Spring Market Update – Multiple Offers Are Back

The spring market is now in full bloom. It’s vitally important to get your strategy in place whether you’re a buyer or a seller.

Inspections Are Back – But Looking Different

The need for an inspection seems to be a little fluid in the Twin Cities marketplace over the last 12-18 months.

Is the real estate market going up or down?

Inventory is up over 40% in February. Closed sales are down 20% Homes still getting multiple offers! What gives?

Who’s Buying in Today’s Market? Empty Nesters & Retirees

PART THREE OF THREE – Surprisingly, they often don’t downsize but instead right-size into a layout more conducive to age in place.

Who’s Buying in Today’s Market? Move-Up Buyers

PART TWO OF THREE – This group of buyers thrives on convenience and is willing to pay more to have it. If you are a seller trying to attract a move-up buyer, read on!

Should I Wait for Better Rates?

Waiting may bring you a better rate, but the real question is: will you get a better deal by waiting? Have a look at the numbers…

How to Make Decisions with Imbalance in the Local Market

We can help navigate through this extraordinary time in the market.

February is a Sweet Time to Get in the Market

If you’re thinking about selling, now might be the perfect time to make the move.

Hanging at Home – Backyard & Patio Ideas

We’re all likely spending a bit more time at home this summer. Here are some great ideas for the backyard / patio.

Twin Cities Real Estate Market Changes for 2020

What’s Your Energy Score?

Buyers will be asking this question as they look at homes in Minneapolis this year. Starting Jan. 15th the required Minneapolis Truth-in-Sale of Housing Inspection has now added an Energy Efficiency report that will score wall and attic insulation, heating system and window efficiency. The city will not require a seller to upgrade, but the jury is still out on how this will affect buyers and negotiations.

CLICK HERE for more information about this change.

This video also does a great job of explaining some of the components of the scoring system.

No More Sneak Previews

Over the last few years, “coming soon” or “Non-MLS” listings have been making up more and more of the market. In some hyper-competitive regions the number of houses off-market were exceeding the number on the MLS. The National Association of Realtors recently voted to crack down on this. Changes in the Twin Cities area will eliminate the ability to broadly market homes that are not on the MLS. “Coming soon” will truly mean that the home will be posted on the MLS as a coming soon listing—not sold before you found out about it! Like every rule, however, there are viewpoints on both sides of the discussion. Contact us to talk through the timing and specifics of these upcoming changes.

My House Just Got Bigger

Conventional loan limits will rise to $510,400 from $484,350. Why does that matter? It will allow a buyer to come up with less money to stay within conforming loan prices. This also allows a buyer with only 5% down to buy a little bigger house.

One Thing You Can Count On: the Sun will Rise

And…so will your 2020 property taxes. Expect, on average, to see a 4.7% rise in property taxes. The good news: many of your homes have also appreciated that much if not more over the past few years.

 

 


 

The Kim Pease Team can help ask the right questions that will assist you in navigating your next move.

Contact us if you or someone you know might need some guidance.