Atlanta Condos For Sale

 4 Things To Expect from the Spring Housing Market

by

 4 Things To Expect from the Spring Housing Market 4 Things To Expect from the Spring Housing Market


Spring is in full swing, and the housing market is picking up along with it. And if you’ve been wondering whether now is the right time to buy or sell, here’s the inside scoop on why this spring may be a great time to make your move and 4 Things to Expect from the Spring Housing Market.

1. There Are More Homes for Sale

After a long stretch of tight inventory, the number of homes for sale is finally improving. According to recent national data from Realtor.com, active listings are up 27.5% compared to this time last year.

Look at the graph below and follow the green line for 2025. You can see, even though inventory levels still haven’t returned to pre-pandemic norms (shown in gray), that number is higher than it has been going into the spring market over the past few years (see graph below):


Buyers: This means you have more choices, and you can be more selective.

Sellers: With more homes available than in recent years, you’re more likely to find what you’re looking for when you move. And knowing that inventory is still below more normal levels means there will be demand for your home when you sell it, too.

2. Home Price Growth Is Moderating

As inventory grows, the pace of home price growth is slowing down – and that will continue into the spring market. This is because prices are driven by supply and demand. When there are more homes for sale, buyers have more options, so there’s less competition for each house. Rising supply and less buyer competition causes price growth to slow, but it should still remain positive in most markets. As Freddie Mac says:

“In 2025, we expect the pace of house price appreciation to moderate from the levels seen in 2024, while still maintaining a positive trajectory.”

And while prices aren’t dropping at the national level, every market is different. Some areas are seeing stronger price growth, while others are cooling off or even seeing some price declines.

Buyers: The slower pace of growth means prices aren’t rising as quickly as before – and that’s a relief. Any home you buy now is likely to appreciate in value over time, helping you build equity.

Sellers: While prices are still rising, you might need to adjust your expectations. Overpricing your house in a more balanced market could mean it takes longer to sell. Pricing your house competitively is going to be key to attracting offers.

3. Mortgage Rates Are Stabilizing

One of the biggest hurdles for buyers over the past couple of years has been high, volatile mortgage rates. But there’s some good news – overall, they’ve stabilized in recent weeks – and have even declined a bit since the beginning of this year. And while that decrease hasn’t been a big drop, stabilizing mortgage rates has helped make buying a home a bit more predictable. According to Selma Hepp, Chief Economist at CoreLogic:

“With the spring homebuying season upon us, the recent improvements in mortgage rates may help invite homebuyers back into the market.”

Buyers: When mortgage rates are more stable, it’s easier to plan ahead because you have a better idea of what your future payment might be. But remember, rates will continue to be volatile. So, lean on your agent and your lender to make sure you know what the latest mortgage rate means for you.

Sellers: Slightly lower rates that are starting to stabilize are encouraging more buyers to move forward with their plans. That’s good for demand when you’re planning to sell your house.

4. More Buyers Are Returning

With more inventory, slowing price growth, and stabilizing mortgage rates, buyers are gaining confidence and coming back into the market. Demand is picking up, and data from the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) shows an increase in mortgage applications compared to the start of the year (see graph below):


Buyers: Acting sooner rather than later could be a smart move before your competition heats up even more.

Sellers: This is great news for you – more buyers mean a better chance of selling your house quickly.

Bottom Line

Do you have questions about what the spring market means for you? Let’s connect and talk about how to craft your plan this season.

With more homes for sale, slowing price growth, and stabilizing mortgage rates, how will this impact your decision to buy or sell this spring?

Are Investors Actually Buying Up All the Homes?

by

Are Investors Actually Buying Up All the Homes?

Are you trying to buy a home but you feel like you’re up against deep-pocketed Wall Street investors snatching up everything in sight? Many people believe mega investors are driving up prices and buying up all the homes for sale, and that’s making it hard for regular buyers like you to compete.

But here’s the truth. Investor purchases are actually on the decline, and the big players aren’t nearly as active as you might think. Let’s dive into the facts and put this myth to rest.

Most Investors Are Small, Not Mega Investors

A common misconception is that massive institutional investors are dominating the market. In reality, that’s not the case. The Mortgage Reports explains:

“On average, small investors account for around 18% of the market, while mega investors represent only about 1%.”

Most real estate investors are mom-and-pop investors who own just a few properties — not large corporations buying up entire neighborhoods. They’re people like your neighbors who have another home they’re renting out or a vacation getaway.

Investor Home Purchases Are Dropping

But what about the big investors you hear about in the news? Lately, those institutional investors – the ones that make headlines – have pulled back and aren’t buying as many homes.

According to John Burns Research and Consulting (JBREC), at their all-time peak in Q2 2022, institutional investors (those owning 1,000+ single-family homes) only made up 2.4% of home sales. And that number has only come down since then. By Q3 2024, that number had fallen to just 0.3% (see graph below):

That’s a major shift, and it means far fewer investors are competing in the market now than just a few years ago.

Investors are clearly more reluctant to buy in today’s market, but why? The answer is largely because higher mortgage rates and home prices have made it less attractive for them.

The idea that Wall Street investors are buying up all the homes and making it impossible for you to compete is a myth. While some investors are still in the market, they’re not nearly as active as they were in past years.

Bottom Line

Big institutional investors aren’t buying up all the homes – if anything they’re buying less than they have been. Let’s connect and talk about what’s happening in our local market. There could be more opportunities than you think.

How does knowing investors are buying fewer homes change the way you see your chances in today’s market?

Food and Agricultural Giant Cargill Opens Midtown ATL Tech Hub

by

Food Giant Cargill opens Midtown Atlanta Tech HubIn November 2024, Cargill, a global leader in food and agriculture, inaugurated its new tech hub in Midtown Atlanta, marking a significant milestone in the company’s digital transformation journey. This strategic move aims to harness Atlanta’s burgeoning tech scene and diverse talent pool to drive innovation in the food and agriculture sectors.

Strategic Location in Midtown’s Technology Square

Cargill’s decision to establish its tech hub in Midtown’s Technology Square places it at the heart of Atlanta’s innovation district. The company has subleased a portion of the NCR campus on Spring Street, providing a modern workspace designed to foster collaboration and technological advancement. This location offers proximity to leading academic institutions and a vibrant tech community, aligning perfectly with Cargill’s objectives.

Job Creation and Talent Acquisition

The Atlanta tech hub is set to create over 400 highly skilled jobs in the coming years, focusing on areas such as data engineering, generative artificial intelligence, and SAP. As of January 2025, Cargill has already onboarded approximately 50 employees, with many hailing from the local area. This recruitment drive underscores the company’s commitment to tapping into Atlanta’s rich pool of technical talent to drive its digital transformation efforts. 

Leadership Perspectives

Brian Sikes, Cargill’s Board Chair and CEO, emphasized the strategic importance of the Atlanta hub, stating that Georgia’s business-friendly environment provides an ideal backdrop for the company’s investment in technology and innovation. Jennifer Hartsock, Chief Information and Digital Officer at Cargill, highlighted that the city’s thriving tech innovation ecosystem offers unparalleled access to expertise essential for advancing the company’s digital initiatives. Community Engagement and Future Outlook

Beyond job creation, Cargill has demonstrated a strong commitment to the local community, contributing over $1 million in the past year to support organizations such as the Georgia FFA Foundation, Georgia Mountain Food Bank, and local educational institutions. Looking ahead, the Atlanta tech hub is poised to play a pivotal role in developing digital solutions that enhance the global food supply chain, open new markets, and promote sustainability in the food system. 

In summary, Cargill’s new tech hub in Midtown Atlanta signifies a strategic investment in technology and talent, reinforcing the company’s dedication to innovation and community partnership in the region.

Cargill employees will have numerous living options in the Midtown Atlanta area. Some may choose to rent in one of the luxury apartment buildings. Others may see the value in renting vs. buying    

Those options can range from a Midtown Atlanta condo, many with in walking distance of the new office, or single family homes in areas like Brookhaven or  Chamblee. We are ready here at Thomas Ramon Group to help you find the perfect place to call home along with your new Cargill Tech Hub! 

Don’t Let These Two Concerns Hold You Back from Selling Your House

by

Don’t Let These Two Concerns Hold You Back from Selling Your House

Selling Your HomeIf you’re debating whether or not you want to sell right now, it might be because you’ve got some unanswered questions, like if moving really makes sense in today’s market. Maybe you’re wondering if it’s even a good idea to move right now. Or you’re stressed because you think you won’t find a house you like.

To put your mind at ease, here’s how to tackle these two concerns head-on.

Is It Even a Good Idea To Move Right Now?

If you own a home already, you may have been holding off because you don’t want to sell and take on a higher mortgage rate on your next house. But your move may be a lot more feasible than you think, and that’s because of your equity.

Equity is the current market value of your home minus what you still owe on your loan. And thanks to the rapid appreciation we saw over the past few years, your equity has gotten a big boost. Just how much are we talking about? See for yourself. As Dr. Selma Hepp, Chief Economist at CoreLogic, explains:

“Persistent home price growth has continued to fuel home equity gains for existing homeowners who now average about $315,000 in equity and almost $129,000 more than at the onset of the pandemic.”

Here’s why this can be such a game-changer when you sell. You can use that equity to put down a larger amount on your next home, which means financing less at today’s mortgage rate. And in some cases, you may even be able to buy your next home in cash, avoiding mortgage rates altogether.

The bottom line? Your equity could be the key to making your next move possible.

Will I Be Able To Find a Home I Like?

If this is on your mind, it’s probably because you remember just how low the supply of homes for sale got over the past few years. It felt nearly impossible to find a home to buy because there were so few available.

But finding a home in today’s market isn’t as challenging. That’s because the number of homes for sale is growing, giving you more options to choose from. Data from Realtor.com shows just how much inventory has increased – it’s up almost 30% year-over-year (see graph below):

a graph of a number of numbersAnd even though inventory is still below pre-pandemic levels, this is the highest it’s been in quite a while. That means you have more options for your move, but your house should still stand out to buyers at the same time. That’s a sweet spot for you.

It’s important to note, though, that this balance varies by local market. Some places may have more homes for sale than others, so working with a local real estate agent is the best way to see what inventory trends look like in your area. 

Bottom Line

If you’re thinking about selling, Don’t Let These Two Concerns Hold You Back From Selling Your Home! Hopefully these concerns haven’t kept you up at night. With this information, you should realize you don’t have to let the what-if’s delay your move anymore.

Let’s connect so you have the data and the local perspective you need to move forward.

What To Look For From This Week’s Fed Meeting

by

What To Look For From This Week’s Fed Meeting

You may be hearing a lot of talk about the Federal Reserve (the Fed) and how their actions will impact the housing market right now. Here’s What to Look for From This Week’s Fed Meeting.

NOTE: BE SURE TO CHECK AN ADDITIONAL PIECE OF INFORMATION BELOW! 

The Fed meets again this week to decide the next step with the Federal Funds Rate. That’s how much it costs banks to borrow from each other. Now, that’s not the same thing as setting mortgage rates, but mortgage rates can be influenced through this process. And if you’re thinking about buying or selling a home, you may be wondering about the downstream impact and when mortgage rates will come down.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you need to know to help you anticipate what’ll happen next. The Fed’s decisions are guided by these three key economic indicators:

  1. The Direction of Inflation
  2. How Many Jobs the Economy Is Adding
  3. The Unemployment Rate

Let’s take a look at each one.

1. The Direction of Inflation

You’ve likely noticed prices for everyday goods and services seem to be higher each time you make a purchase at the store. That’s because of inflation – and the Fed wants to see that number come back down so it’s closer to their 2% target.

Right now, it’s still higher than that. But despite a little volatility, inflation has generally been moving in the right direction. It gradually came down over the past two years, and is holding fairly steady right now (see graph below):

a graph of a graph with textThe path of inflation – though still not at their target rate – is a big part of the reason why the Fed will likely lower the Fed Funds Rate again this week to make borrowing less expensive, while still ensuring the economy continues to grow.

2. How Many Jobs the Economy Is Adding

The Fed is also keeping an eye on how many new jobs are added to the economy each month. They want job growth to slow down a bit before they cut the Federal Funds Rate further. When fewer jobs are created, it shows the economy is still doing well, but gradually cooling off—exactly what they’re aiming for. And that’s what’s happening right now. Reuters says:

“Any doubts the Federal Reserve will go ahead with an interest-rate cut . . . fell away on Friday after a government report showed U.S. employers added fewer workers in October than in any month since December 2020.”

Employers are still hiring, but just not as many positions right now. This shows the job market is starting to slow down after running hot for a while, which is what the Fed wants to see.

3. The Unemployment Rate

The unemployment rate shows the percentage of people who want jobs but can’t find them. A low unemployment rate means most people are working, which is great. However, it can push inflation higher because more people working means more spending—and that makes prices go up.

Many economists consider any unemployment rate below 5% to be as close to full employment as is realistically possible. In the most recent report, unemployment is sitting at 4.1% (see graph below):

a graph of a number of peopleUnemployment this low shows the labor market is still strong even as fewer jobs were added to the economy. That’s the balance the Fed is looking for.

What Does This Mean Going Forward?

Overall, the economy is headed in the direction the Fed wants to see – and that’s why experts say they will likely cut the Federal Funds Rate by a quarter of a percentage point this week, according to the CME FedWatch Tool.

If that expectation ends up being correct, that could pave the way for mortgage rates to come down too. But that doesn’t mean they’ll fall immediately. It will take some time. Remember, the Fed doesn’t determine mortgage rates. Forecasts show mortgage rates will ease more gradually over the course of the next year as long as these economic indicators continue to move in the right direction and the Fed can continue their Federal Funds rate cuts through 2025.

But a change in any one of the factors mentioned here could cause a shift in the market and in the Fed’s actions in the days and months ahead. So, brace for some volatility, and for mortgage rates to respond along the way. As Ralph McLaughlin, Senior Economist at Realtor.com, notes:

“The trajectory of rates over the coming months will be largely dependent on three key factors: (1) the performance of the labor market, (2) the outcome of the presidential election, and (3) any possible reemergence of inflationary pressure. While volatility has been the theme of mortgage rates over the past several months, we expect stability to reemerge towards the end of November and into early December.”

Bottom Line

While the Fed’s actions play a part, economic data and market conditions are what really drive mortgage rates. As we move through the rest of 2024 and 2025, expect rates to stabilize or decline gradually, offering more certainty in what has been a volatile market. 

HERE IS A SIDE ARTICLE WORTH MENTIONING:  

Mortgage Rates Set To Rise as Donald Trump Clinches Election Win

Planning To Sell Your House in 2025? Start Prepping Now

by

Planning To Sell Your House in 2025? Start Prepping Now

If your goal is to sell your house in 2025, now’s the time to start prepping. Even though it might seem like there’s plenty of time between now and the new year, you should get a head start on any updates or repairs you want to make now. As Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, says:

“ . . . now is the time to start thinking about what you need for your next home and then taking those steps to prepare to list . . . We have survey data that says 47 percent of sellers are taking longer than a month to get their home ready to sell, so getting them to start that process early can mean more flexibility.”

By starting your prep work early, you’ll give yourself plenty of time to get your house market-ready by the end of the year. But be sure to partner with a great agent before you get started, so you have expert insight into what repairs are worth it based on your local market.

Why Starting Early Is Key if You Are Planning To Sell Your House in 2025?

To get the best price and sell quickly, it’s important that your home looks its best. And that means it’s up to you to make the necessary repairs, declutter, and even consider updates that could add value as part of getting your house ready to list.

By starting now, you can tackle things one task at a time. Whether it’s fixing that leaky faucet, refreshing your landscaping, or painting a room, getting an early start gives you the flexibility to do the job right and with as little stress as possible. Because, if you wait to knock items off your list later on, they could quickly stack up and get overwhelming. As Realtor.com explains:

“There are some important repairs to make before selling a house, so don’t be in too much of a hurry to get your home listed … if you move too fast, buyers see right through the fact that you skipped important home renovations. And this . . . might end up costing you time and money.”

What Should You Focus On?

Feeling motivated to start chipping away at that to-do list, but not sure where to start? Here’s a look at the most common improvements other sellers are making today (see graph below):

The Importance of Working with a Local Agent

And while that data gives you a starting point, it shouldn’t be seen as a comprehensive list. What buyers want in your area may be different, and only a local agent will have this in-depth understanding.

For example, if homes in your area are selling quickly with updated kitchens, your agent might suggest focusing on minor kitchen improvements rather than spending money on other areas that won’t offer as much return. They’ll also help you figure out if tackling larger projects, such as replacing your roof or upgrading your HVAC system, is worth it based on other recently sold homes. As Point says:

“Not all renovations are created equal, and focusing on upgrades that offer the highest potential for increasing your home’s value is key.”

And remember, it’s not just big-ticket items that can have an impact. Your agent will also speak to some of the smaller details – like cleaning up your yard, adding fresh mulch, or painting your front door – to make a real difference in how buyers feel about your home. This type of expert eye is crucial to help your house sell fast and for top dollar.

Bottom Line

Thinking of selling your house next year? Don’t wait until the last minute to get it ready. By getting a head start now, you can ensure everything is in place by the time the new year rolls around.

Need advice on what to tackle first? Let’s connect. You can start with our Seller Information Page!

Thom Abbott

Associate Broker, REALTOR(R)
905 Juniper Street, NE Suite 110
Atlanta, Georgia 30309
770.713.1505 Direct
404.876.4901 Office

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

HomeSmart