bakersfield real estate

sudoadmin
Aralık 17, 2019

2020 VISION FOR REAL ESTATE IS LOOKING GOOD

Lower than expected interest rates kept real estate strong in 2019 and many experts predict 2020 will keep rolling in the same direction. According to a recent article in Forbes, Odeta Kushi, deputy chief economist at First American, shared that mortgage rates will remain low next year, between 3.7 and 3.9%, fueling a healthy real estate market.

PRICES TO KEEP RISING

Tight inventory and increased demand will keep pushing prices higher. In fact, with mortgage rates either staying the same or actually dropping, competition will increase for buyers which may result in bidding wars. Redfin predicts one in four homes will result in a bidding war which is great news for home sellers who may have been holding out when most homes prices dropped slightly on the Central Coast over the past year. The Forbes article shared data from CoreLogic, stating home prices should tick up by 5.6% by next September which is more than 3.5% from this year.

ECONOMIC GROWTH, NOT A RECESSION

Although many economists have predicted a mild recession in 2020, a housingwire.- com report states, “Current conditions point to a recipe for continued economic growth, not a recession. Growth itself may be slower than the strong pace we’ve seen at times throughout the recovery, but growth will still occur for at least the next year.” Reasons cited for the economic growth are a healthy consumer confidence and job growth.

HOME SIZES WILL SHRINK, BUT AMENITIES ARE KING

Inventory will continue to be tight as Millennials and Generation Z enter the market, but Baby Boomers are not budging from their long-time homes. Zillow predicts that new home sizes will shrink for the fourth time of five years due to younger buyers having less money and can’t afford to purchase larger homes. To make up for square footage, many new homes are offering upgraded amenities to attract buyers.

Whether you are looking to buy or sell in the new year, experts agree you should enter the real estate market early in 2020 to take full advantage of the growing market. As the #1 broker on the Central Coast, C21 Hometown Realty’s Agents have the most homes listed and the most homes sold! Visit one of the ten local offices throughout the Central Coast or click on c21home.com.

Hakkında CENTURY 21 Hometown Realty – Hometown Realty is the leading real estate firm on the Central Coast of California with offices spanning Santa Barbara County and San Luis Obispo county offering expert agents and convenient locations.

Bysudoadmin
OnAralık 17, 2019

sudoadmin
Eylül 25, 2019

FALL IS THE BEST TIME TO MOVE

Central Coast locals often boast that Fall is one of the best times of year to enjoy all our area has to offer. The season brings smaller crowds at the beach, warm sunny days, a plethora of fun Festivals and the long-awaited harvest seasons at the wineries. But did you know it marks a great time for buyers and sellers and is actually the best time of year to move?

REASONS TO SELL IN THE FALL

REASON #1: SERIOUS BUYER POOL While there may not be as many buyers looking as in the spring housing market, serious buyers are looking to move before the holiday season. With fewer houses on the market, serious buyers will be motivated to make offers.

REASON #2: DIFFERENT BUYERS Spring and Summer are when families are likely to make moves, but for Millennials and Empty-Nesters Fall is the perfect time for these savvy shoppers. Not only is it less expensive to travel to new relocation destinations, but they also know they can avoid “high season” real-estate rates and moving costs.

REASON #3: LOWER HOME IMPROVEMENT COSTS Before selling, most homes will need some sprucing up and home repairs. Whether you are a do-it-yourself home repairer or you call in the experts, many times supplies go on-sale and Contractors have less work and may be willing to negotiate rates during the Fall months.

REASONS TO BUY IN THE FALL

REASON #1: LESS COMPETITION You will get much more attention from your ‘not as busy’ real estate agent allowing them to be more attentive to your needs. In addition, lenders, home inspectors, painters and movers can get to your needs much quicker.

REASON #2: TAX ADVANTAGES By closing on a new home before the year’s end you will be eligible for beneficial tax deductions. Deductible items can include closing costs, mortgage interest and property taxes. Even closing in December will allow you to deduct property taxes and interest from your entire year’s earnings.

REASON #3: YEAR-END SALES Whether you are redecorating to help sell your home or designing space in your new home, some of the best savings of the year can be found on appliances, electronics, and furniture. Competing retailers offer large discounts during the holiday season and it’s the perfect time to buy necessary items.

If you consider yourself a savvy shopper and the idea of saving time and money appeal to you, then now’s the time to buy or sell your home. Your C21 Hometown Realty, the hometown experts, can help you find your next dream home or get your home sold quickly. As the #1 broker on the Central Coast, C21 Hometown Realty has the most homes listed and the most homes sold! When you’re ready, visit one of the eleven local offices throughout the Central Coast or click on c21home.com.

Bysudoadmin
OnEylül 25, 2019

sudoadmin
Ağustos 27, 2019

WHEN DOWNSIZING COULD MEAN LIVING THE DREAM

While owning your home is still the American Dream, the idea of living out the golden years in the same home has changed for many Empty Nesters. As you get older, downsizing or settling into a smaller home with a simpler lifestyle could be one definition of “living the dream.”

REVISIT HOUSING SITUATION

At least 37 percent of Baby Boomers said they plan to move at some point in their life and 42 percent of that number said they would prefer to live in a smaller home, according to a 2016 study released by the Demand Institute.

“Revisiting their housing situation is one of the first things new Empty Nesters should do” says Dana Anspach, founder and CEO of Sensible Money, an investment advisory firm.

While parents often have fond memories of their kids’ childhood home, she says, it makes sense to consider a move to less-expensive digs or to a locale or living situation that better fits their needs in the new phase of their lives.

There are, of course, savings to be gained by trading in a big home for a smaller space. Or moving to a less expensive part of the country. Another route: freeing up cash or replenishing your savings by paying off your mortgage before you officially retire from the workplace.

TIPS FOR DOWNSIZING

Declutter Your Ev – You can finally tackle some major organizing projects. If you’re looking at the possibility of moving to a smaller home, your first step is to pare down your belongings. According to CityStash, 75 percent of those surveyed said the amount of things they own makes them reluctant to move. Don’t let that scare you off. Take one room, one closet, one square foot at a time.

Give Your Ev a Facelift – Your furniture is a little worse for wear after having teenagers lounge on it, spill drinks on it and who knows where those extra spots came from. Also, you weren’t about to paint the walls until your kids were no longer touching them every day. But now’s the time. Refresh your home with new paint, new furniture or convert a kids bedroom to a hobby room.

House Hunt – When your current house has too many bedrooms or you hear an echo within the empty rooms, it may be time to start house hunting.

To ease the process, don’t focus on the memories of the old house but the endless possibilities in a new house. Start searching for a dream home that can give you desired options like a new location, first floor living, natural light, luxury touches, custom options and low maintenance.

If it’s time to start looking for new (smaller) digs, use C21 Hometown Realty, your hometown experts to find a top-selling real estate agent in your area. They’ll help you identify options that can turn downsizing into dream living.

Bysudoadmin
OnAğustos 27, 2019

sudoadmin
Aralık 19, 2018

HEARTFELT THANKS FOR A GREAT 2018!

HEARTFELT THANKS FOR A GREAT 2018!

As the hustle, bustle and chaotic pace of the holidays continues, we want to just take a moment to stop and express our heartfelt gratitude and reflect on what you, our treasured customers and Hometown Realty Team mean to us!

TO OUR CUSTOMERS

Here at C21 Hometown Realty, it is our privilege to help you make one of the most important decisions you will make. It’s not just about a property or a house, it’s about helping you find a home where we hope your family builds wonderful, lifelong memories filled with love, laughter and joy! Thank you for trusting us and we value not only your business, but the many cherished friendships we have made along the way.

TO OUR HOMETOWN REALTY TEAM

C21 Hometown Realty is truly blessed to have the hardest working, most caring real estate professionals on the Central Coast! We want to say “thank you” for going above and beyond and taking extra special care of our valued customers whom we can now call friends. You are the heart and soul of our team and we treasure each of you as part of our Hometown Realty family! Thank you for your unwavering professionalism and dedication, you continue to inspire us.

2018 HIGHLIGHTS

It’s hard to believe it’s time to say goodbye to 2018, but we are so THANKFUL for a great year! Here are just some of the highlights:

C21 Corporate Rebranding – new contemporary update of the C21 Brand to assure customer relevance for upcoming generations.
Zillow Partnership – strategic alliance of market powerhouses, Zillow and C21 Hometown Realty, providing an incomparable competitive edge to agents and customers.
Cartus Relocation Program – closed double the amount of transactions.
In-House Realty/Quicken Loans – large increase in traffic and customer leads.
Touchpoint In-House Marketing Agency – increased traffic and development of website, social media, digital media and individual agent consulting.

Happy holidays and we look forward to a tremendous 2019!

Hakkında CENTURY 21 Hometown Realty – Hometown Realty is the leading real estate firm on the central coast of California with offices spanning Santa Barbara County and San Luis Obispo county offering expert agents and convenient locations

Bysudoadmin
OnAralık 19, 2018

sudoadmin
Temmuz 24, 2018

TRUE AMERICANA MEANS BIG BUSINESS FOR CENTRAL COAST

It’s Mid-State Fair time here on the Central Coast! A timeless tradition of true Americana, celebrating our heritage of agriculture, arts, crafts, competitions and show-stopping entertainment. Bright lights, carnival rides, fair food, exhibits and top-name entertainers were just some of the reasons that a record-breaking 430,000 guests made the trek to Paso Robles in 2017.

If the entertainment line-up is a top indicator for guest attendance, 2018 will be on track to deliver large Fair audiences once again. The free concert stage is hosting well-known artists such as Crystal Gayle, Monte Mills, Kris Kristofferson, Bear Market Riot, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy and newer artists For King & Country and recent winner of The Voice, Cassadee Pope. The main stage will light up each night with stars such as Florida Georgia Line, Pitbull, Demi Lovato, Gabriel Iglesias, ZZ Top, Tim McGraw with Faith Hill and Luke Bryan.

In addition to the draw of America’s top entertainers, Mid-State Fair offers great family entertainment with Livestock Competitions, Horse Shows, Petting Zoo, Country Finals Rodeo, Robotics for Kids, Tractor Races, Youth Performances and a newly revamped Carnival. The Mid-State Fair offers great entertainment value for the low admission price of $8-$12. If you will be attending multiple days, the Season Pass is the way to go, just $30 for children 6-12 and $60 for Adults offering admission everyday to the fairgrounds.

Not only do Central Coast residents flock to this event but it attracts huge crowds from all around the state. That means big dollars and big business for the area, especially Paso Robles. Hotels, motels and restaurants feel the biggest impact but even retail stores benefit from the tens of millions of dollars the Mid-State Fair brings to the community each year.

Bysudoadmin
OnTemmuz 24, 2018

sudoadmin
Şubat 5, 2013

Century 21 Hometown Realty – Smarter Bolder Faster

Century 21 Hometown Realty is among the only central coast real estate companies that leverage television advertising as part of our marketing mix to support home ownership on the central coast. This month, we ran three ads during the superbowl. We hope that you saw them all. Each of them were created to drive consumers to the number 1 destination on the central coast for property information – c21home.com. Thanks for visiting and please enjoy this short promotional video.

Bysudoadmin
OnŞubat 5, 2013

sudoadmin
Temmuz 24, 2012

Bakersfield Real Estate poised for record appreciation

Bakersfield finds itself in a very interesting situation. As one of the areas of the United States that faced the greatest challenges during the housing recession, they are now poised to experienced the third highest growth in property values according to economists.

In a statement released today by economist Stan Humpries of Zillow , “The housing market has finally turned a corner. In Q2, we saw continued momentum in the housing recovery, despite of some economic turmoil, like flagging job growth numbers and sovereign debt issues in Europe. Nationally we hit a bottom in the first quarter of the year, and the Zillow Ev Value Forecast shows that 67 of the 156 markets it covers will experience an increase in home values over the next 12 months. Nationally, Zillow forecasts home values will rise 1.1 percent.”

According to Humphries, Bakersfield California is only slightly behind Miami-Ft. Lauderdale and a few points behind Phoenix, AZ for forecasted home appreciation. “This is great news for homeowners in Bakersfield,” says Jack Hardy, CEO of Century 21 Hometown Real Estate. “The families in Bakersfield and elsewhere throughout the central valley of California needed some relief, and we are blessed to see this shimmer of recovery,” says Hardy.

Century 21 Hometown Realty agents in Bakersfield commented that inventory is low, and they are desperately seeking home sellers to meet the company’s strong buyer demand. Many home prices for active listings are moving upward as they stay on the market longer.

Here are forecasts, courtesy of Zillow.

Bysudoadmin
OnTemmuz 24, 2012

sudoadmin
Haziran 18, 2012

Making the Summer Move

With the kids out of school, it’s no wonder that summer is the most popular time of year for families to move. Here are some tips to offer your clients as they prepare to move to a new home during the summer months. With some advance planning, they will be able to spend less time moving in and

This will help you remain calmer and complete the unpacking process more efficiently. If you are unable to make any childcare arrangements, set up a room designated for the kids so they have their own space out of the way of the movers.

7. Mail. Notify the U.S. Postal Service about your change of address so your mail gets forwarded in a timely manner.

8. Utilities. Always call ahead to make sure that the utilities to your new home have been activated. You don’t want to learn this lesson the hard way as you move in to a new house only to find yourself staring longingly at the A/C unit and ceiling fans, as you wait for your utilities to be turned on.

9. Kids activities and leagues. If you have have kids, its recommended to research the local sports leagues and activities schedules, so the kids can make friends and feel adjusted before the school year starts.

10. Meet your neighbors. Introduce yourself right when you move in. An advantage of moving in the summer is that your neighbors are more likely to be outside, and you have more opportunities to meet them. They will be great resources to learn about local restaurants, shopping, activities, leagues and school information.

Bysudoadmin
OnHaziran 18, 2012

sudoadmin
Nisan 16, 2012

How Interest Rates impact the housing market

Here in California, buying a home or other property is a factor of loan affordability. Today, we see a lot of “cash buyers” in the market – but that simply means that they have already arranged financing. In this borrowing home ownership economy, the interest rates play a very significant role in the value of homes. The national economic recovery in America has reached every part of the economy except for jobs and housing. The good news for Californians is that home prices in Bakersfield and on the Central Coast have stabilized or began to rise again. Every listing on C21home.com has a handy mortgage calculator which will allow you to estimate how much you can afford. Be sure to take advantage of low home loan interest rates while they last. It is a great time to lock in a low rate for a 30 year mortgage. There is a chart below that shows you why.

Century 21 Hometown Realty CEO Jack Hardy shared a story yesterday. Jack and Shelia Hardy were at a listing presentation in Grover Beach where the homeowner felt like their home was valued in the low $600’s. It is common for homeowners to think that their homes are worth more than buyers are willing to pay today. Each homeowner has recent memory of an even higher home value 5 or 6 years ago. But the fact remains that we have seen 20% to 40% drops in some home values over the past few years. It is a heartfelt loss. But things are looking up. Homes that were selling in the low $500,000 range in Berry Gardens are now fetching prices in the mid to upper $5s. “We are seeing a lift in home prices in many areas of the Central Coast and Bakersfield,” says Hardy.

Grover Beach Home Values — Grover Beach Ev Values, look at neighborhood details on any listing for market stats

The housing market is an uncertain place unless you take a long term view. In the long run, buying a home is not like buying a car. If you own your home long enough, population growth and housing demand will increase its value. If you are both buying and selling a home, you always have a balanced transaction. The buying and selling power are equal. If you sell high, you buy high. If you sell low, you buy low.

Here are a few tips that can help you prepare to buy or sell your home.

1. Look into financing options first. Century 21 Hometown Realty offers mortgage support through Prime Lending. They have local loan officers who will be happy to walk you through the financing process. If you choose Prime Lending or other mortgage company, there should be no application or consulting fees to see where you stand.

2. Keep a close watch on interest rates. The risk associated with your loan is what determines your interest rate. There are many factors including the bank’s cost of funds (Federal Bank Interest Rates), your credit rating, and the loan to value ratio on the property you purchase. Even a small difference in interest rate can make the difference in thousands of dollars in purchasing power. Here is a chart to help you understand this.

Here are the current interest rate trends as published by the National Associaton of REALTORS

Bysudoadmin
OnNisan 16, 2012

sudoadmin
Ekim 28, 2011

5 Home Buyer Tips

When lenders take over a home through foreclosure, they want to sell it as quickly as possible. Since lenders aren’t in the real estate business, they turn to real estate brokers for help marketing their properties. Century 21 Hometown supports lenders and home buyers in transactions every week. Buying a foreclosed home service can be a bargain, but it can also be a problem-filled process. Here are five tips to help you buy smart.

1. Choose a foreclosure sale expert. Lenders rarely sell their own foreclosures directly to consumers. They list them with real estate brokers like Century 21 Hometown. You can work with one of our real estate agents who sells foreclosed homes for lenders, or have a Century 21 Hometwon buyer’s agent find foreclosure properties for you. To locate a foreclosure sales specialist, call local any of our 14 offices and ask about foreclosed properties for sale – or do a search here on our website.

Either way, ask the Century 21 Hometown real estate professional which lenders’ homes they’ve sold, how many buyers they’ve represented in a foreclosed property purchase, how many of those sales they closed last year, and who they legally represent.

If the agent represents the lender, don’t reveal anything to her that you don’t want the lender to know, like whether you’re willing to spend more than you offer for a house.

2. Be ready for complications. In some states like California, the former owner of a foreclosed home can challenge the foreclosure in court, even after you’ve closed the sale. Ask your agent to recommend a real estate attorney who has negotiated with lenders selling foreclosed homes and has defended legal challenges to foreclosures.

Have your attorney explain your state’s foreclosure process and your risks in purchasing a foreclosed home. Set aside as much as $5,000 to cover potential legal fees.

3. Work with your agent to set a price. Ask your real estate agent to show you closed sales of comparable homes, which you can use to set your price. Start with an amount well under market value because the lender may be in a hurry to get rid of the home.

4. Get your financing in order. Many mortgage market players, such as Fannie Mae, require buyers to submit financing preapproval letters with a purchase offer. They’ll also reject all contingencies. Since most foreclosed homes are vacant, closings can be quick. Make sure you have the cash you’ll need to close your purchase.

5. Expect an as-is sale. Most homeowners stopped maintaining their home long before they could no longer make mortgage payments. Be sure to have enough money left after the sale to make at least minor, and sometimes substantive, repairs.

Although lenders may do minor cosmetic repairs to make foreclosed homes more marketable, they won’t give you credits for repair costs (or make additional repairs) because they’ve already factored the property’s condition into their asking price.

Lenders will also require that you purchase the home “as is,” which means in its current condition. Protect yourself by ordering a home inspection to uncover the true condition of the property, getting a pest inspection, and purchasing a home warranty.

Be sure you also do all the environmental testing that’s common to your region to find hazards such as radon, mold, lead-based paint, or underground storage tanks.

Bysudoadmin
OnEkim 28, 2011