tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26479502305033804952024-03-25T15:56:12.242-07:00Bellingham Homes & Real Estate
#1 Agent in Social Media in Washington. REALTOR® with EXP Realty in Bellingham, WA., Seaplane pilot, family man. My goal is simple, to provide clients with world class trust and service. Your goals are my goals, and I want you as a client for life! Stop being treated like a "sale". I strive to build my Real Estate family and hope you come back to me later when you need to buy or sell your next home.
Jack Ottohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16150828739198323142noreply@blogger.comBlogger374125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2647950230503380495.post-17484304100707145972018-12-19T15:14:00.000-08:002018-12-19T15:14:22.670-08:005 Reasons to Sell This Winter!<h1 class="entry-title">
<article class="post-80568 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-sellers category-move-up-buyers-buyers" id="post-80568" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); color: #666666; display: block; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 300; letter-spacing: normal; margin-top: 0px; orphans: auto; outline: none !important; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><div class="entry-wrap" style="box-sizing: border-box; outline: none !important;">
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<img alt="5 Reasons to Sell This Winter! | MyKCM" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" height="410" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2018/12/11121113/20181217-STM-Share.jpg" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; height: auto; max-width: 100%; min-width: 100%; outline: none !important; transition: opacity 0.75s ease; vertical-align: middle;" width="750" /></div>
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Here are five reasons listing your home for sale this winter makes sense.</div>
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<strong style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; outline: none !important;">1. Demand Is Strong</strong></h4>
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<article class="post-80568 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-sellers category-move-up-buyers-buyers" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); color: #666666; display: block; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 300; letter-spacing: normal; margin-top: 0px; orphans: auto; outline: none !important; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><div class="entry-wrap" style="box-sizing: border-box; outline: none !important;">
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The latest <em style="box-sizing: border-box; font-style: italic; outline: none !important;"><a href="https://www.nar.realtor/sites/default/files/documents/2018-10-realtors-confidence-index-11-21-2018.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #00aeff; outline: none !important; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="Buyer Traffic Report">Buyer Traffic Report</a></em> from the <em style="box-sizing: border-box; font-style: italic; outline: none !important;">National Association of Realtors</em> (NAR) shows that buyer demand remains strong throughout the vast majority of the country. These buyers are ready, willing and able to purchase… and are in the market right now! More often than not, multiple buyers are competing with each other to buy a home.</div>
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Take advantage of the buyer activity currently in the market.</div>
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<strong style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; outline: none !important;">2. There Is Less Competition Now</strong></h4>
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<article class="post-80568 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-sellers category-move-up-buyers-buyers" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); color: #666666; display: block; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 300; letter-spacing: normal; margin-top: 0px; orphans: auto; outline: none !important; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><div class="entry-wrap" style="box-sizing: border-box; outline: none !important;">
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Housing <a href="https://www.nar.realtor/newsroom/existing-home-sales-increase-for-the-first-time-in-six-months" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #00aeff; outline: none !important; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="inventory">inventory</a> is still under the 6-month supply that is needed for a normal housing market. This means that, in the majority of the country, there are not enough homes for sale to satisfy the number of buyers in the market. This is good news for homeowners who have gained equity as their home values have increased. However, additional inventory could be coming to the market soon.</div>
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Historically, the average number of years a homeowner <a href="https://www.mykcm.com/2018/07/10/how-long-do-most-families-live-in-a-house/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #00aeff; outline: none !important; text-decoration: none;" title="stayed">stayed</a> in their home was six but has hovered between nine and ten years since 2011. There is a pent-up desire for many homeowners to move, as they were unable to sell over the last few years because of a negative equity situation. As home values continue to appreciate, more and more homeowners will be given the freedom to move.</div>
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The choices buyers have will continue to increase. Don’t wait until this other inventory comes to market before you decide to sell.</div>
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<strong style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; outline: none !important;">3. The Process Will Be Quicker</strong></h4>
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<article class="post-80568 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-sellers category-move-up-buyers-buyers" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); color: #666666; display: block; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 300; letter-spacing: normal; margin-top: 0px; orphans: auto; outline: none !important; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><div class="entry-wrap" style="box-sizing: border-box; outline: none !important;">
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Today’s competitive environment has forced buyers to do all they can to stand out from the crowd, including getting pre-approved for their mortgage financing. This makes the entire selling process much faster and much simpler as buyers know exactly what they can afford before home shopping. According to <em style="box-sizing: border-box; font-style: italic; outline: none !important;">Ellie Mae’s </em>latest <em style="box-sizing: border-box; font-style: italic; outline: none !important;"><a href="https://assets.contentstack.io/v3/assets/blt47a327ac368e22cd/bltf18ca0423ae70ce2/5bf57ab010c28a4121703148/EM_OIR_OCTOBER2018_165162.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #00aeff; outline: none !important; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" title="Origination Insights Report">Origination Insights Report</a></em><em style="box-sizing: border-box; font-style: italic; outline: none !important;">,</em> the time to close a loan has dropped to 46 days.</div>
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<strong style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; outline: none !important;">4. There Will Never Be a Better Time to Move Up</strong></h4>
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<article class="post-80568 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-sellers category-move-up-buyers-buyers" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); color: #666666; display: block; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 300; letter-spacing: normal; margin-top: 0px; orphans: auto; outline: none !important; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><div class="entry-wrap" style="box-sizing: border-box; outline: none !important;">
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If your next move will be into a premium or <a href="https://www.mykcm.com/2018/03/19/dreaming-of-a-luxury-home-nows-the-time/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #00aeff; outline: none !important; text-decoration: none;" title="luxury home">luxury home</a>, now is the time to move up! The inventory of homes for sale at these higher price ranges has forced these markets into a buyer’s market. This means that if you are planning on selling a starter or trade-up home, your home will sell quickly, AND you’ll be able to find a premium home to call your own!</div>
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Prices are projected to appreciate by 4.8% over the next year according to <em style="box-sizing: border-box; font-style: italic; outline: none !important;">CoreLogic.</em> If you are moving to a higher-priced home, it will wind up costing you more in raw dollars (both in down payment and mortgage payment) if you wait.</div>
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<strong style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; outline: none !important;">5. It’s Time to Move on With Your Life</strong></h4>
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Look at the reason you decided to sell in the first place and determine whether it is worth waiting. Is money more important than being with family? Is money more important than your health? Is money more important than having the freedom to go on with your life the way you think you should?</div>
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Only you know the answers to the questions above. You have the power to take control of the situation by putting your home on the market. Perhaps the time has come for you and your family to move on and start living the life you desire.</div>
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<strong style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; outline: none !important;">That is what is truly important.</strong></h3>
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Jack Ottohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16150828739198323142noreply@blogger.com7Bellingham, WA, USA48.7519112 -122.4786854000000248.5844097 -122.80140890000001 48.9194127 -122.15596190000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2647950230503380495.post-89628475157551889772018-03-09T10:50:00.000-08:002018-03-09T10:50:52.499-08:00Housing Market Expected To “Spring Forward” This Year<article class="post-73658 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-sellers category-move-up-buyers-buyers" id="post-73658">
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Just like our clocks this weekend in the majority of the country, the housing market will soon <em>“spring forward!” </em>Similar to tension in a spring, the <a href="https://www.mykcm.com/2018/01/29/u-s-housing-inventory-crunch-continues-list-your-house-today/" title="lack of inventory">lack of inventory</a> available for sale in the market right now is what is holding back the market.<br />
Many potential sellers believe that waiting until Spring is in their
best interest, and traditionally they would have been right.<br />
Buyer demand has seasonality to it, which usually falls off in the
winter months, especially in areas of the country impacted by arctic
temperatures and conditions.<br />
<h4>
<strong>That hasn’t happened this year.</strong></h4>
Demand for housing has remained strong as mortgage rates have
remained near historic lows. Even with the recent increase in rates,
buyers are still able to lock in an affordable monthly payment. Many
more buyers are jumping off the fence and into the market to secure a
lower rate.<br />
The <em>National Association of Realtors</em> (NAR) recently reported that the <a href="https://www.mykcm.com/2018/01/15/thinking-of-selling-now-is-the-perfect-time/" title="top 10 dates">top 10 dates</a> sellers listed their homes in 2017 all fell in April, May, or June.<br />
Those who act quickly and list now could benefit greatly from additional exposure to buyers prior to a flood of more <a href="https://www.mykcm.com/2018/02/12/the-1-reason-to-sell-now-before-spring/" title="competition">competition</a> coming to market in the next few months.<br />
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<strong>Bottom Line</strong></h3>
If you are planning on selling your home in 2018, let’s get together to evaluate the opportunities in our market.<br />
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</article>Jack Ottohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16150828739198323142noreply@blogger.com0Bellingham, WA, USA48.7519112 -122.4786854000000248.5844097 -122.80140890000001 48.9194127 -122.15596190000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2647950230503380495.post-62777936682369263412018-01-15T10:43:00.000-08:002018-01-15T10:43:30.086-08:00Thinking of Selling? Now is the Perfect Time<article class="post-72163 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-sellers category-move-up-buyers-buyers" id="post-72163">
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It is common knowledge that a great number of homes sell during the
spring-buying season. For that reason, many homeowners hold off on
putting their homes on the market until then. The question is whether or
not that will be a good strategy this year.<br />
The other listings that do come out in the spring will represent
increased competition to any seller. Do a greater number of homes
actually come to the market in the spring as compared to the rest of the
year? The <em>National Association of Realtors </em>(NAR) recently
revealed the months in which most people listed their homes for sale in
2017. Here is a graphic showing the results:<br />
<a class="cboxElement" href="https://files.mykcm.com/2018/01/09152057/2018ListingDatesSTM.jpg" rel="lightbox[72163]" target="_blank" title="Thinking of Selling? Now is the Perfect Time | MyKCM"><img alt="Thinking of Selling? Now is the Perfect Time | MyKCM" class="alignnone wp-image-72165" height="218" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2018/01/09152057/2018ListingDatesSTM.jpg" width="600" /></a><br />
The three months in the second quarter of the year <em>(represented in red)</em> are
consistently the most popular months for sellers to list their homes on
the market. Last year, the number of homes available for sale in
January was 1,680,000.<br />
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<strong>That number spiked to 1,970,000 by May!</strong></h4>
<h4>
<strong>What does this mean to you?</strong></h4>
With the national job situation improving, and mortgage interest
rates projected to rise later in the year, buyers are not waiting until
the spring; they are out looking for homes right now. If you are looking
to sell this year, waiting until the spring to list your home means you
will have the greatest competition amongst buyers.<br />
<h3>
<strong>Bottom Line</strong></h3>
It may make sense to beat the rush of housing inventory that will enter the market in the spring and list your home today.<br />
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</article>Jack Ottohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16150828739198323142noreply@blogger.com0Bellingham, WA, USA48.7519112 -122.4786854000000248.5844097 -122.80140890000001 48.9194127 -122.15596190000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2647950230503380495.post-4243872581443852922017-12-29T11:48:00.000-08:002017-12-29T11:48:46.530-08:005 Reasons To Resolve to Use a Real Estate Professional in 2018!<img alt="Buying or Selling in 2018? 5 Reasons to Resolve to Hire a Pro [INFOGRAPHIC] | MyKCM" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" height="640" src="https://files.mykcm.com/2017/12/19171433/5-Reasons-to-Resolve-STM-1046x1354.jpg" width="494" />Jack Ottohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16150828739198323142noreply@blogger.com1Bellingham, WA, USA48.7519112 -122.4786854000000248.5844097 -122.80140890000001 48.9194127 -122.15596190000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2647950230503380495.post-66783710043897091732017-11-13T10:38:00.000-08:002017-11-13T10:38:39.087-08:007 Reasons to List Your Home This Holiday Season<article class="post-50430 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-sellers category-move-up-buyers-buyers" id="post-50430">
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7 Reasons to List Your Home This Holiday Season</h1>
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<img alt="7 Reasons to List Your Home This Holiday Season | MyKCM" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" height="410" src="https://d8yi0qr1xsq5x.cloudfront.net/2017/11/09104541/20171113-STM-Share.jpg" width="750" /></div>
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Every year at this time, many homeowners decide to wait until after
the holidays to put their homes on the market for the first time, while
others who already have their homes on the market decide to take them
off until after the holidays.<br />
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<strong>Here are seven great reasons not to wait:</strong></h4>
<ol>
<li>Relocation
buyers are out there. Many companies are still hiring throughout the
holidays and need their employees in their new positions as soon as
possible.</li>
<li>Purchasers who are looking for homes during the holidays are serious buyers and are ready to buy <strong>now</strong>.</li>
<li>You can restrict the showings on your home to the times you want it shown. You will remain in control.</li>
<li>Homes show better when decorated for the holidays.</li>
<li>There
is less competition for you as a seller right now. Let’s take a look at
listing inventory as compared to the same time last year:</li>
</ol>
<a class="cboxElement" href="https://d8yi0qr1xsq5x.cloudfront.net/2017/11/09104519/20171113-Housing-Supply-STM.jpg" rel="lightbox[50430]" target="_blank" title="7 Reasons to List Your Home This Holiday Season | MyKCM"><img alt="7 Reasons to List Your Home This Holiday Season | MyKCM" class="alignnone wp-image-50431" height="450" src="https://d8yi0qr1xsq5x.cloudfront.net/2017/11/09104519/20171113-Housing-Supply-STM.jpg" width="600" /></a><br />
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<li>The
desire to own a home doesn’t stop when the holidays come. Buyers who
were unable to find their dream home during the busy spring and summer
months are still searching!</li>
<li>The supply of listings increases
substantially after the holidays. Also, in many parts of the country,
new construction will continue to surge reaching new heights in 2018,
which will lessen the demand for your house.</li>
</ol>
<h3>
<strong>Bottom Line</strong></h3>
Waiting until after the holidays to sell your home probably doesn’t make sense.<br />
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</article>Jack Ottohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16150828739198323142noreply@blogger.com0Bellingham, WA, USA48.7519112 -122.4786854000000248.5844097 -122.80140890000001 48.9194127 -122.15596190000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2647950230503380495.post-55286124221596413772017-10-26T23:15:00.000-07:002017-10-26T23:15:06.954-07:00Ranked Among the Top Real Estate Agents in Social Media Yet Again!<header class="entry-header" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #404040; font-family: Lato, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; overflow: hidden;"><h1 class="entry-title" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; clear: both; font-family: Montserrat, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 40px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: 45px; margin: 16.5px 0px 10px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; position: relative; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">
Top Real Estate Social Media Accounts To Follow</h1>
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by Surge Realty Solutions</div>
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<i style="box-sizing: border-box; vertical-align: middle;">Want to know how the best real estate agents use social media?</i></h2>
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<span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />Below, we have compiled a list of the best social media accounts in the real estate industry from around the web. Whether you’re looking for industry data, home-buying tips, or lead-generation strategies, these real estate accounts have got you covered.</span></div>
<div style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: Hind; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 24px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">It doesn’t matter if you’re just starting out, or have decades of experience - there’s something for everyone here.</span></div>
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<span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Be sure to check out each featured post to really get a feel for their writing style. Our list is always expanding, so check back frequently!</span></div>
<ol start="8" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0px 0px 1.5em 3em; outline: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<li style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-size: 32px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; list-style: inherit; margin-bottom: 5px !important; margin-left: 14.7031px; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 5px !important; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0px 10px; position: relative; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">Jack Otto | <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/bellinghamhomes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="background: 0px 0px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #e96656; font-family: inherit; font-size: 28px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; transition: all 700ms; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ROttoRealtor" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="background: 0px 0px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #e96656; font-family: inherit; font-size: 28px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; transition: all 700ms; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="https://plus.google.com/b/100272263211113531940/113490185933620047760" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="background: 0px 0px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #e96656; font-family: inherit; font-size: 28px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; transition: all 700ms; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">Google+</a></li>
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<span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="" class="alignleft wp-image-2952" height="257" sizes="(max-width: 257px) 100vw, 257px" src="https://surgerealtysolutions.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/JackOtto.jpg" srcset="https://surgerealtysolutions.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/JackOtto.jpg 288w, https://surgerealtysolutions.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/JackOtto-150x150.jpg 150w, https://surgerealtysolutions.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/JackOtto-180x180.jpg 180w, https://surgerealtysolutions.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/JackOtto-250x250.jpg 250w, https://surgerealtysolutions.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/JackOtto-174x174.jpg 174w" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; float: left; height: auto; margin-bottom: 7.82813px; margin-right: 1.5em; max-width: 100%; vertical-align: middle;" width="257" />Jack Otto knows the value of utilizing social media for real estate firsthand. As the most popular real estate agent in Washington ranked by social media activity (according to Mondinion), he makes extensive use of Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Google +, and his own blog.</span></div>
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<span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Jack utilizes his social profiles to further assist his clients in listing their home, or by providing sound advice and information to would-be home buyers.</span><span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /></span><span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">When he’s not selling homes he’s living his second life as a seaplane pilot - an activity in which he has received certification as an instructor.</span></div>
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<i style="box-sizing: border-box; vertical-align: middle;"><span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">He features essential information from</span></i><span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> “</span><a href="http://bellinghamrealtor.blogspot.ca/2017/09/should-i-buy-home-now-or-wait-until.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="background: 0px 0px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #e96656; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; transition: all 700ms; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank"><span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Should I Buy a Home Now? Or Wait Until Next Year?</span></a><span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">” </span><i style="box-sizing: border-box; vertical-align: middle;"><span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">to </span></i><span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">“</span><a href="http://bellinghamrealtor.blogspot.ca/2017/08/20-tips-for-preparing-your-house-for.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="background: 0px 0px; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #e96656; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; transition: all 700ms; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank"><span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">20 Tips to Prepare Your House to Sell</span></a><span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">”.</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"><i><u>Thanks to Surge Realty Solutions for including me!!</u></i></b></div>
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Jack Ottohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16150828739198323142noreply@blogger.com0Bellingham, WA, USA48.7519112 -122.4786854000000248.5844097 -122.80140890000001 48.9194127 -122.15596190000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2647950230503380495.post-6486693868671440602017-10-17T22:41:00.000-07:002017-10-17T22:41:31.806-07:004 Reasons to Sell This Fall [INFOGRAPHIC] <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PgDM7I_spQg/WeF427Y8bRI/AAAAAAAAQeE/3QBm1qVlpOwiiYB1gqeteczS5deaM4YmwCLcBGAs/s1600/4-Reasons-STM-1046x808.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="808" data-original-width="1046" height="492" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PgDM7I_spQg/WeF427Y8bRI/AAAAAAAAQeE/3QBm1qVlpOwiiYB1gqeteczS5deaM4YmwCLcBGAs/s640/4-Reasons-STM-1046x808.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Jack Ottohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16150828739198323142noreply@blogger.com0Bellingham, WA, USA48.7519112 -122.4786854000000248.5844097 -122.80140890000001 48.9194127 -122.15596190000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2647950230503380495.post-24589559354888321142017-09-29T09:02:00.000-07:002017-09-29T09:02:13.445-07:00Should I Buy a Home Now? Or Wait Until Next Year? [INFOGRAPHIC]<article class="post-49228 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-first-time-home-buyers category-buyers category-infographics category-interest-rates category-millennials category-move-up-buyers-buyers category-pricing" id="post-49228">
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<img alt="Should I Buy a Home Now? Or Wait Until Next Year? [INFOGRAPHIC]| MyKCM" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" height="640" src="https://d8yi0qr1xsq5x.cloudfront.net/2017/09/28125511/Cost-of-Waiting-STM-1046x1354.jpg" width="492" /></div>
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<h3>
<strong>Some Highlights:</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>The <em>Cost of Waiting to Buy</em>
is defined as the additional funds it would take to buy a home if
prices & interest rates were to increase over a period of time.</li>
<li>Freddie Mac predicts interest rates to rise to 4.4% by next year.</li>
<li>CoreLogic predicts home prices to appreciate by 5.0% over the next 12 months.</li>
<li>If you are ready and willing to buy your dream home, find out if you are able to!</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</article>Jack Ottohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16150828739198323142noreply@blogger.com0Bellingham, WA 98229, USA48.710928499999987 -122.4020451999999848.543223999999988 -122.72476869999997 48.878632999999986 -122.07932169999998tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2647950230503380495.post-23963122519942877482017-08-28T10:50:00.000-07:002017-08-28T10:50:12.441-07:00Don’t Disqualify Yourself… 52% of Approved Loans Have A FICO® Score Under 750<div id="sharepp" style="margin: 5px 0 25px 0;">
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<img alt="Don’t Disqualify Yourself… 52% of Approved Loans Have A FICO® Score Under 750 | MyKCM" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" height="218" src="https://d8yi0qr1xsq5x.cloudfront.net/2017/08/21110234/20170828-Share-STM.jpg" width="400" /></div>
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The results of countless studies have shown that potential home
buyers, and even current homeowners, have an inflated view of what is
really required to qualify for a mortgage in today’s market.<br />
One such study by the <em>Wharton School of Business</em> at the <em>University of Pennsylvania</em>
revealed that many millennials have not yet considered purchasing homes
simply because they don’t believe they can qualify for a mortgage.<br />
A recent <a href="http://www.realtor.com/news/trends/millennials-home-buying-down-payment-savings/" target="_blank" title="article">article</a> about millennials by <em>Realtor.com</em> explained that:<br />
<blockquote>
“<em>About 72% of aspiring millennial buyers said they’re waiting because they can’t afford to buy…</em>”</blockquote>
The article also explained that <em>29% of millennials believe their credit scores are too low to buy</em>.The problem here is the fact that they <strong><em>think</em></strong> they will be denied a mortgage is keeping them from even<strong> <em>attempting</em> </strong>to apply.<br />
<em>Ellie Mae’s Vice President</em> Jonas Moe encouraged buyers to know their options before assuming that they won’t qualify for a mortgage:<br />
<blockquote>
<em>“Many potential home buyers are ‘disqualifying’ themselves. You don’t need a 750 FICO® Score and a </em><a href="https://www.keepingcurrentmatters.com/2017/06/07/69-of-buyers-are-wrong-about-down-payment-needs/" target="_blank" title="20% down payment"><em>20% down payment</em></a><em> to buy.”</em></blockquote>
<h4>
<strong>So, what credit score is necessary?</strong></h4>
Below is a breakdown of the FICO<sup>®</sup> Score distribution of all closed (approved) loans in July from <em>Ellie Mae’s </em>latest <em>Origination Report</em>.<br />
<a class="cboxElement" href="https://d8yi0qr1xsq5x.cloudfront.net/2017/08/21110210/20170828-STM-ENG.jpg" rel="lightbox[48188]" target="_blank" title="Don’t Disqualify Yourself… 52% of Approved Loans Have A FICO® Score Under 750 | MyKCM"><img alt="Don’t Disqualify Yourself… 52% of Approved Loans Have A FICO® Score Under 750 | MyKCM" class="alignnone wp-image-48189" height="450" src="https://d8yi0qr1xsq5x.cloudfront.net/2017/08/21110210/20170828-STM-ENG.jpg" width="600" /></a><br />
Over 52% of all approved loans had a FICO<sup>®</sup> Score under 750. Many potential home buyers believe that they need a score over 780 to qualify.<br />
<h3>
<strong>Bottom Line</strong></h3>
If
owning a home of your own has always been your dream and you are ready
and willing to buy, or if you are a homeowner who wants to move up, find
out if you are able to! Let’s get together to determine if your dreams
can become a reality sooner than you thought!<br />
</div>
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</article></div>
Jack Ottohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16150828739198323142noreply@blogger.com0Bellingham, WA, USA48.7519112 -122.4786854000000248.5844097 -122.80140890000001 48.9194127 -122.15596190000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2647950230503380495.post-33414341252040046412017-08-25T23:42:00.003-07:002017-08-25T23:42:32.513-07:00Study: FSBOs Don’t Save Real Estate Commission<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<img alt="Study: FSBOs Don’t Save Real Estate Commission | MyKCM" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" height="218" src="https://d8yi0qr1xsq5x.cloudfront.net/2017/08/21161507/20170824-Share-STM.jpg" width="400" /></div>
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One of the main reasons why <strong>For Sale By Owners</strong>
(FSBOs) don’t use a real estate agent is because they believe they will
save the commission an agent charges for getting their house on the
market and selling it. A new <a href="http://collateralanalytics.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/CA-RESEARCH-Saving-Real-Estate-Commissions-at-Any-Price.pdf" target="_blank" title="study">study</a> by <em>Collateral Analytics</em>,
however, reveals that FSBOs don’t actually save anything, and in some
cases may be costing themselves more, by not listing with an agent.<br />
In the study, they analyzed home sales in a variety of markets in 2016 and the first half of 2017. The data showed that:<br />
<blockquote>
<em>“FSBOs tend to sell for lower prices than comparable home sales, and in many cases <strong>below the average differential represented by the prevailing commission rate</strong>.” </em>(emphasis added)</blockquote>
<h4>
<strong>Why would FSBOs net<em> less</em> money than if they used an agent?</strong></h4>
The study makes several suggestions:<br />
<ul>
<li><em>“There
could be systematic bias on the buyer side as well. FSBO sales might
attract more strategic buyers than MLS sales, particularly buyers who
rationalize lower-priced bids on with the logic that the seller is
“saving” a traditional commission. Such buyers might specifically search
for and target sellers who are not getting representational assistance
from agents.” </em>In other words, ‘bargain lookers’ might shop FSBOs more often.</li>
<li><em>“Experienced agents are experts at ‘staging’ homes for sale”</em> which could bring more money for the home.</li>
<li><em>“Properties
listed with a broker that is a member of the local MLS will be listed
online with all other participating broker websites, marketing the home
to a much larger buyer population. And those MLS properties generally
offer compensation to agents who represent buyers, incentivizing them to
show and sell the property and again potentially enlarging the buyer
pool.”</em> If more buyers see a home, the greater the chances are that there could be a bidding war for the property.</li>
</ul>
<h4>
<strong>Three conclusions from the study:</strong></h4>
<ol>
<li>FSBOs achieve prices significantly lower than those from similar properties sold by Realtors using the MLS.</li>
<li>The differential in selling prices for FSBOs when compared to MLS sales of similar properties is about 5.5%.</li>
<li>The sales in 2017 suggest the average price was near 6% lower for FSBO sales of similar properties.</li>
</ol>
<h3>
<strong>Bottom Line</strong></h3>
If you are thinking of selling, FSBOing may end up costing you money instead of saving you money.<br />
<strong>Agents:</strong>
For more information like this, that you can share with your sellers,
join us this afternoon (2PM EST/11AM PST) for a live webinar when we
will discuss, <a href="http://events.keepingcurrentmatters.com/webinars/rainmaker/?datacat=Webinar&dataaction=Blog&datalabel=Blog_Ad_SaveMySpot_82417" target="_blank" title="How to Become a Rainmaker for Listing Leads This Fall"><strong>How to Become a Rainmaker for Listing Leads This Fall</strong></a><strong>!</strong></div>
Jack Ottohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16150828739198323142noreply@blogger.com0Bellingham, WA, USA48.7519112 -122.4786854000000248.5844097 -122.80140890000001 48.9194127 -122.15596190000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2647950230503380495.post-19340620852074468342017-08-04T11:47:00.000-07:002017-08-04T11:47:37.322-07:0020 Tips for Preparing Your House for Sale [INFOGRAPHIC]<br />
<img alt="20 Tips for Preparing Your House for Sale [INFOGRAPHIC] | MyKCM" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" height="504" src="https://d8yi0qr1xsq5x.cloudfront.net/2017/07/17162359/20170804-Tips-For-Selling-STM-1046x824.jpg" width="640" /><br />
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<br />Jack Ottohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16150828739198323142noreply@blogger.com0Bellingham, WA, USA48.7519112 -122.4786854000000248.5844097 -122.80140890000001 48.9194127 -122.15596190000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2647950230503380495.post-8844921663902471622017-07-31T08:45:00.000-07:002017-07-31T08:45:19.821-07:00Buyer Demand Continues Outpacing the Supply of Homes for Sale<article class="post-47595 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-buyers category-sellers" id="post-47595">
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<img alt="Buyer Demand Continues Outpacing the Supply of Homes for Sale | MyKCM" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" height="410" src="https://d8yi0qr1xsq5x.cloudfront.net/2017/07/26173125/STM-Share.jpg" width="750" /></div>
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The price of any item is determined by the supply of that item, as well as the market demand. The <em>National Association of REALTORS</em> (NAR) surveys <em>“over 50,000 real estate practitioners about their expectations for home sales, prices and market conditions” </em>for their monthly <a href="http://www.realtor.org/reports/realtors-confidence-index" target="_blank" title="REALTORS Confidence Index"><em>REALTORS Confidence Index</em></a>.<br />
Their latest edition sheds some light on the relationship between Seller Traffic (supply) and Buyer Traffic (demand).</div>
</div>
</article></h1>
<h4>
<strong>Buyer Demand</strong></h4>
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The map below was created after asking the question: <em>“How would you rate buyer traffic in your area?”</em><br />
<a class="cboxElement" href="https://d8yi0qr1xsq5x.cloudfront.net/2017/07/26173214/20170731-Buyer-STM-ENG.jpg" rel="lightbox[47595]" target="_blank" title="Buyer Traffic | MyKCM"><img alt="Buyer Traffic | MyKCM" class="alignnone wp-image-47597" height="450" src="https://d8yi0qr1xsq5x.cloudfront.net/2017/07/26173214/20170731-Buyer-STM-ENG.jpg" width="600" /></a><br />
The darker the blue, the stronger the demand for homes in that area. Only three states had a ‘stable’ demand level.</div>
</div>
</article></h1>
<h4>
<strong>Seller Supply</strong></h4>
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<article class="post-47595 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-buyers category-sellers"><div class="entry-wrap">
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The index also asked: <em>“How would you rate seller traffic in your area?”</em><br />
As you can see from the map below, 21 states report a ‘<em>weak</em>’ sellers traffic, 25 states report a ‘<em>stable</em>’ sellers traffic, only 4 states and DC report a ‘<em>strong</em>’
sellers traffic. Meaning there are far fewer homes on the market than
what is needed to satisfy the buyers who are out looking for their dream
homes.<br />
<a class="cboxElement" href="https://d8yi0qr1xsq5x.cloudfront.net/2017/07/26173405/20170731-Seller-STM-ENG.jpg" rel="lightbox[47595]" target="_blank" title="Seller Traffic | MyKCM"><img alt="Seller Traffic | MyKCM" class="alignnone wp-image-47598" height="450" src="https://d8yi0qr1xsq5x.cloudfront.net/2017/07/26173405/20170731-Seller-STM-ENG.jpg" width="600" /></a></div>
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</article></h1>
<h3>
<strong>Bottom Line</strong></h3>
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Looking at the maps above, it is not hard to see why prices are appreciating in <a href="https://www.mykcm.com/2017/03/31/home-prices-up-6-15-across-the-country-infographic/" title="many areas">many areas</a>
of the country. Until the supply of homes for sale starts to meet the
buyer demand, prices will continue to increase. If you are debating
listing your home for sale, let’s get together to help you capitalize on
the demand in the market now!<br />
</div>
</div>
</article></h1>
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</article>Jack Ottohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16150828739198323142noreply@blogger.com0Bellingham, WA, USA48.7519112 -122.4786854000000248.5844097 -122.80140890000001 48.9194127 -122.15596190000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2647950230503380495.post-68806583856886318622017-07-08T09:17:00.000-07:002017-07-08T09:17:54.378-07:00Fawn Island, Deer Harbor, Washington<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Fawn Island in beautiful Deer Harbor, Washington, is one of the most exclusive properties on the market. For a complete list of features and amenities please visit <a href="http://fawnisland.net./">Fawnisland.net.</a></div>
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<br />Jack Ottohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16150828739198323142noreply@blogger.com0Fawn Island, Eastsound, WA 98245, USA48.6138021 -123.0069015000000348.6124901 -123.00942300000003 48.6151141 -123.00438000000003tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2647950230503380495.post-17732024042016332522017-06-29T11:45:00.001-07:002017-06-29T11:45:30.172-07:0075% of Homeowners Think Now is a Good Time to Sell!<article class="post-46780 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-sellers" id="post-46780">
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75% of Homeowners Think Now is a Good Time to Sell!</h1>
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<img alt="75% of Homeowners Think Now is a Good Time to Sell! | MyKCM" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" height="410" src="https://d8yi0qr1xsq5x.cloudfront.net/2017/06/28124138/20170629-Share-STM.jpg" width="750" /></div>
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The <em>National Association of Realtors </em>(NAR) recently released the findings of their <a href="https://www.nar.realtor/reports/2017-q2-homeownership-opportunities-and-market-experience-home-survey" target="_blank" title="Q2 Homeownership Opportunities and Market Experience (HOME) Survey"><em>Q2 Homeownership Opportunities and Market Experience (HOME) Survey</em></a>. The report covers core topics like, <em>“if
now is a good time to buy or sell a home, the perception of home price
changes, perceived ability to qualify for a mortgage, and [an] outlook
on the U.S. economy.”</em><br />
The survey revealed that <strong>75% of homeowners think now is a good time to sell,</strong> compared to 70% last quarter. This is a considerable increase from more than a year ago when 66% agreed.<br />
Even
though homeowners believe that now is a good time to sell, many have
not taken the step to list their homes, as inventory shortages still
exist across the country. Lawrence Yun, NAR’s<em> Chief Economist</em>, had this to say:<br />
<blockquote>
<em>"There
are just not enough homeowners deciding to sell because they’re either
content where they are, holding off until they build more equity, or
hesitant seeing as it will be difficult to find an affordable home to
buy... </em><br />
<em>As a result, inventory conditions have worsened
and are restricting sales from breaking out while contributing to price
appreciation that remains far above income growth.”</em></blockquote>
<h3>
<strong>Bottom Line</strong></h3>
If
you are wondering if now is a good time to sell your house, let’s get
together to discuss the opportunities available in our market.<br />
</div>
</div>
</article>Jack Ottohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16150828739198323142noreply@blogger.com1Bellingham, WA, USA48.7519112 -122.4786854000000248.5844097 -122.80140890000001 48.9194127 -122.15596190000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2647950230503380495.post-42048733986663795132017-06-12T11:48:00.000-07:002017-06-12T11:48:21.529-07:004 Reasons to Buy This Summer! <h4>
<strong><br /></strong></h4>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XJINdM-zsmI/WT7hsVJm1yI/AAAAAAAAJEA/Wkbz_Yajp5cdHndSgeLtfX0EncftrWXEACLcB/s1600/20170612-Share-STM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="410" data-original-width="750" height="174" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XJINdM-zsmI/WT7hsVJm1yI/AAAAAAAAJEA/Wkbz_Yajp5cdHndSgeLtfX0EncftrWXEACLcB/s320/20170612-Share-STM.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<h4>
<strong><br /></strong></h4>
<h4>
<strong>1. Prices Will Continue to Rise</strong></h4>
<em>CoreLogic’s </em>latest <em>Home Price Index</em> <a href="http://www.corelogic.com/about-us/news/corelogic-us-home-price-report-shows-prices-up-7.1-percent-in-march-2017.aspx" target="_blank" title="reports">reports</a>
that home prices have appreciated by 7.1% over the last 12 months. The
same report predicts that prices will continue to increase at a rate of
4.9% over the next year.<br />
The bottom in home prices has come and gone. Home values will continue to appreciate for years. Waiting no longer makes sense.<br />
<h4>
<strong>2. Mortgage Interest Rates Are Projected to Increase</strong></h4>
<em>Freddie Mac’s Primary Mortgage Market Survey</em> <a href="http://www.freddiemac.com/pmms/" target="_blank" title="shows">shows</a>
that interest rates for a 30-year mortgage have remained around 4%.
Most experts predict that they will begin to rise over the next 12
months. <em>The Mortgage Bankers Association, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac & the National Association of Realtors</em> are in unison, projecting that rates will increase by this time next year.<br />
An <a href="http://www.mykcm.com/2017/05/08/is-2017-the-year-to-move-up-to-your-dream-home-if-so-do-it-early/" title="increase in rates">increase in rates</a>
will impact YOUR monthly mortgage payment. A year from now, your
housing expense will increase if a mortgage is necessary to buy your
next home.<br />
<h4>
<strong>3. Either Way, You are Paying a Mortgage</strong></h4>
There
are some renters who have not yet purchased a home because they are
uncomfortable taking on the obligation of a mortgage. Everyone should
realize that, unless you are living with your parents rent-free, you are
<a href="http://www.mykcm.com/2017/03/27/renting-or-buying-either-way-youre-paying-a-mortgage/" title="paying a mortgage">paying a mortgage</a> - <em>either yours or your landlord’s.</em><br />
As an owner, your mortgage payment is a form of <em>‘forced savings’</em>
that allows you to have equity in your home that you can tap into later
in life. As a renter, you guarantee your landlord is the person with
that equity.<br />
<em>Are you ready to put your housing cost to work for you?</em><em> </em><br />
<h4>
<strong>4. It’s Time to Move on with Your Life</strong></h4>
The
‘cost’ of a home is determined by two major components: the price of
the home and the current mortgage rate. It appears that both are on the <a href="http://www.mykcm.com/2017/05/05/do-you-know-the-cost-of-waiting-infographic/" title="rise">rise</a>.<br />
But what if they weren’t? Would you wait?<br />
Look
at the actual reason you are buying and decide if it is worth waiting.
Whether you want to have a great place for your children to grow up, you
want your family to be safer or you just want to have control over
renovations, maybe now is the time to buy.<br />
<h4>
<strong>If the right
thing for you and your family is to purchase a home this year, buying
sooner rather than later could lead to substantial savings.</strong></h4>
Jack Ottohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16150828739198323142noreply@blogger.com0Bellingham, WA, USA48.7519112 -122.4786854000000248.5844097 -122.80140890000001 48.9194127 -122.15596190000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2647950230503380495.post-33755626923103956862017-06-03T12:15:00.000-07:002017-06-03T12:15:20.244-07:00#1 Reason To List Your House Now! <div class="entry-content content">
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R_-gUWXBYO0/WTMKdcsYhLI/AAAAAAAAIqk/RwdNW1fAaNE5zuidlwQWLaYtB9ntSWZ1gCLcB/s1600/20170530-Share-STM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="410" data-original-width="750" height="347" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R_-gUWXBYO0/WTMKdcsYhLI/AAAAAAAAIqk/RwdNW1fAaNE5zuidlwQWLaYtB9ntSWZ1gCLcB/s640/20170530-Share-STM.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
If you are debating listing your house for sale this year, here is the #1 reason not to wait!<br />
<h4>
<strong>Buyer Demand Continues to Outpace the Supply of Homes for Sale</strong><strong> </strong></h4>
The <em>National Association of REALTORS’ (NAR)</em> <em>Chief Economist</em> Lawrence Yun recently commented on the inventory:<br />
<blockquote>
“<em>Last
month’s dip in closings was somewhat expected given that there was such
a strong sales increase in March at 4.2 percent, and <strong>new and existing inventory is not keeping up with the fast pace homes are coming off the market</strong>.</em><br />
<strong><em>Demand is easily outstripping supply in most of the country</em></strong><em> and it’s stymieing many prospective buyers from finding a home to purchase</em>”.</blockquote>
The latest <a href="https://www.nar.realtor/news-releases/2017/05/existing-home-sales-slip-23-percent-in-april-days-on-market-falls-to-under-a-month" target="_blank" title="Existing Home Sales&nbsp;Report"><em>Existing Home Sales Report</em></a> shows that there is currently a <strong>4.2-month supply</strong> of homes for sale. This remains lower than the 6-month supply necessary for a normal market, and <strong>4.6% lower than a year ago.</strong><br />
The chart below details the year-over-year inventory shortages experienced over the last 12 months:<br />
<a class="cboxElement" href="https://d8yi0qr1xsq5x.cloudfront.net/2017/05/30125829/20170530-STM-ENG1.jpg" rel="lightbox[45591]" target="_blank" title="#1 Reason to List Your House for Sale, NOW! | MyKCM"><img alt="#1 Reason to List Your House for Sale, NOW! | MyKCM" class="alignnone wp-image-45611" height="450" src="https://d8yi0qr1xsq5x.cloudfront.net/2017/05/30125829/20170530-STM-ENG1.jpg" width="600" /></a><br />
Anything less than a six-month supply is considered a “<a href="http://www.mykcm.com/2017/02/01/buyer-demand-is-outpacing-the-supply-of-homes-for-sale/" title="seller’s market">seller’s market</a>.”<br />
<h3>
<strong>Bottom Line</strong></h3>
Let's
get together and discuss the supply conditions in your neighborhood to
be able to assist you in gaining access to the buyers who are ready,
willing and able to buy now!</div>
Jack Ottohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16150828739198323142noreply@blogger.com0Bellingham, WA, USA48.7519112 -122.4786854000000248.5844097 -122.80140890000001 48.9194127 -122.15596190000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2647950230503380495.post-74798761783808052432017-05-16T08:38:00.000-07:002017-05-16T08:38:51.792-07:004 Tips for Effectively Making an Offer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BoZpW-aJnwY/WRscmVJeIwI/AAAAAAAAHX4/kDsEQ4oUXzsaiWgnSbnbTfJQeWla4E-nQCLcB/s1600/20170509-Share-STM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BoZpW-aJnwY/WRscmVJeIwI/AAAAAAAAHX4/kDsEQ4oUXzsaiWgnSbnbTfJQeWla4E-nQCLcB/s400/20170509-Share-STM.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />
<div class="entry-content content">
So, you’ve been searching for that perfect house to call a ‘home,’
and you finally found one! The price is right, and in such a competitive
market, you want to make sure that you make a good offer so that you
can guarantee that your dream of making this house yours comes true!<br />
<em>Freddie Mac </em>covered <a href="http://www.freddiemac.com/news/blog/chris_bowden/20160906_four_tips_for_making_an_offer.html" target="_blank" title="“4 Tips for Making an Offer”">“4 Tips for Making an Offer”</a> in their latest <em>Executive Perspective.</em> Here are the 4 tips they covered along with some additional information for your consideration:<br />
<h4>
<strong>1. Understand How Much You Can Afford</strong></h4>
<blockquote>
<em>“While it's not nearly as fun as house hunting, fully understanding your finances is critical in making an offer.”</em></blockquote>
This ‘tip’ or ‘step’ should really take place before you start your home search process.<br />
As we’ve mentioned <a href="http://www.mykcm.com/2017/01/16/why-pre-approval-should-be-your-first-step/" title="before">before</a>,
getting pre-approved is one of many steps that will show home sellers
that you are serious about buying, and will allow you to make your offer
with the confidence of knowing that you have already been approved for a
mortgage for that amount. You will also need to know if you are
prepared to make any repairs that may need to be made to the house (ex:
new roof, new furnace).<br />
<h4>
<strong>2. Act Fast</strong></h4>
<blockquote>
<em>“Even
though there are fewer investors, the inventory of homes for sale is
also low and competition for housing continues to heat up in many parts
of the country.”</em><em> </em></blockquote>
According to the latest <a href="https://www.nar.realtor/topics/existing-home-sales" target="_blank" title="Existing Home Sales Report"><em>Existing Home Sales Report</em></a><em>,</em> the inventory of homes for sale is currently at a 3.7-month supply; this is well below the 6-month supply that is needed for a <a href="http://www.mykcm.com/2016/08/26/how-supply-demand-impacts-the-real-estate-market-infographic/" title="‘normal’ market">‘normal’ market</a>. Buyer demand has continued to outpace the supply of homes for sale, causing buyers to <a href="http://www.mykcm.com/2017/04/05/buying-this-spring-be-prepared-for-bidding-wars/" title="compete with each other">compete with each other</a> for their dream homes.<br />
Make sure that as soon as you decide that you want to make an offer, you work with your agent to present it as soon as possible.<br />
<h4>
<strong>3. Make a Solid Offer</strong></h4>
<em>Freddie Mac </em>offers this advice to help make your offer the strongest it can be:<br />
<blockquote>
<em>“Your
strongest offer will be comparable with other sales and listings in the
neighborhood. A licensed real estate agent active in the neighborhoods
you are considering will be instrumental in helping you put in a solid
offer based on their experience and other key considerations such as
recent sales of similar homes, the condition of the house and what you
can afford.”</em></blockquote>
Talk with your agent to find out if there are any ways that you can make your offer stand out in this competitive market!<br />
<h4>
<strong>4. Be Prepared to Negotiate</strong></h4>
<blockquote>
<em>“It's
likely that you'll get at least one counteroffer from the sellers so be
prepared. The two things most likely to be negotiated are the selling
price and closing date. Given that, you'll be glad you did your homework
first to understand how much you can afford.</em><br />
<em>Your agent
will also be key in the negotiation process, giving you guidance on the
counteroffer and making sure that the agreed-to contract terms are met.”</em></blockquote>
If your offer is approved, <em>Freddie Mac </em>urges you to <em>“always get an independent home inspection, so you know the true condition of the home." </em>If the <a href="http://www.mykcm.com/2017/01/29/what-to-expect-from-your-home-inspection/" title="inspector">inspector</a>
uncovers undisclosed problems or issues, you can discuss any repairs
that may need to be made with the seller, or cancel the contract.<br />
<h3>
<strong>Bottom Line</strong><strong> </strong></h3>
Whether
you’re buying your first home or your fifth, having a local
professional on your side who is an expert in their market is your best
bet in making sure the process goes smoothly. Happy House Hunting!</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
"<a href="http://ow.ly/6Xm630bLXGg">4 Tips for Effectively Making an Offer </a>"</div>
Jack Ottohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16150828739198323142noreply@blogger.com0Bellingham, WA, USA48.7519112 -122.4786854000000248.5844097 -122.80140890000001 48.9194127 -122.15596190000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2647950230503380495.post-10008342752013302432017-05-05T08:33:00.000-07:002017-05-05T08:33:11.592-07:00Do You Know the Cost of Waiting To Buy a Home?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qcmh0mm8fEc/WQya3nek1nI/AAAAAAAAG1E/7rhMEpP3eychUg9P0JfpbVvHe5ZYIA2swCLcB/s1600/20170505-Cost-of-Waiting-STM-1046x1354.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qcmh0mm8fEc/WQya3nek1nI/AAAAAAAAG1E/7rhMEpP3eychUg9P0JfpbVvHe5ZYIA2swCLcB/s640/20170505-Cost-of-Waiting-STM-1046x1354.jpg" width="492" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://ow.ly/dNZo30bsYZM">Do You Know the Cost of Waiting? [INFOGRAPHIC] </a></div>
Jack Ottohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16150828739198323142noreply@blogger.com0Bellingham, WA, USA48.7519112 -122.4786854000000248.5844097 -122.80140890000001 48.9194127 -122.15596190000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2647950230503380495.post-6947210137246437322017-05-03T09:18:00.000-07:002017-05-03T09:18:10.808-07:00Buying a Home? Do You Know the Lingo? <div id="sharepp" style="margin: 5px 0 25px 0;">
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<div class="x-main left" role="main">
<article class="post-44225 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-first-time-home-buyers category-buyers category-move-up-buyers-buyers" id="post-44225">
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<header class="entry-header">
<h1 class="entry-title" style="text-align: center;">
Buying a Home? Do You Know the Lingo?</h1>
</header> <div class="entry-featured">
<div class="entry-thumb" style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Buying a Home? Do You Know the Lingo? | MyKCM" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" height="217" src="https://d8yi0qr1xsq5x.cloudfront.net/2017/04/18141558/20170503-Share-STM.jpg" width="400" /></div>
</div>
<div class="entry-content content">
Buying a home can be intimidating if you are not familiar with the
terms used during the process. To start you on your path with
confidence, we have compiled a list of some of the most common terms
used when buying a home.<br />
<em>Freddie Mac</em> has compiled a more exhaustive glossary of terms in their “<a href="http://myhome.freddiemac.com/resources/glossary.html" target="_blank" title="My Home">My Home</a>” section of their website.<br />
<strong>Annual Percentage Rate (APR)</strong>
– This is a broader measure of your cost for borrowing money. The APR
includes the interest rate, points, broker fees and certain other credit
charges a borrower is required to pay. Because these costs are rolled
in, the APR is usually higher than your interest rate.<br />
<strong>Appraisal </strong>– A professional analysis used to estimate the <a href="http://www.quickenloans.com/press-room/2017/04/11/home-owner-value-estimates-continue-outpace-appraisals-widening-spread/" target="_blank" title="value of the property">value of the property</a>.
This includes examples of sales of similar properties. This is a
necessary step in getting your financing secured as it validates the
home’s worth to you and your lender.<br />
<strong>Closing Costs</strong> – The costs to complete the real estate transaction. These costs are in addition to the price of the home and are <a href="http://www.mykcm.com/2017/03/01/over-half-of-all-buyers-are-surprised-by-closing-costs/" title="paid at closing">paid at closing</a>.
They include points, taxes, title insurance, financing costs, items
that must be prepaid or escrowed and other costs. Ask your lender for a
complete list of closing cost items.<br />
<strong>Credit Score</strong>
– A number ranging from 300-850, that is based on an analysis of your
credit history. Your credit score plays a significant role when securing
a mortgage as it helps lenders determine the likelihood that you’ll
repay future debts. The higher your score, the better, but many buyers
believe they need at least a 780 score to qualify when, in actuality,
over 55% of approved loans had <a href="https://cdn.elliemae.com/origination-insight-reports/Ellie_Mae_OIR_FEBRUARY2017.pdf" target="_blank" title="a score below 750">a score below 750</a>.<br />
<strong>Discount Points</strong>
– A point equals 1% of your loan (1 point on a $200,000 loan = $2,000).
You can pay points to buy down your mortgage interest rate. It’s
essentially an upfront interest payment to lock in a lower rate for your
mortgage.<br />
<strong>Down Payment</strong> – This is a portion of
the cost of your home that you pay upfront to secure the purchase of the
property. Down payments are typically 3 to 20% of the purchase price of
the home. There are zero-down programs available through VA loans for
Veterans, as well as USDA loans for rural areas of the country. <a href="http://downpaymentresource.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Down-Payment-Report.April2017.pdf" target="_blank" title="Eighty percent of first-time buyers">Eighty percent of first-time buyers</a> put less than 20% down last month.<br />
<strong>Escrow </strong>–
The holding of money or documents by a neutral third party before
closing. It can also be an account held by the lender (or servicer) into
which a homeowner pays money for taxes and insurance.<br />
<strong>Fixed-Rate Mortgages</strong>
– A mortgage with an interest rate that does not change for the entire
term of the loan. Fixed-rate mortgages are typically 15 or 30 years.<br />
<strong>Home Inspection</strong> – A professional inspection of a home to determine the condition of the property. The <a href="http://www.mykcm.com/2017/01/29/what-to-expect-from-your-home-inspection/" title="inspection should include">inspection should include</a> an evaluation of the plumbing, heating and cooling systems, roof, wiring, foundation and pest infestation.<br />
<strong>Mortgage Rate </strong>–
The interest rate you pay to borrow money to buy your house. The lower
the rate, the better. Interest rates for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage
have hovered <a href="http://www.freddiemac.com/pmms" target="_blank" title="between 4 and 4.25%">between 4 and 4.25%</a> for most of 2017.<br />
<strong>Pre-Approval Letter</strong>
– A letter from a mortgage lender indicating that you qualify for a
mortgage of a specific amount. It also shows a home seller that you're a
serious buyer. Having a <a href="http://www.mykcm.com/2017/01/16/why-pre-approval-should-be-your-first-step/" title="pre-approval letter">pre-approval letter</a> in hand while shopping for homes can help you move faster, and with greater confidence, in competitive markets.<br />
<strong>Primary Mortgage Insurance (PMI)</strong>
– If you make a down payment lower than 20% on your conventional loan,
your lender will require PMI, typically at a rate of .51%. PMI serves as
an added insurance policy that protects the lender if you are unable to
pay your mortgage and can be cancelled from your payment once you reach
20% equity in your home. For more information on how PMI can impact
your monthly housing cost, <a href="http://www.mykcm.com/2017/05/02/get-all-the-facts-about-pmi" title="click here">click here</a>.<br />
<strong>Real Estate Professional</strong> – An <a href="http://www.mykcm.com/2016/11/28/5-reasons-to-hire-a-real-estate-professional-when-buying-selling/" title="individual who provides services">individual who provides services</a>
in buying and selling homes. Real estate professionals are there to
help you through the confusing paperwork, to help you find your dream
home, to negotiate any of the details that come up, and to help make
sure that you know exactly what’s going on in the housing market. Real
estate professionals can refer you to local lenders or mortgage brokers
along with other specialists that you will need throughout the
home-buying process.<br />
<h4>
<strong>The best way to ensure that your
home-buying process is a confident one is to find a real estate
professional who will guide you through every aspect of the transaction
with <em>‘the heart of a teacher,’ </em>and who puts your family’s needs first.</strong></h4>
</div>
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</article></div>
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"<a href="http://ow.ly/68Oe30boTz2">Buying a Home? Do You Know the Lingo? </a>"-Jack Ottohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16150828739198323142noreply@blogger.com0Bellingham, WA, USA48.7519112 -122.4786854000000248.5844097 -122.80140890000001 48.9194127 -122.15596190000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2647950230503380495.post-24244975801055866922017-04-28T09:00:00.000-07:002017-04-28T09:00:06.179-07:00Homes Are Selling Fast! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3v1g4fHgaL4/WQNmYjK-8GI/AAAAAAAAGsY/q5Ovpl3NkdIDUPnbkYZeUekLnI-mciJBACLcB/s1600/20170428-Days-on-the-Market-STM-1046x1354.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3v1g4fHgaL4/WQNmYjK-8GI/AAAAAAAAGsY/q5Ovpl3NkdIDUPnbkYZeUekLnI-mciJBACLcB/s640/20170428-Days-on-the-Market-STM-1046x1354.jpg" width="492" /></a></div>
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In some markets like Bellingham and Whatcom county, homes are selling in a matter of days. Are you thinking of selling? Call me to learn how I leverage social media to get you maximum exposure!!</div>
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Jack Otto</div>
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eXp Realty</div>
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Bellingham, WA</div>
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206-388-6102</div>
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#1 Agent in Social Media in Washington</div>
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(ranked weekly by Mondinion.com)</div>
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<br />Jack Ottohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16150828739198323142noreply@blogger.com0Bellingham, WA, USA48.7519112 -122.4786854000000248.5844097 -122.80140890000001 48.9194127 -122.15596190000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2647950230503380495.post-10911379612474748472017-04-21T09:06:00.000-07:002017-04-21T09:06:08.938-07:00Slaying Home Buying Myths [INFOGRAPHIC]<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-STxomf2G8KE/WPotjmzSQCI/AAAAAAAAGdM/9-lf_0rEqYAVoyUv1clXpXYdzKMzMQUtgCLcB/s1600/Slaying-Myths-STM-2-1046x1477.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-STxomf2G8KE/WPotjmzSQCI/AAAAAAAAGdM/9-lf_0rEqYAVoyUv1clXpXYdzKMzMQUtgCLcB/s640/Slaying-Myths-STM-2-1046x1477.jpg" width="453" /></a></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<strong>Some Highlights:</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: center;">Interest rates are still below historic numbers.</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">88% of property managers raised their rent in the last 12 months!</li>
<li style="text-align: center;">The credit score requirements for mortgage approval continue to fall.</li>
</ul>
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<br />Jack Ottohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16150828739198323142noreply@blogger.com0Bellingham, WA, USA48.7519112 -122.4786854000000248.5844097 -122.80140890000001 48.9194127 -122.15596190000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2647950230503380495.post-31966756502300775772017-04-14T08:44:00.002-07:002017-04-14T08:44:57.085-07:00Is Your First Home Within Your Grasp? <br />
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<article class="post-43864 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-first-time-home-buyers category-buyers category-infographics category-millennials category-move-up-buyers-buyers" id="post-43864"><div class="entry-wrap">
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<img alt="Is Your First Home Within Your Grasp? [INFOGRAPHIC] | MyKCM" class="attachment-entry size-entry wp-post-image" height="640" src="https://d8yi0qr1xsq5x.cloudfront.net/2017/04/11134052/FTHB-Demographics-STM-1046x1477.jpg" width="451" /></div>
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<h3>
<strong>Some Highlights:</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>‘Millennials’ are defined as 18-36 year olds according to the <em>US Census Bureau.</em></li>
<li>According to <em>NAR’s </em>latest <a href="http://www.realtor.org/reports/highlights-from-the-2015-profile-of-home-buyers-and-sellers" target="_blank" title="Profile of Home Buyers &amp; Sellers"><em>Profile of Home Buyers & Sellers</em></a><em>,</em> the median age of all first-time home buyers is 31 years old.</li>
<li>More and more ‘Old Millennials’ (25-36 year olds) are realizing that homeownership is within their reach now!</li>
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Jack Ottohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16150828739198323142noreply@blogger.com0Bellingham, WA, USA48.7519112 -122.4786854000000248.5844097 -122.80140890000001 48.9194127 -122.15596190000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2647950230503380495.post-3496764710841819212017-04-12T09:17:00.000-07:002017-04-12T09:17:03.206-07:00The Importance of Using a Professional to Sell Your Home<div style="text-align: center;">
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When a homeowner decides to sell their house, they obviously want the
best possible price for it with the least amount of hassles along the
way. However, for the vast majority of sellers, the most important
result is actually getting their homes sold.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Read the rest here: <a href="http://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/en/2017/04/10/the-importance-of-using-a-professional-to-sell-your-home/?a=231791-0b7756d6164c4cb25cd772e41d399a7a">"Importance of Using a Professional to Sell Your Home. </a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zh-TAzYZ0YA/WO5SRuBDx3I/AAAAAAAAGGc/-7JRmd6D6uIgY3w8X7L5IYu-AZX-Ngr6ACLcB/s1600/20170410-Share-STM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="348" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zh-TAzYZ0YA/WO5SRuBDx3I/AAAAAAAAGGc/-7JRmd6D6uIgY3w8X7L5IYu-AZX-Ngr6ACLcB/s640/20170410-Share-STM.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Jack Ottohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16150828739198323142noreply@blogger.com0Bellingham, WA, USA48.7519112 -122.4786854000000248.5844097 -122.80140890000001 48.9194127 -122.15596190000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2647950230503380495.post-24243832220699560432017-03-24T08:27:00.000-07:002017-03-24T08:27:07.217-07:00How Low Supply & High Demand Impacts the Real Estate Market <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xmg72E9vZa8/WNU6PQ1zMVI/AAAAAAAAFrM/vkkLuuQuYbAf5j4J4sMs0CSWvrGxFl-gQCLcB/s1600/EHS-Report-STM-1046x1641.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xmg72E9vZa8/WNU6PQ1zMVI/AAAAAAAAFrM/vkkLuuQuYbAf5j4J4sMs0CSWvrGxFl-gQCLcB/s640/EHS-Report-STM-1046x1641.jpg" width="408" /></a></div>
<br />Jack Ottohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16150828739198323142noreply@blogger.com0Bellingham, WA, USA48.7519112 -122.4786854000000248.5844097 -122.80140890000001 48.9194127 -122.15596190000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2647950230503380495.post-58855318057942138022017-03-18T08:46:00.000-07:002017-03-18T08:46:52.463-07:00Bellingham Area Home Spending an Average of 16 Days On Market.<div style="text-align: center;">
As we get closer to April I wanted to point out how the housing market looks already. The market never really cooled in the winter like it usually does. Homes were selling in days in late December and January. With record low inventory, there are several buyers for each home listed. So here is how the Bellingham and surrounding cities look today! <<img src="http://nwmls.stats.showingtime.com/infoserv/s-v1/7R59-Orh.PNG?w=400&h=300" height="300" width="400" /></div>
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Trust the #1 Agent in Social Media in Washington to get your home sold!!</div>
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Jack Otto</div>
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eXp Realty</div>
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206-388-6102</div>
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jack.otto@exprealty.com</div>
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jackottohomes.com</div>
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jackotto.exprealty.com</div>
<br />Jack Ottohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16150828739198323142noreply@blogger.com0Bellingham, WA, USA48.7519112 -122.4786854000000248.5844097 -122.80140890000001 48.9194127 -122.15596190000002