Earlier this week, we discussed how most projections from financial institutions are calling for a quick V-shaped recovery from this economic downturn, and there’s research on previous post-pandemic recoveries to support that expectation. In addition, we noted how there are some in the business community who believe we may instead be headed for a U-shaped … Continue reading "Uncertainty Abounds in the Search for Economic Recovery Timetable"

In a recent survey by realtor.com, people thinking about selling their homes indicated they’re generally willing to allow their agent and some potential buyers inside if done under the right conditions. They’re less comfortable, however, hosting an open house. This is understandable, given the health concerns associated with social contact these days. The question is, … Continue reading "Keys to Selling Your House Virtually"

Many American businesses have been put on hold as the country deals with the worst pandemic in over one hundred years. As the states are deciding on the best strategy to slowly and safely reopen, the big question is: how long will it take the economy to fully recover? Let’s look at the possibilities. Here … Continue reading "Will This Economic Crisis Have a V, U, or L-Shaped Recovery?"

There are two crises in this country right now: a health crisis that has forced everyone into their homes and a financial crisis caused by our inability to move around as we normally would. Over 20 million people in the U.S. became instantly unemployed when it was determined that the only way to defeat this … Continue reading "The Pain of Unemployment: It Will Be Deep, But Not for Long"

Some Highlights: A recent realtor.com survey revealed that buyers are still considering moving forward with the homebuying process, even if they can’t see the home in-person. While they still prefer to physically see a home, virtual home tours and accurate listing information top the list of tech specs buyers find most helpful in today’s process. … Continue reading "How Technology is Helping Buyers Navigate the Home Search Process [INFOGRAPHIC]"

The uncertainty the world faces today due to the COVID-19 pandemic is causing so many things to change. The way we interact, the way we do business, even the way we buy and sell real estate is changing. This is a moment in time that’s even sparking some buyers to search for a better deal … Continue reading "Today’s Homebuyers Want Lower Prices. Sellers Disagree."

With all of the unanswered questions caused by COVID-19 and the economic slowdown we’re experiencing across the country today, many are asking if the housing market is in trouble. For those who remember 2008, it’s logical to ask that question. Many of us experienced financial hardships, lost homes, and were out of work during the … Continue reading "Think This Is a Housing Crisis? Think Again."

Every day that passes, people have a need to buy and sell homes. That doesn’t stop during the current pandemic. If you’ve had a major life change recently, whether with your job or your family situation, you may be in a position where you need to sell your home – and fast. While you probably … Continue reading "What If I Need to Sell My Home Now? What Can I Do?"

With over 90% of Americans now under a shelter-in-place order, many experts are warning that the American economy is heading toward a recession, if it’s not in one already. What does that mean to the residential real estate market? What is a recession? According to the National Bureau of Economic Research: “A recession is a … Continue reading "Recession? Yes. Housing Crash? No."

Some Highlights: Believe it or not, there are lots of things you can do to prep your house for a sale without even going to the store. Your real estate plans don’t have to be completely on hold even while we’ve hit the pause button on other parts of daily life. Tackling small projects from … Continue reading "What You Can Do to Get Your House Ready to Sell [INFOGRAPHIC]"

For years, we’ve all heard about the most desirable home features buyers are looking for, from upgraded kitchens to remodeled bathrooms, master suites, and more. The latest on the hotlist, however, might surprise you: home offices. In a recent article by George Ratiu, Senior Economist with realtor.com, he notes how listings with an office are … Continue reading "Why Home Office Space Is More Desirable Than Ever"

Today’s everyday reality is pretty different than it looked just a few weeks ago. We’re learning how to do a lot of things in new ways, from how we work remotely to how we engage with our friends and neighbors. Almost everything right now is shifting to a virtual format. One of the big changes … Continue reading "How Technology Is Enabling the Real Estate Process"

There’s a ton of real estate information available in the news today and on the Internet. It can be extremely confusing, especially in times of uncertainty like we’re facing right now. If you’re thinking of buying or selling this year, you need an agent who can help you: Make sense of this rapidly evolving housing … Continue reading "How to Find the Perfect Real Estate Agent"

Ten million Americans lost their jobs over the last two weeks. The next announced unemployment rate on May 8th is expected to be in the double digits. Because the health crisis brought the economy to a screeching halt, many are feeling a personal financial crisis. James Bullard, President of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. … Continue reading "Will Surging Unemployment Crush Home Sales?"

Some Highlights Expert insights are painting a bright future for housing when the economy bounces back – and it will. We may be facing challenging economic times today, but the housing market is poised to help the economy recover, not drag it down. Let’s connect to make sure you’re informed and ready when it’s time … Continue reading "The Housing Market Is Positioned to Help the Economy Recover [INFOGRAPHIC]"

As our lives, our businesses, and the world we live in change day by day, we’re all left wondering how long this will last. How long will we feel the effects of the coronavirus? How deep will the impact go? The human toll may forever change families, but the economic impact will rebound with a … Continue reading "Looking to the Future: What the Experts Are Saying"

The last few weeks and months have caused a major health crisis throughout the world, leading to a pause in the U.S. economy as businesses and consumers work to slow the spread of the coronavirus. The rapid spread of the virus has been compared to prior pandemics and outbreaks not seen in many years. It … Continue reading "The #1 Thing You Can Do Now to Position Yourself to Buy a Home This Year"

We’re in a changing real estate market, and life, in general, is changing too – from how we grocery shop and meal prep to the ways we can interact with our friends and neighbors. Even practices for engaging with agents, lenders, and all of the players involved in a real estate transaction are changing to … Continue reading "The Economic Impact of Buying a Home"

The angst caused by the coronavirus has most people on edge regarding both their health and financial situations. It’s at times like these when we want exact information about anything we’re doing – even the correct protocol for grocery shopping. That information brings knowledge, and this gives us a sense of relief and comfort. If … Continue reading "The Best Advice Does Not Mean Perfect Advice"

Some Highlights: Don’t put your homeownership plans on hold just because you’re stuck inside. There are several things you can do right now to keep your home search moving forward. Connect with an agent, learn about resource programs for things like down payments, and get pre-approved today. Content previously posted on Keeping Current Matters