What Record-Low Housing Inventory in Phoenix AZ and the East Valley Means For You
The real estate market is expected to do very well in 2021, with mortgage rates that are hovering at historic lows and forecasted by experts to remain favorable throughout the year.
One challenge to the housing industry, however, is the lack of homes available for sale today. Last week, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) released their Existing Home Sales Report, which shows that the inventory of homes for sale is currently at an all-time low. The report explains:
One challenge to the housing industry, however, is the lack of homes available for sale today. Last week, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) released their Existing Home Sales Report, which shows that the inventory of homes for sale is currently at an all-time low. The report explains:
| “Total housing inventory at the end of December totaled 1.07 million units, down 16.4% from November and down 23% from one year ago (1.39 million). Unsold inventory sits at an all-time low 1.9-month supply at the current sales pace, down from 2.3 months in November and down from the 3.0-month figure recorded in December 2019. NAR first began tracking the single-family home supply in 1982.” |
(See graph below):
What Does This Mean for You?
If You’re a Buyer:
Be patient during your home search. It may take time to find a home you love. Once you do, however, be ready to move forward quickly. Get pre-approved for a mortgage, be prepared to make a competitive offer from the start, and know that a shortage in inventory could mean you’ll enter a bidding war. Calculate just how far you’re willing to go to secure a home and lean on your real estate professional as an expert guide along the way. The good news is, more inventory is likely headed to the market soon, Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at NAR, notes:
If You’re a Buyer:
Be patient during your home search. It may take time to find a home you love. Once you do, however, be ready to move forward quickly. Get pre-approved for a mortgage, be prepared to make a competitive offer from the start, and know that a shortage in inventory could mean you’ll enter a bidding war. Calculate just how far you’re willing to go to secure a home and lean on your real estate professional as an expert guide along the way. The good news is, more inventory is likely headed to the market soon, Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at NAR, notes:
| “To their credit, homebuilders and construction companies have increased efforts to build, with housing starts hitting an annual rate of near 1.7 million in December, with more focus on single-family homes…However, it will take vigorous new home construction in 2021 and in 2022 to adequately furnish the market to properly meet the demand.” |
If You’re a Seller:
Realize that, in some ways, you’re in the driver’s seat. When there’s a shortage of an item at the same time there’s a strong demand for it, the seller is in a good position to negotiate the best possible terms. Whether it’s the price, moving date, possible repairs, or anything else, you’ll be able to request more from a potential purchaser at a time like this – especially if you have multiple interested buyers. Don’t be unreasonable, but understand you probably have the upper hand.
Bottom Line
The housing market will remain strong throughout 2021. Know what that means for you, whether you’re buying, selling, or doing both.
If you’re ready to make a move, you can feel good about the current sentiment in the market and the advantageous conditions for today’s sellers.
If you're thinking of selling, many buyers will be eager to find a home just like yours due to the low inventory of available homes for sale. Reach out to me today to make sure you can get your house in on the action.
If you're thinking of buying a home, more homes are being listed for sale, and interest rates remain at historically low rates. Being a trusted real estate professional, I can answer your questions and help you determine your next steps.
Feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions about home buying, selling, or investing in the Phoenix Metro or East Valley areas. Just give me a call or text at 602-295-6807 and I will be glad to help.
Realize that, in some ways, you’re in the driver’s seat. When there’s a shortage of an item at the same time there’s a strong demand for it, the seller is in a good position to negotiate the best possible terms. Whether it’s the price, moving date, possible repairs, or anything else, you’ll be able to request more from a potential purchaser at a time like this – especially if you have multiple interested buyers. Don’t be unreasonable, but understand you probably have the upper hand.
Bottom Line
The housing market will remain strong throughout 2021. Know what that means for you, whether you’re buying, selling, or doing both.
If you’re ready to make a move, you can feel good about the current sentiment in the market and the advantageous conditions for today’s sellers.
If you're thinking of selling, many buyers will be eager to find a home just like yours due to the low inventory of available homes for sale. Reach out to me today to make sure you can get your house in on the action.
If you're thinking of buying a home, more homes are being listed for sale, and interest rates remain at historically low rates. Being a trusted real estate professional, I can answer your questions and help you determine your next steps.
Feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions about home buying, selling, or investing in the Phoenix Metro or East Valley areas. Just give me a call or text at 602-295-6807 and I will be glad to help.
"Real Estate is not just a job for me, it's about making a difference in the lives of others"
Serving the Phoenix Metro, and East Valley cities including Chandler, Gilbert, Tempe, Mesa, Phoenix, and Ahwatukee
Troy Erickson Realtor | 3175 W. Stephens Place, Chandler, AZ 85226 | 602-295-6807 | [email protected]
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Troy Erickson has been blogging about Arizona real estate since 2006. He is a residential real estate agent who specializes in helping home buyers, sellers, and investors in Chandler and the East Valley. He has been recognized for his local market expertise, and frequently volunteers within his community.
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