Jun. 24, 2009 - Charlotte NC Homes for Sale

Charlotte NC Homes for Sale still maintains an edge over much of the country due to the popularity of Charlotte North Carolina.  So how does this benefit the industry and what does this mean to the rest of the nation?

The old saying was watch California because the nation was ultimately following California trends.  Over the past decade (actually Charlotte has been steadily growing for a few decades now), Charlotte NC Real Estate continued to expand at a steady rate.  We did experience a spike after the Florida Hurricanes but our spike was insignificant in comparison to the vast majority of the hot markets (southern California, Seattle, Vegas, Phoenix, Florida, D.C. and New York for example).  What are the drivers of Charlotte Real Estate and why should Charlotte be considered as reflective of the national trend?

One of the leading demographic groups that still have money are the seniors.  Yes, many also lost a small fortune but the boomers are the ones with the money.  Yes, they earned it through a life time of sacrifice and deserve what they earned.  What are they doing with it?  Where is is being spent?  Where are they going?

Prior to the hurricanes in 2005 Florida was the recipient of this most coveted group of citizens.  Times have changed and now Charlotte has become the destination of choice for many seniors.  Note the growth of Sun City Carolina Lakes in Indian Land SC just south of Ballantyne and south Charlotte NC.  They are discovering that Charlotte is closer to the northeast, our climate is more desirable and they enjoy the pleasant and friendly attitude that is customary in the south.

Another factor is banking.  Yes, banking has been through dramatic changes over the past couple of years based on the sub-prime fiasco.  Regardless money is the economy and "follow the money" still holds true.  A financial capital in the south?  Affordable housing in a moderate climate?  An international airport with a major airline hub (US Airways)?

If you were starting a business, where would it be easier to attract employees?  Where do you think you would need to pay more to entice new employees?  As you consider these factors you quickly realize Charlotte will continue in great demand.  Now back to our real estate market.

Charlotte Real Estate expansion is driven by people relocating from all over the nation.  As homes sell all over the nation it frees up citizens and many will relocate to Charlotte.  Charlotte growth is dependent upon the nation.  As Charlotte Real Estate picks up, you know the overall national economy is picking up.  Charlotte is a national picture.

Follow Charlotte and you will see the nation.  Yes, our activity has picked up but the specific demand has changed.  Yes, everyone wants a steal because that is what the media tells them is available.  The Charlotte economy is not comparable to Miami or Phoenix.  Yes, those are examples of markets that have taken dramatic hits but the prices in these areas also experienced unsustainable appreciation for many years.  They are experiencing a correction. 

Charlotte is not a "fad'.  Charlotte Real Estate will continue to grow.  Is Charlotte "perfect"?  No.  Do we have our growing pains? Yes.  But one thing we have is a very diverse market and very diverse suburbs.  There is something for everyone and that is a true reflection of America.  Visit Charlotte Real Estate - Charlotte NC Homes for Sale to learn more about the greater Charlotte rela estate market.

Jun. 2, 2007 - Charlotte Home Appreciation

Everyone wants to find a great home at a great price.  The problem is what is a great deal?  How about if a home is for sale "under" tax value.  What does that really mean?  First you must understand "tax value".  Charlotte typically assesses home value every 4 years.  Values can change dramatically on 4 years.  If a home is being sold for less than tax value, then either you are getting a great deal or the home has actually depreciated since the previous evaluation.  The Charlotte Real Estate market is strong and if a home is depreciating is a strong market, I do not recommend that home.

Appreciation rates vary based on the aggregate demand.  If you are looking for  high rate of return and a great home, give me a call.  I work with Re/Max in Charlotte and I Can help.  Visit www.FindMyCarolinaHome.com for additional information about the greater Charlotte area.

Jun. 13, 2006 - New Construction Homes

Buying a new home?  New Construction is exciting!  The builders are experts in marketing, staging their models and training their sales people.  Why should I waste my time or insult my intelligence with a Buyer's Agent?  I know what I want and I know what is best for me and my family!

This is the sentiment of many new home buyers.  Let's discuss what is best for the builder and what is best for the buyer. 

Saving money:  The builder already has the commission fixed in his price.  Actually the price of the home is fixed by market value.  If a builder can get $10,000 more for his home, he will.  The builder can not just give you $10,000 and not the next person.  This will ultimately depreciate the remainder of his homes.  He would be destoying his own business.  The builder sells for market value.

But Rick: builders offer free discounts all the time!  True, but there is a reason.  Early in a development the builder frequently offers discounts.  The builder offers these incentives to get their development recognized.  All in the marketing plan.  The downside to being early is you will have a very difficult time selling your home any time soon.  First you will be competing with the builder and secondly, you are living in a construction zone.  There are other reasons for incentives and we can discuss those on future blogs.

Builder Marketing:  The employees of the builder will provide you all of the positive data required for you to purchase their product.  You will be impressed from their trained sales staff.  Is that what is best for you and your family?

Buyer's Agency:  A good Buyer's Agent will provide you invaluable information about the state of the development including resale values.  A Buyer's Agent has a feduciary responsibility to protect your investment; not the investment of the builder.  I know what is overpriced, what costs are normal and what is inflated.  My job is to do what is in your best interest.  I value the happiness of you and you family and that is what should come first.

I appreciate the work of the builders and they have their job down to a science.  It is an admirable business model.  But what is best for the builder may not be what is best for you and yours.

Looking for a new home:  Hire a Buyer's Agent.  The Buyer's Agent is of no cost to you and will help protect one of the largest investments you will ever make.