Safe Buys and Team Updates
Everyone is seeking safety and peace.
We took a newsletter hiatus for the month of May due to an unexpected loss of a family member. Amy’s father passed away on May 14th. I never met Amy’s father, but he has my highest thanks and admiration for the blessing to know his daughter. Godspeed.
Unexpected loss and change create a desire for safety and permanence, and this is where the real estate market meets our personal lives this month. Just this weekend an agent said she couldn’t make heads or tails of the market. As I coached my clients on a multiple offer situation standing in a yard Sunday, I realized the simple truth of what is motivating buyers to pull the trigger on some houses and not on others.
Buying Safe
Lots of homes are languishing on the market but the ones selling fast and with multiple offers satisfy buyers’ need for stability in a newly uncertain world, economy and real estate market.
Houses selling quickly have 3 main things in common:
They are maintained and while they may be dated, they aren’t a mishmash of DIY. Gone are the days of hasty TEMU Fixer Upper knockoffs being rewarded. Maintenance inspires confidence about the future.
They are unique(rare) and timeless. I often refer to real estate unicorns, the homes I know if my clients miss out on in the moment, they will wait years to find again. Timeless floor plans, unique in their desirability, location with deep stability, great bones, thoughtful design of the home on the lot.....all the things that keep you in your home no matter the trends.
They offer value and financial stability. Buyers consider a lot in the cost of a home and while the price may be the primary consideration, it isn’t the only component. A home that offers conversion potential to income producing property or a chance to live well under budget are huge factors. Similarly, buyers are looking for legacy homes, value for their future generations.
The why people are buying is a story of safety and stability too. Top categories of buyers (in my order):
People who have waited years for the perfect home due to low inventory. Patience to not risk a mistake pays sometimes, their safe approach got them here.
People who are growing: needing more comfort and space for the future. First time buyers, people joining homes or lives and people expanding their idea of what a home is. In essence, people seeking a safe place to expand their lives somehow.
People who are downsizing: needing to minimize costs, travel, daily maintenance and sometimes external forces beyond their control. Seeking personal stability and simplicity.
People who are investing for profit for themselves or profit for their families down the road. Seeking financial stability and income protection.
People want real estate to feel like this more than ever.
Team Update and Fun/Important Dates
Due to the unexpected events of May we cancelled our Family BBQ/92nd Birthday and had to miss our first booth at The Historic Valley Junction Farmer’s Market but, we found the wait was worth it when we were able to set up our farmer’s market booth this month. It is a great market for date night, burning some energy off the kids or just taking a walk with friends.
Come play plinko with us for a chance to win prizes, grab a team tote bag and say hello!
Future Farmer’s Market Dates:
July 10
August 21
September 11
(Mimes not included in promotion)
In wild news, the first DSM address to make Zillow Gone Wild was in fact, one of my listings. It is an estate sale with a truly unique story that reminds me why my real estate business isn’t like other agents - I often meet people in their worst moments and guide them through challenges that might overwhelm.
Helping people feel safe in their home sometimes means ensuring their families feel safe after their passing, and I am eternally grateful that you all trust me to be there with you in the best and worst moments of your lives.
Thanks for being part of my tribe.
With breath and gratitude,
Meghan