by Kathy Gibson | Jan 3, 2025 | Buying, Market, Neighborhood, Selling
Image via Pixabay Creating a home that adapts to your evolving needs as a senior is an investment in both comfort and independence. As we age, our living spaces should reflect our changing requirements, emphasizing accessibility, sustainability, and ergonomic design. By integrating thoughtful features such as adaptable storage solutions and ergonomic furniture, we can enhance our living environments. These elements improve daily life and ensure that our homes remain functional and welcoming as our needs change. Setting Up a Stress-Free Home Office Designing a stress-free home office is crucial for maintaining productivity and well-being. Prioritizing ergonomic furniture ensures long-term comfort and reduces the risk of physical strain during extended work hours. Implementing effective organizing systems for both paper and electronic documents helps manage clutter and streamline your workflow, allowing you to focus on tasks without unnecessary distractions. Additionally, selecting flexible lighting options that can adapt to your changing needs over time is crucial for maintaining a comfortable and efficient workspace. These thoughtful choices enhance your immediate work experience and contribute to a sustainable and adaptable home office setup. Assessing Local Recreation When selecting a home for aging in place, consider the availability of nearby parks and recreational facilities. These spaces provide opportunities for physical activity and foster social interactions vital for mental well-being. Parks and recreation areas offer a cost-effective way to engage in age-appropriate activities, helping to combat loneliness and promote a sense of community. Prioritizing homes near such facilities can lead to a healthier and more connected lifestyle as you age. Planning for Accessible Gardening Planning for accessible gardening options, like raised garden beds, can significantly enhance...
by Kathy Gibson | Nov 18, 2024 | Buying, Home and Garden, Market, Neighborhood, Open House, Selling
Pasadena Real Estate Market Update: November 18, 2024The Pasadena housing market continues to favor sellers this week, with the median list price for a single family home holding steady at $1,823,500. The Market Action Index (MAI), which measures the balance between supply and demand, has slightly increased to 46, up from last month’s MAI of 45. This subtle shift reflects a strong seller’s market. Inventory UpdateThe number of homes available for sale has decreased to just 98, reinforcing the tight inventory conditions that have defined Pasadena’s real estate market recently. With demand outpacing supply, sellers remain in a strong position, but the market appears to have reached a relative equilibrium between sales and inventory. What Does This Mean for Buyers and Sellers?– For Sellers: Low inventory and sustained demand mean this is a great time to list your property. With the MAI firmly in seller’s market territory, competitive offers and favorable terms are more likely. – For Buyers: While competition remains high, market stasis could provide an opportunity to negotiate, especially if you’re ready to act quickly. Staying aware of new listings is key as inventory levels remain tight. What to WatchIf the market heats up further, with either a reduction in inventory or an increase in buyer activity, we may see prices begin to climb again. Keeping an eye on the Market Action Index will provide valuable insights into whether conditions are shifting more in favor of buyers or sellers. ConclusionPasadena’s real estate market remains robust, driven by limited inventory and steady demand. Whether you’re considering buying or selling, understanding the dynamics of the local market is essential...
by Kathy Gibson | Nov 4, 2024 | Buying, Market, Neighborhood, Selling
Pasadena, CA Mon Nov 04 2024 This week the median list price for a single family home in Pasadena, CA is $1,804,500 with the market action index hovering around 46. This is an increase over last month’s market action index of 45. Inventory has held steady at or around 98. Market Narrative In the last few weeks the market has achieved a relative stasis point in terms of sales to inventory. However, inventory is sufficiently low to keep us in the Seller’s Market zone so watch changes in the MAI. If the market heats up, prices are likely to resume an upward...
by Kathy Gibson | Oct 22, 2024 | Uncategorized
When it comes to selling your home, first impressions matter. Potential buyers want to envision themselves living in your space, and that means your home needs to be in its best possible condition. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to get your home ready to sell. From decluttering to staging, these tips will help you attract buyers and secure a successful sale without the need for any numerical references. Streamline Your Space Start by decluttering and depersonalizing your home. Remove personal photos and memorabilia, as these can distract potential buyers. Creating a clean, neutral ambiance will help buyers visualize their future in your property. When buyers walk into a space that feels personalized, they may have a hard time seeing themselves living there. Keep the decor simple and tasteful, allowing your home’s features to shine. Handle Any Cost-Effective Repairs Before listing your home, explore budget-friendly repairs that can enhance its appeal. Updating bathroom fixtures, giving the kitchen a minor facelift, or applying a fresh coat of paint are all affordable changes that can make a big difference. Be sure to also have any iffy appliances repaired if you plan to leave them. To find quality appliance repair service, connect with local pros online through a dedicated app that connects you with vetted experts who can schedule you quickly. Boost Curb Appeal Making a strong first impression is crucial when selling your home. The exterior of your property is the first thing buyers see, so it needs to be inviting. Simple steps like landscaping, painting the front door, and general maintenance can go a...
by Kathy Gibson | Sep 12, 2024 | Buying, Home and Garden, Market, Neighborhood
Buying a home is a monumental decision, often marked by excitement and uncertainty. Home buyers’ biggest dilemma is choosing between a starter home — a first step on the property ladder — and a forever home, where many years (if not a lifetime) will be spent. Understanding various considerations is critical to making this significant choice a little easier. Realtor Kathy Gibson shares more: Understanding Your Financial Landscape The first and perhaps most critical factor in your decision-making process is assessing your current financial situation and budget. Buying a home, whether a starter or a forever home, is a substantial financial commitment. Understanding what is fiscally feasible for you at this point in your life is vital. Consider your savings, income, debts, and other financial obligations. Remember that the cost of a home isn’t just the listing price; it includes property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and potentially homeowner association fees. Deciphering Loan Terms Another essential aspect is understanding the loan terms available for starter and forever homes. The type of loan, interest rate, duration, and down payment requirements can significantly impact your monthly expenses and long-term financial planning. Different loan products are tailored for various types of buyers and homes, so it’s essential to find the one that best suits your situation. Energy Efficiency — A Cost-Effective Future Evaluating a home’s energy efficiency is increasingly important. More up-to-date, energy-efficient homes — often found among forever homes — can lead to significant cost savings in the long run. These homes might feature better insulation, energy-efficient windows, solar panels, or newer HVAC systems to reduce your carbon footprint and lower utility bills....