San Diego Real Estate Search
Area Real Estate News & Market Trends
You’ll find our blog to be a wealth of information, covering everything from local market statistics and home values to community happenings. That’s because we care about the community and want to help you find your place in it. Please reach out if you have any questions at all. We’d love to talk with you.
Home Sellers: Appeal To First Time Buyers By Knowing What They’re Looking For In A Home
Crowdfunding For Home Purchases On The Rise
For many potential buyers, one of the biggest obstacles on the road to homeownership is saving for a down payment. But thanks to a new technology trend, some savvy buyers are turning to their friends, family, and social networks for help. While crowdfunding has long been a popular trend, until recently it's been mostly limited to the business world. But according to a recent article in The Wall Street Journal, crowdfunding for home purchases is on the rise. There's even a crowdfunding platform specifically for homeowners. HomeFundMe is the first crowdfunding platform specifically targeted to potential homeowners looking to crowdfund a down payment. Potential homeowners are given 12 months to reach their down payment goal, and all funds are wired from an escrow account to the seller when buyers make their property purchase. HomeFundMe is still new (the platform launched in October 2017), but results so far are promising; according to the WSJ article, approximately 400 buyers have used the service to help crowdfund their home purchase since the launch.
The Takeaway
If you've been thinking about buying a home but haven't been able to save for a down payment, crowdfunding could be a way to make your dreams of owning a home a reality.
10 Home Trends That’ll Be Hot In 2019 (And 2 That Are OUT!)
Each fall, decorators begin to share the interior design trends we can expect to see in the new year. Looking ahead to 2019, bold colors, metallics, and statement ceilings take center stage. If you're planning to put your place on the market and want it to appear like the freshest spot on the block, you need to know what's hot and what's not.
1. Wallpaper stages a comeback
Put down that paint brush! If you're looking to add a splash of color or geometric flair to your rooms, wallpaper is a fashionable alternative that adds instant personality to any area. But if you're picturing your Great Aunt Polly's overwhelming floral patterns or you've heard horror stories about wallpaper removal, those days are over. Easy-to-remove papers come in an array of colors and designs that range from subtle to seriously jaw-dropping. Prepare to see plenty of wallpaper in 2019.
2. Making the most of the ceiling
Ceilings are often considered a room's fifth wall, so why not capitalize on that blank canvas? Whether you choose to add an accent paint color, wallpaper, or decorative beams, enhancing the ceiling draws the eye upward and can make a room appear larger — not to mention more interesting.
3. The color of the year...
If you still can't get behind the idea of papering your walls, give them a bold, up-to-date look with a fresh coat of paint. Which hue is a modern standout? Behr's 2019 color of the year is Blueprint (S470-5). Pair it with gray or other neutral tones and you've got a vibrant new feel.
4. Kitchen hoods slim down
For a while, kitchen hoods have been working overtime. Not only do they ventilate the room, removing odors and smoke, they also add a decorative flourish. From copper to brick and beyond, some nearly swallowed the space with their oversized appeal. Well, in 2019, hoods are going on a diet. Expect to see rounded, more slimmed-down designs.
5. Colorful kitchens are on the menu
Neutral, all-white kitchens are out as darker, more dramatic designs are finding favor with homeowners who are looking to spice up the heart of the home. Expect to see islands, cabinetry, and fixtures get an exciting, decidedly darker makeover in the new year.
6. Appliances go for gold
Remember when rose gold was having a moment? Well, it's over, and plain old gold is reclaiming the top spot. From faucets to fridges, decorators are imploring homeowners to go for the gold and give stainless steel the year off.
7. Metallic sinks make splash
Hammered metallics are the hottest thing in sinks according to designers. These fun and funky alternatives to your white farmhouse sinks often have a vintage vibe. Popular in kitchens, they're expected to make a big impact in the powder room as well.
8. Keeping it interesting with colored tile
Kitchens aren't the only rooms that are saying goodbye to neutral tones. Bathrooms are striving to be just as eye-catching thanks to bold tile colors. This trend might not appeal to everyone, but it definitely makes a trip to the loo more memorable.
9. Curvy furniture exudes comfort
Furniture with rounded edges beckons you to sit a while. Warmer and more inviting than couches and chairs with sharp lines, these comfy seating designs feel like a welcome throwback to a more casual time. Rectangular tables are out, and ovals are in. They're safer for households with young children, making them a popular pick for families.
10. Invite the outdoors in
Some say plants are like tattoos: You get one and you'll just end up wanting another. Greens give off oxygen at the same time that they add a nice pop of color, doubling their appeal. Tired of your artwork? Replace it with plants. Living walls will be all the rage in 2019. But if your green thumb isn't ready for a full-scale indoor garden, start with a few easy-to-maintain plants on shelves.
Trends That Are Out
1. Accent walls
"Dramatic-colored or wallpapered accent walls are no longer the focal point of interiors. Single-colored walls are making a much bigger impact by creating a balanced backdrop for furnishings and decor." — Kesha Franklin of Halden Interiors (via Elle Decor)
2. Cherry Cabinets
"Warmth in the kitchen is no longer achieved with this traditional go-to finish. Painted cabinets in deep blues, grays and black are dominating both modern and traditional kitchen designs." — Kesha Franklin of Halden Interiors (via Elle Decor)
Thinking About Purchasing A Home? Make A Move Soon!
The market hasn't been overly friendly towards buyers in recent months; low inventory and high competition has been driving up prices making it challenging to find and purchase property. But it looks like the tides are starting to turn towards buyers. If you've been thinking about purchasing a home, you're going to want to make a move. Soon. According to a recent article from Realtor.com, the signs are all pointing to an end to the hyper-competitive seller's market we've seen in recent years—and a major shift towards favoring buyers. Inventory is steadily rising (even in California, arguably the nation's hottest housing market, inventory was up 14% year over year), and price appreciation is slowing, which is all good news for buyers. But even though the market is just starting to shift, you don't want to wait to purchase a home. Mortgage interest rates have been steadily on the rise, and most experts agree that rates will surpass 5% by 2019. That increase can add tens of thousands of dollars to the cost of your mortgage.
The Takeaway
If you've been thinking about purchasing a home, don't wait. Take advantage of the changing market and still-low interest rates, and make a move now.
When Is The Best Time Of Year To Buy A Home?
One question that pops up constantly from both first-time and seasoned homeowners alike is "When is the best time of year to buy a home?" Potential homeowners want to know the best time of year to get the best home for the lowest price - and ideally, at a time that makes sense for their life. It would be great if there were a simple and straightforward answer, like "the best time of year to purchase a home is between April 1 and April 7." But unfortunately, it's not that simple. Let's take a look at the factors that play into answering the question "when is the best time of year to buy a home?"
Convenience
The first factor to consider when buying a home is convenience. This is particularly important if you have a family. If you have school-aged children, you ideally want to move in between school years, so sometime between May and August. Pulling a child out of school in the middle of the year can be challenging, and children might have a hard time to adjusting to a new school in the middle of the year. However, because so many potential homeowners have families that want to move during this time period, it drives up the prices, making the summer the most expensive time a year to buy a home. So, if your main concern is convenience for your family, then summer is a good time to buy - just be prepared to pay a higher price than you would at other times of year.
Inventory
If your top priority is having a lot of houses to choose from, you'll want to buy a house during the time of year when the most homes are on the market. That way, you'll have your pick of multiple properties and are much more likely to find a home that has all the items on your wish list. In most areas, the highest inventory peaks in the spring, right before the end of the school year. Inventory stays high throughout the summer and then starts to fall in early autumn, with the lowest inventory happening in late autumn and winter. If you want a variety of homes to choose from, look to buy in the spring.
Price
If your main goal is to get an amazing home at a low price, the best time of year to buy is when competition is low. When there aren't as many people looking to buy, it drives down the prices of homes, and you can purchase property at a significantly lower rate. On average, homes cost 8.45% less in January and February than they do in June, July, and August. If you were looking at purchasing a $500,000 property, that would bring the price down $42,250 for a sale price of $457,750. That kind of price drop could save you a significant amount of money over the course of your mortgage and lower your monthly payments. If you're looking to get the most house for your money, purchasing a home in the winter is definitely your best bet. The best time of year to buy a home is largely dependent on your needs and priorities. If you're looking to buy at a time that's most convenient for your family (and in particular, your children), buying during the summer is a great option. If you want to see as many homes as possible in order to find a property that has everything you're looking for in a home, you'll want to buy a home in the spring, when inventory is at its highest. And if your bottom line is you want to pay the lowest price possible, purchasing a home in the winter, when prices are significantly lower, will be the most advantageous. Just keep in mind that finding and purchasing a home takes time; while it happens, the chances of finding a property during the first week of looking for a home are slim. On average, people spend 30 - 60 days looking for a home and another 14 - 60 days from contract to close, so make sure to give yourself plenty of lead time to take advantage of the time of year that's best for YOU to purchase.
6 Ways Your Real Estate Agent Is Like Your Best Friend
You want to work with a real estate agent who's nice to be around. It's stressful enough buying and selling houses. No need to work with someone you don't get along with. But it's not like you're looking to be friends with your real estate agent...let alone best friends. More often than not, you end up becoming friends with your real estate agent. The weird thing is, you don't even realize how much of a friend you've become to each other, until you're done buying or selling a house. Sure, you both promise to keep in touch. And you do. But it's not the same. Here are 6 ways your real estate agent feels like one of your best friends.
1. Do I look fat in this?
Ahhh, that old question. Only a true friend can answer you honestly when you ask this question. Heck, a best friend will probably tell you even if you don't ask. Maybe your agent would too... But more importantly, think about all of the houses your agent talked you out of "wearing" because it didn't fit you quite right either. Your agent cared more about you, and how you felt in the house you bought, than just smiling, being nice, and saying, "You look great in this house!"
2. OMG, don't ever tell anyone I said that!
Your mother-in-law is a total pain in the ass. It just slipped out. You even used the word "ass" when you said it to your agent. It was probably at that moment you became like best friends. You knew, without even asking, that she'd never breathe a word of that to your mother-in-law, your spouse, or any other living soul. That was between you two. Your agent's got your back. And, your agent totally took that into account when showing you houses just a liiiiiitttttle bit further away from your mother-in-law's house.
3. You get a little jealous.
You see your agent's car driving past you on the other side of the road. Immediately, a smile breaks out on your face. You roll down your window and stick your arm out! You wave like a lunatic! But, as the car gets closer you see there's other people in her car. They're laughing. Having a grand old time. Such a good time that your agent blows by you without even seeing you, let alone waving. Was that another client?! Could your agent possibly be having that good of a time with anyone else? You feel a little jealous. Or is it hurt? You realize your agent needs to make a living, but, c'mon... are those clients THAT much more fun to work with than you?! You vow to figure out a way to buy and sell more houses every year so that you are his/her only client.
4. But, you still want the best for your agent.
You quickly realize it's impractical to be an agent's only client. And you start to remember how he/she truly wanted the best for you in your life...beyond even just the home you bought or sold. So, your jealousy is fleeting. You come to terms with it. You want him/her to be happy, even if it's with another person. But, you also don't want to see your agent out with any old clients, so you always make sure refer your friends and family who need to buy or sell — people you know will treat your best friend (strikethru) agent right.
5. You truly miss seeing each other.
While you were working together, you saw each other more than once a week. But once the deal was done, there just wasn't enough reason (or time) to get together every week anymore. You both promised you would get together, even after the deal was done. But then you realize it's been close to a year since you even grabbed coffee together. You realize that you truly miss hanging out together. You start to feel like it would be easier to get together if you'd just sell your house, rather than try and grab coffee.
6. You turn your agent's head.
You don't realize it, but every single time your agent drives by your street, let alone your house, he/she turns and looks. Why? For the off-chance you'll be outside, or driving out of your neighborhood? Just to catch a glimpse of you? Just to wave? No... Because you're always on your agent's mind. Even if you haven't seen each other in ages. Even if he/she is out having a great time with other clients. Even if it seems he/she is too busy to catch up and see you. Your agent is busy making a living in a demanding career...but NOT too busy for YOU. Your agent does truly consider you a friend. And like a best friend, your agent will always be there for you when you truly need real estate assistance of any kind. Don't forget that. 
Home Prices Up 7.1% From Last Year
Thanks to the historic inventory shortage, home prices across the US are on the rise. According to Core Logic’s May 2018 Home Price Insight Report, home prices across the US are up 7.1% from last year. That means a home listed for $250,000 in May 2017 would sell for $267,750 today—an increase of $17,750. And those increases are showing no signs of slowing down. According to the report, home prices are projected to grow another 5.1% by May 2019. Which means that same house that was valued at $250,000 just a year ago would then sell for $281,405.25—an increase of another $13,655.25.
The Takeaway
The lack of inventory is creating sellers’ markets across the US and driving up home prices, making now an ideal time to sell your home. If you’ve been thinking about putting your home on the market, you’re going to want to make a move soon and take advantage of these price increases before they start to decline.
The largest purchase you make in life may also be the best investment .
There are plenty of reasons to buy a home, but one of the main reasons is to build wealth. And if you own a home, chances are good that your wealth has gone up a few notches in the past year. According to the most recent Home Price Index Report from CoreLogic, home prices nationwide increased by 7% from March 2017 to March 2018. According to an April 2017 article from the National Association of Realtors, the median home price in March 2017 was $236,400. This means the average homeowner has gained nearly $17,000 in wealth from their homes over the past year. The major increases in home values are due, in large part, to the national inventory shortage which is creating serious competition and driving up home prices. But this seller's market can't last forever, and most experts predict the increase in home values will slow in the upcoming year.
The Takeaway
If you've been thinking about selling, now is the time to make a move and put your home on the market. With your property's increased value and a still-hypercompetitive environment, there's never been a better time to fetch top dollar for your home.
Get creative with your space!
Space-efficient work spaces are becoming all the rage these days. They’re great for maintaining privacy and uninterrupted workflow, and they can also be cozy and stylish as well. Here are some examples of a growing trend of miniature studios (for offices and living structures), that are small enough to fit in someone’s back yard. We’re fond of calling them, shedquarters. Whether you need your own getaway space, an office, an art studio, or a full on extra home, there’s something for everyone out there!
Kanga Room: Based out of Austin, Texas, Kanga Room has backyard studios in three styles: modern, country cottage, and bungalow.
The basic package is an 8x8-foot shed that starts around $5,900 and you can add on a bathroom, kitchenette, and front porch for additional cost.
Modern Shed: This Seattle-based company was founded by husband and wife, Ryan Grey Smith and Ahna Holder.
They create flat-packed prefab structures. Basic 8x10 sheds start at $6,900.
Weehouse by Alchemy Architects: The Weehouse Studio was designed by Minnesota's Alchemy Architects.
They start at 435 square feet, and include a main room and bathroom. It can be used as either a home office, guest house, or even a main residence.
KitHaus: The KitHaus was designed by Tom Sandonato and Martin Wehmann.
It is a modular site-constructed prefab housing system. The K-Pod is the starting model and measures 117 square feet. They also have larger models.
Modern Spaces: “Forts for grown-ups!" Yep, that’s how they describe them.
These come in four pretty boxy styles. A fully installed shed with a foundation and finished exterior starts at $6,000. On-site installation is currently only available to California residents.
Loftcube: Werner Aisslinger designed these sheds to make the extra space on top of city skyscrapers more productive.
He was able to fit a kitchen and bathroom within these 400 square foot glass-walled studios.
Modern Cabana: The sheds from this San Francisco company start at 10x12 feet, but they have full studios with kitchens and baths.
The basic model is perfect for a backyard office, with its sliding door.
Metroshed: The MetroShed, by David Ballinger, is a prefab, flat-packed model that starts around $6,000.
This a simple design is made of a cedar wood beam post frame with aluminum-frame sliding doors, and comes in 9x13 feet or larger.
Now is a good time to sell
There are plenty of reasons to buy a home, but one of the main reasons is to build wealth. And if you own a home, chances are good that your wealth has gone up a few notches in the past year. According to the most recent Home Price Index Report from CoreLogic, home prices nationwide increased by 7% from March 2017 to March 2018. According to an April 2017 article from the National Association of Realtors, the median home price in March 2017 was $236,400. This means the average homeowner has gained nearly $17,000 in wealth from their homes over the past year. The major increases in home values are due, in large part, to the national inventory shortage which is creating serious competition and driving up home prices. But this seller's market can't last forever, and most experts predict the increase in home values will slow in the upcoming year.
The Takeaway
If you've been thinking about selling, now is the time to make a move and put your home on the market. With your property's increased value and a still-hypercompetitive environment, there's never been a better time to fetch top dollar for your home.