Steve Hasselbeck | February 17, 2025
Housing
Hello, potential sellers!
Thinking about selling your home but feeling a bit hesitant? It's completely normal to have questions. However, often these concerns stem from misconceptions rather than facts. As a real estate professional, I'm here to dispel those myths and offer you clear, accurate information to help you make an informed decision.
1. Is It Even a Good Idea To Move Right Now?
If you're already a homeowner, you might be tempted to wait on selling your property due to concerns about taking on a higher mortgage rate for your next home. However, your move might be more feasible than you realize, largely thanks to the significant increase in home values over the past few years.
Consider this: Have you noticed any recent home sales in your neighborhood? If so, you might have been surprised by the selling prices. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), reports that the typical homeowner has gained approximately $147,000 in housing wealth over the past five years. That's a substantial increase! When you sell, this equity can provide a significant financial boost, potentially making your next move more affordable than you initially thought.
2. Will I Be Able To Find a Home I Like?
The challenge of finding a suitable home has been a concern for many over the past few years. However, the current market conditions are more favorable. Data from Realtor.com shows that inventory has increased by nearly 25% compared to this time last year. Even though inventory levels haven't fully returned to pre-pandemic norms, the improvement over the past year is encouraging.
Experts predict that inventory will grow by another 10 to 15% in 2025, offering you more options for your next home. This increased availability means you'll have a better chance of finding a home that meets your needs and preferences.
3. Are Buyers Still Buying?
You might be wondering if there are still buyers in the market given the current rates and prices. Here's some perspective: While the number of home sales last year was lower than in a typical market, approximately 4.24 million homes were sold (excluding new construction), according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR). This number is expected to rise in 2025.
To break it down:
§ 4.24 million homes ÷ 365 days in a year = 11,616 homes sold per day
§ 11,616 homes ÷ 24 hours in a day = 484 homes sold per hour
§ 484 homes ÷ 60 minutes = 8 homes sold every minute
Think about that. Just in the time it takes you to read this, approximately 8 homes have been sold. This should reassure you that the market is far from stagnant. Every day, thousands of people are actively buying homes, and they could be looking for a property just like yours.
Additional Considerations
Market Trends: It's also important to keep an eye on market trends. Currently, buyer demand is strong, and while interest rates have fluctuated, they remain historically low compared to previous decades.
Home Improvement ROI: Before you sell, consider any home improvements that could increase your property's value. Simple upgrades like a fresh coat of paint, landscaping, or minor kitchen and bathroom renovations can yield a high return on investment.
Professional Guidance: Navigating the real estate market can be complex, but you don't have to do it alone. As a seasoned real estate professional, I'm here to provide you with personalized advice and support every step of the way. From pricing your home correctly to marketing it effectively and negotiating the best terms, I'm dedicated to helping you achieve your real estate goals.
Emotional Aspects: Selling a home is not just a financial decision; it's also an emotional one. You've created memories in your home, and leaving it can be challenging. Understanding this emotional aspect is crucial, and I'm here to offer both professional and empathetic support to make the transition as smooth as possible.
The Bottom Line
If uncertainty is holding you back from making a move, it's time to get the real answers you deserve. There's no need to stay in the dark or make decisions based on misconceptions. Connect with a real estate professional—like me—to get accurate, up-to-date information and personalized advice tailored to your unique situation.
When you're ready to explore your options and walk through what's on your mind, I'm here to help you every step of the way. Let's turn your real estate dreams into reality. Contact me today to start the conversation.
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Steve’s #1 objective is to serve his clients with professionalism and personal attention when dealing with what for many is their single largest investment. If you would like to discuss your options with a trusted real estate specialist, Steve Hasselbeck is ready to take your call!