Frank Howard Allen Market Update Reports
Delivered to your in-box weekly
Wondering what’s really happening in the market? Then I invite you to sign up for our free Market Update reports. These reports, sent to you via email, contain extensive information regarding properties in your area that are currently for sale or have recently sold. The data is easy to read and is based on current, detailed information from the regional Multiple Listing Service.
For Buyers:
Searching for a new home can be an overwhelming task. With our Market Update reports you’ll receive a comprehensive overview of what’s available in your desired areas and will be able to compare properties and prices in one place. For up-to-the-minute alerts about new homes that come on the market that fit your criteria, you can sign up for our free Home Alerts. Just go to fhallen.com or ask me how.
For Sellers:
Your home is most likely one of your greatest financial assets. Our Frank Howard Allen Market Update reports will help you evaluate and track home values in your neighborhood. If you’re considering selling, the report will providevital information regarding pricing and market activity. If you are interested in a more detailed report which would take into account the particulars of your specific property, please contact me directly and I will provide a comprehensive Comparative Market Analysis (CMA).
For questions about Marin Real Estate or to receive our free Market Update reports, please contact me.
Mill Valley
So far in 2010, Mill Valley’s real estate market is showing signs of hope! For the first six months of 2010 versus 2009, the average price has held steady at $1.3 million (for single family homes), while the median price rose slightly, from $1.05 million to $1.125 million, but is still well below the $1.25 million median price at the height of the market in 2007. The number of homes sold during the first six months of 2010 has risen 34%, from 92 to 123. The condominium market in Mill Valley is a different story. For the first six months of 2010 versus 2009, the average sale price of condos in Mill Valley declined 13%, from $719,917 to $628,029, and the median price dropped 15%, from $689,500 to $584,700. The number of condominium sales represents a very small percentage compared to single family homes. The primary reason for the slide is that there have been a number of distressed sales of condos in Mill Valley during the first half of 2010. Overall, the Mill Valley market is showing the strength it has always shown in a changing market, because of home desirability and maintenance of property values.
Tiburon
The mid-summer vacation slow down is in full swing. Like elsewhere, activity in the southern Marin markets of Belvedere and Tiburon was sluggish during the month of July. There are 44 homes currently listed in Belvedere and only 1 is in contract. That said, there is good news: year-to-date sales in Belvedere total 18 homes sold, compared to only 11 for the same time period in 2009. Tiburon has seen more activity with 111 homes currently listed and 19 in contact. Year-to-date numbers in Tiburon are also positive with a total of 66 homes sold so far, compared to 40 for the same time frame last year.
Stocks are up 50 percent from the March 2009 bottom. Some commodities have risen dramatically. The only asset class left in the cellar is real estate, says Michael Murphy, editor of the New World Investor stock newsletter.
As a result, Murphy is advising investors to buy now for these three reasons:
• Desperate sellers: Both home owners and lenders are eager to unload a flood of foreclosed and underwater properties. Buyers with the patience to push through these complex deals can save a bundle.
• Little competition. Because most people don’t have what it takes to negotiate their way through short sales and REOs, patient investors are winners.
• Low rates. Mortgage rates are at their lowest level in 40 years. If you believe inflation is inevitable, lock in now.
Source: MarketWatch, Michael Murphy (08/19/2010)
When asked why I joined Frank Howard Allen, the answer is easy. Frank Howard Allen is a 100 year-old family-owned company based in Marin; it is the only real estate company with its roots in Marin with that much longevity. As we celebrate our 100th year anniversary this year, we’re celebrating our history and many great accomplishments as featured in the article in the Marin IJ. Frank Howard Allen’s success is due largely to its focus on customer service resulting in continual growth through referrals from satisfied customers. That is the type of business I am striving to build: one built on excellent client service and referrals. I am proud to be with a company that continually has the real estate market share in Marin. When listing a home, it helps to have over 600 company-wide agents with whom to network. If you have any friends or family who need real estate assistance in Marin, please send them my way. I would greatly appreciate your referral!
Buying or selling a home is typically based on an emotional and financial decision. Sometimes a little of both. That being said, it’s important to know the details behind making this decision a reality. My job as a realtor is to help you get where you want to go. For sellers, my skills as a negotiator will help you obtain the highest possible price in your price range. When I represent the buyer, my skills as a negotiator are to help you buy a home at the lowest possible price. It’s your money and your home. You make all the decisions. I am here to counsel, negotiate and educate you on the market in order for you to make the best possible decision on one of the most important financial assets of your life - your home!
If you are a buyer, I recommend that you read the following outline of the Three Stages of Buying Home.
If you are a seller, this outline on the Five Stages of Selling a Home may be helpful.
Being knowledgeable about the real estate process will alleviate stress and help you feel more comfortable with the nuances of the market. It can be a long and trying process so the better prepared you are, the better the outcome.
