It’s official. The U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri granted final approval to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) settlement, despite objections from the Department of Justice (DOJ). This article explains how these changes will affect buyers and sellers moving forward and provides clarity to help you confidently navigate the evolving real estate landscape. Key Changes from the NAR Settlement in Real Estate Written Buyer Agreements Buyers are now required to sign written agreements when working with […]
Investing in residential real estate can be lucrative, but common real estate investing mistakes can derail success Many investors, especially those new to the market, make common real estate investing mistakes that can cost them time, money, and even their investment. In this post, we’ll explore some of the most common missteps and offer tips to help you navigate the world of residential real estate with confidence. Skipping Proper Research The Mistake: Failing to research the local market thoroughly can […]
The Cromford® Market Index: A Buyer’s Market Returns The Cromford® Market Index (CMI) for all property types in Maricopa County has dropped to 87.1, marking the lowest level since October 2010. This significant decline signals the return of a buyer’s market after 14 years. For homeowners, particularly those facing financial difficulties or the threat of foreclosure, this shift presents new challenges. Navigating today’s market is critical to protect both equity and credit as inventory grows and supply remains uncertain. Avoiding […]
Maricopa County boasts a rich selection of properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which helps preserve the area’s unique architectural and cultural heritage. Registering a property not only adds value for many homeowners but also brings several potential benefits. What Makes a Property Eligible for the National Register? For a home to qualify, it typically needs to be at least 50 years old and maintain its historical character. However, younger properties may qualify if they represent significant […]
Every presidential election sparks the same question: ‘Will the election affect the housing market?’ It’s a valid concern, particularly for those buying or selling homes in Arizona. Yet, despite the unpredictability of election years, data shows that the impact on the housing market is minimal. While some buyers might claim they’re waiting for election results, they make up only a small portion of the market and have little influence on overall trends. The numbers back this up, showing that sales […]
If you’ve been waiting for a sign that it’s the right time to buy a home or refinance, here it is! Mortgage rates have just dropped to their lowest levels since Q2 of 2022, and this is an incredible opportunity for buyers and homeowners alike. Whether you’re looking to buy your first home or lower your monthly payments through refinancing, these rates could be the key to unlocking your financial goals. Understanding the Rate Drop After months of fluctuating interest […]
In today’s digital world, while technology has made the real estate process more accessible, it has also created new opportunities for scammers. Protecting yourself from these scams is crucial for a smooth and secure transaction. Here are some of the most common real estate scams to be aware of, along with tips on how to avoid them. Wire Fraud Wire fraud is one of the most serious and widespread scams in real estate today. Scammers often impersonate real estate agents, […]
A note from the Team Leader, Erica… As of today, August 17, 2024, significant changes resulting from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) settlement will officially take effect across the nation, aimed at bringing greater transparency and fairness to the real estate industry. However, if you’re in Arizona, you’re already a few steps ahead. Our local MLS and the Scottsdale Realtor Association have been proactive in implementing these changes since the beginning of August. This early adoption has allowed us […]
Navigating the real estate market can be daunting for both buyers and sellers. A real estate agent can be an invaluable asset, providing expertise, guidance, and support throughout the process. Here’s why you should consider working with a real estate agent, whether you’re buying or selling a property: For Buyers Expert Knowledge of the Market Real estate agents specializing in working with buyers possess in-depth knowledge of local market trends, property values, and neighborhood specifics. They provide information on schools, […]
Opendoor promises a quick and hassle-free sale of your home, which at first glance seems like a modern convenience suited to our fast-paced lives. However, this convenience might come at a greater cost than many homeowners realize. 1. Deceptive Profit Prospects: Opendoor’s service fee might seem standard at 5%, but it’s essential to question the value this fee actually provides. Traditional real estate professionals also operate around a similar commission rate, but they offer comprehensive services backed by fiduciary responsibilities. […]
