With twenty-five years of experience in the real estate industry, Susan Salisbury, Vice President with Blanchard and Calhoun Real Estate Company, has a front row seat to trends in real estate. “The real estate market has changed significantly in recent years,” says Susan. “We are in a more balanced market, inventory is rebuilding gradually, and interest rates are down from this time last year. This spring period is also traditionally our strongest market, so this is a good time for someone to be thinking about their real estate needs this year.”
Based on her observations of the market and her experience as a top-selling agent, here are a few tips Susan has for approaching the real estate market this year.
For Buyers:
“Affordability, which is based on the price of the home, the wages of the buyer, and interest rates, is still an issue for buyers. However, there is now more inventory to choose from, and houses do have more days on the market than they did a few years ago. This allows buyers to compare and negotiate, and it reduces the urgency that was in the market a little while ago.”
For Sellers:
“Sellers need to be careful with their pricing and thoughtful with their staging in order to get top dollar and have their house sold as quickly as possible. For maximum curb appeal on the exterior, have nice, neat landscaping and a clean, pressure-washed exterior. For the interior, have neutral paint colors and flooring, update lighting and hardware, and deep clean the house. It is important to declutter each room and closet and remove excess furniture.”
The Importance of Quality Photography:
“Homes that show well also photograph well using professional photography. The first showing of the house is on websites and is based on photography. Buyers look first at the photographs of the home to decide whether they will look at the home. Good photography is a big part of the first impression.”
For Investors:
“There are opportunities in the market for rentals and multifamily housing, so investors should be looking for those opportunities.”
As an advocate for clients, Susan Salisbury prides herself on providing first-class concierge service to all her clients with the goal of having a smooth transaction that closes on time. For more information on market trends or how to successfully navigate the real estate market, contact Susan by email at SSalisbury@blanchardandcalhoun.com or call 317-847-7216 or 706-868-1000.