Whoa, doggies! A new year has begun. Personally, I’m truly glad
to see the old one go. Let’s take a look at what transpired over
the first week of the year in the world of San Benito Real
Estate.
Whoa, doggies! A new year has begun. Personally, I’m truly glad to see the old one go. Let’s take a look at what transpired over the first week of the year in the world of San Benito Real Estate.
The inventory of available single-family properties in San Benito County is down from its recent “normal” total of about 205 and now stands at 187. Only eight properties sold and 13 came onto the market, so one would think the inventory would increase. However, 10 closed escrow, four canceled or withdrew, and nine listings expired.
So what will 2003 be like for San Benito real estate? For now the market is strong in both price and availability, and interest rates are still excellent. You just can’t ask for much more than that.
And what are your real estate plans for 2003? If you’re thinking about buying, you’ll want to talk to your local real estate agent about the steps required to make your offer the strongest one on the property you want. This process will vary from buyer to buyer, but will definitely include a pre-qualification or pre-approval with a lender. Nowadays, most sellers will not even consider an offer made without loan verification.
If selling is on your mind, you’ll want to make sure your home outshines its competition. (Quick! Run outside and plant some bulbs. There’s still time.) Your real estate professional will have some tips on maximizing your home’s visual impact. Take his or her advice. Realtors see more homes in a month than most people see in five years. They know what sells and what doesn’t.
Perhaps you’ve made some New Year’s resolutions to improve your quality of life in 2003. Don’t forget to add one for your home. If you’re a renter, perhaps this is the year to purchase your own home. Even if you think you’re not ready, a call to a Realtor can get you pointed in the right direction, and help you work towards home ownership.
If you own your own home, you might want to focus on some deferred maintenance or remodel projects you’ve been putting off until you “find the time.” Procrastination can cost big bucks in the long haul. Get your home inspected for pests, your furnace and air conditioners serviced, and your chimney swept. Slap a little paint on the front door, and don’t forget to clean your doorbell!
Maybe now is the time to think about a larger home for the expanding family. Or perhaps the youngest is finally out of the house and a condo with no yard work sounds more appealing. Whatever your dream is, make this the year it happens. And your first step is that call to your local real estate professional.
Pick up the phone and call right now. And be kind to your Realtor in 2003!
Nants Foley is a Broker Associate with Intero Real Estate Services in Hollister. E-mail her at in**@na***.com or call 831.630.1300.
