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My Go To Coffee Spots
If you’re anything like me, a great coffee shop isn’t just about the coffee—it’s about the vibe, the people, and having a place you actually want to linger.
These are some of my go-to spots in around Vancouver that I keep coming back to:
- Di Tazza Coffee House– A longtime local favorite with a cozy, welcoming vibe. It’s the kind of place you can settle into for a while—great drinks, friendly faces, and consistently good coffee.
- River Maiden- This one is such a gem—beautiful, calming space with thoughtfully crafted drinks and food. It is also a plant lovers dream!
- Hidden River Roasters- My go to Camas stop! I also love all the creative things they do for First Fridays!
- Lava Java- This is for the true coffee snob! The setting is simple and the drinks are just amazing.
- Gold Cup Coffee House- A solid neighborhood spot with great coffee and a relaxed feel. Easy to pop into and always reliable.
- Cariño Coffee House- This one feels special. It’s a Mexican specialty coffee shop, so you’ll find drinks you don’t see everywhere—and the whole space is rooted in culture and community. Definitely worth trying something new here.
There is just something about a great local coffee shop that makes a neighborhood feel even more special. I love having a list of spots like this to rotate through depending on the day—whether I need a quick pick-me-up, a place to catch up with a friend, or a cozy corner to get a little work done.
And if you have a favorite I need to try, please send it my way—I’m always looking for my next go-to ☕
What’s Behind Today’s Mortgage Rate Volatility?
If you’ve been keeping an eye on mortgage rates lately, you might feel like you’re on a roller coaster ride. One day rates are up; the next they dip down a bit. So, what’s driving this constant change? Let’s dive into just a few of the major reasons why we’re seeing so much volatility, and what it means for you.
The Market’s Reaction to the Election
A significant factor causing fluctuations in mortgage rates is the general reaction to the political landscape. Election seasons often bring uncertainty to financial markets, and this one is no different. Markets tend to respond not only to who won, but also to the economic policies they are expected to implement. And when it comes to what’s been happening with mortgage rates over the past couple of weeks, as the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) says:
“. . . the primary reason interest rates have been on the rise pertains to the uncertainty surrounding the presidential election. Although the election is now complete, there continue to be growing concerns over budget deficits.”
In the short term, this anticipation has caused a slight uptick in mortgage rates as the markets adjust and react. Additionally, factors like international tensions, supply chain disruptions, and trade policies can drive investor sentiment, causing them to seek safer assets like bonds, which can indirectly impact mortgage rates. Essentially, the more global or domestic uncertainty, the greater the chance that mortgage rates may shift.
The Economy and the Federal Reserve
Inflation and unemployment are two other big drivers of mortgage rates. The Federal Reserve (the Fed) has been working to bring inflation under control, and has been closely monitoring the economy as they do. And as long as inflation continues to moderate and the job market shows signs of maximum employment, the Fed will continue its plans to cut the Federal Funds Rate.
Although the Fed doesn’t set mortgage rates, their decisions do have an impact, and typically a cut leads to a mortgage rates response. And in their November 6-7th meeting, the Fed had the data they needed to make another cut to the Federal Funds Rate. And while that decision was expected and much of the mortgage rate movement happened prior to that meeting, there was a slight dip in rates.
What To Expect in the Coming Months
As we look ahead, mortgage rates will respond to changes in the Fed’s policies and other economic indicators. The markets will likely remain in a wait-and-see mode, reacting to each new development. And, with the transition of a new administration comes an element of unpredictability. A recent article from The Mortgage Reports explains:
“Today’s economic indicators come with mixed pressures on mortgage rates and we’re likely to be in for a good amount of volatility as markets adjust and respond to the election . . .”
The best way to navigate this landscape is to have a team of real estate experts by your side. Professionals will help you understand what’s happening and can provide you with the guidance you need to make informed housing market decisions along the way.
Bottom Line
The takeaway? Today’s mortgage rate volatility is going to continue to be driven by economic factors and political changes.
Now is the time to lean on experienced professionals. A trusted real estate agent and mortgage lender can help you navigate through it. And with the right guidance, you can make informed decisions.
The information contained, and the opinions expressed, in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Keeping Current Matters, Inc. 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. Keeping Current Matters, Inc. will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on the information or opinions contained herein.
Is a Fixer Upper Right for You?
Are You Looking to Purchase a Fixer Upper, Let’s Talk About How to Be Prepared to Be Successful Buying a Property that Needs Some Work.
Looking to buy a home but feeling like almost everything is out of reach? Here’s the thing. There’s still a way to become a homeowner, even when affordability seems like a huge roadblock – and it might be with a fixer upper. Let’s dive into why buying a fixer upper could be your ticket to homeownership and how you can make it work.
What Is a Fixer Upper?
A fixer upper is a home that’s in livable condition but needs some work. The amount of work varies by home – some may need cosmetic updates like wallpaper removal and new flooring, while others might require more extensive repairs like replacing a roof or updating plumbing.
Because they need some elbow grease, these homes typically have a lower price point, based on local market value. In fact, a survey from StorageCafe explains that fixer uppers generally cost about 29% less than move-in-ready homes.
And that’s why, according to a recent survey, more buyers are considering homes that need a little extra work right now (see below):
If you’re looking for an option to get your foot in the door, and you’re willing to roll up your sleeves and do a bit of work, a house with untapped potential may be a good option.
Tips for Buying a Home That Needs Some Work
Before you buy a home that may need a makeover, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Choose a Good Location: You can repair a house, but you can’t change where it is. Make sure the home is in a neighborhood you like or one with increasing property values and a growing number of local amenities. This way, even after you spend money fixing it up, the house will be worth more later.
- Budget for Surprises: Fixing up a house can take more time and money than you might think. Make sure you save room in your budget for unexpected repairs or other unknowns that might come up while you’re working on the house.
- Get a Home Inspection: Before you buy, hire an inspector to check out the house. They’ll help you determine the necessary repairs, so you don’t end up with expensive surprises later.
- Plan Your Priorities: When deciding what to tackle first, it helps to categorize your goals. Think of your home in three ways: the must-haves (essential repairs), the nice-to-haves (upgrades that would make life easier), and the dream-state features (luxuries you can add later). This will help you prioritize and stick to your budget.
Remember, the perfect home is the one you perfect after buying it. By starting with a fixer upper, you have the opportunity to customize a home to your liking while saving money on the initial purchase price. With careful planning, budgeting, and a little bit of vision, you can turn a house that needs some love into your perfect home.
Real estate agents are great at finding homes with potential. They know the local market and can guide you to homes where smart upgrades can add value. With their help, you’re more likely to find a house that fits your total budget and has room for worthwhile improvements.
Bottom Line
In today’s market, where the cost of homeownership can be intimidating, finding a move-in-ready home that fits your budget can feel like a real challenge. But if you’re open to putting in a little work, you can transform a fixer upper into your ideal home over time. Let’s explore what’s possible and find a place that’ll work for you.
Have You Ever Seen a Housing Market Like This?
By Keeping Current Matters
The year 2020 will certainly be one to remember, with new realities and norms that changed the way we live. This year’s real estate market is certainly no exception to that shift, with historic highlights continuing to break records and challenge what many thought possible in the housing market. Here’s a look at four key areas that are fundamentally defining the market this year.
Housing Market Recovery
The economy was intentionally put on pause this spring in response to the COVID-19 health crisis. Many aspects of the common real estate transaction were placed on hold at the same time. Thankfully, technology and innovation helped the industry power forward, and business gradually ramped back up as shelter-in-place orders were lifted.
The result? Total transformation of the market from rock-bottom lows to exceptional highs. Today, the housing recovery is being called truly remarkable by many experts and is far exceeding expectations. From pending home sales to purchase applications, buyers are back in business and homes are selling – fast.
According to the Housing Market Recovery Index by realtor.com, the market has surpassed pre-pandemic levels, and has regained the strength we remember from February of this year (See graph below):
Record-Breaking Mortgage Rates
Historically low mortgage rates are another 2020 game-changer. Today’s low rate is one of the big motivating factors bringing buyers back into the market. The average rate reached an all-time low on multiple occasions this year, and it continues to hover in record-low territory.
When rates are this low, buyers have a huge opportunity to get more for their money when purchasing a home, something many are eager to find while continuing to spend more time than expected at home this year, and likely beyond.
Continued Home Price Appreciation
One of the key drivers of home price appreciation this year is historically low inventory. Inventory was low going into the pandemic, and it is still sitting well below the level needed for a normal market. Although sellers are slowly making their way back into the game, buyers are scooping up homes faster than they’re coming up for sale.
This is a classic supply and demand scenario, forcing home prices to rise. Selling something when there is a higher demand for what is available naturally bumps up the price. If you’re ready to sell your house today, this may be the optimal time to make your move. As Bill Banfield, EVP of Capital Markets at Quicken Loans, notes:
“The pandemic has not stopped the consistent home price growth we have witnessed in recent years.”
Increasing Affordability
Even as home prices continue to rise, affordability is working in favor of today’s homebuyers. According to many experts, rates this low are off-setting rising home prices, which increases buyer purchasing power – an opportunity not to be missed, especially if your family’s needs have changed. If you now need space for a home office, gym, virtual classroom, and more, it may be time to reconsider your current house.
According to Mortgage News Daily:
“Those shopping for a home can afford 10 percent more home than they could have one year ago while keeping their monthly payment unchanged. This translates into nearly $32,000 more buying power.”
Bottom Line
With mortgage rates hitting historic lows, home prices appreciating, affordability rising, and the market recovering like no other, 2020 has been quite a year for real estate – perhaps one we’ve never seen before and may never see again. Let’s connect today if you’re ready to take advantage of this year’s record-breaking opportunities.
Come Play Bingo for a Cause!
Looking for a fun event to do in March with the whole family? This month to give back, Erin Wright Homes is partnering with Habitat for Humanity for a fun night playing Bingo for a cause. Join us Friday, March 18, 2016 for a fun night of Bingo while helping support the Evergreen Habitat for Humanity. Games are $2 a piece and all prizes are valued at $25 or more! Complimentary snacks provided and beer and wine available for purchase. This event is family friendly, so bring your kids! Want to get even more involved? Join Erin Wright Homes for our Habitat Build April 2, 2016! We would love to see everyone there!
What: Bingo for Habitat for Humanity
When: Friday, March 18, 2016 from 6pm-8pm
Where: Clark County Habitat Store
10811 SE 2nd Ave.
Vancouver, WA
Please RSVP to Erin Wright by Wednesday, March 16, 2016 by e-mail at ErinWright@Windermere.com
or by phone by calling 360-356-1445
Hope to see you all there!
For more information on the Evergreen Habitat for Humanity, please visit their website at:
***Want to plan ahead for April’s Community Event? We will be doing a Habitat for Humanity Build with the Evergreen Habitat for Humanity on Saturday, April 2, 2016. We would love to see everyone there. This event is for people 18 years and older.***
Successful Pet Food Drive February 2016
Donations from February 2016 Pet Food Drive
Thank you to everyone who donated pet food during our Pet Food Drive for the Humane Society of Southwest Washington for the February Community Event with Erin Wright Homes. Clients, friends, family, and myself were able to almost fill the back of my SUV with donations for the Humane Society. Donations consisted of both wet and dry cat and dog food. All donations were delivered directly to the Humane Society in the middle of February. The pet food that was donated will help the Humane Society care for the over 8,000 animals they care for each year.
For more information on the Humane Society of Southwest Washington, please visit their website at:
https://southwesthumane.org/about/
Thank you again everyone!
* * * * * * Ending 2015 with a Celebration & Looking Forward to 2016!* * * * * *
Thank you for a Successful Share the Warmth Drive
and a Great Night at the Miracle of a Million Lights!
With 2016 already starting off with excitement and positive change, I want to take a moment to thank everyone for making 2015 a great year for me both personally and professionally. I celebrated many milestones in 2015; Winslow and I got married and started our life together, I was able to hire an amazing assitant, Jenny Vrtiska, and Erin Wright Homes was branded by the talented Megan Armand. December 11, 2015 marked a great celebration for a great year! I am so grateful for everyone who was able to come out and support Erin Wright Homes that evening and celebrate a wonderful year. I want to thank everyone for joining and for all the generous donations for the Share the Warmth Drive. I also want to thank all of my clients for trusting me with your real estate needs and for all your referrals. A special thanks to Jenny Vrtiska, Megan Armand, Simply Sweets, the Victorian Belle, and Leah Smith Photography for making the event increadibly special for everyone. Please see below for a collection of photos from the event that night. If you would like a copy of any one photo, please contact me and I can get you the full resolution version.
With referrals already coming in for 2016, I am excited to start this year off running. If you know anyone looking to buy or sell real estate in the future, please feel free to share my information with them. Your referrals will receive the same expertise, time, and care that I have given all past clients. I am fortunate to have the best clients in the world and look forward to serving all of you in 2016.
From my family to yours, wishing you all a great 2016!
Erin Wright
Tacos and Taps 2015: A Huge Success
Photo courtesy of Little Fern Photography
Thank you to my clients and friends who helped make Tacos & Taps a Success in 2015!
May 4, 2015 marked the 2nd Annual Tacos & Taps Event for the Clark County Food Bank. This year Tacos & Taps sold out weeks before the event and the night really delivered a great time with a meaningful message. Guests were able to enjoy creative tacos, great beer, and spectacular treats from local Vancouver venders all while touring the food bank and enjoying live music. It is a great event to help promote local businesses, support the food bank, and allow our Clark County neighbors a chance to really see how the food bank runs and helps support the community.
The event this year raised $31,100 for the Food Bank, an increase of 39% from the previous year. Additionally, the event featured 5 local brewers, 8 local chefs, and 1 local baker.
I would like to give a special thanks to the people who made this event a huge success.
Breweries:
Alameda Brewing, Mt. Tabor Brewing, Loowit Brewing, Doomsday Brewing, and Beerded Brothers Brewing
Chefs:
Herb N’ Roots, South Pacific Bar & Grill, Farrar’s Bistro, Wholes Foods, Beaches Restaurant & Bar, Main Event, New Seasons, and The Grant House
Bakery:
Simply Sweets
Photography:
Little Fern Photography
Decorations:
Michael Lampson of Lasting Impressions
Entertainment:
Blues Ranch
Scott Horenstein Law, Riverview Community Bank, Landerholm Law
Large Donors:
Windermere Stellar
Event Committee:
Allison Kirkland, Courtney Catt, Donna Horenstein, Erin Wright, Megan Dixon, Rebecca Bristol, Sam Clarno, and Sherri Falkner
To see all photos from this year’s Tacos and Taps event provided by Little Fern Photography, please click the link below.
http://proofs.littlefernphoto.com/tacosandtaps
Click the link below to see a video talking with the Director of the Food Bank and some of the vendors from this past year.
Things to Consider When Buying New Construction
Looking At New Construction? Here are a Few Things to Consider
By: Erin E. Wright, Real Estate Agent with Windermere Real Estate
Image courtesy of Stormtrooper at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
More and more buyers are turning to New Construction for their home buying needs. This is a result of the changing aesthetic styles, low inventory, and increase in New Construction communities around Clark and Multnomah Counties. For a buyer who is frustrated at what they are seeing in the resale market, New Construction can be a great solution. There are a few things buyers should consider when looking at buying new construction.
1. Choosing a Builder – There are so many builders to choose from in the Clark County and Multnomah County Real Estate Markets, not to mention other markets around the country. First, it is important for buyers to know their budget. Once a price range is nailed down, there will be a group of builders in that price range for the buyer to choose from. Obviously, the aesthetic appeal of the builder is important. However, there are other important factors to consider when choosing a builder. How well does the builder work with the buyer? If the buyer wants to make small to large changes, how does the builder react? What type of warranty does the builder offer? Who will make the repairs under the warranty if issues do come up? How easy is the builder to work with? Can a meeting be arranged with a builder? Some of these questions are easily answered when a buyer goes to visit the builder or builder's representative; this is often done at a model home. However, all builders would have you believe that they are the best, so it is important for buyers to do their research. I often send my clients information on builders from the BBB, Consumer Reports reviews, and other research that can be found online.
2. Working with a Realtor – One thing many clients do not realize, is that most builders have in house agents, or listing agents they hire to do their sales for them. This is the agent buyers normally meet at the model home. This agent is an agent of the builder. Their job is to sell homes for the builder. It is a good idea for a buyer to have their own Real Estate Agent to represent them in the transaction. Most builders will offer the Buyer's Agent a commission, so the buyer will not have to pay their commission. If a buyer has already decided to work with and chosen their Buyer's Agent, it is important for the buyer to mention that right away if they go in to visit a builder or model home without their agent. If a buyer does not mention it and ends up deciding to buy a new construction home, some builders will work with and still pay the Buyer's Agent. However, some builders will make it difficult for the Buyer's Agent to represent their client. This process is usually easier if there is a Buyer's Agency Agreement in place.
3. Negotiating a Deal – Builders do negotiate, however, it is not always apparent or easy to know how to negotiate with a builder. Most builders will get the price they are asking for a home, especially one that is not yet built. This is because the price a person pays for a home becomes public record. Therefore, if the builder sells one buyer a home for $5,000 less than the asking price, all other buyers will be able to find that information and use it as a negotiating strategy when buying their homes. Instead, builders tend to be much more willing to negotiate on finishes, upgrades, changes, and even closing costs for the buyers of their homes. Since these items do not become public record, a builder is much more willing to negotiate on them. To be able to effectively negotiate for upgraded finishes, changes, and closing costs, it is important to have a list of what is standard for the builder in the neighborhood a buyer is looking at. Once the buyer knows what is standard, then the buyer needs to decide what is on their dream list above and beyond what the builder already offers. It is usually a good idea to come up with several items with a total value of 1-3% of the purchase price. Buyers should include those items on their offer and expect to negotiate from there. More likely than not, the builder will not give the buyer everything they have asked for, but will agree to some of the items as part of the deal, thereby increasing the value of the buyer's home.
Image courtesy of stockimages at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
4. Picking & Paying for Finishes – Builders love to create beautiful model homes that showcase their ability to build a beautiful home. However, these model homes are usually filled with options and upgraded finishes that do not come standard with the home. When a buyer is out looking at a model home, it is always a good idea to ask the builder or builder's representative, what in the home is standard, what is an upgrade, and if the builder were to build this home on one of their available lots, what would they sell it for? It is also a good idea to ask if there is a price sheet available for all upgrades and options, so the buyer can see up front what each one will cost them. Now these are the items that can be negotiated on. However, it is important for a buyer to know what the finishes and options they like will cost them.
5. Inspection – Many buyers do not think it is necessary to have an inspection on New Construction. It is a new home, so everything must be in perfect condition and working order, right? It is rare for a home to undergo a professional inspection and not raise issues, this includes new construction. It is important to have an inspection once the home is completed to bring those issues to light. If the inspector does discover issues with the home, ask the builder to fix those items prior to closing (ideal) or within 30 days of closing (sometimes necessary based on timelines). It is important to put these expectations up front in the offer to buy the house, so the builder is contractually obligated to allow a buyer to have a professional inspection and fix the issues that arise at the inspection within a specific timeframe.
For additional information on buying new construction, or other real estate questions, feel free to contact me.
ErinWright@Windermere.com or (360) 356-1445
Your Local Realtor,
Erin E. Wright
Proudly Serving My Clients and My Community!
Happy Halloween
Wishing Everyone a Happy and Safe Halloween!
Dear Friends and Family,
Happy Halloween! For those of you who don't know, Halloween is my favorite holiday of the year! Please enjoy a night of fun. For those going Trick-or-Treating, remember to bring that umbrella or raincoat, as rain is always bound to happen on Halloween in the Northwest. For those still working on last minute costumes, click the link below for ideas from Pinterest.
http://www.pinterest.com/coolestparties/last-minute-costume-ideas/
Happy Haunting!
Erin E. Wright
Your Local Realtor
Proudly Serving My Clients and My Community!
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