Simply Outstanding

When it comes to real estate, Cindy’s creative energy, her ability to focus on the details and her dedication to exceeding your expectations lead to positive results you can count on. But more importantly, she knows that when it comes to your real estate dreams, providing Outstanding Results is what sets her apart. Give her a call today. You’ll be glad you did.

In her website you will find a wide variety of useful information and resources designed to answer any questions you may have about buying or selling a home. From information on the local cities and neighborhoods, to advice on how to pre-qualify for a loan, it's all available here on her website.

So whether you're buying or selling, don't hesitate to contact Cindy. She'll be happy to assist you with all your Real Estate needs.

 

Doubling Down on Housing

The housing crash has left at least 11 million people in the unenviable position of owing more on their homes than they are worth—and many more millions with properties worth far less than they paid for them.

But some might not be as trapped as they think.

Record-low mortgage rates and a new slump in home prices are presenting unusual opportunities in the housing market these days—even for so-called underwater borrowers. read more...

2nd Quarter Market Update!! - Very good information. read more...

Washington State is Nation's Top Home Value Rebounder, Experts Say.

SEATTLE - Frustrated Western Washington homeowners trying to sell might be getting some offers soon.

A report out Friday from economic forecasters Fiserv and Moody's lists Washington state as the the number-one state in an upcoming rebound in home values.

read more...

The New "Normal" In A Post-Boom Era - Lennox Scott

   

As we look back at the real estate boom, it’s clear that many of us got used to the idea of quick home price appreciation. Real estate speculation became a game not just for investors, but for anyone with some equity and the desire to move. As we become accustomed to the post-boom market, our expectations for home price appreciation need to evolve as well.

 

From 1980 through 2010 (including six months forecasted for this year), home values appreciated on average 25% every five years.

This average appreciation rate incorporates the post recession boom of the late 80s, the housing downturn of the early 90s, and the more recent boom and financial crisis of the past decade.The years since 2000 have been anything but normal. As a nation, we experienced extremely high real estate appreciation rates between 2002 and 2007, which were followed by historic price declines ove

r the past three years. Though these appreciation and depreciation rates vary depending on area and price range, what seems to be true for all price points and regions is that homes are once again places of shelter—not get-rich-quick investments.

From this point forward, most homeowners will want to stay in their homes for three to five years to build up enough equity to make selling and moving a sound financial decision. This is because most major real estate economists anticipate that we will not see moderate appreciation in home value appreciation until 2011 and very gradual year-over-year improvement into the next decade.

The multi-year recoup period is historically normal: annual appreciation rates averaged 4.6 percent (compounded) per year since 1980, despite the many ups and downs over the past 30 years.

Since they will most likely want to stay in their next home for at least three to five years, today’s buyers need to consider their near-and long-term plans as they shop. Growing families, retirement, children going off to college, or any other factor that could affect their budget or the amount of space they’ll need over the next several years should be taken into account.

Many homeowners and would-be buyers are wondering if it is a good time to sell or buy. We have seen valuations stabilizing in many areas and price points, and since current historically low interest rates equal greater purchasing power, sellers and buyers need to consider their individual situations carefully.

As normal appreciation rates return and become more familiar, we must realize that while real estate is still a good long-term investment, a home is about far more than money—there are many personal riches that come with owning a home, including those that fuel a healthier family and community.