According to a new housing report by Redfin, median U.S. home sales prices increased 14% from 2019 to $319,978 in August 2020 — the highest on record. The 14% year-over-year increase was the largest since August 2013.

“The recent boost in the number of people listing their homes for sale still falls far short of demand from folks looking to buy homes right now,” said Redfin chief economist Daryl Fairweather. “Unfortunately, that means little relief for homebuyers, especially those seeking an affordable home. I don’t expect the double-digit home-price increases to subside before early 2021.”

Even though we’re in a historic seller’s market, it remains critical that sellers price their homes right, according to Washington, D.C. Redfin listing agent Mary Bazargan.

“Some sellers think that because inventory is low and houses are selling quickly, they can afford to overprice their home,” explained Bazargan. “When we price a new listing conservatively, we’re getting multiple offers and those homes are often selling above list price, but if we push the price aggressively high, the home tends to sit on the market for a while and won’t get multiple offers.” (Monsef Rachid, World Property Journal, Residential Real Estate news)

Readers, many times when I copy real estate information, it covers a wide spectrum of sales throughout the United States. This does not always pertain to the Lake Oconee area. Our area is seeing a growth in homes sales that has not been seen since before 2008. Homes are in demand as there are a shortage of homes. Supply and demand in homes has brought sellers seeing an unforeseen increase in their home value. If you are at all thinking of selling, we cannot emphasize enough, this is the time to sell.

But, back to the title of my article. A little kindness will pay. Because of the high-tech way of doing business today, people are out there looking at properties on Zillow, Realtor and many other web sites. It is hard for Realtors to find their probable clients the property that would fit their needs. Emails and texts should only be used for quick responses. A Realtor needs to speak to a person to connect with them and I guarantee you they will work for you relentlessly to find the home or property you are looking for. They do all the footwork for you. Setting up the appointment, getting all the pertinent information, and advising you on putting in the offer. Connect with one agent and they can work to supply you the information on any listing in any MLS. To find your dream home it is crucial you connect with an agent. Be kind and let them know you are just looking or could use their professional help.  

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Be happy. Enjoy every moment of your life. Life is too short to waste on grudges. Laugh when you can, apologize when you should, let go what you can’t change.