Team Fosgate
Trusted News From The Experts

Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Don’t Miss This Prime Spring Window To Sell Your House

You haven’t missed your chance—spring is still prime time to sell. Data from Zillow, ATTOM, and Bankrate shows late April and May listings can net top dollar. Partner with a local expert to time your sale right and maximize your return.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

If the Asking Price Isn’t Compelling, It’s Not Selling

Unfortunately, a lot of sellers today are setting their asking price too high. That’s leading to an uptick in price cuts. Some of the most common reasons this is happening are that they’re not paying attention to current market conditions or they’re trying to leave room for negotiation. The best way to avoid this mistake? Lean on an agent. Let’s connect to make sure your house is priced to pull people in, not push them away.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

4 Ways To Make an Offer That Stands Out This Spring

With spring's arrival, the housing market heats up, requiring buyers to strategize to win their desired home. Key tactics include offering a fair price, using an escalation clause to outbid competitors, being strategic with concessions, and aligning your timeline with the seller's needs. Partner with a skilled agent to craft a standout offer.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

A Recession Doesn’t Mean a Housing Crisis

There’s a lot of talk about a recession lately and how the odds of one are rising. If you’re wondering what that means for the housing market, here’s what the data tells us. While you may remember the price crash in 2008, that’s not the norm. Looking back all the way to 1980, home prices usually rise and mortgage rates tend to fall. If you have questions about buying or selling a home in today’s market, let’s have a conversation.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Why You Don't Want To Skip Your Home Inspection

Skipping a home inspection is risky; it's a crucial step post-offer to check the home's condition. It avoids surprises, offers negotiation power, and provides peace of mind. Don't waive it for a competitive edge; other tactics can make your offer attractive. An inspection could save you from costly repairs later. What's your key question for an inspector? 

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Does Your Current Home Fit Your Retirement Plans?

Does your current home fit your retirement plans? With living costs up 23% in 5 years, many retirees are relocating to lower-cost areas to stretch their savings. Whether downsizing or moving closer to family, consider if your home supports your retirement dreams. Let's discuss how to make your vision a reality. 

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

The Truth About Newly Built Homes and Today’s Market

The increase in new home inventory to levels not seen since 2009 isn't alarming; it's a recovery from over a decade of underbuilding post-2008 crash. Builders are catching up to meet demand, not overbuilding. This trend provides more options for buyers, addressing the housing shortage. Nationally, this isn't a repeat of 2008 but a normalization of construction. Let's discuss local market specifics.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

House Hunting Just Got Easier – Here’s Why

House hunting is easier now with increased home inventory. According to Redfin's Chief Economist, it's a good time to buy with mortgage rates similar to two years ago and more choices. New listings are up 10.2% from last year, marking the busiest March since 2021. This trend provides more options for buyers. Don't miss out; consult a local agent for the latest listings in your area. What features or neighborhoods are you looking for?

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Things To Avoid After You Apply for a Mortgage

Once a lender has reviewed your finances as part of the homebuying process, you want to be as consistent as possible. Don’t make any big changes that could affect your mortgage application. Here are a few tips. Don’t change bank accounts or apply for new credit. And this one may surprise you, don’t buy appliances or furniture for your next home yet either. The best tip of all? Before you do anything financial in nature, talk to your lender first.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

The #1 Thing Sellers Need To Know About Their Asking Price

Sellers need to know that overpricing can backfire in today's market. With inventory growing, price cuts are high. Pricing right from the start, guided by an agent's market analysis, avoids lower offers later. Overpricing might deter buyers, prolong listing time, and result in lower sale prices, as data shows homes sell for less after 4 weeks on market.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Townhomes: A Smart Solution for Today’s First-Time Buyers

Townhomes offer first-time buyers affordability over space due to lower costs. Builders are increasing townhome options in response to demand, providing more affordable choices. Townhomes mean less maintenance and community living, appealing for those avoiding detached home upkeep. Consider noise from shared walls. If budget matters, townhomes can help with homeownership.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Here’s What a Recession Could Mean for the Housing Market

A recession doesn't guarantee falling home prices; in four of the last six recessions, prices rose. Mortgage rates typically decrease during recessions, aiding affordability. Historically, home prices continue on their current path during downturns.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

National Housing Trends To Watch

Nationally, the housing market has seen changes: more listings, slower price growth, and longer selling times. How does this compare locally? Let's connect to discuss the implications for your situation.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Buyers Have More Negotiation Power – Here’s How To Use It

With more homes on the market, buyers are gaining negotiation power. An agent is crucial for negotiating terms like sale price, closing costs, home warranties, repairs, fixtures, and closing dates. They help determine what's feasible, ensuring you get favorable terms without risking the deal. Having an agent is key to leveraging this situation.

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Chris Fosgate Chris Fosgate

Why Pre-Approval Is More Important Than Ever This Spring

Pre-approval is crucial this spring due to high competition in real estate. It helps buyers understand their budget, ensuring they don't overcommit, and makes their offers stand out to sellers by proving financial readiness. Start with pre-approval to be fully prepared for buying in this busy market.

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