When 2024 began, there were serious headwinds for those in real estate. The interest rate hovered around 7% when it had been at 3%. Nobody was going to sell if it meant the next house would mean a mortgage that doubled—also the inventory of homes to buy trended well below the norm. Buyers did not have as many homes to choose from and the purchase cost was higher. Sellers did not want to sell when the purchase of the next house meant a higher rate. What was the 2024 outcome for The Edie Israel Team? A record year! How is that possible?
Here is our 2024 evaluation. We expanded our marketing efforts. We were blessed with great clients who referred us to friends and family. The result of 20+ years of experience brought new clients who believed our expertise would benefit them in their home sales. Then there is the volume of Google Reviews from past clients giving us high marks. Check out The Edie Israel Team on Google! We say that we sell more because we do more. For example, our team consists of a professional organizer, a designer/stager, a professional photographer, and an excellent marketer to do quality print promotions. Our expertise in preparing a home for sale is second to none, thanks to a cadre of excellent vendors. When we are hired, the client hires three agents to be on their team. Our reviews speak for themselves! The bottom line: we received calls to come to the table and the honor of representing many sellers and buyers.
The Edie Israel Team was voted as the #1 Realtor Team in Yorba Linda by the Chamber of Commerce in 2024. The Team was also awarded the Business of the Year in Yorba Linda for creating a networking event for the people of Yorba Linda called “YL Influential” held twice yearly at different venues in the city that brings together vendors, Yorba Linda leaders, and Council Members, and invitees by the sponsors of the event. The cost is free and it comes with food, drink, raffle prizes, and a guest speaker. Attendance is approaching 200 people who say they have a great time and the list grows of people who want to attend! We are honored by both awards and thank Yorba Linda for their trust and embrace!
As we enter 2025, what changed? Not much, the interest rates are still high, and the inventory continues to be low. If you are in LA County, the problem is more severe. The tragic fires that burned down thousands of homes mean those people will be looking for housing. Some will be able to buy, and most will be looking for temporary housing or leases while they wait to rebuild. There are not enough homes or leases to accommodate the need. Much prayer needs to be offered to those who are facing this issue. It will take years to balance out housing as a result. Orange County will be impacted and some of those displaced will come our way and put pressure on the local real estate world. Real estate will be the topic of discussion at every party, with so many people concerned for themselves or family or friends. We will hear stories we never expected to hear. We will come alongside as much more than just real estate agents. Real estate is often a profession where empathy is needed as much as professional expertise. We are dedicated to the effort to see our clients through the process. We sell more because we do more, and we are driven to deliver!
"Embracing Change: Real Estate Trends, Challenges, and Community Resilience in 2025."