March 17, 2020
By the time this issue of the LocalsGuide is released, the situation in the world will have progressed in a way that is completely unknown today. All new territory. I want you to know we are thinking of you and we are here for you. We have developed resources over the years that will benefit you. If there is something that you need or if you don’t know where to find a solution, contact us. We may be able to help you with answers or research that will benefit your needs. I have been a leader in the Southern Oregon real estate market for 26 years. I have learned to be adaptive to markets, I am resourceful and solution-driven.
Our team has implemented solutions to keep all of us safe in this time of deep change by utilizing 21st-century technologies and reframing the traditional way of doing business. We have been social distancing and working remotely since March 2nd. Yet, we are still successfully listing and selling properties and coordinating successful escrows for clients, who we value so much.
At this time we meeting our clients digitally in online meetings using Facetime, Skype or Zoom. Our videographer creates a personal tour, led by a team member showcasing the home’s amenities, for each of our listings. This allows for 24/7 digital open houses for buyers. For buyers interested in other properties we take video or Facetime you from the property. Drone shots show the layout in the neighborhood or the terrain for homes with acreage. If and until additional restrictions of movement are put in place, homes will be shown with buyers riding separately in their own vehicle. We are respecting the recommended distance of six feet from each other at all times. Sanitizing products are diligently used and no surfaces are touched during showings. We thoroughly sanitize homes after every showing. If you have concerns or additional suggestions please contact us.
How is the Market Responding?
Buyer demand surged in February with countywide pending sales 62% above where they were this time last year. Interest rates for home purchases hit a 50-year low of 3 1/8 % mid-March and created further demand. Inventory has been low over winter and many sellers have prepared their homes for the new spring market. If you are a seller please contact us for our recommendations and best practices to sell your home in this market. We are busy with new listings coming on the market and with buyers eager to find new homes. If you are a buyer call us for our “Coming Soon” list of pre-market new listings. We will send you a digital tour and talk to you about the home and arrange a showing. Additionally, we have additional sources of homes that are hidden from the market. We are here to guide you through this process. You do not have to know how to do this, we do!
Our market is busy! People are choosing to move out of the more crowded cities and to less populated areas. Southern Oregon is a top choice especially for Californians, and people relocating from Portland and Washington. They are looking for a slower pace of life with an abundance of amenities. As we are confined to our homes, we are discovering we can get by on less and are settling into a new way of life. We have a new opportunity to look around and really think about how we want to live. Some are deciding to simplify further and some are deciding they want a larger home where their friends and extended families can come together. As a result, our real estate search sites are surging with activity. This is an important time. It is up to us to continue to build the lives we want and deserve, to come together, and to share our knowledge to help each other along the way.
Please call us to discuss your real estate needs and to formulate a strategy with us. We would like to hear about what is important to you and share our expertise to achieve your goals. We are here for you so please don’t hesitate to tap into our resourcefulness and our solutions.
Smart solutions create a stronger community.
Patie
Patie@AshlandOregon.com
www.AshlandOregon.com
541-301-3435
