With mortgage rates climbing above 3% for the first time in months, serious buyers are more motivated than ever to find a home before the end of the year. This is as true in the Grays Harbor market as it is elsewhere in the country. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist for the National Association of Realtors (NAR), puts it best, saying:
"Housing demand remains strong as buyers likely want to secure a home before mortgage rates increase even further next year."
But the sense of urgency they feel is complicated by the lack of homes for sale in today’s market. According to the latest Existing Home Sales Report from NAR:
“From one year ago, the inventory of unsold homes decreased 13%. . . .”
What Does This Mean for Sellers in Grays Harbor?
With buyers eager to purchase but so few homes available, sellers who list their houses this fall have a tremendous advantage – also known as leverage – when negotiating with buyers. That’s because, in today’s market, buyers want three things:
- To be the winning bid on their dream home.
- To buy before rates rise
- To buy before prices go even higher.
Oly Pen Real Estate Broker Melissa Champ adds clarity:
“Between the lack of inventory in today’s housing market as well as the inevitable rise of mortgage rates, we will continue to see home prices go even higher. The obvious outcome for sellers in Grays Harbor is they are well-poised to benefit from the leverage they gain in this market. The thing we need to understand is this leverage does not only allow us to negotiate a good price for their home but also more the terms that best fulfill our needs.”
Not Just About the Price
Since buyer demand is still high, there’s a good chance you’ll get offers from multiple buyers who are willing to compete for your house. When you do, look closely at the terms of each offer to find out which one has the best perks for you.
If you have questions about what’s best for your situation, your trusted real estate advisor can help. They have the expertise and are skilled negotiators in all stages of the sales process.
Bottom Line
Today’s buyers are motivated to purchase a home this year, and that’s great news if you’re thinking of selling. If you're thinking about selling your home and want to discuss the possibilities give us a call or stop by our office today . Let’s discuss how much leverage you have as a seller in today’s market.
Oly Pen Real Estate has a team of trusted real estate professionals to help you navigate changes in our industry. We have a watchful eye on Grays Harbor market so give your Oly Pen Real Estate Team a call today at 360.249.8187 or stop by our office 141 S. Main Street in friendly Montesano, WA and discuss your expectations today!