Well the market has shifted to the downside some more in 2011 versus same period in 2010.
Year to date residential sales(MLS) in Coffee County in 2011 were 159 versus 207 for the same period in 2010. The average price of a home in Coffee County did increase from $118,821 to $128,538. This in part was due to the tax credit in 2010 that was geared for first time homebuyers in 2010. The Median price also increased from $102,900 to $117,500 in 2011. Average days on market increased from 108 to 155, but due to some homes being relisted as new listings will tend to skew the average days on market statistic. The average number of homes on the market per day did decrease from 490 to 440 homes. Based on the current level of sales versus inventory, Coffee County has approximately a 14.6 month supply of homes.
May over May residential sales(MLS) Coffee County in 2011 were 30 versus 49 for the same period in 2010. The average price of a home in Coffee County decreased from $138,925 to $120,355. The Median price remained flat at $117,500. Average days on market increased from 100 to 146. The average number of homes on the market per day did decrease from 510 to 462 homes. Based on the current level of pending listings, Coffee County has approximately a 11.2 month supply of homes.
It is still safe to say that the area is experiencing extremely slow growth at this current point of time in the year. Typically real estate sales begin to pick up in the March-Sept months and trend downward through the remaining months. School sessions, holidays, and corporate relocations also impact the market.
With the current absorption rate in excess of 6 months the market is still in favor of buyers. Low interest rates also are helping those that are refinancing or purchasing at this time. Activity does seem to be increasing slighty from my perspective, but nowhere near the levels we have seen in the past.
One of the biggest misconceptions that sellers now have is that what they paid for the home affects the value. Too often at closings I am seeing sellers coming to the table with more money than the buyers. There are many reasons for this, one the market shifted(depreciated), sellers refinanced(cashed out), and demand for larger homes has diminished. It is hard to say what the actual impact each seller faces, as I dont know what is really included in the mortgage payoff. Is it the house, a boat, a car, education, other debts, or some consolidation of all.
What do you do if a Seller? Basically you have 3 options. 1. Stay put. 2. Take the loss. 3. Short Sale/Foreclosure. The last affects the credit worthiness of the individual and and can have further implications for the seller. Prior to the final choice, consult with a tax advisor or an attorney. In some cases mortgage companies will work with the individual on restructing the loan(loan modification). Each individual is different, so seek further advice. If you HAVE to sell, the one benefit is that you become the buyer in a favorable market.
What to do if your a Buyer? Take advantage of the market conditions. It may be a few years before the real estate market rebounds completely, I have no crystal ball for sure. Once the market does correct, and it always has(so far), interest rates will increase, supply will begin to decrease, and housing prices will increase. If you are renting now, you are buying…just not for yourself but your landlord. Get pre-qualified to see where you stand. Remember that real estate is a long term investment not a short term investment.
One source to search local area homes for sale is the public access site to the regional MLS(Multiple Listing Service) www.realtracs.com
Visit my site at www.JohnWOrr.com to sign up for your own personal real estate portal, or email me your home criteria and I can automatically keep you abreast of the market.
Whether buying or selling, or just want more information about real estate…”Just Call John”!
Figures are compiled from the Middle Tennessee MLS system, through May 2011. Source: Realtracs, Inc.
Filed under: Coffee County Tennessee, Coldwell Banker Snow and Wall, Homes for Sale, Manchester TN, Real Estate, Tullahoma TN | Tagged: Buying a home, homebuyers, Homes for Sale, Homes for sale Tullahoma, John Orr, manchester, manchester tn real estate, market conditions, real estate for sale, Tullahoma Real Estate | Leave a comment »