williams Realty
MS Gulf Coast