by Kathy Gibson | Feb 5, 2024 | Buying, Home and Garden, Market, Neighborhood, Selling
The economic data from last week illustrates the consistent outperformance of the U.S. economy, defying earlier gloomy forecasts of slower growth in 2023. Despite the upward pressure on mortgage rates due to the stronger economy, the average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage remains below 7%, maintaining its position since early December. This has contributed to a revitalization of the housing market, with pending sales increasing for the first time since rates hit bottom in early 2021. However, the resurgence in housing demand has not been met with an equivalent increase in supply, leading to heightened competition in the California market once again. Sellers are less inclined to reduce prices, resulting in a continued upward trend in the median price that began last summer. Pasadena, CA Mon Feb 05 2024 This week the median list price for a single family home in Pasadena, CA is $1,749,000 with the market action index hovering around 51. This is less than last month’s market action index of 53. Inventory has increased to 73. Home prices have recently flattened. Despite the consistent decrease in Market Action Index (MAI), we’re in a Seller’s Market (where significant demand leaves little inventory available). If the MAI begins to climb, prices will likely follow suit. If the MAI drops consistently or falls into the Buyer’s zone, watch for downward pressure on...
by Kathy Gibson | Jan 29, 2024 | Buying, Home and Garden, Market, Neighborhood, Selling
In 2023, the housing market faced challenges due to low supply and high borrowing costs. However, with easing inflation and a soft economic outlook, interest rate cuts are expected in 2024, which could lead to a housing market recovery. As rates declined to a 7-month low, Americans are feeling more positive, and an increase in market activity is anticipated. Home prices are expected to continue rising due to tight supply, with a mid-single-digit year-over-year growth rate in the statewide median price projected for early 2024. Pasadena, CA Mon Jan 29 2024 This week the median list price for a single family home in Pasadena, CA is $1,699,000 with the market action index hovering around 51. This is less than last month’s market action index of 53. Inventory has increased to 75. Despite the consistent decrease in Market Action Index (MAI), we’re in a Seller’s Market (where significant demand leaves little inventory available). If the MAI begins to climb, prices will likely follow...
by Kathy Gibson | Oct 2, 2023 | Uncategorized
Pasadena, CA Mon Oct 02 2023 This week the median list price for a single family home in Pasadena, CA is $1,600,000 with the market action index hovering around 53. This is less than last month’s market action index (MAI) of 55. Inventory has increased to 91. The market has started cooling and prices have been flat for several weeks. Since we’re in the Seller’s zone, watch for changes in MAI. If the MAI resumes its climb, prices will likely follow suit. If the MAI drops consistently or falls into the Buyer’s zone, watch for downward pressure on prices....
by Kathy Gibson | Aug 21, 2023 | Buying, Market, Neighborhood, Selling
Pasadena, CA Mon Aug 21 2023 This week the median list price for a single family home in Pasadena, CA is $1,499,950 with the market action index hovering around 56. This is an increase over last month’s market action index of 53. Inventory has increased to 84. Home sales continue to outstrip supply and the Market Action Index has been moving higher for several weeks. This is a Seller’s market so watch for upward pricing pressure in the near future if the trend continues. Altadena, CA 91001 Mon Aug 21 2023 This week the median list price for a single family home in Altadena, CA 91001 is $1,399,000 with the market action index hovering around 58. This is less than last month’s market action index of 59. Inventory has decreased to 29. The market has not shown strong directional trends in terms of supply and demand. However, inventory is sufficiently low to keep us in the Seller’s Market zone and prices have been moving upward as evidence....
by Kathy Gibson | May 30, 2023 | Buying, Market, Open House, Selling
Op-Ed written by Ron Wynn, Compass So Cal agent In the fast-paced and ever-changing world we live in, it’s easy to become complacent and comfortable with what we have. This is particularly true when it comes to our financial decisions, especially when it involves something as significant as an interest rate. Many individuals find themselves holding onto low-interest rates for dear life, afraid to let go and explore new opportunities. But what if this mindset is holding us back from truly living a full and exciting life? In this article, we will delve into the concept of being a prisoner to your interest rate and challenge you to reevaluate your priorities. The Rent-Controlled Apartment Dilemma: Let’s start by examining the example of individuals who have lived in rent-controlled apartments in New York for several decades. While it may seem like an advantageous situation on the surface, there’s a deeper question to consider: Have they missed out on other experiences and opportunities by holding onto their rent-controlled status? While their friends and peers moved around, exploring different neighborhoods, raising families, and building equity through real estate investments, those clinging to their rent-controlled apartments may have limited themselves in terms of personal growth and financial gains. The 3% Interest Rate Trap: Similarly, many individuals today find themselves trapped by low-interest rates on their mortgages or other loans. While a 3% interest rate is indeed attractive and worth preserving, it’s essential to recognize the potential trade-offs. By fixating solely on keeping that low rate, individuals may miss out on life-changing opportunities, such as pursuing new career paths, starting their own businesses, or...