Monday, September 28, 2009

Real Estate Cycles

The appreciation of a market, the expectations of buyers and sellers, and the velocity of market sales are all dictated by the supply of – and the demand for – real estate for sale.

We saw rapid appreciation and fast responses by buyers in the U.S. real estate market from 2002  through 2005.  This response was caused by the fact that demand for real estate was at an all-time high while the supply was limited. Causing rapid appreciation, with home sellers receiving multiple offers within days or even hours. At one time during that period, homes in  southern California were selling, on average, at 18% above the listed  price – the result of a market condition where demand outstripped  supply. 

Positive situations cause positive outcomes, and vice versa. For example, a hot economic growth leads to a hot real estate market and strong appreciation of homes, while loss of jobs and a languishing economy produce exactly the opposite effect.

As the baby boom generation matured, it fueled  an explosion in second home purchases so strong that more than 21% of 2004 U.S. home sales were second home purchases – most  acquired by aging baby boomers. This created desire for additional housing that affected the construction and home values in second  home markets nationwide.

Periods of rapid real estate appreciation are followed by stagnant periods where values stabilize or even decrease. By acquiring marketplace knowledge, you can foresee trends. This stagnant period is about to end.  The up-cycle market is around the corner.  Rates are the lowest that they have ever been, and prices are at the lowest they have ever been.  Buyers!!! This is the time to buy!!!! 

 

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