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Good morning,
 
We hope this email finds you doing well!
 
In May, 742 homes sold via the Waterloo Association of Realtors (WRAR) MLS, marking an 8.1% drop from last year & a 20.0% decline from the ten-year monthly average.
 
In May, all sales categories declined, notably condo apartments. The condo market faced high supply levels, particularly challenging for sellers, especially for units with one or fewer bedrooms, where inventory surpasses demand.
 
Residential sales in May featured:
  • 467 detached homes (-1.3% from May 2023). The average price of a detached home was $943,859, down 1.9% from May 2023 but up 0.4% from April 2024.
  • 34 townhouses (-3.6%). The average townhouse price was $653,761, down 6.1% from May 2023 & 0.9% from April 2024.
  • 82 condominium units (-34.4%). The average price for an apartment-style condominium was $459,260, down 5.6% from May 2023 & also from April 2024.
  • 59 semi-detached homes (-13.2%). The average semi-detached price was $699,780, down 3.9% from May 2023 but up 5.1% from April 2024.
 
In May, the average sale price for all residential properties in Waterloo Region was $818,507, marking a 0.3% drop from May 2023 & a 2.3% rise from April 2024.
 
This spring, there's a notable surge in apartment-style condo availability, reaching a record high in listings. Simultaneously, we're seeing a demand shift away from smaller units, likely influenced by higher interest rates affecting investor interest in this property category.
 
Policymakers' recent rate cut Wednesday (lowering the benchmark overnight rate by 25 basis points to 4.75%), signals confidence in inflation & potential for further reductions. Variable-rate mortgage holders will feel immediate effects, while fixed-rate holders wait until renewal. Though a 0.25% cut may not drastically alter payments, it could mean around $88 monthly savings on a $600,000 mortgage with a 5.75% interest rate. Forecasts suggest TD expects two additional cuts this year, aiming for a 4.25% benchmark, while CIBC & RBC anticipate three, aiming for 4%. Such adjustments could translate to significant savings, around $349 monthly on a $600,000 mortgage.
 
With further cuts on the horizon, there's optimism for further transformation & positive impacts on the housing market. If you're considering buying, selling, or have questions about the current real estate market, contact us today. We’d love to hear from you!
 
becky@elitere.ca | drew@elitere.ca
519-841-6511 | 519-500-2805
 
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When you sell your property, you’ll want the experience to be as nondisruptive as possible, while also having plenty of qualified buyers interested in your listing. In the end, you’ll want the transaction to be completed without a hitch.
 
So how do you ensure that happens? Here are some things you can do to help:
 
  • Think of your home as a product - Potential buyers are more likely to become interested in a product that looks clean, uncluttered, and well-maintained. Make sure the front entrance is inviting and keep closets half-empty and organized. If you are in a house, make sure the exterior is appealing (shrubs and flowers go a long way with this).
  • Price it right - If it’s listed too high, potential buyers won’t come. If it’s listed too low, you may leave money on the table (potentially thousands). Setting the price will be one of the most important decisions you’ll need to make when selling your home.
  • Don’t be there during showings - If you’re there, some buyers may not feel comfortable and may leave before they have had a chance to become interested.
  • Be flexible - This is especially important when it comes to showing appointments, negotiations, home inspections, closing dates, etc. It’s okay to be firm on some things, just not everything.
 
With these tips in mind, you can better tame choppy waters that may arise and hopefully smoothly sail into a sale.
 
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Wondering what features top the list for today's homebuyers? According to a recent survey from Frontdoor, here's a breakdown of the most desirable home features room by room:
 
  • Kitchen: Granite or quartz countertops, recessed lighting, walk in pantry, and a double oven for easy meal preparation.
  • Living Room: Hardwood, large windows, and an open floor plan for seamless living.
  • Primary Bathroom: A soaking tub, walk-in shower, double sink vanity and a walk-in closet. 
  • Eco-Friendly Features: Smart lighting & thermostat, EV charging, solar panels, and a tankless water heater.
  • Throughout: Natural light, ensuite bathrooms, and storage, storage, storage.
 
As you consider your next home purchase or renovation project, keep these sought-after features in mind to enhance both comfort and resale value. Whether it's upgrading your kitchen countertops or installing eco-friendly amenities, incorporating these trends can elevate your home's appeal in today's competitive market.
 
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Saying goodbye to a longtime home is both bittersweet and deeply emotional. From quiet everyday moments to life’s biggest milestones, our homes hold countless memories.
 
When selling your home, an agent’s role extends beyond just the technical aspects. Here’s what to look for in a seller’s agent who will support you through this significant transition:
 
Expert Counsel:
Your agent should provide knowledgeable advice, ensuring your home is priced correctly and marketed effectively. They should also negotiate terms that are in your best interest.
 
Empathy and Support:
Most importantly, a seller’s agent should be an empathetic advisor, helping you navigate the highs and lows of this major life event.
 
Key Qualities to Seek in a Seller’s Agent:
  • Active Listener: An agent who pays close attention to your wishes, concerns, and hesitations.
  • Strong Communicator: Someone who keeps you informed at each stage and provides resources for any questions.
  • Emotional Intelligence: An agent who understands the emotional significance of selling your home, avoids pressuring you, and offers additional support when needed.
  • Solutions-Oriented: Real estate inevitably comes with challenges. Look for an agent who embraces a can-do attitude and actively seeks solutions.
 
Choosing an agent with these qualities ensures a smoother, more supportive experience as you transition to your next chapter.
 
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