THE BUZZ
2019 started with a rebound. All four major regions saw growth in January and February. The Pending Home Sales Index, an indicator based on forward looking contract signings, increased 4.6 percent from December to January.
According to NAR chief economist Lawrence Yun, "A change in Federal Reserve policy and the reopening of the government were very beneficial to the market. Home buyers are now taking advantage of lower interest rates. A boost in inventory is also providing more choices for consumers."
Yun predicts positive pending home sales will likely continue. Job creation is also helping lift home buying.
Time to consider your options? Let's talk.
JUST ASK
Have you ever felt buyer's remorse?
You're not alone. Bankrate conducted a survey last month, asking this question to 1,493 buyers around the country. They found that 68 percent of millennials (those ages 23-28) have some regrets around their purchase.
That said, 79 percent felt owning a home was part of the "American Dream". Regrets stemmed mostly from home maintenance costs and other unexpected expenses. Also 12 percent felt their home was too small.
It is important that we take the time to flush out all those issues before you make an offer. Together we can weigh all factors.
MY TOWN
More than 100,000 people recently participated in The International Builder's Show earlier this year in Las Vegas.
The Colors of the Year included muddier colors, such as indigo, black plum and lavender-grey. Darker cabinets and countertops were featured throughout the show. Though darker colors are an emerging trend, white is the most popular color for kitchen cabinets. Yet honey whites and "greige" (beige/grey) are starting to trend upwards.
New uses of tiles throughout the home was a topic of discussion; check out Emser Tile's visualization online to visualize what options could exist for you. One countertop highlighted at the show is Cambria, known for it's sustainability and beauty.
JUST LISTED
