ECONOMY & CREDIT CRISIS SPOILING SPRING HOUSING MARKET
New Jersey home sales in March ran well below last year’s pace despite an increase above the February level. In March, contract-sales activity ran 27% below one year ago despite a 9% increase from February. The clear signal is that the housing market has further to fall.
While housing affordability in New Jersey has improved over the last year, home sales remain weak due to a variety of factors including tighter lending standards and low confidence in home prices. Adding to these housing troubles is growing concern about job security as the economy shows increasing signs of weakness. Particularly worrisome for the northern New Jersey submarket is a new Department of Labor estimate which projects as many as 36,000 job cuts on Wall Street, nearly double the previous estimates. Should this play out, housing demand in Manhattan and its surrounding suburbs will be further reduced.
As a result, expect the Spring selling season to be ‘late & brief’ with only a modest increase in sales activity. Given that contract-sales activity this year is the weakest in recent history (see chart at right), the 2nd half of the year will pose significant challenges for home sellers as prices continue to drift downward.
The one positive note for the housing market is that the growth in Unsold Inventory has slowed significantly and is actually declining in some markets. As a result, the New Jersey housing market has 10.5 months of for-sale inventory, down from 11 months in February. Expect a slower pace of home price declines in 2008 as the market gets closer to reaching a bottom point.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Thursday, April 24, 2008
11% Say Economy is GOOD
Pew Research = 11% Think the Economy is GOOD, What do you think?
The Real Estate Market has slowed up some from where it was in previous markets. In my 16 year experience, I've seen HIGHS AND LOWS. It's a cycle for sure. The Spring Market is certainly starting to show some activity. It's not BOOMING but here at the JERSEY SHORE, there is a reason to be POSITIVE. What do you think?
http://pewresearch.org/databank/dailynumber/?NumberID=502
The Real Estate Market has slowed up some from where it was in previous markets. In my 16 year experience, I've seen HIGHS AND LOWS. It's a cycle for sure. The Spring Market is certainly starting to show some activity. It's not BOOMING but here at the JERSEY SHORE, there is a reason to be POSITIVE. What do you think?
http://pewresearch.org/databank/dailynumber/?NumberID=502
Friday, April 4, 2008
Short Sales and Becoming ProActive
It's been a tough week in Real Estate. It's big concern as selling prices continue to drop and houses not selling as fast as they should in the beginnings of this Spring Market. When I look at is the activity in the MLS becoming more price reductions than UNDER CONTRACT AND CLOSED SALES makes me wonder how soon will this Real Estate Market adjust itself. Even though when we look at the nation as a whole, NJ is not in that bad a shape. However, here in our lovely Garden State there are other things to consider, the fact the many people are hurting because the weak economy has put many in a position on not being able to make ends meet. We are losing jobs to New York and Pennsylvania then, waiting and waiting for the government to take steps in helping our citizens is a lesson in patience and doing the best we can.
Our homes are our biggest investment and what can we do if we fall to far behind in our mortgages. Something to consider if there are no other alternatives is a short sale on your home before you get too deep in debt and can't get out. Lenders would prefer to try and work a short sale out before go through the process of foreclosure with anyone if there is still time. Banks and Mortgages companies are being bombarded lately with calls. To speak to one individual who is knowledgeable about your situation is tough. If I can help in anyway let me know. I have forms and tips to share with you. I will give you the best advice I can to get you though these hard times.
Call the Bank and let them know you wish to sell your home through a short sale and let a real estate professional help guide you through the process. Hang in there.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Creating a Stress Free Environment
STRESS FREE ENVIRONMENTS, HOME WELLNESS AND LIKING OURSELVES.........
I know that we can all use a little of that. We all have our ups and downs. We steamroll through out days and forget to take some time to smell the coffee, take a deep breathe, slow down.
Our homes or work environments can be a catalyst to making our days harder. As I've gotten older, I have taken time to count my blessings and be grateful. Life is too short. We need to take good care of ourselves and our spaces.
When I feel the pressure of my day starting to take a toll on me, I take a break. Take a walk with my dogs, a ride in my car to the beach, stand up and stretch, yoga or meditation helps, or just simply just take a few deep breathes and just bask in the quiet before I go back to my tasks at hand.
Our spaces should also be considered. When we take the time to treat our homes or offices like beloved treasures, we can shift their energy from being merely places to being wellsprings for the replenishment of our energy.
Spring is here, and taking advantage of making positive changes in life; sure is a good thing. Small things can make a big difference, like simply moving items so that we constantly gaze upon the things we love the most, liberating the treasures we’ve hidden in our closets, using our best dishes and making small repairs.
Organizing, making repairs, and lovingly rejuvanting our spaces can increase the good flow in our spaces and mentally provide us with a new and refreshed attitude that can make our days flow much better.
It's a new season filled with the promise of new growth, wonderous opportunities and a great success. May the joy of Spring be with you.
When there is peace in the home, there is peace in our country. When there is peace in the country there is peace in the world. Let's try to create a peaceful environment to love and enjoy.........
I know that we can all use a little of that. We all have our ups and downs. We steamroll through out days and forget to take some time to smell the coffee, take a deep breathe, slow down.
Our homes or work environments can be a catalyst to making our days harder. As I've gotten older, I have taken time to count my blessings and be grateful. Life is too short. We need to take good care of ourselves and our spaces.
When I feel the pressure of my day starting to take a toll on me, I take a break. Take a walk with my dogs, a ride in my car to the beach, stand up and stretch, yoga or meditation helps, or just simply just take a few deep breathes and just bask in the quiet before I go back to my tasks at hand.
Our spaces should also be considered. When we take the time to treat our homes or offices like beloved treasures, we can shift their energy from being merely places to being wellsprings for the replenishment of our energy.
Spring is here, and taking advantage of making positive changes in life; sure is a good thing. Small things can make a big difference, like simply moving items so that we constantly gaze upon the things we love the most, liberating the treasures we’ve hidden in our closets, using our best dishes and making small repairs.
Organizing, making repairs, and lovingly rejuvanting our spaces can increase the good flow in our spaces and mentally provide us with a new and refreshed attitude that can make our days flow much better.
It's a new season filled with the promise of new growth, wonderous opportunities and a great success. May the joy of Spring be with you.
When there is peace in the home, there is peace in our country. When there is peace in the country there is peace in the world. Let's try to create a peaceful environment to love and enjoy.........
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
It's not a Lie, it's Time to Buy!
I understand there are many buyers still out there waiting and waiting for home prices to decline even lower to get the best deal out there. Some buyers even fearful and they convince themselves that if they purchase a home today, they still could OVERPAY for the AMERICAN DREAM. I came across a great article that was recently published in Times Magazine February 25, 2008 in the "Right on your Money" section by Dan Kadlec, states that "Fianance costs will rise as the economy recovers, so trying to time real estate might not pay off"
BUYING TODAY
If a home costs $218,900.00 putting 20% down on a 30 years fixed rate at 5.5% your payment would be $994.31.
BUYING IN 12 MONTHS
Buying the same home at a price of $197,010 calculating that the home prices fall about 10% and the recessions ends, the Feds would increase the interest rate to about 6%, then the mortgage payment for the same home for a 30 year fixed loan would be $994.94.
He states that the bottom line is that waiting to buy does not necessarily save you any money but cost you money in the long run for the same home. It's certainly food for thought.
If I can email you this article, don't hesitate to email me or give me a call. HAPPY HOME BUYING.
RE/MAX GATEWAY
Lucy Korzelius, Sales Associate
732-695-1600, ext. 313
732-684-1559 direct
"Make this a successful day"
lucyk@remax.net
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Governor Corzine Unveils FY 2009 Budget Proposal
Below is what I found today in the NJAR website, it's a terrible thing what the people in this Garden State have to give up in order help fix all the problems of the NJ deficit situation. It makes you think, doesn't it? It's not a wonder so many people are deciding to leave the Garden State.
Today, in his budget address to a joint session of the New Jersey Legislature, Governor Jon Corzine outlined his spending priorities for the upcoming year. The Governor unveiled a proposal that cuts state spending by $500 million over the previous year's $33.5 billion budget and does not contain any new taxes or fees.
Governor Corzine is looking to achieve a reduction in state spending by cutting a minimum of 5,000 state jobs through a series of layoffs and buyouts. Governor Corzine said he wants to reduce the size of state government by also eliminating the Departments of Agriculture and Personnel, and the Commerce Commission. The plan calls for aid to hospitals, municipalities, and colleges and universities to be reduced.
Governor Corzine also acknowledged New Jersey's property tax crisis in his budget address. Under his FY 2009 spending proposal, 70 percent of homeowners will receive exactly the same $1,000-plus rebate they received last year. However, the Governor wants to reduce property tax rebates for households who earn between $100,000 and $150,000. Under his plan, if your household income exceeds $150,000 you will no longer be eligible for the rebate program. Additionally, Governor Corzine seeks to increase educational aid by $550 million, as was called for in the new school funding formula.
We are encouraged by the fact that no new taxes were imposed on the real estate industry or property owners. However, the budget proposal unveiled today is a template and NJAR® anticipates that there will be many changes to it before it is enacted into law. As always, NJAR® will closely monitor all budget negotiations and will keep you informed of any developments. The New Jersey Network (NJN) will rebroadcast Governor Corzine's Budget Message tonight at 10 p.m. NJAR® is a prime sponsor of this television event. The entire text of the address can be viewed on the governor's website at www.nj.gov/governor/index.shtml. NJAR®'s statement on the budget address is available on our website at www.njar.com/pressroom/index.html.
Today, in his budget address to a joint session of the New Jersey Legislature, Governor Jon Corzine outlined his spending priorities for the upcoming year. The Governor unveiled a proposal that cuts state spending by $500 million over the previous year's $33.5 billion budget and does not contain any new taxes or fees.
Governor Corzine is looking to achieve a reduction in state spending by cutting a minimum of 5,000 state jobs through a series of layoffs and buyouts. Governor Corzine said he wants to reduce the size of state government by also eliminating the Departments of Agriculture and Personnel, and the Commerce Commission. The plan calls for aid to hospitals, municipalities, and colleges and universities to be reduced.
Governor Corzine also acknowledged New Jersey's property tax crisis in his budget address. Under his FY 2009 spending proposal, 70 percent of homeowners will receive exactly the same $1,000-plus rebate they received last year. However, the Governor wants to reduce property tax rebates for households who earn between $100,000 and $150,000. Under his plan, if your household income exceeds $150,000 you will no longer be eligible for the rebate program. Additionally, Governor Corzine seeks to increase educational aid by $550 million, as was called for in the new school funding formula.
We are encouraged by the fact that no new taxes were imposed on the real estate industry or property owners. However, the budget proposal unveiled today is a template and NJAR® anticipates that there will be many changes to it before it is enacted into law. As always, NJAR® will closely monitor all budget negotiations and will keep you informed of any developments. The New Jersey Network (NJN) will rebroadcast Governor Corzine's Budget Message tonight at 10 p.m. NJAR® is a prime sponsor of this television event. The entire text of the address can be viewed on the governor's website at www.nj.gov/governor/index.shtml. NJAR®'s statement on the budget address is available on our website at www.njar.com/pressroom/index.html.
Saturday, March 1, 2008
Buyers have Choices, it's a great time to buy a Home
I am really tired of hearing so much negativity about the Real Estate Market. I have noticed in the last couple of weeks the upswing in the UNDER CONTRACT LISTINGS in the Monmouth and Ocean County area. The rates are still low and you can definitely find a BARGAIN as a BUYER. It's time to get off the fence and learn more about what is going on in TODAYS AREA REAL ESTATE. Remember Real Estate is all local, and what you hear on the TV, doesn't necessarily apply to us here at the Jersey Shore. Call me to learn more or attend our upcoming seminar............
"Opportunities Abound In a Buyer’s Market"
NOW IS THE TIME TO BUY! Housing prices have dropped, there are many homes to choose from and interest rates are the lowest they have been in 5 years.It has never been easier to qualify for a home loan. Let us show you how you can afford to buy your own home – no matter what your financial condition is currently! 100% financing is still available.Now you can come to a free one-hour seminar taught by RE/MAX Gateway Sales Associates, Randi Dickman and Lucy Korzelius and Mortgage Professional, Paulina Henderson of FREEDOM MORTGAGE. You can find out for yourself how you can buy your own home.Here’s What You’ll Learn in this FREE Seminar:
NOW IS THE TIME TO BUY! Housing prices have dropped, there are many homes to choose from and interest rates are the lowest they have been in 5 years.It has never been easier to qualify for a home loan. Let us show you how you can afford to buy your own home – no matter what your financial condition is currently! 100% financing is still available.Now you can come to a free one-hour seminar taught by RE/MAX Gateway Sales Associates, Randi Dickman and Lucy Korzelius and Mortgage Professional, Paulina Henderson of FREEDOM MORTGAGE. You can find out for yourself how you can buy your own home.Here’s What You’ll Learn in this FREE Seminar:
Can I qualify for a home mortgage loan?
What does my credit report say and how will a mortgage banker look at it?
How much home can I afford to buy?
How should I go about finding the right home?
What is happening in our area market?
Making an offer?
What do do in the sales process?
Bring yourself and bring your questions. We would to meet you. Our upcoming seminar will be held at the Wall Township Public Library from 7pm - 8pm this Tuesday, March 4th. Call me at 732-684-1559 or email me for more details and directions.
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