‘Tis the season! Which means lots of parties. I’m having fun and getting really good at answering the question, “So what’s up with the market?” Well, it’s not too different, in some respects. There are more opportunities out there than there have been in the past, but there are still multiple offers and overbidding. So, it’s mixed.
I will say, more realtors are buying now than I’ve seen in recent history. It’s not as bad as when I got started, in 1994, when properties would sit on the market for 3 months and then expire only to be listed by the next available agent, only to languish and so on. Listings are selling, but buyers are being more selective. Bling commands a premium, since most buyers don’t have the time to deal with anything but the best. All cash is a popular option, especially in the premier market (generally, over $1.2). And it is more difficult to qualify for loans, if you have poor credit, little down payment and limited income documentation, but it’s possible and rates are great.
The truth of “the first three rules of a market are local, local, local” is even more dramatically demonstrated. Foreclosures are up, but considering San Francisco has few to begin with, it’s still not a large percentage of the market, locally. However, it is a traumatic event and is clearly affecting many property owners and for that, I am sad. I’m co-hosting a public seminar to provide homeowners with the tools they need to mitigate the impact (http://www.facingforeclosuresf.com).
For information specific to your neighborhood and property type, contact me directly.
Michelle R. Stephens, Realtor®
