Why Waiting May Cost You More

Spring is almost here in the North in Pittsburgh, PA. Those of you in warmer climates...keep reading as some of this has already worked to your benefit. The Spring Market Real Estate Market is ready to pounce on us!

And all indications are that nothing will hold most buyers back like last year. It was a tough one in real estate. From the change in administrations, to the National Association of Realtors (NAR) lawsuit that changed how we (REALTOR®s) work with clients, to crazy and volatile mortgage rates, the industry slowed nationwide. But it's time to restart. No, we probably won't see the post-pandemic interest rates or the wild buyer bidding that resulted in multiple offers on most every home. But what we are hearing ...and already seeing... is activity! Yes, in the real world where I work, it's the activity level of me and my fellow Realtors that's the true indicator of what the Spring market will look like.
********************************************

And my friends at Keeping Current Matters say this:

Some Highlights

• You may be sitting on the sidelines wondering if it’s better to buy now or wait. But buying before the spring rush may be a game-changing decision.​
• Moving this winter can give you significant advantages, like less competition, more negotiating power, and lower prices.
• If you’re able to buy now, stay ahead of the game and outrun the competition. To tackle your homebuying plans this year, connect with a local agent.
• • 
    
  • Keeping Current Matters, 8720 Stony Point Pkwy, Ste 400, Richmond, Virginia 23235, United States of America, 631-787-6200

******************************************
So, how do you make this surge in activity work for YOU?
Simple: Get started!
1. If you're a buyer, start your research now. Don't wait till the flowers are blooming in the front yards. Ask your Realtor to create an automated search on the local MLS so that you hear about new listings as soon as they hit the market.
2. If you're a seller, is the house ready to hit the market? While curb appeal is important, it may be too early to plant those lovey flowers. But the inside is where most people live, right? Cleaning, painting and organizing can all be done while it's still snowing. Buyers looking now...and there are many who are...understand your local issues with weather and they don't expect perfection outside...well, not yet anyway. Feature your home like it's in a magazine. Your Realtor should be using a professional photographer, not the cell phone. And take those photos on a sunny day!
3. Get financially ready. It's very important, if you're buying and financing, to have your mortgage pre-approval in hand NOW in case your dream home pops up.
And yes, sellers should also be ready in this category. When a buyer shows up and ready to deal, have you planned on where you're going? Will you move to another home? Are you ready financially??
4. Have a contingency plan. Is there a lease you need to deal with? Have you researched your target area where you're heading? Are you on the same page with your whole family? What might hold you back?
Realtors are ready to listen. That's what the best of us do...we listen! Much like your therapist (no, we are not), we want to provide insight and share stories from past clients to help you consider the potential "gotchas". If your Realtor is selling you, pause and reconsider their motives. Those of us who consider ourselves consultants are your best bet. And there are many of us out there.
While I've mentioned many things to consider, being represented by the right agent with whom you click will help you get through this. Think about it, you may do this once or twice in 10 years. We do it every day of our careers.
By being prepared and represented by the right Realtor, you will save money and heartache in this effort. And aren't you trying to get to the goal line? Bring your dreams to reality...and make your best deal!!