Pam Knieper, Broker/Owner of Knieper Real Estate, is and has been the #1 Top Producer for more than 15 years in Hood County and running. She is known as the Waterfront Expert and the Authority on Real Estate.
You would think by now I would have run out of things to talk about as they pertain to Real Estate, but the truth is I learn something new almost every day. The industry itself can change on a dime, which it has done recently, but more importantly it’s the people. Young and old, single, married, filthy rich, or just scraping up enough for a down payment, all have different wants and needs and all deserve the very best representation. Which means we, as REALTORS® need to be stay current not just about today’s interest rates, deed restrictions or negotiating tactics but also about changing trends. It is critical we, as REALTORS® understand what is driving the market, because staying current ‘helps us help you’ make better real estate decisions.
Did you know that the demand for second homes has grown almost 99% since 2015? There continues to be a strong and consistent need for more lakefront and resort properties. A large percentage of this increase can be attributed to the surge in vacation rentals. Many people that could not ordinarily afford a second home can now actually pay for that second home by renting it out during peak vacation seasons. Making owning a lake house a realistic goal for a lot of people.
How about this interesting fact: It has been reported that an estimated 50% of Millennial Investors choose to invest in real estate. So, while Baby Boomers are still the generation with the most reported wealth in real estate, Millennials are working hard to catch up. Saving an estimated 10% of their income for investments and consistently choosing real estate over the stock market, working with an agent who targets Millennials in its advertising should be high on home sellers’ lists of priorities.
Do you enjoy entertaining outdoors? If so, you are not alone. More than two-thirds of millennials and Gen Xers want large yards and outdoor spaces. Most millennials realize that their first house may not be their forever home. However, outdoor space is at the top of their priority list. Outdoor kitchens, pools, and large covered porches are more popular than ever, so when considering home projects don’t forget to look at your backyard.
High-Tech is making a strong impact on home sales: An estimated 73% of home buyers saythey would pay more for a home with smart devices. Multi-functional smart hubs are the most popular devices with video doorbells and smart lighting following closely behind. Being able to adjust your thermostat from the office, lock and unlock your door with your phone, or turn lights on and off automatically while on vacation are just a few of the smart features tech savvy buyers are looking for.
Fun Fact: Did you know that open houses used to last 12 hours? I think I can speak for everyone when I say Thank Goodness that trend has gone the way of the dinosaur…LOL!
As always thank you for taking to time to read our article. If you have questions or comments, please do not hesitate to contact us. Give us a call at 817-219-0456 of visit us online at www.WeSellGranbury.com.
