Despite tough economic times, more Americans continue to invest in purchasing homes. Recent annual reports are giving Realtors an inside peek at what home buyers are looking for, and where they’ve hit snags. This information can help Realtors assess their clients better, make targeted suggestions, and ultimately sell more homes.
Perhaps the most interesting change is that less single buyers are opting to purchase homes. Where they once occupied a large sector of the market- one-third of buyers- they now only account for a quarter. First time home buyers are also slightly less frequently seen, showing a 2% decrease in terms of overall home sales. Could this be because of how lifestyles have changed during more challenging economic times?
Survey says....yes! When conducting these surveys, many individuals are asked what they’re looking for in terms of housing, as well as their long-term plans. As previously revealed, less single individuals are buying homes. Therefore, it only makes sense to look at what couples are looking for in their new housing and where they disagree. The results of the survey, which aimed to do just that, were interesting, and Realtors, home sellers, and those working with real estate would do themselves well to sum up the expectations.
In general, men and women had different long term goals and varying location preferences, but similar interests when it came to the bigger aspects. In terms of how long a couple expected to stay in a house, women generally were planning for the long run. According to the Huffington Post article about 85.3% of home buyers under 35 who are female planned to stay in their home for five years or more, and only 73.8% of males in the same category said the same.
Additionally, the same category of women wanted to live in the suburbs while males were looking for a more urban lifestyle. Single ladies also responded to the survey by saying they were waiting to find a spouse before they purchase their first home. Men were more willing to purchase homes with less-serious relationship partners and roommates. However, it’s also essential for potential home buyers to choose an agent that will aid them in their search.
Where do they sync up? Both groups of males and females made lists of ’must-haves’ to use as a home buying resource . They agreed that good schools, close location to place of employment, steady land value, close proximity to entertainment and dining, larger homes, being close to family and friends and public transport, and affordability were aspects they most desired. While it may be tough to sway some single buyers and find a lot and location both parties can agree on, some major aspects can be used as selling points for homebuyers interested in real estate in Charlottesville, VA.
So what if it’s a bit farther from the suburbs than she'd like? The school districts are great! Maybe he didn’t see himself staying in his first home for many years, but steady value over time showed him its a good investment. These are the things Realtors will have to look at when sealing the deal. By looking at the facts and figures, Realtors, buyers, and sellers can stay ahead of the game and close great deals with happy, satisfied clients!
Friends Read Free