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"Whatever makes you uncomfortable is your biggest opportunity for growth" - Bryant M. McGill
San Diego Real Estate
Illustrated in the chart below is a quick snapshot of what's happening in San Diego County as of May 4.
Last year at this time, the inventory of available homes for sale was 2,335 units, 13.8% higher than it is today. The 3-year average before COVID (2017 through 2019) is 6,190 units, more than triple where it stands today. Based on the first four months of 2023, it is projected that there will be 26,000 missing sellers in San Diego County when we close out the year. Many homeowners would like to move for various reasons yet are staying put and enjoying their low fixed monthly payments. Their home may not be exactly what they desire, but they love their current loan and interest rate.
Many ask: what will it take to have more sellers place their homes on the market? This will occur when mortgage rates drop to 5.5% or lower – when the gap narrows between the prevailing fixed-rate mortgage and that of the locked-in rates current homeowners enjoy. This is when those who have waited to purchase a larger home for a growing family, for empty nesters to downsize, or for family to move closer together will be incentivized to make the change. Until then, the 2023 inventory will continue to be constrained.
Where do the opportunities exist for buyers today?
Current members of the armed services and veterans have a unique opportunity to lock in lower interest rates with as little as 0% down payment. The VA loan program has removed many hurdles that previously made using this program a disadvantage: the borrower can now pay for a Section 1 (termite) clearance, loan limits have been removed (for veterans with full VA entitlements), and cash-out refinances up to 90% of the home value are available.
With conventional mortgage rates exceeding 7% in some scenarios, qualified VA borrowers can currently secure a 30-yr fixed rate of 6%, paying 0 points. with no mortgage insurance. If you are active-duty personnel or veteran and have any questions concerning your VA qualifications, please contact our preferred lender, Kip Davis, with First California Funding at (619) 405-8510 to discuss the process and review your personal options.
If you or someone you know is thinking about making a move in 2023, in San Diego or across the country, reach out to us today and let’s strategize a plan for the next chapter of your life!
Featured Listing
OLIVENHAIN
602 Sereno View Road
3 BD 4 BA 2881 SF $1,799,000 Discover the magic of this enchanting, mountain-like, A-frame cabin, tucked away on a spacious ½ acre lot in the rural and peaceful atmosphere in Olivenhain, just minutes away from coastal Encinitas. The living room with its floor-to-ceiling windows opens up to a wrap-around deck, seamlessly blending indoor/outdoor living and extends to a loft where the beautiful greenery views continue. This thoughtfully expanded home includes a primary ensuite with upper balcony access with 2 walk-in closets and a main floor features an additional ensuite opening up to the deck. The large lot with fruit trees and raised garden beds offers endless possibilities. This Olivenhain Colony gem offers the perfect blend of rural living and urban conveniences, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking a peaceful and serene lifestyle.
Recent Activity
Congratulations to our clients who solidified their next real estate adventure with accepted contracts and who closed last month! Thank you for trusting us with your business and your referrals. We are filled with gratitude to be working with people like you!
PENDING UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS
4 BD 3 BA 2016 SF $1,699,000 Representing Seller
PENDING MIDTOWN SAN DIEGO
2 BD 3 BA 1032 SF $759,000 Representing Buyer
PENDING MARINA
2 BD 2 BA 1273 SF $1,076,000 Representing Buyer
SOLD FALLBROOK
4 BD 3 BA 2748 SF $1,050,000 Represented Buyer
Local Happenings
MAY 5TH
If you're not celebrating Cinco de Mayo in San Diego, then what are you doing?! Celebrate in style with cultural festivals, folklorico dancing, authentic food, live mariachi music, and more. Click the button for a list of events. Click here for more info.
MAY 6TH, 2PM-5PM
Presented by San Diego Reader, Tacotopia takes advantage of our SoCal surroundings by gathering the very best taco vendors all in one place for an all-you-can-eat gastronomic experience. See those who are 21+ at the beautiful Golden Hill Park! Click here for more info.
MAY 14TH
It's no secret that moms run the world! Show her your love by taking her to one of these unique activities around San Diego! From dining, to crafts and experiences, there will be tons of things to "wow" someone special in your life. Click here for more info.
MAY 21ST, 1PM-4PM
Spend the day discovering and sipping the array of varietals produced in San Diego County. Unlimited wine tasting, charcuterie, music, and plenty of sunshine at the charming Bernardo Winery. Click here for more info.
MAY 28TH, 8AM-6PM
This is a perfect unique family-fun day! Enjoy the ‘Celebration of the Berry’ as hundreds of vendors, great food, a 5k & kids' run, fun activities, and more come to visit Historic Downtown Vista. Click here for more info.
Lifestyle Tips & Tricks
Ready to Remodel?
Here Are The Home Projects That Will Get You The Best Return On Your Investment
Even when they don’t buy a fixer-upper, most people will end up doing some amount of repairs on a new home. About 95% of homeowners said they plan to take on a major home improvement project in the next five years, according to a recent report by Real Estate Witch. However, only 50% said they can afford it at the moment.
Backyards Are The Must-Have Home Feature for 2023
A new report from Zillow names the backyard as a must-have feature of home-buyers.
25 Top Interior Design Trends for 2023
If you've been searching for the right opportunity to add more style, vigor, and comfort to your space, you'll appreciate this list.
Noel Wheeler
REALTOR
619-890-2877
DRE#01373389