Key Housing Market Trends [INFOGRAPHIC]

Some HighlightsIf you’re considering buying or selling a home, you’ll want to know what’s happening in the housing market.Housing inventory is still very low, prices are climbing back up, and homes are selling fast when priced right.Connect with a real estate agent if you want more information about your local area and what the trends mean for your plans to buy or sell.

View more

Homebuyers Are Still More Active Than Usual

Even though the housing market is no longer experiencing the frenzy that was so characteristic of the last couple of years, it doesn’t mean today’s market is at a standstill. In actuality, buyer traffic is still strong today.The ShowingTime Showing Index is a measure of how much buyers are touring homes. The graph below uses that index to illustrate buyer activity trends over time to help put today into the proper perspective.It shows there’s seasonality in real estate. If you look at the last normal years in the market (shown in gray), there was a consistent pattern as buyer activity peaked in the first half of each year (during the peak homebuying season in the spring) and slowed as each year came to a close.When the pandemic hit in March of 2020, that trend was disrupted as the market responded to the resulting uncertainty (shown in blue in the middle). From there, we entered the ‘unicorn’ years of housing (shown in pink). This is when mortgage rates were record-low and buyer demand was sky high. Similar seasonal trends still existed even during that time, just at much higher levels.Now, let’s look at 2023. Traffic is down from the previous month and it’s also lower than the peaks we saw in the ‘unicorn’ years. But what’s happening isn’t a steep drop off in demand – it’s a slow return toward more normal seasonality. As the ShowingTime report explains:“Showing traffic declined about 10% in May . . . This follows a typical seasonal pattern – disrupted by the pandemic but now beginning to return . . .”And, to highlight this isn’t a drastic decline, let’s zoom in. Here’s a graph using just the May data for the last five years. It shows just how strong buyer demand still is.What Does That Mean for You? Buyers are still out there touring homes. They’re more active than they were in May 2022 (when sticker shock over higher mortgage rates started to set in) and certainly more than they were in the last normal years. So, remember, buyer activity is still strong. And it could actually be even stronger if it wasn’t constrained by the limited supply of homes for sale. According to U.S. News:“Housing markets have cooled slightly, but demand hasn’t disappeared, and in many places remains strong largely due to the shortage of homes on the market.”Bottom LineDon’t lose sight of just how active the market still is today. If your house isn’t on the market, it’s not getting in front of all those buyers who are looking to make a purchase right now. Connect with a real estate agent to start the process.

View more

Discovering the Ideal 55+ Communities in South Florida and Fort Lauderdale

Discovering the Diversity of Florida Retirement Communities   Introduction: Embarking on a Thrilling Journey to Find the Perfect Retirement Haven Greetings, fellow adventurers! Today, we embark on an exciting quest to explore the finest 55+ communities in the South Florida region, especially around the charming city of Fort Lauderdale. Our journey will take us through picturesque locations like Deerfield Beach, Coconut Creek, Delray Beach, Pompano Beach, and Tamarac, where we'll uncover the true essence of retirement living. So, fasten your seatbelts, and let's dive into this adventure together! Chapter 1: Century Village - A Place with Endless Options As we step into Century Village, the first thing that catches our eye is the diverse architectural design of the buildings. With options ranging from two-story structures to charming bungalows, it offers a home for every taste. Ventner, a beautiful subdivision within Century Village, allures its open spaces and a strong sense of community. Besides its inviting atmosphere, this gated community ensures security and peace of mind for its residents. From golfing to swimming, the amenities cater to the active lifestyle desired by many retirees. Chapter 2: Los Verdes in Delray Beach - The Hidden Gem Moving northward to Delray Beach, we stumble upon Los Verdes, a hidden gem that instantly captivates us. This community boasts over 1200 units and offers a perfect blend of relaxation and vibrant living. Surrounded by serene landscapes, the resort-style amenities include tennis courts, bocce ball courts, and even a golf course open to the public. Social interaction blooms here, with numerous clubs and activities for residents to partake in. Los Verdes undoubtedly embodies the ideal South Florida retirement lifestyle. Chapter 3: Seagrass Village in Coconut Creek - An Island Escape In Coconut Creek, we discover the delightful Seagrass Village, reminiscent of a tropical island retreat. This over-55 community embraces island vibes with streets like Bimini Drive and Bahama Way. Its grand 50,000-square-foot clubhouse takes center stage, hosting a plethora of recreational opportunities. From card rooms to arts and crafts studios, there's something for every passion. Seagrass Village also offers an attractive golf course and transportation services, making it a haven for active and leisurely pursuits. Chapter 4: King's Point Tamarac - A Paradise of Diversity A short distance away lies the renowned King's Point in Tamarac, known for its vastness and diverse offerings. Boasting more than 4800 units, King's Point exudes luxury, comfort, and community living at its finest. The residents enjoy an array of amenities like fitness centers, swimming pools, and art studios. The highlight is the theater hosting delightful shows, adding a touch of entertainment to residents' lives. With a gated entrance and a shuttle service, King's Point ensures both security and convenience. Conclusion: Your Perfect Florida Retirement Awaits As our adventure comes to an end, we reflect on the wonders we've encountered in the 55+ communities of South Florida and Fort Lauderdale. Each community showcased unique attributes, catering to diverse lifestyles and preferences. Whether it's the vibrant atmosphere of Century Village, the tranquil oasis of Los Verdes, the island-inspired Seagrass Village, or the grandeur of King's Point, Florida offers the ideal retirement haven for everyone. So, dear adventurers, if you're seeking a life of leisure, adventure, and endless possibilities, look no further than Florida's captivating retirement communities. Embrace the warm climate, indulge in resort-style amenities, and experience the vibrant social life that awaits you. The journey to your dream retirement begins now. Happy exploring

View more