Market Update

Recently I spoke with the manager of one of the larger Real Estate Companies here in southern Santa Barbara and we both agreed that the market has changed. It appears that the seller’s market may have peaked six to nine months ago, and many sellers aren’t too happy.

At the beginning of the year, this market was still hot, and a lot of homes that had been priced properly initially were selling over their asking price. But things changed, and some sellers may have missed the market. Right now we’re seeing lots of “price reductions” or what many listing agents rephrase as a “price improvement.”

Interest rates are through the roof. On Saturday, October 14, 2023, the current average 30-year fixed mortgage interest rate was 7.89%, increasing 3 basis points compared to this time last week!

Buyers who are able to find the home that they’ve always dreamed of might consider an Adjustable Rate Mortgage set not to adjust for 3 or 5 years at a considerably lower interest rate than the current fixed rates being offered. If you’re not an “All Cash” buyer you should thoroughly investigate the various financing offerings that are currently available. There are more than a few. Also, there are some sellers who have assumable loans at a very low interest rate that they acquired during the Pandemic real estate market, and listing agents should definitely include that information at the front end of their marketing. It can be a game-changer.

Sorry to rain on anyone’s parade but the following data tells the story. Whatever side of the coin you are on, buyer or seller, good luck out there. If you’re thinking of buying or selling we can help.

SANTA BARBARA REAL ESTATE MARKET TRENDS

HOMES AND ESTATES

CONDOMINIUMS, TOWNHOMES, AND PUDs (PLANNED URBAN DEVELOPMENT)

THE DATA BELOW WAS PROVIDED FROM THE SANTA BARBARA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS

ACTIVE, PENDING, AND SOLD STATISTICS FOR HOMES AND ESTATES

ACTIVE, PENDING, AND SOLD STATISTICS FOR CONDOS, TOWNHOMES, AND PUDs

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SOME ASSUMABLE MORTGAGE ANSWERS

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