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KellyCookHomes
6 Things You Must Absolutely Know Before Selling Your Arizona Home in 2023
(Information accurate as of August 30, 2023) In this informative video, we will outline six key strategies for selling your home efficiently and for the highest possible price in Arizona's real estate market. The first piece of advice is to focus on "curb appeal" – ensuring your home's exterior, including landscaping and paint, leaves a strong first impression. Next, we emphasize the importance of changing the front door handle to give potential buyers a positive tactile experience and impression. Matching hardware and fixtures throughout the house is the third tip, as uniformity adds a touch of sophistication. The fourth suggestion is to stage your home with your existing furniture and accessories, or with the guidance of a professional stager. Then highlights the importance of eliminating any odors from your home, emphasizing that even subtle odors can influence a buyer's perception. Lastly, on pricing your home appropriately, considering the market's feedback and being open to adjustments. We conclude by offering a free home value assessment to provide valuable insights and assistance throughout the selling process. If you're looking to sell your Arizona home, these tips can help you maximize your property's appeal and profitability.
$575 Million Astra Skyscraper Project Set to Transform Phoenix’s Downtown Skyline
(Information accurate as of July 26, 2023) In this video, we will discuss various aspects of the housing market, particularly in Phoenix, Arizona. There is a significant number of apartments set to be delivered nationally, which might lead to oversupply issues in some areas. Additionally, there is excitement about the construction of a new skyscraper in downtown Phoenix called Astra, which is expected to be the tallest building in the city. The video also touches on topics like inflation, small business optimism, and a new water park at the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort and Spa. Despite the slower housing market in July, the speaker emphasizes the resilience of the Phoenix real estate market, with prices continuing to rise. They suggest that it might be a good time to buy for those with a long-term exit strategy.
Buying a Home in Arizona | The Comprehensive Process
Arizona, with its stunning desert landscapes, vibrant cities, and a climate that appeals to many, is an enticing location for those looking to buy a home. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned real estate investor, navigating the process of buying a home in Arizona can be both exciting and complex. In this blog post, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of buying a home.
The State of Our Housing Market: The Latest Numbers You Need To Know
(Information accurate as of June 28, 2023) In the video, we will discuss the current state of the Phoenix housing market. They highlight the continuous increase in the average sales price per square foot, which has been ongoing since December 2022. We will attribute this rise to low supply rather than high demand. Also mentioned, that the Federal Reserve is considering raising interest rates, which has caused some uncertainty in the market. Despite earlier predictions of a housing market crash, the Phoenix market has shown resilience, with a significant recovery in median sales prices. While we don't expect a 20% appreciation rate, we acknowledge that the market has already seen a 9% increase this year, and double-digit appreciation is possible by the end of 2023.
Breaking Free: Escaping the Refinancing Conundrum and Finding Your Dream Home
(Information accurate as of May 22, 2023 ) In this informative video, we will address a common dilemma faced by current homeowners with low-interest rates but a desire to move into a better property. They explore three potential solutions. Option 1 suggests becoming a landlord by renting out your current property to offset the higher costs of your next home. This can help you build a rental portfolio and enjoy various financial benefits. Option 2 involves selling your current home and reinvesting some of the equity into your next property while also considering real estate investments to diversify your portfolio. Lastly, Option 3 is a more creative approach called "Subject to," where you transfer property rights to the buyer while retaining ownership of the mortgage. This allows you to pursue your next property without your credit report being negatively affected. Each option has its complexities and nuances, so it's advisable to seek professional guidance for further exploration.
What You Need To Know About Banks and Interest Rates
(Information accurate as of March 29, 2023 ) In the video, the discussion revolved around the impact of recent bank failures, particularly Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank, on the real estate market, especially in the Phoenix area. These failures are among the top three in U.S. history and have raised questions about their implications. One key point raised is the potential for a temporary window of opportunity for lower mortgage rates due to the economic uncertainty caused by these bank failures. Mortgage experts suggest that buyers might benefit from lower rates, allowing them to purchase homes before rates rise again, though the duration of this opportunity remains uncertain. It's important to note that the Federal Reserve's actions will play a significant role in determining the future direction of interest rates. This unique situation presents both risks and opportunities for prospective homebuyers in Phoenix, who have the chance to negotiate favorable terms and lock in lower rates, provided they are willing to act amidst market volatility and economic uncertainty.
Amazing New Developments in Phoenix
(Information accurate as of March 15, 2023) In the video, we will discuss various topics related to the Phoenix area, including an Airbnb bust during the Super Bowl weekend. According to Business Insider, over half of the Phoenix Airbnb homes were vacant during the event, with only 52% of short-term rentals being booked. The video delves into the reasons behind this low demand, attributing it to an oversupply of Airbnb properties in the area, as many individuals had purchased properties as investments, anticipating high returns. We will also touch on the potential consequences for those who bought properties in 2022 without substantial equity, hinting at possible opportunities for long-term Airbnb investors. Additionally, the video covers news about a new sports complex and hotel development in Glendale, the Phoenician Resort ranking as the number two resort in the country, and plans for adding apartments and office space to iconic Phoenix malls. Viewers are encouraged to subscribe for more insights into the Phoenix real estate market.
Phoenix, AZ: The Top 21 New Developments that will Impact the Valley’s Future!
(Information accurate as of February 17, 2023) Are you looking to buy, sell, or invest in the greater Phoenix area? If so, you’re sure to be excited by all of the fantastic developments going on. Major new businesses are either moving in or expanding their operations in Phoenix. Everything from agribusiness to new hotels to electric vehicles are either coming to or growing in Phoenix. I’ve got a list of the most significant developments in the Phoenix area for you today, and you will not want to miss it.
What’s Happening With Phoenix Home Prices?
(Information accurate as of October 21, 2022) In the current housing market, there's a barrage of perplexing terminology, such as appreciation, depreciation, and deceleration, leaving many scratching their heads. To shed light on these concepts and their relevance to today's real estate landscape, this blog post aims to demystify each term. By the end, you'll have a clearer understanding of how these factors interplay in our housing market's current dynamics.
Net Worth of a Homeowner vs. A Renter
(Information accurate as of October 18, 2022) In this informative video, we highlight a startling statistic: the vast disparity in net worth between homeowners and renters in America. According to data from 2021, the average net worth of a homeowner was an impressive $300,000, while that of a renter was a mere $8,000 – a staggering 40-fold difference. The key takeaway here is that owning a home is the most crucial step in increasing your net worth. Over time, homeowners benefit from both principal buy-down and asset appreciation, making it a wise long-term investment. The host encourages viewers to consider purchasing a property for themselves to live in, emphasizing that renting essentially means paying 100% interest, as it doesn't contribute to building wealth. So, if you're looking to grow your net worth, the message is clear: take the first step towards homeownership.
How You Can Fight Rising Rates
(Information accurate as of August 9, 2022) In a time when interest rates are on the rise and home affordability is becoming a growing concern, it's natural to feel discouraged about your home-buying prospects. However, there's a promising solution that can turn the tide in your favor. This secret weapon, offers a chance to lower your interest rate, secure your dream home, and do it all without dipping into your savings. So, before you throw in the towel, keep your hopes alive and discover this game-changing strategy for homebuyers.
Take Advantage of Your Home’s Equity
(Information accurate as June 1, 2022) The debate between a home equity line of credit (HELOC) and a cash-out refinance is unraveled. We aim to shed light on the distinctions between these two financial options, their optimal use cases, and how to determine which suits your specific circumstances best. One noteworthy point highlighted in the video is that the interest accrued on a HELOC can be tax-deductible if it is used for home improvements, making it an attractive choice for homeowners looking to enhance their living space. For a more in-depth exploration of this topic, be sure to check out the full video.
What We Do for Buyers in this Market
(Information accurate as of 4/26/22) Buying a home in today's market, especially in high-appreciation areas like Phoenix, Arizona, can be a challenging and competitive experience. The Greater Phoenix area and its surroundings are witnessing a surge in demand for properties, making it essential to have the right professional by your side when making a purchase. In this highly competitive market, it's crucial to rely on experts who can help you secure the best deal possible. In the following paragraphs, we'll explore how professionals can assist clients in achieving success in this competitive housing market.
Are We Heading for a Recession?
(Information accurate as of 4/14/22) In the current landscape, the buzzword on everyone's lips is the potential arrival of a recession. The burning question: is it on the horizon, and if so, when will it hit? While no one possesses a crystal ball for precise predictions, there are indicators hinting at what the near future might hold. This recession speculation has taken center stage in the media and news outlets, and it's a topic that's hard to escape. In this blog post, we'll delve into some of the data and facts surrounding this hot-button issue to shed light on the looming economic uncertainty. What is a recession? In essence, a recession is a term often thrown around, but its technical definition involves two consecutive quarters of negative GDP growth, where the gross domestic product shrinks. While there might be room for interpretation and varying perspectives on what constitutes a recession, this definition provides a clear framework for understanding the concept. To gain a deeper insight, we'll explore two critical factors contributing to the dynamics of a recession. Two Major Factors There are two pivotal factors at the forefront of discussions regarding the possibility of an impending recession. Firstly, the Federal Reserve's intention to raise interest rates takes center stage, primarily driven by concerns over mounting inflation. This move is seen as their primary tool to combat inflationary pressures. Secondly, the inverted yield curve has become a hot topic of discussion. In a normal scenario, long-term debt instruments yield higher returns compared to their short-term counterparts. However, when the yield curve inverts, it signifies a situation where short-term debt instruments yield more than long-term ones, a phenomenon that raises concerns and warrants closer examination as it can have significant economic implications. Yield Curve Inverted The inversion of the yield curve is a critical indicator often associated with the looming specter of a recession. This phenomenon occurs when short-term debt instruments yield more than their long-term counterparts, assuming both share similar credit risk profiles. On March 29th, such an inversion occurred, triggering widespread concerns about an impending recession. Historical data indeed show a strong correlation between yield curve inversions and subsequent recessions in the majority of cases. However, it's important to note that this indicator is not foolproof. There have been instances, notably in 1998 and 2016, where an inversion didn't lead to a recession. While the yield curve inversion raises valid concerns, it's not the sole determinant of future economic outcomes, and predicting a recession remains a complex task. Short-term vs Long-term Yields When assessing the yield curve, economists primarily focus on the difference between short-term and long-term treasury yields, often comparing a two-year treasury yield to a ten-year treasury yield. However, some opt for a more short-term approach, examining the three-month treasury yield against the 10-year treasury yield. While this three-month approach is used for yield curve predictions, it's worth noting that it's considered less accurate or foolproof than the two-year versus ten-year comparison. In the past, there were two instances in 1967 and 1998 where the yield curve inverted with this approach, but no recession followed. This underlines the complexity and occasional unpredictability of using yield curve inversions as a recession indicator. Short-term vs Long-term Spread Currently, there exists a healthy spread between short-term and long-term treasury yields, as outlined in the video. The three-month treasury yield stands at 0.67 percent, while the 10-year treasury yield is at 2.60 percent, creating a substantial spread of approximately 193 basis points. This favorable spread suggests a comfortable buffer between these yields. However, keeping an eye on two key factors is crucial: the trajectory of interest rates and the rise of inflation. The Federal Reserve has expressed intentions to raise rates multiple times, which could potentially exert upward pressure on short-term yields. This, in turn, may raise concerns about the yield curve inverting and the possibility of a recession. For now, though, there is room for maneuvering within this spread between short-term and long-term yields. Don’t get caught up For homeowners and investors, it's crucial not to be swept away by the tide of negative news surrounding economic uncertainties. The media often has a tendency to sensationalize events, blowing them out of proportion even when they might not warrant such extreme reactions. While it's important to acknowledge the seriousness of the situation, it's equally vital to maintain a balanced perspective and not be overly influenced by pessimistic narratives. No Repeat of the Housing Crash When it comes to concerns about a repeat of the 2007-2008 housing crash, it's important to note that the current economic landscape is fundamentally distinct. The conditions and factors driving the economy today are not aligned with those that precipitated the housing crisis over a decade ago. Therefore, experts and analysts widely agree that a recurrence of such a catastrophic event is highly unlikely. The economic fundamentals at play today offer a level of stability and resilience that should help to mitigate the risk of a housing crash reminiscent of the past. Mild Recession When considering the possibility of an upcoming recession, there are a few reassuring factors to keep in mind. Firstly, the likelihood of a recession happening in the near future appears to be relatively low. Secondly, if a recession does occur, experts predict that it will likely be less severe compared to the traumatic 2007-2008 housing crash, which had long-lasting repercussions. This offers some optimism for the economic outlook, indicating that any downturn may be milder and more manageable. It's essential to stay informed about these developments while maintaining a balanced perspective on the future economic landscape.
Why Buying in Phoenix Still Makes Sense
(Information accurate as of 2/25/22) In the face of mounting concerns about a potential market crash, the question of whether to wait before making a real estate investment has been a common inquiry among many clients. Addressing this query head-on, it's important to recognize that although prices have experienced a sustained upward trajectory, there seems to be no imminent crash on the horizon. In fact, the current market conditions in the Phoenix area suggest that opting to buy instead of rent remains a prudent decision. For a comprehensive understanding of the rationale behind this perspective, I delve into the topic in my most recent video.
Everything about Fairmont Princess Resort in Scottsdale
The Fairmont Princess Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona is a luxury resort that offers guests a relaxing and memorable experience. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a corporate retreat, the Fairmont Princess has everything you need for a truly enjoyable stay. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the resort, from its location and amenities to its dining options and activities.
The Ritz Carlton Residences Arizona: A Luxury Oasis in the Desert
The Ritz Carlton Residences ArizonaPhoto byKelly Cook. Nestled in the heart of Paradise Valley, Arizona, the Ritz Carlton Residences Arizona offers a luxurious escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. This stunning property offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and sophistication, making it the ideal choice for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience.
Nine Things You Need to Know Before Moving to Phoenix Arizona
Nine Things You Need to Know Before Moving to Phoenix ArizonaPhoto byKelly Cook. What are the nine things to know before moving to Phoenix? We’re here to talk about everything Phoenix and what it looks like to live in the 5th largest metropolitan area. Now, let’s start this list with everything you should know!
Cost of Living in Phoenix AZ
Have you ever wondered what the total cost of living in Phoenix Arizona is and how that compares to other cities across the US? We are going to discuss the cost of living with everything from property taxes to housing, to a night out on the town, to utilities, and everything in between. Phoenix now is the 5th largest metropolitan area in the whole country, and it will continue to grow. We are going to break down several areas that contribute to the ost of living in Phoenix Arizona. The first is housing, which of course is going to be the biggest expense of living in any city. Normally, housing should be about 28%-30% of your total income. Depending on which city you live in, housing expenses will range. Now, let’s rate this on a scale. The national average is always at 100. Phoenix housing comes in at 103.5, which is above the average according to that national scale. What makes up the housing costs? Owning a house or even renting contribute to the overall score for the Phoenix metro area. A few years back, the Phoenix valley ranked in the mid 90s, but with the shifting market and constant growth of the area, our overall score will be ranked higher. Phoenix, Arizona is becoming a destination for retirees and second homeowners.
Seven Pros and Seven Cons of Living in Phoenix Arizona
Seven Pros and Seven Cons of Living in Phoenix ArizonaPhoto byKelly Cook. Have you ever wondered what are the pros and cons of living in Phoenix Arizona? Today, we’ll be discussing several pros and cons of living in the great city of Phoenix, starting with the pros. Arizona is a very forward-thinking economy right now with corporate tax breaks and incentives, which makes the area very business-friendly for larger companies. Thus, this brings more jobs to the valley! Larger companies such as Apple, Google, and Uber are making their way here. Entertainment is another pro of the Phoenix valley. There are plenty of things to do here for entertainment, so you would never get bored. Even the sports culture here is phenomenal, we have all the major sports here. Along with the plenty of entertainment, there is to do around here, the food scene is incredible. The variety of food we have here is a great way to experience different cultures. Another pro to living in Phoenix is how amazing the outdoor activities are. We’re surrounded by mountains, almost 360 degrees around the Phoenix area. There are a plethora of hiking trails if that’s what you’re into. There’s plenty of area for mountain biking, outdoor ATVing, dirt biking, off-roading, and even kayaking and paddleboarding with several large lakes nearby, such as Lake Pleasant or Lake Bartlett. Kid’s activities and sports are normally year-round with the weather being warm and sunny, just make sure you stay hydrated in the summer!
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I deliver news to inform and educate people on all the different neighborhoods, communities, towns, and cities of the entire Greater Phoenix, AZ area. I have been a licensed realtor/relocation specialist here in Phoenix for 18+ years!
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