Real Estate Outlook for 2025: Key Trends and Predictions

by Marketing | Dec 4, 2024 | Buyers, Homeowners, Mortgages, New Construction, News, Property for Sale, Property for Sale in Orlando, Real Estate News, Renters, Sellers

Real Estate Outlook for 2025: Key Trends and Predictions

The housing market has faced challenges in recent years, but brighter days may be ahead. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), shared an optimistic forecast for 2025 and 2026, predicting an uptick in home sales and more stable mortgage rates. Check out the link to find out more: https://www.nar.realtor/magazine/real-estate-news/whats-next-for-the-2025-housing-market

Rising Home Sales

Yun expects home sales to rise in the next few years. He predicts existing home sales will increase by 9% in 2025 and 13% in 2026, with new home sales also seeing growth. The improving economy, job gains, and increasing home inventory are all contributing factors to the positive outlook.

Mortgage Rates to Stabilize

Mortgage rates are expected to moderate, though not drop drastically. While recent Fed rate cuts may offer some relief, Yun cautioned that high budget deficits could prevent mortgage rates from returning to low levels seen in previous years. However, the “locked-in” effect of homeowners with low mortgage rates will gradually ease over time, creating opportunities for buyers and sellers.

Home Price Increases to Slow

After years of rapid price growth, home prices are predicted to rise slowly in the next few years. The NAR forecasts a 2% increase in median home prices for both 2025 and 2026. While home equity gains have benefited current homeowners, affordability remains a challenge for many buyers.

Changing Buyer Demographics

The profile of homebuyers is shifting. All-cash buyers have become more common, accounting for 26% of home sales in the past year. First-time homebuyers are older, with a median age of 38, and many are relying on financial help from family or drawing from savings and assets. Multigenerational households are also on the rise, driven by cost-saving efforts and the need to care for aging parents. Additionally, single women buyers outpace single men, with women making up 24% of the home-purchase market.

Looking Ahead

Overall, while challenges persist, the outlook for the housing market is improving. With rising job numbers, moderating mortgage rates, and changing buyer trends, 2025 could be a year of recovery and growth for the real estate market. Real estate professionals should prepare for a busy year ahead, as more Americans may be ready to make a move.

https://www.nar.realtor/magazine/real-estate-news/whats-next-for-the-2025-housing-market

How Our Partnership with Motto Mortgage Makes Homebuying Easier

by Marketing | Oct 30, 2024 | Blog, Buyers, Homeowners, Homes, Villas and Condos, Mortgages, Real Estate Components, Real Estate News

How Our Partnership with Motto Mortgage Makes Homebuying Easier

At RE/MAX Heritage, we’ve spent over two decades guiding clients through the complexities of real estate, from buying and selling to investing. One of the most challenging aspects of any transaction is securing the right mortgage. That’s why our partnership with Motto Mortgage Homewise is such a valuable asset and we know how you, our clients, can take advantage of this partnership. We didn’t partner with just any lender—we teamed up with Motto Mortgage because they bring real solutions that simplify the mortgage process, offering clarity and efficiency for our clients.

Loan Officers at Motto Mortgage Homewise

What This Partnership Means for You

Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, having a trusted mortgage partner is key to a smoother transaction. Here’s how our partnership with Motto Mortgage makes all the difference.

For Buyers: Simplifying the Path to Homeownership

As a buyer, navigating the mortgage process can feel overwhelming. With questions about affordability, borrowing limits, and timing, it’s easy to feel uncertain. But with RE/MAX Heritage and Motto Mortgage working together, we help take the guesswork out of securing a mortgage.

Fast Loan Estimates: In just 15 minutes, you can receive a loan estimate without affecting your credit score, giving you immediate insight into how much home you can afford.

A Variety of Loan Options: Whether you need an FHA, VA, or a flexible down payment assistance loan, Motto Mortgage offers diverse solutions tailored to your financial situation.

Quick Closings: Once you find the right home, there’s no need for delays. With Motto Mortgage, we aim to close loans in 14 days or less, ensuring a fast and efficient process from start to finish.

For Sellers: Faster Closings with Confident Buyers

As a seller, having financially prepared buyers means fewer delays and smoother transactions. Our partnership with Motto Mortgage allows us to ensure that potential buyers are pre-qualified quickly, so you can sell with confidence knowing your buyer is ready to close.

Imagine showing your property to a buyer who has already secured their financing. This peace of mind minimizes uncertainty and helps facilitate quicker sales, giving sellers the advantage in today’s competitive market.

For Investors: Optimizing Your Financial Strategy

Investors know that timing is everything, and having the right financing options can make or break your next move. Motto Mortgage specializes in creative loan solutions tailored for investors, including:

Bridge Loans for buying before selling.

Investment Loans with only 15% down, allowing you to leverage your capital more effectively.

Foreign National Loans that can close in under three weeks.

These flexible financing options give investors the edge they need to make strategic decisions and maximize their returns.

A Partnership Built on Experience and Results

Our partnership with Motto Mortgage Homewise isn’t just about convenience—it’s about trust and expertise. With decades of experience in real estate, we know how crucial strong partnerships are to ensuring successful transactions. Motto Mortgage shares our commitment to clear communication, realistic solutions, and fast results.

We’ve built a relationship that empowers our clients to navigate the mortgage process with confidence, ensuring that the entire experience—from offer to closing—is as seamless as possible.

Why Now Is the Time to Act

With interest rates still favorable compared to historical trends, now is a great time to buy, sell, or invest. Having a reliable mortgage partner like Motto Mortgage makes it easier to take advantage of these opportunities. Whether you’re locking in a great rate or exploring new possibilities, we’re here to help you make the most of today’s market.

What’s Next? Let’s Get Started

At RE/MAX Heritage, we pride ourselves on being trusted advisors to our clients. Our partnership with Motto Mortgage ensures that we’re not just finding the right homes—we’re securing the right financing as well. From first-time buyers to seasoned investors, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

If you’d like to learn more reach visit their website at www.mottomortgage.com/offices/homewise-winter-haven/staff-roster

Housing Market Update: Rising Inventory and Stabilizing Interest Rates Create New Opportunities for Buyers

by Marketing | Oct 30, 2024 | Blog, Buyers, Homeowners, News, Real Estate News

Housing Market Update: Rising Inventory and Stabilizing Interest Rates Create New Opportunities for Buyers

The real estate market is evolving, with rising inventory levels and steadying interest rates bringing a favorable environment for those ready to buy. These shifts make it a great time to take a close look at your options and consider how today’s market dynamics might work to your advantage.

1. Expanded Inventory Provides Buyers with Greater Choice and Flexibility

Years of limited housing supply created high demand and intense competition. Now, with more properties on the market, buyers have a larger selection and a chance to make decisions with confidence.

More Choices and Negotiating Power: Increased listings mean a wider array of options, so buyers have a greater chance to find homes that fit their needs while negotiating terms that align with their goals.

Time to Compare Options: With a balanced market, buyers can approach decisions thoughtfully, without feeling pressured by high competition or bidding wars.

Advice for Buyers: Take advantage of this opportunity to explore the market carefully, comparing properties to find the one that meets your criteria for price, location, and features.

2. Cooling Prices Offer Improved Affordability

With home price growth slowing, the market is becoming more accessible. As wages rise faster than prices, affordability is improving for many buyers, creating openings in a market that once felt out of reach.

Strategic Approach: Now may be an excellent time to reassess your buying plans, especially if affordability has previously been a concern. Evaluate your budget against current trends to see if this new environment aligns with your goals.

3. Predictable Interest Rates Support Favorable Financing

While interest rates are higher than in recent years, they’ve begun to stabilize, offering buyers a more predictable landscape for financing. This steadiness in rates allows for clearer planning, making it easier to set a budget and explore loan options with confidence.

Financing Tips: Locking in a mortgage rate now could provide long-term savings, particularly if you find a home that meets your financial criteria. With access to a range of loan types and competitive rates, securing a mortgage has become a more transparent and manageable process.

Take Advantage of Market Shifts with Expert Guidance

This period of stability and increased choice presents an ideal time to explore your options and consider whether buying now could be right for you. With expert guidance on the evolving market, you can take advantage of these shifts and make decisions with confidence.

For more insights into the current real estate climate and how you can position yourself strategically, visit the latest updates from the National Association of REALTORS®.

Inventory Rise Means Opportunities for Buyers

by Marketing | Oct 30, 2024 | Blog, Buyers, Homeowners, Homes, Villas and Condos, Investment Property in Florida, Real Estate News

Inventory Rise Means Opportunities for Buyers

The real estate market is showing signs of promise, even amid a cautious buying environment, as reported by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). Inventory levels are finally rising, giving buyers more options and time to make decisions—important shifts after years of tight supply. The cooling in home price appreciation is another positive, as wages are now growing faster than home prices, signaling improved affordability for future buyers. Additionally, mortgage rates, though higher than recent years, have moderated compared to earlier in 2023, potentially setting the stage for more favorable financing conditions in the coming months.

https://www.nar.realtor/magazine/real-estate-news/despite-inventory-rise-home-buyers-remain-cautious

Understanding Buyer Broker Agreements: What You Need to Know

by Marketing | Oct 2, 2024 | Blog, Buyers, Homeowners, Real Estate News, Renters, Sellers

Understanding Buyer Broker Agreements: What You Need to Know

Understanding Buyer Broker Agreements: What You Need To Know

Buying a home is a major life decision, and at RE/MAX Heritage, we believe that you should feel supported throughout the process. One of the ways we ensure this is through a Buyer Broker Agreement (BBA). This agreement helps clarify your relationship with your agent and guarantees that you receive the best possible guidance and support.

Why a Buyer Broker Agreement Matters

A Buyer Broker Agreement (BBA) is a straightforward contract between you and your RE/MAX Heritage agent. It confirms that your agent is working exclusively for you, ensuring that they are fully committed to helping you find the right property, negotiate effectively, and navigate the buying process smoothly. Without a BBA, there’s a chance that an agent’s responsibilities might be unclear, or they could represent both the buyer and the seller, which could create conflicts of interest. By signing a BBA, you make sure that your agent is focused solely on your interests.

Why a BBA is Especially Important in Today's Market

The real estate market can be unpredictable. Prices fluctuate, there’s strong competition for properties, and legal requirements are more detailed than they used to be. A Buyer Broker Agreement ensures you’re protected in this fast-moving environment. Recent changes in the industry, such as the National Association of Realtors (NAR) settlement, have made it even more important for buyers and sellers to be clear about their rights and responsibilities. At RE/MAX Heritage, we make sure you understand exactly how your agent will work for you by having this agreement in place.

The Benefits of a Buyer Broker Agreement at RE/MAX Heritage

When you sign a BBA with us, you’re not just agreeing to work with an agent—you’re securing several key advantages:
1. Clear Commitment

2. With a BBA, your agent is legally required to represent your interests. This ensures
that they’re fully focused on getting the best results for you.

3. Transparency
The agreement spells out exactly how your agent will be compensated and what their
responsibilities are. This way, there are no surprises along the way.

4. Guidance Throughout the Process
The home-buying process can be complex, but your RE/MAX Heritage agent will be there to
guide you every step of the way. From finding listings to negotiating prices, you’ll have
support when it matters most.

5. Stronger Negotiation Power
Your agent, committed to your interests through the BBA, will work hard to negotiate the
best terms for you, ensuring that you’re well-positioned in the market.

What Happens Without a BBA?

Without a Buyer Broker Agreement, your agent’s role may not be as clearly defined. This could lead to misunderstandings or missed opportunities. For example, if your agent is also representing the seller, their loyalties could be divided, potentially leaving you with less effective support. At RE/MAX Heritage, we believe in keeping things clear and simple. A BBA ensures that you know your agent is working for you, reducing any risk of confusion or unexpected costs.

Why the BBA Works for You at RE/MAX Heritage

At RE/MAX Heritage, we don’t just show homes—we work closely with you to make sure the buying process goes smoothly. The Buyer Broker Agreement is part of this commitment. It helps us create a clear plan so that you can move forward with confidence, knowing that your agent is always on your side. This agreement guarantees that you’re getting professional support, honest advice, and dedicated service from the start of your search all the way to the closing of your new home.

Buyer’s Journey

Ending note:

As we approach the end of another year, we are reminded that real estate isn’t just about transactions—it’s about building a life, creating a home, and connecting with our community. The market will continue to shift and change, but what remains constant is the importance of making thoughtful decisions that reflect where you are and where you want to go.

At ReMax Heritage, Bardell Real Estate team, our goal is to support you in more than just buying or selling a property—we’re here to help you navigate life’s transitions, big or small. Whether you’re considering your next move or simply looking to strengthen your place in this community, know that we’re here for you, with guidance, understanding, and the experience to help you move forward.

Whatever the rest of 2024 holds for you, let’s make the most of it—together, with purpose.

July Real Estate Home Sales Show Positive Shift

by Marketing | Sep 2, 2024 | Blog, Homeowners, Homes, Villas and Condos, News, Real Estate Components, Real Estate News

July Real Estate Home Sales Show Positive Shift

July Real Estate Home Sales Show Positive Shift

July marked a positive turn for existing-home sales, breaking a four-month streak of declines, according to the National Association of REALTORS®. Three out of the four major U.S. regions experienced an increase in sales, while the Midwest held steady. Year-over-year, sales rose in the Northeast and West but saw declines in the Midwest and South.

Key Highlights:

Overall Sales Growth: Total existing-home sales—including single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums, and co-ops—increased by 1.3% from June, reaching a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 3.95 million in July. However, this is a 2.5% decrease compared to July 2023, when sales stood at 4.05 million.
Market Conditions: NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun noted, “Although the gain is modest, home sales continue to face challenges. However, buyers are seeing more options, and affordability is improving thanks to lower interest rates.”
Inventory Levels: Total housing inventory at the end of July was 1.33 million units, marking a 0.8% increase from June and a substantial 19.8% rise from a year ago (1.11 million). Unsold inventory is currently at a 4.0-month supply, down slightly from 4.1 months in June but up from 3.3 months in July 2023.
Home Prices: The median existing-home price for all housing types in July was $422,600, a 4.2% increase from one year ago ($405,600). All four U.S. regions reported price increases.

REALTORS® Confidence Index

According to the monthly REALTORS® Confidence Index:

Time on Market: Properties typically remained on the market for 24 days in July, up from 22 days in June and 20 days in July 2023.
First-Time Buyers: First-time buyers accounted for 29% of sales in July, consistent with June but slightly down from 30% in July 2023.
All-Cash Sales: All-cash sales made up 27% of transactions in July, slightly down from 28% in June but an increase from 26% a year ago.
Investor Activity: Individual investors or second-home buyers, who often make cash purchases, bought 13% of homes in July, down from 16% in both June 2024 and July 2023.
Distressed Sales: Distressed sales, including foreclosures and short sales, represented 1% of sales in July, virtually unchanged from the previous month and the prior year.

Mortgage Rates

Freddie Mac reported that the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 6.49% as of August 15, slightly up from 6.47% the previous week but down from 7.09% one year ago.

Single-Family and Condo/Co-op Sales

Single-Family Homes: Sales rose by 1.4% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 3.57 million in July, a 1.4% decrease from the previous year. The median existing single-family home price was $428,500 in July, up 4.2% from July 2023.
Condominiums and Co-ops: Sales remained steady from June at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 380,000 units, but this represents an 11.6% decline from a year ago (430,000 units). The median existing condo price was $367,500 in July, up 2.7% from the prior year ($357,900).

Yun commented, “The median home price for condominiums is lower, but the condominium market continues to underperform compared to the single-family market. Rising maintenance and insurance costs have diminished the appeal of condominiums.”

Regional Breakdown

Northeast: Existing-home sales increased by 4.3% from June to an annual rate of 490,000 in July, a 2.1% rise from July 2023. The median price in the Northeast was $505,100, an 8.3% increase from last year.
Midwest: Existing-home sales remained unchanged in July at an annual rate of 920,000, though this represents a 5.2% decline from the previous year. The median price in the Midwest was $321,300, up 4.5% from July 2023.
South: Existing-home sales grew by 1.1% from June to an annual rate of 1.79 million in July, but this is a 3.8% decrease from one year ago. The median price in the South was $372,500, a 2.3% increase from the previous year.
West: The West saw existing-home sales rise by 1.4% in July, reaching an annual rate of 750,000, which is also a 1.4% increase from a year ago. The median price in the West was $629,500, a 3.4% increase from July 2023.

Why Choose RE/MAX Heritage – A Bardell Real Estate Company

At RE/MAX Heritage, we are Florida Property Specialists, offering unparalleled expertise in new and resale vacation homes, investment properties, retirement homes, residential properties, and long-term property management/leasing services. Serving the Orlando area, we are your gateway to buying and selling real estate with confidence.

Legacy of Excellence
Established as Bardell Real Estate in 1989, we have been a trusted name in Central Florida for over 30 years. Our decision to join the RE/MAX family in December 2021 enhances our ability to deliver top-tier service by combining our deep-rooted values of honesty, integrity, and respect with RE/MAX’s global resources.

Full-Service Real Estate Expertise
As a full-service real estate office, RE/MAX Heritage is committed to meeting all your real estate needs—whether you’re buying, selling, or seeking long-term leasing services. We operate in full compliance with the Fair Housing Act, the Fair Credit Reporting Act, and all relevant laws to ensure the highest standards of service.

Our Commitment
Our product is service, and our tools are people and property. We are dedicated to delivering a warm, friendly experience focused on helping you achieve your real estate goals, coupled with the highest level of professionalism to solve your needs better than anyone else.

Motto: “WHEN ONLY A PROFESSIONAL WILL DO.”

Choose RE/MAX Heritage to experience a perfect blend of heritage, expertise, and global reach, ensuring your real estate journey is nothing short of exceptional.

Ready to make a Move?

Bardell Real Estate are the experts in helping you with your selling, buying or renting needs near Orlando, Florida. Make your Disney area experience a forever memorable one. Call us now to speak to a real estate agent.