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What Makes a Home's Location "Good?"

For overall quality of life, having a home in a well-known location like Waltham, MA, is essential, which matters a lot. This defines your living standards and preferences as well.

Most people prefer to have homes where every facility related to their lives is available. This approach aids them in leading a happy and easy life.

This guide will help you consider those factors that make a home' location good for living. These several key elements are as follows.

Convenience and Accessibility

Before looking for a home, searching for a location where all facilities are available is crucial. A prime location is better because schools, groceries, and healthcare facilities are easily accessible.

Especially well-established roads and highways make traveling from one place to another more accessible. All these factors make you feel satisfied and relaxed.

Security and Safety

Life's security and safety is the top priority of every human being. Without this, you cannot live your life effectively and efficiently.

You can feel secure and enjoy a sense of peace in a good location. Low crime rates, well-lit streets, and a well-kept neighborhood enhance a sense of safety.

Green Spaces Nearby

Access to green spaces like parks and nature trials allows you to relax and fosters a sense of peace.

These parks and green areas suit healthy activities like jogging, walking, yoga, etc. A good location offers such kind of areas for its residents.

Services and Infrastructure

An essential component of an attractive site is a good infrastructure, which includes dependable utilities, effective waste management, and high-speed internet connectivity. Access to necessary services should be simple for residents to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.

Development and Growth

The likelihood of growth and development can significantly impact how desirable a place is. Long-term value can be seen in areas where the transit system, commercial districts, and infrastructure are expected to improve.

Less Environmental Hazards

In general, finding a place without major environmental threats like landslide dangers, flood risks, or industrial pollutants is preferable. The security and welfare of the locals guarantee that they will always strive at their best to ensure relevant safety.

Stunning Appeal

A neighborhood's appeal is influenced by how it looks generally. Various factors, including clean surroundings, well-kept roadways, landscaping, and diverse building styles, control an appealing living environment.

Resale Value

For many homebuyers, investment potential is a factor. Regarding potential resale value, a location is frequently regarded as "good" if it has a proven track record of property value growth and steady demand.

Purchase a Waltham, MA, Home With Hans Brings

A combination of personal preferences, necessities, and characteristics that enhance a high quality of life ultimately define a home's "good" location. A successful site offers comfort, safety, accessibility to necessary services, and the chance for a happy and satisfying living, even though individual priorities may vary.

Waltham’s beauty, safety, and high property values make it a highly desirable town for buyers year after year. Waltham is, without a doubt, a “good” location, but this can make navigating the real estate market tricky! Contact Hans Brings to purchase your dream home in Waltham.

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    Tips on Getting the Best Waltham Real Estate Deals

    Strategic planning, in-depth research, and skillful negotiating are necessary for securing the best real estate transactions. Navigating the best real estate deal is challenging and exciting, but you can accomplish your goal with the right approach.

    The suggestions in this guide will enable you to make knowledgeable selections, unearth untapped prospects, and eventually secure advantageous real estate agreements that provide great value when purchasing your new Waltham, MA, home. They range from strategic research and negotiation abilities to collaborating with skilled professionals like Hans Brings.

    Define your Goals and Criteria

    Before making any real estate deal, this is crucial that your goals and criteria be clear. This will help you highlight your preferences for the type of property you want.

    Factors may include budget, desired location, and other amenities you prioritize. You may make more informed selections and reduce your possibilities by having clearly defined criteria. 

    Market Research

    Researching the market in Waltham before getting into any kind of property deal is necessary. This will aid you in understanding the different prices of properties in other areas. 

    Examine recent transactions, property valuations, market trends, and inventory levels of your choice. With this knowledge, you'll be better equipped to spot good offers and negotiate successfully.

    Consult Knowledgeable Agent

    Consulting a serious, skilled, and professional agent like Hans Brings is your best bet when buying a home in Waltham. Hans Brings will sincerely guide you about different properties according to your preferences and budget.

    Check the track record of the agent you are going to hire for the guiding task. This will help you get your desired property without breaking the bank.

    Timing Flexibility

    Waltham’s real estate market can cycle, and timing can affect the available deals. Consider purchasing during off-peak times when there may be less competition, and sellers may be more receptive to offers.

    Obtain Pre-Approval for Financing

    Getting a mortgage pre-approval displays your commitment as a buyer. It gives you a clear picture of your spending power. Sellers are frequently more willing to bargain with ready-made purchasers.

    Negotiate Wisely

    Don't rush while buying property. Instead, it is essential to negotiate wisely. Effective negotiation can make a remarkable difference in your dealings.

    Be prepared to make realistic offers based on your analysis of recent sales in the area, your understanding of the property's value, and your research. 

    Purchase Your Waltham Home with Hans Brings

    It takes market expertise, negotiation prowess, and a clear understanding of your objectives to land the best real estate deals. Being proactive, patient, and well-prepared will put you in a position to identify and seize opportunities that support your goals and provide outstanding value.

    Even with great planning, working with an established Waltham real estate agent is the best way to secure the best deal possible on your next home. View our listings, and contact Hans Brings to start purchasing a Waltham home!

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      Tips for Buying Your First Waltham Home

      Buying your first home is a great moment. You're new to home buying, so the whole process
      can feel both exciting and unnerving, maybe even a little stressful. But don't worry; in this
      article, you will find out the dos and don’ts of home shopping in Waltham, MA. (You can call
      it home buying 101!)

      1. Check Your Pockets (Or Bank Accounts)


      First things first, figure out what you can realistically afford. When shopping for homes in
      Waltham, there's so much to see. But you shouldn't have to go broke to go home. Simply
      add together your income and expenses to create a sustainable budget. It's better to go in
      with a prepared budget; it'll help ground your fantasies in reality. Going house hunting
      without a budget could be quite dangerous, financially speaking.

      2. Get Pre-Approved for A Mortgage


      Once you have an idea of your price range on your new Waltham home, get pre-approved
      for a mortgage. A pre-approved mortgage gives you an idea of what you can afford, shows
      sellers like Hans Brings that you're a serious buyer, and give you an edge over competing
      buyers. While getting your pre-approval, make sure to compare rates from lenders to find the
      best one for you. Cheaper rates mean fewer expenses!

      3. Choose A Good Real Estate Agent, Like Hans Brings


      The real estate agent you choose will either make your search easy or stress you out. Get a
      real estate agent with expertise in buying and selling properties in Waltham and the
      surrounding neighborhoods you want to reside in for the smoothest experience. Make sure
      the agent is friendly, helpful, and trustworthy.

      4. Determine The Perfect Location


      This one's a no-brainer. The location of your house is something to consider seriously. When
      picking your first home, consider its proximity to your work, school, and amenities. Make
      sure the location has everything you need. It's even better to get a feel of the neighborhood
      before making an offer.

      5. Inspect The Property


      It's always better to check out the house you want to buy to catch any potential issues with
      the home that could become costly surprises later on. Get all that info before you decide to
      take it. Our rule is “Check it out before you go all out”.

      6. Don't Rush the Process


      Buying a home is not as simple as it may sound. It requires careful thought and should not
      be rushed. Check out as many options as you cash till you come across the one that checks
      all your boxes. Don't rush, trust your gut, and don't settle.

      Purchase Your First Waltham Home with Hans Brings


      Again, buying your first home in Waltham is a big deal! Getting the process right is important,
      so let's review it one last time. First, you must find a place that fits your needs and budget.
      Work with professionals who will make your search easier and guide you through the
      process. But most importantly, have fun with the search!
      We hope these tips help make the process a little less overwhelming. Good luck, and
      remember to contact Hans Brings to get started purchasing your first Waltham home.

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        Should I Rent or Buy a Home in Waltham?

        Purchasing a home is one of the most important financial decisions a person can make.
        However, the price tags, market terminology, mortgage rates, and more can leave potential
        buyers scratching their heads wondering if it is wiser for them to just continue renting instead. If
        you currently rent a home in Waltham or a surrounding area and are wondering if it is a better
        choice to purchase a home of your own, the answer is likely yes. This is especially the case
        when working with a Waltham realtor like Hans Brings that can help streamline the home buying
        process, getting you the best deal on your dream home in Waltham.

        The list of benefits that comes with owning a home is nearly endless. Families that own rather
        than rent report on average having children with higher education, increased annual income,
        and overall higher satisfaction than renters. This is simply scraping the surface of some of the
        social and psychological bonuses of home ownership, the financial incentives, perhaps, are the
        greatest reason you should consider purchasing a home in Waltham with Hans Brings.

        Stability in Housing Expenses

        If you’ve ever rented in the past you’ve likely received a notice from your landlord that if you
        decide to re-sign for another year, they will be increasing your monthly rent, often by a hefty
        sum! Instead of facing rent increases with vague explanations, owning a home means your
        scheduled mortgage payment will remain virtually unchanged until your mortgage payment is
        fully completed. Even if you see a hike in taxes, the mortgage increase will be slight.
        The period of inflation Waltham is facing means that renters are being put at a disadvantage,
        and paying more, while Waltham homeowners are seeing stability and saving money.

        Tax Benefits

        Homeownership also comes with some serious tax benefits. Those who purchase a home in
        Waltham with Hans Brings can take advantage of their new asset by deducting interest paid on
        their mortgage, as well as property tax from their federal income taxes. With this being the case
        purchasing a Waltham home can deliver significant savings when tax season comes!

        Your Own Equity

        Rather than passing off thousands of dollars to a landlord each month, owning a home in
        Waltham allows homeowners to gain one of the most valuable assets possible. As your
        mortgage is paid off and eventually, you pay off the principal, you are essentially creating a
        long-term savings account in the event that you finally decide to sell your Waltham home. Once
        your principal is paid and your home is sold, the profits go straight to you, rather than to a
        landlord or leasing company!

        Purchase a Home with Waltham’s Top Agent, Hans Brings

        If you are interested in making the switch from renting to owning your own home in Waltham,
        contact Hans Brings and see for yourself the freedom and financial benefits that come with
        home ownership. No matter your needs or budget, Hans Brings can help you purchase the
        home of your dreams!

         

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          Why Should I Move to Waltham from Boston?

          Boston is a highly desirable city for those interested in urban living. However, many former
          Boston residents begin to feel burnt out on life in the city and look to purchase a home in one of
          the beautiful suburbs of Boston like Waltham. This is thanks to Waltham’s close-knit community,
          the richness of activities, and the easy commute to Boston for work and leisure. If you are
          interested in settling down in the suburbs of Boston, consider purchasing a home in Waltham
          with Hans Brings, the best real estate agent in Waltham!

          Top-Rated Schools

          If you have children or are planning to have children, finding a town that boasts an excellent
          school system is very important. Luckily, Waltham has numerous properties on the real estate
          market that are within the town’s exceptional public school system, as well as close to numerous
          private school options as well. Where Boston public schools may fall short, Waltham
          homeowners experience some of the state’s top education.

           

          Easy City Commutes

          Even if you’re ready to ditch city life, chances are you will either still be employed by a company
          based in Boston, or visit periodically for a night out! Waltham’s close proximity to Boston makes
          it a popular town for home buyers who will still need to commute to their office daily, or simply
          don’t want to be too far removed from Boston’s excitement. A 30-minute drive or 25-minute train
          ride from Waltham leaves you in the heart of downtown Boston. The comfort of suburban living
          with access to the city makes Waltham a great option for those looking to purchase a home
          outside Boston.

           

          Stunning Nature

          Waltham houses numerous playgrounds, public parks, ponds, ice skating rinks, and more. The
          beauty and variety leave Waltham home buyers with plenty of recreation options right at their
          fingertips.
          Destinations in Waltham including Hardy Pond, and Prospect Hill Park quickly become favorites
          for those looking to purchase a Waltham home.

           

          Purchase a Waltham Home with Hans Brings, Waltham’s Best Real Estate Agent

          With Waltham being such a popular destination for home buyers, it can be tricky finding the right
          home that fits your wants and needs. Rather than struggling to find your dream home in
          Waltham, work with Hans Brings, the best real estate agent in Waltham! With over 30 years of
          real estate experience, Hans Brings has cemented himself as a Waltham real estate expert with
          in-depth knowledge of the local market, and the results to show for it!
          If you are looking to buy or sell your Waltham, MA, home contact Hans Brings today or view our
          active listings.

           

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            Three Best Reasons to Sell Your Home in Waltham, Massachusetts in 2023

            Are you a homeowner in Waltham, Massachusetts, who is interested in the idea of selling your
            property? Waltham’s real estate trends throughout 2023 make now an exceptional time to get
            your house on the market and sold. Waltham’s wonderful schools, strong sense of community,
            and short distance to Boston make it a highly sought after location for Massachusetts home
            buyers, meaning it is a great seller’s market! Continue reading on below to learn some of the
            most common reasons Waltham homeowners are beginning to sell.

             

            1. Rising Property Values


            Waltham’s median property value has seen steady increases for numerous years, and we do
            not expect this increase to slow down anytime soon. The town’s proximity to Boston, great
            schools, strong economy and overall beauty make it a desirable market for all types of
            homeowners. This desirable market means now is a great time to sell if you are a Waltham
            homeowner, as you will see a great return on your investment.

             

             

            2. Strong Buyer Demand


            As stated before, Waltham is highly sought after for all types of homeowners! This strong desire
            has led to a bump in buyer demand in town, in turn driving up prices, creating a great market for
            Waltham sellers. With seven days being the median number of days to pending, it is safe to say
            that there is competition for buyers looking for their perfect Waltham property. Listing your
            Waltham home can see great financial gains, oftentimes with a quick turnaround!

             

             

            3. Changing Needs and Lifestyle


            Of course, one of the most practical reasons to sell your home is simply if it no longer fits your
            unique needs. Too small of a home can leave homeowners stressed and struggling to
            comfortably go about their days. On the contrary, owning a home that is much larger than your
            needs can leave homeowners paying high monthly bills despite using little of their home’s
            overall square footage. Whether you’re a Waltham homeowner expecting a baby, or have kids
            leaving for college there are numerous reasons why your home no longer fits your needs.
            Rather than feeling stuck in a home that is not right for you, selling your Waltham home in favor
            of a more suitable property is often the best approach. Selling your Waltham home means
            homeowners can instead find the property that is perfect for them, while also seeing financial
            benefits.

             

             

            Sell Your Waltham Home with Hans Brings


            The current real estate market in Waltham makes it a great time to consider selling your
            Waltham home! The years-long climb in property values, high demand from buyers, and overall
            desirability of Waltham mean homeowners can expect high profitability on their sales.
            Of course, having a trustworthy, and knowledgeable Waltham realtor like Hans Brings can help
            ensure you get the most out of your sale as well! For years, Hans has helped Waltham
            homeowners seamlessly sell their homes. Contact Hans Brings today to get started.

             

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              What Makes A Good Real Estate Agent?

              Whether you’re an experienced or a first-time buyer or a seller, buying or selling a home may be a
              difficult and even stressful experience. The good news is that you are not alone in this.
              Real estate agents can be a great addition to your property-related needs as they bring a lot to the table.
              The right professionals can help you with everything from property hunting to contract signing.
              You want to work with a professional who will advocate for you, sell your property for an ideal price, and
              assist you in finding the appropriate homes at the best price. But what qualities should a real estate
              salesperson have?

              A great real estate agent is approachable, knowledgeable, dependable, and possesses the necessary
              tools and resources.

              What Makes A Good Real Estate Agent?


              Below are some of the main qualities that every good real estate agent should have:

               

              1. Trustworthiness


              Trustworthiness is critical when choosing a real estate agent or other service provider. You’re trusting this
              person with one of your most important financial decisions—and having someone dependable matters.
              A trustworthy real estate agent will not pressure you into deciding or investing in a real estate property
              that is not in your best interests. Instead, they will be upfront and honest with you about the
              transaction’s positive and bad aspects. They will also be straightforward and honest about their prices
              and commissions, which will help to avoid unpleasant surprises later on.

               

               

              2. Capabilities in Communication


              An agent that doesn’t communicate properly will be a problem for the property buyers and sellers. You
              need a real estate agent who will keep you updated on your purchase or sale status because the real
              estate market is so competitive. Otherwise, you will waste a lot of time on opportunities that are unlikely
              to succeed.

               

               

              3. Client-Motivated


              The agent benefits when the consumer succeeds in real estate. It’s why selecting an agent who
              prioritizes their vendors is a must. The client’s demands should always come first for a professional
              agent. The realtor must ensure the customer feels supported and satisfied because buying and selling a
              home can be difficult.

               

               

              4. Attention to Details


              Meticulous attention to detail is crucial for real estate agents. A good real estate agent pays close
              attention to the particular requirements of each of their clients. Look for a realtor that is well-organized,
              follows up with leads, communicates clearly, and pays attention to the client’s demands.

               

               

               

              Trust Hans Brings to Help List or Purchase Your Waltham Home


              The right real estate professional provides property owners with a great advantage over the competition.
              Whether you are buying or selling a home in Waltham, Hans Brings has the knowledge and experience to
              make the process as seamless as possible, landing buyers in the home they’ve dreamed of, and sellers
              with more money than they imagined in their pockets. Contact our team and view our active listings
              today!

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                Why You Should Schedule an Inspection Before Buying a Waltham Home

                Why You Should Schedule an Inspection Before Buying a Waltham Home

                When you are ready to purchase a home, you have the right to complete many different types of inspections of the potential home before officially purchasing.  A home inspection is actually one of the most common contract contingencies for home buyers.  Whether you have purchased five homes in your life or it is going to be your first one, a home inspection is always highly recommended. 

                 

                There are many reasons that home inspection contingencies are one of the most commonly seen contingencies in purchase and sale contracts in real estate.  Here are many of the reasons why you should schedule a home inspection before purchasing a Waltham home:

                Peace of Mind

                Your home is one of the biggest if not the biggest investments you will make in your life.  The costs of purchasing a home are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.  One of the most important reasons to have a home inspection when purchasing a home is peace of mind.

                  The primary purpose of a home inspection is to make sure that the home is safe and solid.  By waiving a home inspection you are creating unnecessary anxiety and stress for yourself.  A good idea, for your next home inspection, is to take notes while the walkthrough is performed and to keep your Waltham realtor in the loop for any necessary advice moving forward. 

                Uncover Safety Issues

                When it comes to home inspections it is very common for home inspectors to find something wrong with every house.  Some issues may obviously be more serious for safety concerns than others.  Some of the more common issues found on inspections are improper electrical wiring, worn roofing, and plumbing deficiencies.  The main purpose of a home inspection is not to pick every piece of the home apart but to ensure it is a safe and livable place for you and your family. 

                Pest & Incest Problems

                Pests and insect infections can end up destroying a home.  Depending on the location, the likelihood of having a pest or insect problem will vary.  There are many different types of pest inspections that can cause damage to the structure of your home, such as termites.  The good news is that some home inspections do include pest and insect inspections.  Be sure to ask your Waltham real estate agent if they can recommend a good inspector for your home and pest inspections.

                Structural Issues

                One of the biggest concerns that are often brought up during a house inspection is the idea of structural issues.  The structure of your home is the most important aspect when it comes to keeping you and your home safe.  Structural issues can end up costing you thousands of dollars if discovered, with a home inspection you may be lucky enough to avoid all of that.  When choosing your home inspector it is important to know that some of them carry professional engineering degrees to help spot such inconsistencies. 

                Price Negotiation

                First and foremost, the purpose of a home inspection contingency is not to get a better price on a home because of minor issues found during a home inspection.  However, major issues are a different story and may be appropriate to renegotiate.  Your Waltham real estate agent will be able to help you navigate the original contract and make the necessary changes needed. 

                Contact Hans Today!

                When the time is right during the buying process and you are ready for a home inspection, it is vital to not take it lightly.  Once you are this far along in the process you can still utilize the full capability of your Waltham realtor.  Hans is here to walk you through each step of the process till the end.  Contact Hans directly today by calling him at 781-891-9993 or by filling out a contact form on the website!

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                  Should You Consider Buying a Condo in Waltham?

                  Should You Consider Buying a Condo in Waltham?

                  A condo is a great investment no matter if it is your first real estate investment or just the next phase in your life.  Knowing the pros and cons of owning either a condo or home is important knowledge to have when weighing your decision.  It is important to reach out to a Waltham real estate agent to get the best advice possible.  In the meantime, let’s go over the pros and cons of  owning a condo vs. a house.

                   

                  There may be many reasons for you to consider owning a condo whether that is you are having trouble finding a single-family home or you are simply fed up with renting.  A condo can be a way to wade your way into ownership without diving into the deep end.  Owning a condo tends to be a lower price tag than a single-family home.  You still have your independence, but are not off the hook when it comes to maintenance and repairs.  Plus, owning a condo is a great way to build equity to kickstart your journey to your first home. 

                   

                  If you are looking to be a homeowner, but are curious about buying a condo versus a home, here are some pointers. 

                  Pros of a Condo vs. a House

                  Condos may be a small slice of the overall U.S. housing market, but in certain areas, condos can be a significant proportion of the for-sale listings.  According to the National Association of Realtors more than 5 million single-family homes changed hands last year, while condos only accounted for only 577,000 sales.  Condos are often priced lower than single-family homes, a difference that can be even more obvious in costly areas.  In December of 2020 the median cost of a single-family home was $314,400, while a condo’s median cost was $272,200. 

                  Less Maintenance

                   

                  Another key benefit for condo owners is the fact there is less maintenance required.  As a condo owner you are not responsible for the exterior of your property.  This offers a big weight off the owner’s shoulders when living in New England when the snow and leaves roll around.  For some condo owners they also do not have to worry about their HVAC, electrical, and plumbing as they can be taken care of by the housing association. 

                  Amenities

                  Depending on the development, access to your amenities you might not otherwise be able to afford or want to maintain such as on site gyms, pools, or even heated parking garages.  These may be all tied into your HOA fees so focusing on ones that fit your lifestyle the best is ideal. 

                  Insurance

                  At the end of the day condo insurance may be cheaper than homeowners insurance.  Since you will be mainly insuring your possessions it is something worth keeping in mind when shopping around.  The HOA will provide insurance as well, but it is important to check the agreement to be aware of any gaps.

                  Cons of a Condo vs. a House

                  If owning a condo was all sunshine and rainbows then we would see much more sales in condos vs houses per year.  However, that is not always the case, especially with these aspects to consider:

                  Rules & Regulations

                  The moral of the story is with a condo you will not have as much autonomy as you would if you owned a house.  HOA rules have often limited what you can do inside and outside your home, for example owning pets and when you can access common areas. 

                  Privacy

                  One of the most common cons that come up regarding condos is the lack of privacy compared to a house.  Condos generally do not have the same privacy you would have with a detached house.  This can especially be true if a unit next to you is constantly being turned around for a new neighbor every couple of months. 

                  HOA Fees

                  HOA fees will increase your monthly costs above your mortgage payments.  However, it is important to check with the homes in your area and if they also utilize the HOA.  There are common overlaps with some HOA fees that you can see in a condo and a house, such as water and trash pickup services.  If you find yourself paying fees for amenities that you do not use or upgrades that are considered subpar then you may be better off exploring housing options. 

                  Resale

                  If you find yourself looking for a condo as a starter investment to eventually get into a house, then it makes all the sense to consider resale when searching.  This is an important factor to consider when buying a condo as they are harder to sell compared to houses.  If the HOA is not well managed it may have a direct impact when it is time for buyers to step in due to lenders being reluctant to get involved.  Especially if you are selling with a number of other units at the same time, this usually raises red flags for potential buyers. 

                   

                  If you ever find yourself in the situation of having trouble selling your condo in Waltham a Waltham realtor can lend a much-needed helping hand.  Professionals such as Hans have extensive knowledge and experience when it comes to navigating tricky market conditions. 

                  Contact Hans for Your Waltham Real Estate Needs!

                  Whether you are contemplating buying a condo or house, Hans can offer you the right insight to help with your decision.  From lifestyle to budget Hans will work alongside you to ensure your needs are met and you are happy with your new home.  For more information on the houses and condos be sure to reach out to a professional Waltham realtor today!  You can reach Hans by calling him at 781-891-9993 or by filling out a contact form on the website!

                   

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                    Understanding the Low Inventory Housing Shortage

                    Understanding the Low Inventory Housing Shortage 

                     

                    The housing shortage is not news to anyone who has looked into buying a new home recently.  According to the National Association of Realtors, the supply of homes for sale in the U.S. has recorded a low of just 1.6 months of supply in January 2022.  While the number has grown since, the supply is still not enough to meet the higher demand.  Here is what to know about the housing shortage, what factors have caused it and how it impacts the overall estate market.  

                    Why is There a Housing Shortage?

                    Rising material costs, supply chain issues and labor shortages due to COVID have all negatively impacted the housing inventory.  However, the problem existed long before the pandemic started.  Essentially, the U.S. has failed to keep up with the housing demands of a continually increasing population.  

                    One factor that exacerbates the shortage is the prevalence of institutional investors, who continue to buy up a large portion of housing inventory for profit.  These investors accounted for more than 13% of all residential real estate purchases in 2021. Removing those units from the pool of availability for individual buyers.

                      The current interest rate environment is also complicating matters.  Hopeful buyers have seen their purchasing power plummet as mortgage rates increase.  In addition, high mortgage rates are deterring homeowners from selling, for fear of giving up their locked-in low rates.  Many who might otherwise be sellers are simply choosing to stay put, which is further limiting available for sale existing homes in today’s market.  

                    What is a Normal Amount of Inventory?

                    Traditional wisdom states that the real estate market needs a5 to 6 months of housing supply to be balanced or not leaning towards either a buyers market or sellers market.  The NAR home-sales data showed a 3.3 month housing supply in October 2022, which is healthier than January’s record low of 1.6 months but still well below the balance level.  

                    How Low Inventory Affects Homebuyers and Sellers 

                    The truth of the matter is that low inventory is affecting both buyers and sellers.  Many would-be sellers are unable to list their homes because they can not afford the price.  It leaves buyers with little buying power and fewer protections in the translation, as sellers have their choice of other hopefuls who might be willing to waive contingencies and accept any terms the seller wants.  

                    Even though there is a low inventory and harsher market conditions for both buyers and sellers does not mean that your ideal home is not out there.  Whether you are selling or buying, having support of a professional real estate agent by your side can make navigating the real estate market that much easier.  Buyers in Massachusetts are in luck with agents such as Hans Brings that have experience navigating the local markets surrounding Waltham real estate for decades!

                    Contact Hans for Your Real Estate Needs!

                    If you are a resident of Massachusetts that lives in the surrounding area near Waltham Hans is here to help you navigate the current real estate market.  Hans is a certified Waltham real estate agent with ample amounts of experience and knowledge when it comes to both buying and selling real estate!  Get in direct contact with Hans by calling him at 781-891-9993 or by filling out a contact form on the website!

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