Housing Market News August 10, 2020

The Latest Unemployment Report: Slow and Steady Improvement

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.48″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.74″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”]Last Friday, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) released its latest Employment Situation Summary. Going into the release, the expert consensus was for 1.58 million jobs to be added in July, and for the unemployment rate to fall to 10.5%.

When the official report came out, it revealed that 1.8 million jobs were added, and the unemployment rate fell to 10.2% (from 11.1% last month). Once again, this is excellent news as this was the third consecutive month the unemployment rate decreased.The Latest Unemployment Report: Slow and Steady Improvement | MyKCMThere is, however, still a long way to go before the job market fully recovers. The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) put a potential date on that recovery:

“July’s payroll growth, at 1.8 million, still leaves total payrolls 12.9 million lower than in February. And yet if job gains continued at July’s pace, that deficit will be erased by March 2021. If payrolls reclaim their last peak in 13 months, that would be remarkably fast. It took more than six years after the last recession.”

Permanent vs. Temporary Unemployment

During a pandemic, it’s important to differentiate those who have lost their jobs on a temporary basis from those who have lost them on a permanent basis. Morgan Stanley economists noted in the same WSJ article:

“The rate of churn in the labor market remains incredibly high, but a notable positive detail in this month’s report was the downtick in the rate of new permanent layoffs.”

To address this, the core unemployment rate becomes increasingly important. It identifies the number of people who have permanently lost their jobs. This measure subtracts temporary layoffs and adds unemployed who did not search for a job recently. Jed Kolko, Chief Economist at Indeed and the founder of the index reported:

“Core unemployment fell in July for the first time in the pandemic. That’s the good news I was hoping for.”

What about the housing market?

The housing market has continued to show tremendous resilience during the pandemic. Commenting on the labor report, Robert Dietz, Chief Economist for the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), tweeted:

“Housing continues to rebound in another positive labor market report. Home builder and remodeler job gains of 24K for July. Residential construction employment down just 56.4K compared to a year ago. Total residential construction employment at 2.85 million.”

Bottom Line

We should remain cautious in our optimism, as the recovery is ultimately tied to our future success in mitigating the ongoing health crisis. However, as Mike Fratantoni, Chief Economist for the Mortgage Bankers Association, reminds us“The pace of job growth slowed in July, but the gains over the past three months represent an impressive rebound during the ongoing economic challenges brought forth by the pandemic.”
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Agency News and Awards July 22, 2020

Green Team Realty’s 2nd Quarter 2020 Sales Leaders

Congratulations from Geoff Green, President of Green Team Realty, to our 2nd Quarter Sales Leaders.

Geoff Green, President of Green Team Realty, was proud to announce the 2nd Quarter 2020 Sales Leaders. They are Chris Kimiecik of Green Team New York Realty in Warwick NY, In addition, Carol Buchanan was second and Terry Gavan, third.  Keren Gonen is 2Q Sales Leader for Green Team New Jersey Realty, located in Vernon NJ, with Charles Nagy and Ted Van Laar in second place, and Pam Zachowski in third.

Chris Kimiecik, Green Team New York Realty 

Geoff had the following to say about Chris’s achievement:

“Chris Kimiecik is a shining example of “success begets success.”  Here is a guy who runs one of the most successful landscaping companies in Orange County and yet he finds time to not only become a Realtor, but to be very successful at doing so.   Chris will be the first one to point out that he couldn’t do it all without the support of his wife Megan who plays an integral role in his Real Estate business.  This is the first Quarterly Sales Leader award for Chris, but I am certain that there will be more.  Congratulations Chris and Megan!”

Chris on being 2Q Sales Leader

“Our clients, my wife and real estate partner, Megan, and the support of The Green Team “Warwick” all played a part on this journey to Q2 sales leader. Through diversified businesses that integrate with each other, and our partnership with the Green Team, we are able to offer an unmatched experience. When you surround yourself with the right people and team, anything is possible.  We look forward to working with you, your friends, your family and anyone considering buying or selling a home in Warwick NY and surrounding area.”

Keren Gonen, Green Team New Jersey Realty

Geoff said the following about Keren’s latest achievement:

“If it wasn’t clear before, it should be abundantly clear to everyone now that Keren Gonen is going to top the production charts in her market territory for many years to come.  No one works harder and cares more for her clients then Keren.  We are extremely blessed to have Keren as part of Green Team New Jersey Realty.  Congratulations Keren, and keep up the good work!”

This is not Keren’s first time as a Sales Leader. This is her third time as Quarterly Sales Leader. And in 2017, the year Keren started at Green Team New Jersey Realty, she was Yearly Sales Leader.

Keren on being 2Q Sales Leader

Keren had this to say about her latest achievement:

“I am very grateful to be the Second Quarter Sales Leader!  2020 started out really well for me in the Real Estate Market as it did for many others.  I contribute this to the networking group I am a part of (Referral Roundtable), my involvement in the Community, and my overall work ethic. I am that agent that gets up at 5 am to finish paperwork and still is out with clients late in the evening. This Pandemic that has aggressively changed all of our lives, also changed the Housing Market.  Like many others, working during COVID-19 means that I was able to assist clients running away from The City and into “The Country.”  Working seven days a week, coordinating showings during Corona, along with inspections, appraisals, and being mindful of how cautious we all must be during this process meant that I was able to help more people get into new homes.  Although Real Estate Agents were not deemed “Essential Workers” and thank God for those people who put their lives on the line every day and continue to do so, I believe that Real Estate Agents made the mass exodus from NYC possible for many people that were hopeless and quarantined.  This made us Agents essential to those people seeking a different way of life.”

Selling a Home July 9, 2020

Best Time to Sell? When Competition Is at an All-Time Low

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In a recent survey of home sellers by Qualtrics, 87% of respondents said they were concerned their home won’t sell because of the pandemic and resulting economic recession. Of the respondents, 51% said they are “seriously worried.” That concern seems reasonable considering the current condition of the economy. The data, however, is showing that home purchasers are still very active despite the disruptions American families have experienced this year.

The latest Existing Home Sales Report published by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) revealed that 340,000 single-family homes sold in this country last month. NAR’s most recent Pending Sales Report (homes going into contract) surpassed last month’s number by over 44%, which far exceeded analysts’ projections of 15%. ShowingTime reported that appointments to see homes (both virtually and in-person) have increased in every region of the country and are up 21.4% nationwide over the same time last year.

While buyer activity is surging, the number of listings has fallen to an all-time low. Zelman Associates, in their latest residential real estate report, revealed that housing inventory as a percentage of households has fallen to 1.2%, which is half of the long-term average and lower than any other time in our history.

Bidding Wars Heating Up Again

With buyer demand growing and the supply of available homes shrinking, purchasers are again finding themselves needing to outbid other buyers. NAR, in a recent blog post, revealed:

“On average, there were about three offers on a home that closed in May, up from just about two in April 2020 and in May 2019 (2.3 offers).”

Bidding wars guarantee houses sell quickly at a price near or even slightly over the listing price.

Bottom Line

If you’re thinking of selling, don’t be concerned about putting your house on the market right now. There’s no better time to sell an item than when demand for it is high and supply is low. It is exactly at that time when you will negotiate your best possible deal.

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Selling a Home July 1, 2020

Think You Should For Sale By Owner? Think Again [INFOGRAPHIC]

Think You Should For Sale By Owner? Think Again [INFOGRAPHIC] | MyKCM

Some Highlights 

  • For Sale By Owner (FSBO) is the process of selling real estate without the representation of a real estate broker or real estate agent.
  • According to the National Association of Realtors’ Profile of Home Buyers & Sellers, 35% of homeowners who decided to FSBO last year did so to avoid paying a commission or fee. But, homes sold with an agent net 6% more than those sold as a FSBO according to Collateral Analytics.
  • Before you decide to take on the challenge of selling your house on your own, let’s connect to discuss your options.
Selling a Home May 28, 2020

2020 Real Estate Season – It’s Not Over, It’s Now This Summer

With stay-at-home orders starting to gradually lift throughout parts of the country, data indicates homebuyers are jumping back into the market. After many families put their plans on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic, what we once called the busy spring real estate season is shifting into the summer. In 2020, summer is the new spring for real estate.

Joel KanEconomist at The Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) notes:

“Applications for home purchases continue to recover from April’s sizable drop and have now increased for five consecutive weeks…Government purchase applications, which include FHA, VA, and USDA loans, are now 5 percent higher than a year ago, which is an encouraging turnaround after the weakness seen over the past two months.”

Additionally, according to Google Trends, which scores search terms online, searches for real estate increased from 68 points the week of March 15th to 92 points last week. As we can see, more potential homebuyers are looking for homes virtually.

What’s the Opportunity for Buyers?

Another reason buyers are coming back to the market, even with forced unemployment and stay-at-home orders, is historically low mortgage rates. Sam Khater, Chief Economist at Freddie Mac indicates:

“For the fourth consecutive week, the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage has been below 3.30 percent, giving potential buyers a good reason to continue shopping even amid the pandemic…As states reopen, we’re seeing purchase demand improve remarkably fast, now essentially flat relative to a year ago.”

With mortgage rates at such low levels and states gradually beginning to reopen, there’s more incentive than ever to buy a home this summer.

What’s the Opportunity for Sellers?

Finding a home to buy, however, is still a challenge, as this spring sellers removed many listings from the market. Though more people are now putting their houses up for sale this month as compared to last month, current inventory is still well below last year’s level.

According to last week’s Weekly Economic and Housing Market Update from realtor.com:

“Weekly Housing Inventory showed continued tightening. New Listings declined 28% compared with a year ago, as sellers grappled with uncertainty and hesitated bringing homes to market. Total Listings dropped 20% YoY, a faster rate than in prior weeks, leaving very few homes available for sale. As Time on Market was 15 days slower YoY, asking prices moved up 1.5% YoY.”

If you’re thinking of selling your house this summer, now may be your best opportunity. With so few homes on the market for buyers to purchase, this season may be the time for your house to stand out from the crowd. Trusted real estate professionals can help you list safely and effectively, keeping your family’s needs top of mind. Buyers are looking, and your house may be at the top of their list.

Bottom Line

If you’re thinking of selling, many buyers may be eager to find a home just like yours. Let’s connect today to make sure you can get your house in on the action this summer, the new 2020 real estate season.

Housing Market News May 28, 2020

Housing Market – A Driving Force Positioned to Bring Back the Economy

All eyes are on the American economy. As it goes, so does the world economy. With states beginning to reopen, the question becomes: which sectors of the economy will drive its recovery? There seems to be a growing consensus that the housing market is positioned to be that driving force, the tailwind that is necessary.

Some may question that assertion as they look back on the last recession in 2008 when housing was the anchor to the economy – holding it back from sailing forward. But even then, the overall economy did not begin to recover until the real estate market started to regain its strength. This time, the housing market was in great shape when the virus hit.

As Mark Fleming, Chief Economist of First Americanrecently explained:

“Many still bear scars from the Great Recession and may expect the housing market to follow a similar trajectory in response to the coronavirus outbreak. But, there are distinct differences that indicate the housing market may follow a much different path. While housing led the recession in 2008-2009, this time it may be poised to bring us out of it.”

Fleming is not the only economist who believes this. Last week, Dr. Frank Nothaft, Chief Economist for CoreLogic, (@DrFrankNothaft) tweeted:

“For the first 6 decades after WWII, the housing sector led the rest of the economy out of each recession. Expect it to do so this time as well.”

And, Robert Dietz, Chief Economist for the National Association of Home Builders, in an economic update last week explained:

“As the economy begins a recovery later in 2020, we expect housing to play a leading role. Housing enters this recession underbuilt, not overbuilt…Based on demographics and current vacancy rates, the U.S. may have a housing deficit of up to one million units.”

Bottom Line

Every time a home is sold it has a tremendous financial impact on local economies, making the housing market a driving force . As the real estate market continues its recovery, it will act as a strong tailwind to the overall national economy. Are you in need of a new home?  Let us make finding that home easier – Perfect Home Finder

Housing Market News May 26, 2020

Buying or Selling a Home? You Need an Expert Kind of Guide

 

In a normal housing market, whether you’re buying or selling a home, you need an experienced guide to help you navigate through the process. You need someone you can turn to who will tell you how to price your home correctly right from the start. You need someone who can help you determine what to offer on your dream home without paying too much or offending the seller with a low-ball offer.

We are, however, in anything but a normal market right now. We are amid one of the greatest health crises our nation has ever seen. The pandemic has had a dramatic impact on the journey consumers take to purchase or sell a home. To successfully navigate the landscape today, you need more than an experienced guide. You need a ‘Real Estate Sherpa.’

According to Lexico, a Sherpa is a “member of a Himalayan people living on the borders of Nepal and Tibet, renowned for their skill in mountaineering.” Sherpas are skilled in leading their parties through the extreme altitudes of the peaks and passes in the region – some of the most treacherous trails in the world. They take pride in their hardiness, expertise, and experience at very high altitudes.

They are much more than just guides.

This is much more than a normal real estate market.

Today, the average guide just won’t do. You need a Sherpa. You need an expert who understands how COVID-19 is impacting the thoughts and actions of the consumer (ex: virtual showings, proper safety protocols, e-signing documents). You need someone who can simply and effectively explain the changes in today’s process to you and your family. You need an expert who will guarantee you make the right decision, especially in these challenging times.

Bottom Line

Hiring an agent who understands how the pandemic is reshaping the real estate processes is crucial right now. Connect with one of our Sales Agents today to guarantee your journey is a safe and successful one.

Agency News and Awards May 17, 2020

1st Quarter 2020 Sales Leaders

Congratulations From Geoff Green, President Of Green Team Realty, To Our 1st Quarter Sales Leaders

I am pleased to announce our 1st Quarter Sales Leaders for 2020. They are Jennifer DiCostanzo of our Warwick Office, and Barbara Tesa of our Vernon Office. 2020 started out strong, giving us all high hopes for a very successful year. Then towards the end of the 1st quarter, everything changed. Normally, I’d be photographed presenting an award to each quarterly sales leader. However, while I can’t congratulate them in person, I can do so here.

Once again Jennifer tops the production charts. Her work ethic is second to none and it shows. Jen is a tremendous Realtor who we are extremely grateful to call a Green Teamer!

Barbara is the consummate professional. Always responsive, always learning, and always producing. We are extremely fortunate to have Barbara as part of our team.

Jennifer DiCostanzo, Green Team New York Realty and Barbara Tesa of Green Team New Jersey Realty

Jennifer DiCostanzo and Barbara Tesa at Green Team 2019 Awards Ceremony

 

Jennifer DiCostanzo, Green Team New York Realty

Jennifer DiCostanzo is no stranger to the Sales Leader Award. She has received the Yearly Sales Award each year since joining Green Team in 2015.  Jen received the MVP Award in 2017 for more than $10 Million in Sales. Then again, in 2019, for more than $12 Million in Sales. Jen attributes her success to caring about her clients, working hard, and constantly learning. By keeping informed, she is best able to serve her clients to the best of her ability. Even in the midst of a pandemic. 

With the challenges presented by COVID19, Jen has shared relevant information and resources with the community. She has written columns published in local newspapers. Jen feels it is important for people to understand their options. And that can range from mortgage forbearance to understanding current restrictions.  Further, she has advocated on behalf of local organizations needing help and support as they give help and support to the community.

Jen’s thoughts on Covid19’s impact on real estate transactions

We began the first quarter off with a very strong market. Then suddenly overnight  COVID  changed every aspect of our lives. We had to immediately customize business practices and protocols.   However, even though we are in a climate of social distancing, real estate needs are very much a priority and at the forefront of keeping the economy stable and on track.   And by implementing cutting edge technologies, we are able to handle complex real estate market operations.

Stepping off of 2020 1st quarter has fueled stronger client relationships. We have had to seamlessly accelerate to virtual and remote platforms. And by doing so have transitioned both home buyers and sellers safely during a COVID market.

This is truly an essential time for both buyers and sellers to evaluate options and their own financial stability. It’s also an essential time to work with experts who understand the changing requirements and regulations that impact the decision to buy or sell a home.  Now, more than ever, it is vital to work with real estate professionals, from your agent, lenders, attorneys and home inspectors, who are familiar with local regulations, safety concerns, etc. to make sure that your transaction proceeds on track and safely, with as little stress as possible. However, setting a level of expectation is vital so you can easily adapt to COVID timing factors. They have also been adjusted with remote and limited staff in all business platforms, from local, municipal and state agencies, and may indeed require more patience.  It’s important to remember they are also working through COVID conditions as well.

Barbara Tesa, Green Team New Jersey Realty

Barbara Tesa is also no stranger to the Sales Leader Award,  She received the award for the 3rd and 4th Quarters of 2017.  Barbara also received the Captain’s Club Award for 2019, with between $3 and 5 Million in sales. Further, she received the New Jersey Realtors Circle of Excellence Award for 2017, 2018, and 2019.   When Barbara joined Green Team New Jersey Realty, she brought with her an extensive resume. She has 20+ years of experience in residential and commercial real estate management. And she has been a successful, licensed real estate agent in New Jersey for 11 years now. Barbara’s motto is, “YOUR Property… MY Priority!” Which is fitting, because it’s important to her that her clients feel confident their interests are top priority throughout a transition.

 

Barbara’s thoughts on Covid19’s impact on real estate transactions

The beginning of the quarter started off strong with a very active January/February and early March. It felt like buyers and sellers had a lot of confidence in the market on both sides. Then, the uncertainty of real estate in COVID-19 times gave buyers and sellers a pause in mid-March. However, it seems to have been only temporary because buyers have remained active with their searches, their desire to see homes in person, and their desire to move. And sellers still want to sell.

We are just doing things a little differently now, taking every precaution with clients under social distancing guidelines when entering properties, meeting for home inspections, and right through to closing a transaction. People are still on the move and we will keep them moving as smoothly as possible. Despite COVID-19, based on the activity I’ve been seeing in the last 3-4 weeks, I’m looking forward to a robust remainder of the year. I am finding that people still want to move on with their plans, so the determination is there in the market.

Selling a Home May 14, 2020

What You Can Do to Get Your House Ready to Sell [INFOGRAPHIC]

What can you do to get your house ready to sell:

Some Highlights:

  • Believe it or not, there are lots of things you can do to get your house ready to sell 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 cleaning the corners you may normally skip to tidying up your yard are easy and necessary wins if you’re thinking of listing your house and making a move.
  • Contact one of our Sales Agents to help you get ready.
Housing Market News April 13, 2020

How Technology Is Enabling the Real Estate Process

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 we’re adapting to is the revisions to the common real estate transaction, which all vary by state and locality. Technology, however, is making it possible for many of us to continue on the quest for homeownership, an essential need for all.

Here’s a look at some of the elements of the process that are changing (at least in the near-term), due to stay-at-home orders and social distancing, and what you may need to know about each one if you’re thinking of buying or selling a home sooner rather than later.

1. Virtual Consultations – Instead of heading into an office, you can meet with real estate and lending professionals through video chat. Whether it’s your first initial needs analysis as a buyer or your listing appointment as a seller, you can still get the process started remotely and create a plan together. Your trusted advisor is still on your side.

2. Home Searches & Virtual Showings – According to theNational Association of Realtors (NAR), the Internet is one of the three most popular information sources buyers use when searching for homes. Your real estate agent can send you listing information and help you request a virtual showing when you’re ready to start looking. This means you can virtually walk through the homes on your wish list while keeping your family safe. As a seller, you can still have virtual open houses and virtual tours too, so as not to miss those buyers looking to find a home right now.

3. Document Signing – Although this is another area that varies by state, today more portions of the transaction are being done digitally. In many areas, your agent or loan officer can set up an account where you can upload all of the required documents and sign electronically right from your computer.

4. Sending Money – Whether you need to pay for an appraisal or submit closing costs, there are options available. Depending on the transaction and local regulations, you may be able to pay by credit card, and most banks will also allow you to wire funds from your account. Sometimes you can send a check by mail, and in some states, a mobile escrow agent will pick up a check from your home.

5. Closing Process – Again, depending on your area, a mobile notary may be able to bring the required documents to your home before the closing. If your state requires an attorney to be present, check with your legal counsel to see what options are available. Also, depending on the title company, some are allowing drive-thru closings, which is similar to doing a transaction at a bank window.

Although these virtual processes are starting to become more widely accepted, it does not mean that this is the way things are going to get done from now on. Under the current circumstances, however, technology is making it possible to continue much of the real estate transaction today.

Bottom Line

If you need to move today, technology can help make it happen; there are options available. Let’s touch base today to discuss your situation and our local regulations, so you don’t have to put your real estate plans on hold.