Author Archives: siteowner

Is Now the “Sweet Spot” to Sell Your House?

The Answer is Yes!

If you’re contemplating whether it’s the sweet spot moment to sell your house, the short answer is a resounding yes. To understand why, take a glance at the current housing market inventory to find two compelling reasons.

According to an insightful article by Calculated Risk, the current data reveals a notable increase of 15.6% in homes for sale compared to the same week last year. This indicates a growth in inventory. Following national trends, El Dorado County saw a 20% increase in the number of homes for sale in January.

However, when we look back to 2019, the last normal year in the housing market, a stark reality surfaces – there are still nearly 40% fewer homes available today. This striking contrast underscores the favorable conditions for sellers in the current real estate landscape.

Here’s a breakdown of how this benefits you when you sell:

More Options for Your Move

Are you thinking about selling because your current house is too big, too small, or because your needs have changed? If so, the year-over-year growth gives you more options for your home search. That means it may be less of a challenge to find what you’re looking for. If you were holding off on selling because you were worried you wouldn’t find a home you like, this may be just the good news you needed. Let’s examine the current inventory to get a feel for options available in your desired areas.

Limited Competition

Despite the increase in homes for sale, the current numbers still fall short of those in a normal year. The data from Calculated Risk reveals a nearly 40% deficit compared to 2019, and this gap won’t be bridged overnight. While the number of homes for sale is improving, it still has a long way to go to reach pre-pandemic levels. With the right pricing strategy, your house should attract considerable attention from eager buyers, potentially leading to a faster sale.

Bottom Line

If you’re a homeowner looking to sell, now’s the sweet spot. You’ll have more options when buying your next home, and there’s still not a ton of competition from other sellers. If you’re ready to move, talk to a local real estate agent to get the ball rolling.

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Home Trends Buyers Love

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What are the latest home trends that are must-haves for today’s buyers? Are you curious about the features that make a home truly stand out? The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) embarked on a survey in 2020, exploring the evolving preferences in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. As homes transformed into multifunctional spaces serving as offices, gyms, and schools, the survey aimed to uncover how these changes influenced homebuyers’ priorities.

Check Out These Popular Home Trends

Overall Features: Among the multitude of potential features, the top twelve home trends that received the most favorable responses include a dedicated laundry room, exterior lighting, ceiling fans, ENERGY STAR rated windows and appliances, a patio, side-by-side kitchen sinks, a walk-in pantry, a charming front porch, and hardwood floors in the main living area. These features not only enhance daily living but also contribute to energy efficiency.

Kitchen Features: When it comes to home trends in the heart of the home – the kitchen, respondents prioritized side-by-side kitchen sinks, a walk-in pantry, table space for eating, a central island, and drinking water filtration. While some of these features might require remodeling, others, like water filtration, can be easily integrated.

Specialty Rooms: The survey highlighted the desirability of specialty rooms such as a dedicated laundry room, dining room, great room, home office, and a separate living room. Converting existing spaces to meet these needs can be an efficient way to create a home that aligns with current preferences.

Outdoor Features: For those who cherish outdoor living, the top five features included exterior lighting, a patio, front porch, rear porch, and a deck. Adding a porch or deck can enhance the appeal of your home, with potential for a high return on investment.

Green Features: With an increasing focus on sustainability, home trends such as ENERGY STAR-rated features, including windows, appliances, and an overall home rating, ranked high among respondents. While some improvements, like energy-efficient windows, are relatively straightforward, an overall ENERGY STAR rating for the entire home represents a comprehensive commitment to green living.

What’s the takeaway?

Whether you are embarking on a home buying journey or contemplating renovations, understanding these trends can guide you toward creating a space that not only meets your needs but also appeals to future buyers.

At The Melville Group, we’re here to assist you in finding the best mortgage options and turning your homeownership dreams into reality.

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Margaret Melville, 2023 EDCAR Top Achiever!

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Margaret has done it again!

The real estate market can be unpredictable. Standing out as a top achiever is a testament to skill, dedication, and commitment. Margaret Melville has not only weathered the challenges of the last year, but has excelled, earning the prestigious title of EDCAR Top Achiever (El Dorado County Association of Realtors)—sixteen years and counting!

What does it take to be an EDCAR Top Achiever?

What makes Margaret’s achievement truly exceptional? She has accomplished this milestone for an impressive 16 years in a row! This level of consistent excellence speaks volumes about her work ethic and the enduring trust she has garnered from her clients.

A photo of the rolling hilles of El Dorado County where Margaret is a 2023 EDCAR Top Achiever — Beautiful El Dorado County, California

Margaret is always looking to the future!

As we congratulate Margaret Melville for her outstanding achievements in 2023, we also celebrate the impact she has made on the lives of those she has served. Here’s to continued success, growth, and making dreams come true in the realm of real estate. Congratulations, Margaret, on this well-deserved recognition! We can’t wait for 2024.

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Bob Statham: Shoutout to ‘Bob the Builder’

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Today, we’d like to give a resounding shoutout to Bob Statham, a seasoned General Contractor with an impressive 50 years of invaluable experience. In the bustling Sacramento Metro area, where home improvement dreams come to life everyday, he’s a standout guy making a difference. Here at The Melville Group, we enjoy shining a spotlight on a great business.

Meet Bob Statham: Our Very Own “Bob the Builder!”

Bob is not your “ordinary” contractor; he’s a testament to a legacy built on dedication, skill, and a genuine passion for his craft. With five decades of hands-on experience, Bob brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to every project he undertakes.

Comprehensive Services Tailored to Your Needs

What sets Bob apart is his ability to handle a wide range of projects. From window replacement to painting, tackling siding and roofs, to taking on kitchen and bathroom remodels, Bob is a versatile expert.

Personalized Service: Bob Always Answers His Phone

One of the standout qualities of Bob Statham is his dedication to client communication. In an era where responsiveness can be rare, Bob is the exception. No matter the time or day, he takes pride in always answering his phone, providing a level of personalized service that instills confidence and trust.

Your Go-To General Contractor in Sacramento Metro

If you’re in the Sacramento area and in need of a reliable, skilled, and experienced general contractor, look no further than Bob Statham. His commitment to excellence, paired with a comprehensive skill set, ensures that your home improvement visions are in capable hands.

📞 Contact Bob Statham:

Phone: 916-247-6282

Email: interlynk@gmail.com

Website: www.vista-builders.com

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Valentine’s Day: 5 Heartwarming Ways to Celebrate Your Home

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Valentine’s Day isn’t just about romantic dinners and flowers. This year, why not spread the love to your living space? Here are five heartwarming ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day and give your home the TLC it deserves.

Check out these fun ideas!

Declutter with Love: Start your Valentine’s Day home celebration by decluttering and organizing. Clearing out unnecessary items not only creates a more visually appealing space but also promotes a sense of calm and tranquility. Donate unused items, organize closets, and tidy up spaces. Your home will thank you with a breath of fresh air. And you’ll love it, too!

Create a Cozy Nook: Transform a corner of your home into a cozy retreat. Invest in soft cushions, blankets, and perhaps a new piece of artwork. Whether it’s a reading nook, a meditation corner, or simply a spot for relaxation, make it a place that brings you joy. This small gesture can have a big impact on your daily life.

Aromatic Atmosphere: Elevate your home’s ambiance with the power of scent. Light scented candles, use essential oil diffusers, or bake something delightful in the kitchen. The right aroma can create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Consider scents like lavender, vanilla, or rose for an extra touch of romance.

Dress Your Home for Valentine’s Day: Give your home a “heartfelt” makeover with subtle decorations. Swap out regular throw pillow covers for ones with heart motifs, add a festive wreath to your front door, or fill a vase with roses.

Plan a Home Spa Day: Pamper your home with a spa day! Deep clean your living spaces and polish surfaces. Consider adding indoor plants for a touch of nature and better air quality. After all, a healthy home is a happy home.

It’s fun to love your home!

This Valentine’s Day, don’t forget to celebrate the one place that welcomes you with open arms every day – your home. By incorporating these heartwarming gestures, you’ll not only enhance the atmosphere but also cultivate a deeper connection with the space that shelters you. Show your home some love as the heart of your daily life.

Happy Valentine’s Day to you and your beloved home!

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New Construction Communities: Building Dreams:

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There’s no doubt about it: a new construction home can be irresistible! New home communities promise modern designs, pristine finishes, and the opportunity to be the first to call a property “home.”

While the prospect of a shiny, untouched residence is undoubtedly appealing, navigating the purchase in a new construction community can be a overwhelming without a knowledgeable guide. We can help!

In our current market with low inventory, purchases in new home communities are becoming even more desirable. We recently assisted buyers in a multiple offer situation on a new construction property. Yes, even new construction homes can face competition. With our expertise, we were able to craft the winning offer.

Consider these benefits of having representation when purchasing a new home.

Understanding the Builder’s Landscape

One of the primary values we bring to the table in new construction transactions is a deep understanding of the builder’s landscape. We have established relationships with local builders, enabling us to provide insights into the reputation, craftsmanship, and reliability of various construction companies. This knowledge is crucial for buyers seeking assurance in the quality of their investment.

Negotiating the Best Deal

Contrary to popular belief, the price tag on new construction homes is not set in stone. We possess the negotiation skills required to secure the best possible deal for our clients. From negotiating purchase prices to navigating potential upgrades or incentives, we ensure that the buyer’s interests are at the forefront.

Navigating Builder Contracts

Builder contracts are complex, often filled with industry-specific jargon and terms that can be overwhelming for the buyer. We are adept at deciphering these contracts, ensuring that our clients comprehend each detail before signing on the dotted line. This not only protects buyers from unforeseen surprises but also empowers them to make informed decisions.

Guidance through the Building Process

The construction of a new home involves multiple stages, from choosing floor plans and customizations to overseeing inspections and addressing potential delays. We serve as invaluable guides throughout this process, offering expert advice, coordinating with builders, and advocating for our clients’ interests every step of the way. This guidance provides peace of mind, allowing buyers to focus on the excitement of building their dream home.

Expertise in Local Markets

Beyond the construction site, we bring extensive knowledge of local markets to the table. We can advise on neighborhood trends, future developments, and potential resale value—a critical aspect of long-term investment planning.

The Takeaway

We would love to represent you in your next new-home transaction. It’s important to contact us FIRST, before visiting builder’s model homes. Builder requirements generally require buyers to have agent representation at the first walk-through of the homes.

Give us a call today to discuss your dream home and we can review local new-build communities to find the perfect fit for you!

From navigating the complexities of builder contracts to providing expert negotiation and guidance through the construction process, we are here to help you every step of the way!

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Insurance Rates are Rising

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The Impact of Rising Insurance Rates on Home Affordability in 2024

Insurance rates play an important role in a real estate transaction. Homeowners insurance payments, mortgage payments and property taxes all work together to determine the cost of a monthly payment and whether a homeowner can afford a home.

Unfortunately, homeowners insurance premiums have recently surged in price, which presents challenges for hopeful homeowners.

Insurance Rates are Rising

As of the spring, homeowners insurance premiums have seen an average increase of 21%. This substantial increase, combined with higher mortgage rates, could potentially strain the budgets of prospective homeowners.

With insurance premiums projected to continue to rise in the current year, finding affordable coverage becomes critical for those entering the real estate market.

Unfortunately, many prospective homeowners tend to overlook insurance costs until later in the home buying process, potentially leading to their monthly payments exceeding their budget. For some buyers, the costs are too high and they are forced to cancel the contract.

Increased homeowners insurance rates are particularly critical in California, where wildfires have caused many insurers to choose to leave the State altogether.

This oversight not only impacts individual homeowners but also has a ripple effect on various industry players, including mortgage lenders and real estate agents. Addressing the escalating insurance rates is an urgent priority for achieving housing-market stability nationwide.

What is the Best Strategy?

To navigate this problem, it becomes essential for buyers and sellers to consider insurance costs at the beginning of the home buying process. By proactively addressing this problem early on and seeking affordable, comprehensive coverage at the time of the offer, the impact of rising insurance rates on securing contracts can be lessened.

The Takeaway

As the real estate landscape continues to evolve, staying informed about these factors is key to making sound decisions in the pursuit of homeownership.

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Mortgage Rates: Unlock Homeownership

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Affordability Improved: The Impact of Falling Mortgage Rates

Recent information from Freddie Mac brings a breath of fresh air, showcasing a significant drop in 30-year fixed mortgage rates. Rates have slipped below the 7% mark since the end of October. This positive shift brings relief for both buyers and sellers, reducing the pressures on housing affordability, as reported in a recent Bankrate article.

Unraveling the Impact

It’s vital to understand the correlation between mortgage rates and your potential monthly home payment. Even subtle changes in rates can make a substantial impact on your budget and the manageable loan amount.

Let’s illustrate this with a hypothetical scenario:

You Need Experts on Your Side

This journey demands the expertise of seasoned guides. As your trusted local real estate agent with deep roots in the Folsom/Sacramento Metro area, I can shepherd you through the home-buying or selling process. Additionally, the role of a reliable lender is paramount. A responsive lender is vital to a successful transaction.

The Takeaway: There is Great Opportunity for Homebuyers

Let’s seize this opportunity together. Call today to begin a discussion about your real estate goals and we can prepare a strategy that works for YOU.

Let’s talk!

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Color of the Year from HGTV!

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The allure of persimmon trees is undeniable, with their leafless branches adorned by the bright fruits, creating a showstopping display that embodies the essence of natural beauty.

Every year, HGTV unveils a Color of the Year that sets the tone for design trends and inspires homeowners to infuse fresh energy into their living spaces. In 2024, the spotlight is on Persimmon – a bold and lively hue that brings warmth and a little bit of fun to your home.

The actual paint color is less intense than the flesh of a persimmon, but it maintains the lively exuberance of the fruit!

How To Use Persimmon in Your Home

Here’s a guide on how to embrace the lively charm of Persimmon throughout your living spaces. Let’s start right at the front door.

Create an Inviting Entrance: A Persimmon-colored front door not only adds curb appeal but also says, “Welcome.” Pair it with neutral exterior tones to let the vibrant shade shine.

Accent Walls for Drama: If you’re hesitant to go all-in with Persimmon, consider creating an accent wall. This powerful color can transform a room instantly. Choose a wall that draws attention, such as the one behind your bed or an entry wall.

Persimmon Pops in Furniture: Persimmon-colored furniture adds a great touch. A bold sofa, accent chairs, or even a statement coffee table can add a playful touch to the space.

Energize the Kitchen: Incorporate Persimmon into the heart of your home – the kitchen. This could be through bar stools, kitchen towels or even small appliances. The vibrancy of Persimmon pairs exceptionally well with modern or white kitchen settings.

The color persimmon on throw pillows and blankets

Lively Accents: For a more subtle approach, infuse Persimmon through accessories. Throw pillows, rugs, and wall art in this lively hue can breathe life into a neutral space. It’s an ideal way to experiment without committing to a larger color scheme. Give it a try in the entryway or powder room.

Persimmon in the Bedroom: Create a cozy and energizing atmosphere in your bedroom with Persimmon-colored bedding, throws, or curtains. This warm shade adds a touch of romance and sophistication to the space.

Outdoor Oasis: Extend the lively vibes to your outdoor spaces. Persimmon-colored patio furniture, cushions, or even an umbrella can transform your backyard into a vibrant retreat for relaxation and entertaining.

The Takeaway

Embracing HGTV’s Color of the Year, Persimmon, is all about injecting vibrancy and joy into your living spaces. Whether you choose to go big with accent walls or opt for smaller, curated touches, this lively hue is sure to infuse your home with warmth and personality.

Experiment, have fun, and let Persimmon be the star of your design journey in 2024.

Check out HGTV’s 2024 Dream Home, and see how their designers highlight this beautiful color!

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Buyer Demand Holds Strong: A Peek Into the Market

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With mortgage rate fluctuations, concerns about the real estate market surfaced. However, a closer look at the data reveals that buyer demand remains robust. While the market may not mirror the frenzy of the COVID ‘unicorn’ years, sellers still find opportunities in the current landscape.

Let’s take a closer look.

Showing Traffic Is Up

The ShowingTime Showing Index serves as a key indicator of buyer demand, showcasing an increase in home tours. Elevated showing traffic is not the sole testament to strong buyer demand. Additional factors like the number of offers sellers receive and the average days homes spend on the market further support this narrative.

Some Sellers Are Still Seeing Multiple Offers

Recent data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) indicates that sellers are, on average, receiving 2.5 offers on their homes. This suggests that the market remains competitive, with eager buyers making their presence known. While homes are spending slightly more time on the market than during the ‘unicorn’ years, they continue to sell faster compared to the last “normal years” in the market.

The Takeaway

The current real estate landscape provides sellers with a favorable environment. Potential multiple offers, coupled with a faster sales pace, demonstrate that buyer demand is alive and well. If you’re considering selling your home, now is a great time to explore opportunities. To navigate the process effectively, it’s important to give us a call to get updated information on your home and neighborhood. It’s our specialty!

Request your market analysis today!

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