Getting Ready for the Fall

With the fall market rapidly approaching, it is important to take stock and think about the next few months. Of primary importance to our industry, the upcoming Presidential race will have a significant impact on our markets, both in the short and long term. Buyers and Sellers are waiting to see what is going to happen before they make their decisions regarding buying and selling homes. Whomever wins the next election, there will be far reaching impacts that will be felt as people recognize how new economic policies will either stimulate economic expansion, or increase their tax burdens. Once the election is decided, I think we will see a flurry of activity, as a large uncertainty is removed from the public's collective planning.

Kids are going back to school ( hooray comes the chorus from parents all over the country ), so it is important to allow extra time during busing hours. Keep an eye out for those school buses, and whenever possible, donate your time to your local schools. Schools are the backbone of any neighborhood, and your involvement not only gets you great exposure, but also is a great way to really educate your clients on how the school system works and what schools have to offer. If you have a student, or know a student, be sure to support their efforts, praise their successes, and hug them through their failures. Education requires more than the school, it requires people who will keep students encouraged, accountable, and engaged.

Finally, the fall is a great time to educate people about the consequences of their choices. People who are in the market now, may not realize the tax implications of being able to close prior to the new year. If they do, then their closing cost write offs will be available this spring, maximizing their benefit for buying this year. We also need to emphasize what a great time it is to buy now. Don't let housing news bring you down. If markets are slow, then it's a great time to buy. For sellers, there is always a need for quality inventory. If you are realistic about your selling price, you can make up losses with the great deal you can get on your new home.

"Try not...do or do not...there is no try" - Yoda