2013 Will be a Pivotal Year in Lakes Region Real Estate

Post written by Frank Roche, President, Roche Realty Group, Inc.

…The Dow Jones Industrial average surged to a record high this week climbing to 14.344, past the highs seen in 2007 just prior to the onset of the financial crisis.

…Europe shares hit their highest level since 2008.

…Bond yields are at record lows and cash rates are almost at zero.

…A strengthening economy and loose monetary policy by central banks around the globe have certainly pushed U.S. stocks much higher this year. It appears the Federal Reserve is striving for growth and is willing to accept high inflation.

Add to this:

…Mortgage rates are at record lows. The 30-year fixed rate is hovering just above 3.5% which is even lower than it was in 1949, the year it was born! I can remember back in 1981 when we were quoting rates at 18%.

…Real estate inventory levels are shrinking around the country. There are approximately 1.6 million homes for sale which is the lowest level since 2001. The end result is that prices are being driven up nationally, especially in some of the hardest hit areas of the market crash such as Phoenix and Las Vegas. We’re even seeing headline feature articles like last week’s Bloomberg Business Week “The Great American Housing Rebound.”

So what does all this mean?

Real estate is now perceived as the place to put your money. The #1 asset class with record low interest rates, low prices for all classes of real estate, and ultimately higher inflation on the horizon. Real estate through low cost leverage works as an outstanding inflation hedge. 2013 is shaping up to be a transition year. Now’s the time to engage the services of a qualified Realtor® and start your search. The rewards will be there in the future!