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Future market activity remains somewhat unpredictable, and much depends on the direction of the general economy and the nationwide real estate market. There is clear strength in the Austin/Central Texas market, though. Continue reading
The year-to-date sales trend this year is encouraging, even if volume is below 2010. In addition, average and median sale prices continue to ease upward. These are NOT the market conditions we read about in the national press. Continue reading
Americans who would love to get back into the real estate market are being told almost daily that “it’s the worst market in 80 years,” or “you’ll probably lose the money you put into a house.” The folks propagating that viewpoint are actually creating the reality. It’s time to move on. Continue reading
One of the ongoing services I offer my clients is assistance every year with market information needed to protest proposed new tax values. This year one provided a great example of how widely values can vary within a single market area.
Austin, Texas and Washington, D.C. have a lot in common. Apparently, that includes strength in home values. Continue reading
A recent post understandably prompted a reader to ask whether they should shop for homes well above the price range in which they hope to buy. I replied to that question directly, but the issue of “shopping high” comes up frequently (almost as often as sellers want to “start high” on list price), so I’ll discuss it again here. Continue reading
Homes that are priced right on day one sell faster and for higher prices than those that “start high.” There are bound to be exceptions, but I haven’t found one yet. Continue reading
Virtually all economic indicators call for optimism for Austin’s economy and housing sector. However, uncertainty in the U.S. economy generally, and in the real estate business in many key metros, call for caution. Personally, I remain bullish but I am eager to see actual results in May and June 2011 before saying confidently that we have entered a sustainable new growth cycle. Continue reading
Sellers who price right early consistently sell faster and for more money than those who have to reduce their prices one or more times to attract a buyer. Continue reading
By this comparison, Austin’s gain in market value looks very tame compared with most of the other cities. It’s still nothing to sniff at, though: 170% price appreciation in 20 years represents an average of 8.5% annual growth. Continue reading
