Pride of ownership

As the country continues to emerge from the turbulent mortgage period, a Homebuyer Poll released by TD Bank reveals aspirations of homeownership are still very much alive in the U.S. The majority (84 percent) of today’s younger renting generation (ages 18-34) responded that they intend to buy a home. Overall, more than half of consumers polled say homeownership is a vital component to defining the American Dream and 59 percent associated feelings of excitement or pride as part of their first time home buying process. Visit our website for real estate info at www.PierBowl.com.

It's time to buy a home

This could be the best time in a generation to buy a home. Here’s why: Housing affordability is the best it has been in decades. Nationwide, average home prices are approximately one-third lower today than at their peak in 2006. The cost to buy is very often less than the cost to rent a comparable property. In fact, buying is cheaper than renting in 98 out of America’s 100 major markets. Interest rates are at an historic low, and today’s low rates can be locked in for the next 30 years. The general economy appears to be improving, with employment increasing, median wages rising, and little indication of possible inflation.

Real Estate News: South Orange County Homes

Despite the current upheaval in the US housing market, sales of homes in South Orange County are the strongest they’ve been in recent years. Driven by lower prices, buyers are finding that they can now afford more house in South Orange County than was possible in the past. Many buyers are moving up from smaller homes, even though they may be sacrificing some equity in the sale of their existing property. Investors looking for a safe haven for their assets have turned to South County real estate as an appealing choice. For the prudent buyer, there are amazing values that can be found, and long-term security that other investments can’t match. Most of these values are found by identifying short sale properties, bank-owned (REO) listings, and other distressed sellers of South County homes. Sellers of South Orange County homes need to hire an agent who understands the current market, and is experienced and skilled when dealing with lenders. Marketing is also more important than ever when it comes to differentiating your property: getting it noticed, and attracting qualified buyers for your South Orange County home.