Rates Are Up, And So Are New Home Sales!

Home prices continue to normalize across the country while mortgage rates have increased slightly, according to recent reports by Freddie Mac and the National Association of REALTORS®.

The thirty year conventional, fixed rate mortgage has risen to a national average of 6.37 percent in late May, compared to 6.18 percent in April, and 6.51 percent in April 2006. Much of this increase has been attributed to the recent shake-up within the sub prime mortgage market. Although experts believe there may be more increases in store later this year, these historically low rates continue to support the housing market during the country's recent cool down period.

Average Sales Price of Existing Homes by Region Date  U.S. Northeast Midwest South West 2004 $244,400 $273,600 $189,400 $215,600 $324,300 2005 266,600 297,000 203,800 231,700 363,800 2006 268,200 299,700 205,300 230,000 371,300 01/07 257,300 292,500 194,700 222,500 352,300 02/07 260,100 292,200 188,400 225,200 366,700 03/07 265,200 302,100 199,100 227,300 365,200 04/07 268,400 308,800 203,000 227,900 369,400 Statistics from the National Association of REALTORS®

Single family home sales declined 2.4 percent from March to April, while statistics for existing homes were mixed regionally. The market got an additional boost from new-home sales, which jumped over 16 percent in April, according to the Commerce Department. The market for new homes was particularly strong in the South, which showed a 27.8 percent increase in new home sales, followed by 8.5 percent in the West, and 3.8 percent in the Northeast. The Midwest was the one area where new home sales actually declined and showed a 4 percent drop during April.   

Home Buyers' Tip: Find The Right Coverage!

When purchasing a home, you will need to acquire homeowners insurance. In fact, all lenders will require a policy be in force prior to funding the loan. Make sure you have enough coverage, should anything happen. Policies refer to "replacement costs" that may not cover everything. You should ask your insurance agent a lot of "what if" questions. The deductible amount also plays a big part in setting your premium. Higher deductibles lower the number of claims, and reduce your insurance costs.

Check with your insurance agent for more information on these issues, and any others. If you don't have an insurance agent, we have access to several top-notch agents we can refer you to with confidence.  

Home Sellers' Tip: The Pitfalls of Over Pricing!

Studies show that the longer a property stays on the market, the less the seller will net upon the sale. It is very important to price your property at a competitive market value at the signing of your listing contract.

An Overpriced Home:
· Minimizes offers
· Lowers agents response
· Limits qualified buyers
· Lowers showings
· Lowers prospects
· Limits financing
· Wastes advertising dollars
· Nets less for the seller

When you are ready, contact me today for a personal market value analysis of your home. No hassles or obligation - just honest advice on how to get top dollar for your home!