Like many people, you may think that “timing the market” is the right way to get the best home for the dollar: who wouldn’t want to wait to purchase until prices were at their lowest- especially for a purchase as large as a house? Are we at the bottom? Would you know it if we were? When to jump in, and who will help?

Follow up:

In any market, the best insight I can offer my clients who are thinking of moving is that pricing is important, but it is not the sole determinant that drives every decision to purchase. Many clients are facing “event” driven circumstances: a lease not being renewed, a job transfer, the arrival of a new family member, or even downsizing because children are leaving the nest. For these clients, acquiring a property may not just be about getting in at the most opportune time, but instead because shelter is a must.

For those who are not moving simply because they “have to,” or for those that are contemplating jumping into the market now because it seems to be a little less fevered than usual, I am counseling that now is the time. I advise clients to take some time to check out neighborhoods (and at different times in the day!), shop around carefully for schools or amenities desired, and consider commute times . That being said, I then let them know that what’s always true is that the game moves a little faster in the Bay Area as compared to other major markets around the country: inventory, demand, the cost of living, the job market and other factors are key influencers in buying the home of your dreams, but equally important is knowing what you want, knowing what to expect when making an offer, and being prepared to act quickly and decisively. For the average person, buying or selling real estate is one of the most intense and stress-inducing moments in life. Having the right professional at your side, one who knows your needs well, is definitely the best first choice to be made- it can make or ruin your experience.

There are also exciting factors in today’s market that should help the most savvy clients get off the fence now. Of course, there is the tax savings for interest expense on a mortgage payment that is immediate money in the pocket. On top of that, interest rates are at generational lows, which can save hundreds of dollars on any monthly payment and thousands over the years of a mortgage as compared to rates offered just 10 months ago. These savings could be converted into a larger house, or one with more amenities, or pocketed to save for other important goals.

As well, the government continues to put incentives in place to spur the sale of existing and new inventory: the Federal and State Tax Incentives can total up to $18,000 for qualified purchases and properties. Because many home buyers are sitting by the sidelines waiting for the “buy now!” message from a consultant who can’t possibly see into the future, competition may not be as fierce at the moment, and we can see that rent prices will remain strong. If you can do!

As an experienced real estate professional serving the Bay Area , I am convinced that now is the right time to buy for many people. I would be honored to help your readers with their real estate needs: I pride myself in listening carefully to my client’s true needs and aspirations, and go to work on their behalf to find the right property at the right terms. I am also very lucky to work with a team of people who can be very helpful to my clients (lenders, financial advisers, lawyers , etc) My clients have told me that they were amazed at my ability to negotiate in their best interests. As I have worked extensively with clients moving into and out of the area from France and Europe at large, I know they need a helping hand to understand the ins and outs of the process in the United States. I know when I’ve done my job well, not only on moving day, but when I’m trusted enough to work with the referrals my clients send! Please, call with your questions, we can set up a consultation to see if this is the right time for you!

By Catherine Hendricks, Frenchrealtor