Phoenix Metro Real Estate and Community News

You’ll find the Thompson Group blog to be a wealth of information, covering everything from local market statistics and home values to community happenings. That’s because we care about the community and want to help you find your place in it. Please reach out if you have any questions at all. We’d love to talk with you!

Dec. 15, 2020

Non-traditional Retirement Options

Your house is quiet again, but you’re not ready for a quiet retirement? Consider these possibilities for the next stage of life:

 

Cruising Lifestyle

 

Some retirees opt for luxury cruise ship living on a semi full-time basis, with unlimited food prepared for them, maid service, entertainment venues, exercise options, access to health care, and the ability to see the world. Between sailing stints, they often stay with family or friends, rent a short-term apartment or a long-term hotel room.

 

RV Living

 

Many empty-nesters hit the road in their own little home on wheels. Some sell the "family home" and invest in adventure, spending their golden years exploring and discovering new places one road at a time.

 

Working Retirement

 

Some people decide to continue working to supplement their retirement income, make up for a lack of retirement funds, or to keep themselves mentally challenged and physically active. When deciding to engage in a "working" retirement, whether part-time, seasonal, or full-time, evaluate your location for friendliness to older workers and retirees.

 

Going Global

 

Many retirees decide to settle down in a foreign land, an especially attractive option if a lower cost of living and medical care is desired. Mexico is quite popular among these less-expensive locations, but other Central American countries like Panama and Costa Rica are also attracting interest. 

 

Co-Habitats and Multi-Generational Living

 

Tiny houses perched in backyards and apartments crafted out of easy-access walk-out basements afford retirees privacy, with the comfort of having family nearby when needed.

 

It's also increasingly common for co-habitation to happen in groups of older adults who share common areas and enjoy their own private spaces with food preparation, maid service, and healthcare all onsite.

 

College Towns

 

Some mature adults prefer to return to their alma mater or another institution of higher learning. In addition to a college town environment, these areas often offer access to great libraries, the arts, swimming, and athletic facilities, and sporting events. As an added benefit, many offer free college classes to seniors.

 

Interest-Based Communities

 

Today there are as many "interest group" retirement communities as you can imagine. Chances are, if you have a particular interest (from country music to flying planes to skiing the slopes to hanging out with aging free spirits) there's a specialty retirement community eager to welcome you!

 

Source: https://sres.realtor/blog/blog-home/non-traditional-retirement-options
Posted in Community News
Dec. 10, 2020

Homes Are Selling Fast!

According to Zillow, the average house is available for less than two weeks before it’s snatched up by a buyer. Today’s market is highly competitive, which is why it’s more important than ever to have an expert advisor in your corner when purchasing your dream home. Call me at 602-753-0177 to learn the secrets to making a successful offer in this fast-paced housing market.



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Posted in Market Updates
Dec. 8, 2020

7 great reasons not to wait to sell your house this holiday season

Around this time each year, many homeowners decide to wait until after the holidays to sell their houses. Similarly, others who already have their homes on the market remove their listings until the spring. Let’s unpack the top reasons why selling your house now, or keeping it on the market this season, is the best choice you can make. This year, buyers want to purchase homes for the holidays, and your house might be the perfect match.

 

Here are seven great reasons not to wait to sell your house this holiday season:

1. Buyers are active now. Mortgage rates are historically low, providing motivation for those who are ready to get more for their money over the life of their home loan.

 

2. Purchasers who look for homes during the holidays are serious ones, and they’re ready to buy.

 

3. You can restrict the showings in your house to days and times that are most convenient for you, or even select virtual options. You’ll remain in control, especially in today’s sellers’ market.

 

4. Homes decorated for the holidays appeal to many buyers.

 

5. Today, there’s minimal competition for you as a seller. There just aren’t enough houses on the market to satisfy buyer demand, meaning sellers are in the driver’s seat. Over the past year, inventory has declined to record lows, making it the opportune time to sell your house (See graph below)

 

6. The desire to own a home doesn’t stop during the holidays. Buyers who have been searching throughout the fall and have been running into more and more bidding wars are still on the lookout. Your home may be the answer.

 

7. This season is the sweet spot for sellers, and the number of listings will increase after the holidays. In many parts of the country, more new construction will also be available for sale in 2021, which will lessen the demand for your house next year.

 

Bottom Line 

 

More than ever, this may be the year it makes the most sense to list your house during the holiday season. Let’s connect today to determine if selling now is your best move.

 

The information contained, and the opinions expressed, in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. The Thompson Group does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision. The Thompson Group. will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on the information or opinions contained herein.
Posted in Market Updates
Dec. 4, 2020

The Winter Housing Market Forecast Won't Be Chilly

According to experts, the housing market is not forecasted to cool off this winter. Let's connect to make sure you're ready to enter the real estate market during the hottest time to buy or sell a home, call me at 602-753-0177.

 

Posted in Market Updates
Dec. 2, 2020

Have you picked out the house you want for Christmas?

With only 23 days left til Christmas, why not contact us to see how we can help with that! Give us a jingle at 602-753-0177!

 

Posted in Buying a Home
Nov. 30, 2020

Looking for something to do around Chandler this holiday season?

Looking for something to do around Chandler this holiday season? Put this on your calendar!  The Tumbleweed Tree Lighting Ceremony is Dec 5 2020 from 4:30 – 9 p.m.

 

Some things are simply synonymous with the holidays — pumpkin pie, peppermint mochas, gingerbread houses, and of course, the City of Chandler’s Annual Tumbleweed Tree Lighting and Parade of Lights. Every December, Mayor and City Council invite you to celebrate the holidays in Downtown Chandler. Behold the iconic Tumbleweed Tree, visit with the jolly man himself, Santa, and enjoy musical performances and glowing pageantry of lights. It's an evening of merriment the whole family can enjoy. 

Source: https://www.chandleraz.gov

Posted in Community News
Nov. 28, 2020

Thank You for Making Me Your Trusted Advisor

Thank you for your business, referrals, and your partnership for life. Let’s connect to continue down the path toward your homeownership goals, 602-753-0177

 

Posted in Real Estate News
Nov. 25, 2020

Need help finding your dream home?

There’s so much more to buying a house then appearances. Let us help you find your dream home, in your dream location. Call us at 602-753-0177

Posted in Buying a Home
Nov. 21, 2020

Thinking of Moving to Chandler AZ?

Let us help you find your new home, wherever that may be. Call us at 602-753-0177

Nov. 18, 2020

Questions to Ask Before Choosing an Active Adult Community

Every housing decision involves a complex set of factors, but moving into an active adult community adds several unique considerations. A real estate agent with the SRES® designation can help you sort through these and other factors when deciding on your next home:

 

Location

Do you prefer living close to family and friends or in a particular area for health or weather reasons?

Do you want to live in a smaller urban facility with minimal services, or do you prefer a more extensive, independent campus that meets all your social needs and offers numerous onsite amenities?

Do you plan to maintain one or more vehicles or prefer relying on your community’s transportation options or public transit?

 

Cost

Your options will expand or be limited by the amount you have saved and the money you receive from the sale of your existing home.

How much can you invest in your new community, and what is your monthly budget for living expenses?

Remember to include any homeowners’ fees when making your decision. Also, factor in any up-front move-in fees.

 

Lifestyle

What activities and amenities would improve your quality of life?

Do you want a residence close to a major city’s cultural and artistic events?

Are you interested in a “niche” community of people with the same interests, priorities, or beliefs?

 

Restrictions

Check the regulations for each potential community carefully for any restrictions that would negatively impact your decision.

Are pets permitted?

Will grandchildren or adult children be able to stay with you for extended periods?

Are you allowed to rent your property?

 

Tax and Financial Impact

Do your homework and seek expert advice. You may be able to save thousands and improve your retirement options.

How will a move impact your tax liabilities?

Is the community on solid financial footings?

If you have to pay a hefty up-front fee, will that be returned should you decide to leave?

 

Satisfaction

Does the community offer a trial stay or a short-term lease?

Determine your rights if the property is not being managed to your standards.

Read all the fine print and study minutes from homeowner association meetings or the management board.

Talk with the neighbors and make sure you are informed and comfortable before signing on the dotted line.

Source: https://sres.realtor/blog/blog-home/questions-ask-choosing-active-adult-community

 

Posted in Buying a Home