Is this the right time to sell or buy a home? We hear this question multiple times every day. The answer is, it depends on your specific situation.
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October 10, 2018
October 2018 Newsletter
There is no question that the rising cost of homeownership has slowed down existing home sales. These rising costs are being driven not only by the increase in average home sales prices but increases in mortgage interest rates. Some of the rise in average home sales price may also be attributed to the shortage of entry-level homes for sale, resulting in more people renting for longer than they would prefer. That said, demand is still outpacing supply. Answering the original question from a seller’s point of view, it is clear that the amount of inventory will not stay this constricted for much longer and the ‘seller’s market’ pendulum is swinging toward a balanced market. This means that the rate of annual home price increases will begin to slow. Plus, buyer demand (and ability to purchase) remains high despite the small increase in mortgage interest rates – still historically low. You must also consider your specific needs for space, functionality, and location. We remain bullish that now is a great time to sell. From a buyer’s perspective, while tight inventory potentially means fewer choices, there are still thousands of new options coming on the market each month. Atlanta is also one of a few markets where is it still less expensive to purchase versus renting a comparable home. However, as interest rates continue to inch higher, purchasing power inches lower, so timing is important. We remain equally bullish that now is a good time to buy. All this said, the most important element in determining what is best for your specific situation is having an advocate with deep local market expertise. We have eight-eight years of experience in the metro Atlanta real estate market and it would be our pleasure to assist you with your specific needs. Promises kept, relationships enriched.
Fabulous Fall Decorating Ideas
There are so many ways to decorate your home in a tasteful and festive way for fall. Pumpkins, gourds, fall foliage, and pinecones are a handful of popular themes that can serve as inspiration. You can mix all these elements together across your mantle or you can stagger them artfully down your front steps. You can make a fall wreath out of miniature pumpkins. Use all cream for a more modern look or brightly colored orange for more Halloween-centric curb appeal. We love a garland made from oversized pinecones that incorporates fresh magnolia or greenery secured with florist wire. Take the fresh elements off the pinecone garland before storing during the off season in a plastic tub. When decorating for fall, it is best to get the most bang for your buck and pick one look that will carry you through the tailgate, Halloween, and Thanksgiving seasons. There ‘s no need to be too holiday specific.
‘Urban Reclamation’ meets Atlanta’s Old Fourth Ward
Back in 2009, following a minor traffic accident, Atlanta police directed me to a place called City Hall East in the city’s Old Fourth Ward to retrieve the paperwork my insurance company required. Like most Atlantans, I’d had no reason to visit the hulking brick structure. Approaching the ground-floor police department, I walked past a tattered guard shack, through a dirty chasm of parking lots, and found a miserable sort of waiting room. A man became so irate, he slapped a chair and shouted obscenities at the receptionists before storming out. I questioned my personal safety—in the police station—and quickly scrammed.
Fall Supper
Throw a sophisticated, Southern fall supper with recipes from chef Scott Peacock and mixologist Navarro CarrMy dear friend Liz Lapidus, whose public relations firm represents some of the city’s top restaurants and creatives, has a knack for inviting all the right people to just the right venue. The dinner she hosted one fall evening in the leafy courtyard of Susan Bridges’s Inman Park gallery, Whitespace, was no different. There, her intimate group of eight gathered to celebrate Birmingham-based artist Amy Pleasant’s show Writing Pictures.“Susan has created an amazing experience in the neighborhood,” says Liz. “I love how the space evolves from a buzzy opening night venue to a quiet place to view art.”
18 Can’t Miss Fall Events for Family Fun
Fall beckons families outdoors to enjoy Georgia’s festivals, fairs and crisp weather. From Ellijay’s Apple Festival in the mountains to Tybee Island’s Pirate Fest on the coast, fall adventures await families around the state. Sample a few events in each region of Georgia to fully experience the season, and share your favorite fall finds using #ExploreGeorgia.
Thanks for Stopping By!
My name is Christopher Huffer, and I am a licensed realtor at Beacham and Company. Atlanta real estate is my passion, and I enjoy working with both buyers and sellers. Learn more about my services.