When starting your search, it is helpful to know what type of market you are getting into and how to prepare appropriately. As your agent, there are three key metrics we review to gauge the current market environment:
When reviewing supply, we take a look at how many homes sold within the past 12 months and how many homes are currently active on the market. The current months of inventory is calculated by dividing the active listings by the average monthly sales.
In general, six months of inventory is considered a balanced market. If the current months of inventory are less than six months, it is considered a seller’s market. If there are more than six months of inventory, it is considered a buyer’s market.
It’s important for you to understand the current level of supply in your market so you know what to expect in your search. If there is a shortage, you must act on new listings quickly and make a more competitive offer in order to secure a sale. If there is a surplus, you may have more time to think about a listing before you put in an offer.
Another important figure to review is the sale-to-list price ratio, which is equal to the closed price (what the buyer paid) divided by the last list price.
Knowing the sale-to-list ratio of comps helps guide our buyers in crafting an appropriate offer and negotiating a deal. If the current market is seeing over 99%, then you know your offer must be competitive. If it is less than 95% then you may have more negotiating power.
When reviewing the days on market, we look at the number of days a property is listed before going under contract.
This figure gives buyers an understanding of the current market pace and sets the tone for how quickly they must move when a home is first listed. If homes are going under contract in less than a month, then you should be prepared to view and make an offer promptly. If homes are staying on the market for over 60 days, then you may have more time in your search.
These three figures are an important way for us as your agents to prepare you in your search for a home. Gaining a greater understanding of the current market landscape empowers you to be competitive and negotiate a successful deal.
If you have questions about how to navigate the real estate market, reach out to us today!
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WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE BUYING A HOME NEAR NYC
We're not your typical real estate agents. As former city dwellers, we appreciate the qualities that make city lifestyle so unique, from the convenience of walking to your favorite restaurant or corner store to the vast and diverse cultural and entertainment activities. But we’ve also experienced the challenges and frustrations that are motivating you to seek change. During our transition from the city to the suburbs, we had the same thoughts, concerns and questions, prompting us to create a better way to navigate the suburban home buying journey for others.
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The Ursini Team at eXp Realty
ursini@stepstosuburbia.com
Christa Ursini
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Brittany Ursini
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eXp Realty in Connecticut
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Stamford, CT 06902
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