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The Benefits of Homeownership May Reach Further Than You Think

Monday, June 1, 2020
by Christie Cannon

The Benefits of Homeownership May Reach Further Than You Think

The Benefits of Homeownership May Reach Further Than You Think | MyKCM
 

More than ever, our homes have become an integral part of our lives. Today they are much more than the houses we live in. They’re evolving into our workplaces, schools for our children, and safe havens that provide shelter, stability, and protection for our families through the evolving health crisis. Today, 65.3% of Americans are able to call their homes their own, a rate that has risen to its highest point in 8 years.

June is National Homeownership Month, and it’s a great time to reflect on the benefits of owning your own home. Below are some highlights and quotes recently shared by the National Association of Realtors (NAR). From non-financial to financial, and even including how owning a home benefits your local economy, these items may give you reason to think homeownership stretches well beyond a sound dollars and cents investment alone.

Non-Financial Benefits

Owning a home brings families a sense of happiness, satisfaction, and pride.

  • Pride of Ownership: It feels good to have a place that’s truly your own, especially since you can customize it to your liking. “The personal satisfaction and sense of accomplishment achieved through homeownership can enhance psychological health, happiness and well-being for homeowners and those around them.”
  • Property Maintenance and Improvement: Your home is your stake in the community, and a way to give back by driving value into your neighborhood.
  • Civic Participation: Homeownership creates stability, a sense of community, and increases civic engagement. It’s a way to add to the strength of your local area.

Financial Benefits

Buying a home is also an investment in your family’s financial future.

  • Net Worth: Homeownership builds your family’s net worth. “The median family net worth for all homeowners ($231,400) increased by nearly 15% since 2013, while net worth ($5,000) actually declined by approximately 9% since 2013 for renter families.”
  • Financial Security: Equity, appreciation, and predictable monthly housing expenses are huge financial benefits of homeownership. Homeownership is truly the best way to improve your long-term net worth.

Economic Benefits

Homeownership is even a local economic driver.

  • Housing-Related Spending: An economic force throughout our nation, housing-related expenses accounted for more than one-sixth of the country’s economic activity over the past three decades.
  • GDP Growth: Homeownership also helps drive GDP growth as the country aims to make an economic rebound. “Every 10% increase in total housing market wealth would translate to approximately $147 billion in additional consumer spending, or 0.8% of GDP, as well as billions of dollars in new federal tax revenue.”
  • Entrepreneurship: Homeownership is even a form of forced savings that provides entrepreneurial opportunities as well. “Owning a home enables new entrepreneurs to obtain access to credit to start or expand a business and generate new jobs by using their home as collateral for small business loans.”

Bottom Line

The benefits of homeownership are vast and go well beyond the surface level. Homeownership is truly a way to build financial freedom, find greater satisfaction and happiness, and make a substantial impact on your local economy. If owning a home is part of your dream, let’s connect today so you can begin the homebuying process.

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Spring Home Buying Recovering From Coronavirus

Wednesday, April 29, 2020
by Christie Cannon

"We estimate that there are currently 29 states that have a housing deficit, and when we consider only these states, the housing shortage grows from 2.5 million units to 3.3 million units" 

Texas currently is experiencing a 4.81% deficit in housing supply

- from the Freddie Mac Report - The Housing Supply Shortage: State of the States ​

 

Contact one of our expert agents today if you are looking to buy or sell and want to know your options during the Coronavirus.  Our team is always here to help and educate!

972-215-7747 | cannonteamhomes.com

The novel coronavirus was unable to dampen the interest of homebuyers in the past week.

Even as people follow stay-at-home guidelines, the number of people filing home purchase applications rose 12 percent on a seasonally adjusted basis, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association.

That's the strongest level in almost a month.

"The ten largest states had increases in purchase activity, which is potentially a sign of the start of an upturn in the pandemic-delayed spring homebuying season, as coronavirus lockdown restrictions slowly ease in various markets,” said Joel Kan, MBA’s associate vice president of economic and industry forecasting. “California and Washington continued to show increases in purchase activity, with New York seeing a significant gain after declines in five of the last six weeks.”

Helping to boost purchase interest was a decline in mortgage rates to 3.43 percent for a 30-year mortgage, a record low in MBA's survey.

"Refinance activity declined 7 percent, as rates for refinances likely remained higher than those for purchase loans, " said Kan. "Lenders are still working through pipelines at capacity, and observed changes in credit availability for refinance loans have also in turn impacted rates.”

Overall demand for mortgage applications fell 3.3 percent from the prior week.

The survey covers over 75 percent of all U.S. retail residential mortgage applications and has been conducted weekly since 1990.

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How to Stay Entertained During Home Lockdown

Wednesday, April 15, 2020
by Christie Cannon

How to Stay Entertained During Home Lockdown

 

 

For those of you looking to add some new ideas to your daily home quarantine schedule, check out these options:

 

-Home Organization

Choose one category at a time to be organized, like clothes, shoes, books, games, toiletries, food items, tools, toys, etc.  Remove all of the items from that category from their spaces, review each item piece by piece, and decide what will be kept, donated or thrown away.  Then, place the items you’ve decided to keep back into their designated homes in a neat, organized manner.  Likewise, store your donations in one place, ready to be given away as soon as the opportunity arises.

 

-Outdoor Landscaping

Pull weeds from the lawn and flowerbeds, trim hedges and trees, dispose of any dead plants or leaves, mow and edge lawn, re-soil in areas where needed, add fresh mulch and flowers from local growers to beds and pots, and sweep porches and pathways

 

-Exercise

Designate a specific time in your day to get your body moving, as this is good for your mind and soul, too.  If your kids are with you, incorporate a workout that involves them too.  Walks with the dog, bicycle rides, online yoga or aerobic classes, jogs around the block, games of family tag- anything is good!  Just get moving!

 

-Hone Your Talents

If you like to read, read books that you find uplifting.  If you have children at home or that you can connect with virtually, schedule a daily story time with them.  If you like to write, start journaling or author your own short story.  Encourage children to write land mail letters to grandparents or friends that they haven’t seen in a while- especially those who are living alone.  If you prefer drawing, use this time to sketch a pet, a scene from nature, or even another family member.  Kids can even attempt portraits of family members, too!

 

-Cook & Bake

Now is the perfect time to try some new recipes.  Have each family member choose a meal or treat they’d like to cook or bake and take turns creating and enjoying everyones’ efforts.  Sharing in the clean-up afterwards is equally important!  Consider making extra dishes to share with neighbors, too.

 

-Play

Some daily downtime does your mind and body good so be sure schedule time for this too!  Dance parties are great for this.  Turn up your favorite music and dance virtually, with family members, or alone- anyway works great!  Play board games, cards or a game outside with your family.  Play with your pets.  Play dress up or dolls or robots with your kids.  Use your imagination and play creatively!

 

 

Hopefully, some of these ideas will work their way into your daily routine at home.  Share with us how you’re spending your time, too!

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Is Now a Good Time to Refinance My Home?

Tuesday, March 31, 2020
by Christie Cannon

Is Now a Good Time to Refinance My Home?

Is Now a Good Time to Refinance My Home? | MyKCM
 

With interest rates hitting all-time lows over the past few weeks, many homeowners are opting to refinance. To decide if refinancing your home is the best option for you and your family, start by asking yourself these questions:

Why do you want to refinance?

There are many reasons to refinance, but here are three of the most common ones:

1. Lower Your Interest Rate and Payment: This is the most popular reason. Is your current interest rate higher than what’s available today? If so, it might be worth seeing if you can take advantage of the current lower rates.

2. Shorten the Term of Your Loan: If you have a 30-year loan, it may be advantageous to change it to a 15 or 20-year loan to pay off your mortgage sooner rather than later.

3. Cash-Out Refinance: You might have enough equity to cash out and invest in something else, like your children’s education, a business venture, an investment property, or simply to increase your cash reserve.

Once you know why you might want to refinance, ask yourself the next question:

How much is it going to cost?

There are fees and closing costs involved in refinancing, and The Lenders Network explains:

“As an example, let’s say your mortgage has a balance of $200,000. If you were to refinance that loan into a new loan, total closing costs would run between 2%-4% of the loan amount. You can expect to pay between $4,000 to $8,000 to refinance this loan.”

They also explain that there are options for no-cost refinance loans, but be on the lookout:

“A no-cost refinance loan is when the lender pays the closing costs for the borrower. However, you should be aware that the lender makes up this money from other aspects of the mortgage. Usually charging a slightly higher interest rate so they can make the money back.”

Keep in mind that, given the current market conditions and how favorable they are for refinancing, it can take a little longer to execute the process today. This is because many other homeowners are going this route as well. As Todd Teta, Chief Officer at ATTOM Data Solutions notes about recent mortgage activity:  

“Refinancing largely drove the trend, with more than twice as many homeowners trading in higher-interest mortgages for cheaper ones than in the same period of 2018.”

Clearly, refinancing has been on the rise lately. If you’re comfortable with the up-front cost and a potential waiting period due to the high volume of requests, then ask yourself one more question:

Is it worth it? 

To answer this one, do the math. Will it help you save money? How much longer do you need to own your home to break even? Will your current home meet your needs down the road? If you plan to stay for a few years, then maybe refinancing is your best move.

If, however, your current home doesn’t fulfill your needs for the next few years, you might want to consider using your equity for a down payment on a new home instead. You’ll still get a lower interest rate than the one you have on your current house, and with the equity you’ve already built, you can finally purchase the home you’ve been waiting for.

Bottom Line

Today, more than ever, it’s important to start working with a trusted real estate advisor. Whether you connect by phone or video chat, a real estate professional can help you understand how to safely navigate the housing market so that you can prioritize the health of your family without having to bring your plans to a standstill. Whether you’re looking to refinance, buy, or sell, a trusted advisor knows the best protocol as well as the optimal resources and lenders to help you through the process in this fast-paced world that’s changing every day.

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Home Tours With Social Distancing!

Tuesday, March 17, 2020
by Christie Cannon

Did you know that at The Christie Cannon Team we offer virtual home tours on ALL of our homes?  That's right whether the home is listed for $50,000 or $5,000,000 we do all that we can to make sure that your home is properly marketed and that buyers are comfortable and have the tools they need to make a wise buying decision!

During the times that we are in right now, this is exceptionally helpful!  If you are in the market to purchase a new home, you can tour all our listings without even leaving your current home!  Fell like you are walking the home in person as you glide from room to room.  You can even zoom in on details, get a 360 view, view the floor plan and even measure walls and openings!  That's right!  You can literally make sure your personal belongings will fit in any space.  Not to mention there is even a virtual reality option.  Strap on those goggles and tour away!

We are dedicated to the health, safety and happiness of ALL our buyers and sellers at this time when we are practicing "social distancing" to protect each other.  We are still here as your Real Estate Experts to help you with the home buying process, selling process or just to answer any questions you may have!

 

Check out this virtual tour for 5739 Summer Star Lane in Frisco and see more on all our blog pages and home websites!

The Christie Cannon Team

972-215-7747

cannonteamhomes.com

AND

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Opportunity in the Luxury Market This Year

Monday, February 24, 2020
by Christie Cannon

Opportunity in the Luxury Market This Year

Opportunity in the Luxury Market This Year | MyKCM
 

Homes priced in the top 25% of a price range for a particular area of the country are considered “premium homes.” At the start of last year, many of the more expensive homes listed for sale hadn’t seen as much interest, since much of the demand for housing over the past few years has come from first-time buyers looking for starter homes. It looks like buyer activity, however, is starting to show a shift in this segment.

According to the January Luxury Report from the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing (ILHM):

“In a snapshot of 2019, despite pessimism at the start of the year, the last quarter showcased a strengthening, with an upswing in the luxury market for sales in both the single family and condo markets.”

Momentum is growing, and those looking to enter the luxury market are poised for success in 2020 as well. With more inventory available at the upper-end, historically low interest rates, and increasing average wages, the stage is set for buyers with an interest in this tier to embrace the perfect move-up opportunity.

The report highlights the increase in buyer activity in this segment, resulting in growing sales toward the end of 2019:

“According to reports from many luxury real estate professionals, the significant increase in number of properties bought at the end of 2019 versus 2018 is reflective of an early 2019 holding pattern.

Many of early 2019’s prospective luxury buyers held off while waiting to see how prices would react to new tax regulations and other policy changes. Buyer confidence returned in late spring and compared to 2018, above average sales were reported in the final quarter of 2019.”

With evidence of strong buyer confidence, this is great news, as more homeowners are building equity and growing their net worth throughout the country:

“Many homeowners are now diversifying their wealth, owning several properties rather than a single mega mansion. In addition, there have been an increase number of home purchases taking place in smaller cities, reflecting the rising number of people relocating from major metropolises. Their property equity wealth or ability to pay high rental costs have afforded them the opportunity to purchase luxury properties in…secondary cities throughout North America.”

With a strong economy and a backdrop set for moving up this year, it’s a great time to explore the luxury market. Keep in mind, luxury can mean different things to different people, too. To one person, luxury is a secluded home with plenty of property and privacy. To another, it is a penthouse at the center of a bustling city. Knowing what characteristics mean luxury to you will help your agent understand what you’re after as you define the scope and location for the home of your dreams.

Bottom Line

If you’re thinking about upgrading your current house to a luxury home, or adding an additional property to your portfolio, let’s get together to determine if you’re ready to make your move.

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Frisco TX Home & Garden Show

Sunday, March 31, 2019
by Christie Cannon

March 29-31, 2019 - Ford Center at The Star

Solve all your projects in one place in one weekend at the Greater Frisco Home & Garden Show! You’ll find the latest products and services for your home and landscape: builders, re-modelers, contractors, building materials, decks, pools, spas, entertainment systems, storage solutions, all kinds of plants, landscape displays, kitchenware, home accessories and so much more!

Our very own Christie Cannon offers a sneak peak below!

For More information - http://showtechnology.com/event/greater-frisco-home-garden-show/

 

 

 

 

 

 

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The Housing Market Will “Spring Forward” This Year!

Wednesday, March 6, 2019
by Christie Cannon

The Housing Market Will “Spring Forward” This Year!

The Housing Market Will “Spring Forward” This Year! | MyKCM

Just like our clocks this weekend, in the majority of the country, the housing market will soon “spring forward!” Similar to tension in a spring, the lack of inventory available for sale has been holding back the market.

Many potential sellers believe that waiting until Spring is in their best interest. Traditionally, they would have been right.

Buyer demand has seasonality to it. Usually, this falls off in the winter months, especially in areas of the country impacted by arctic conditions.

That hasn’t happened this year.

Demand for housing has remained strong as mortgage rates have remained near historic lows. Even with an increase in rates forecasted for 2019, buyers are still able to lock in an affordable monthly payment. Buyers are increasingly jumping off the fence and into the market to secure a lower rate.

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) recently reported that in 2018 the top 10 dates sellers listed their homes all fell in April, May, or June.

Those who act quickly and list now, before a flood of increased competition, will benefit from additional exposure to buyers.

Bottom Line

If you are planning on selling your home in 2019, meet with a local real estate professional to evaluate the opportunities in your market.

 

 

Christie Cannon | REALTOR
The Christie Cannon Team
Keller Williams Realty Frisco
972-215-7747
www.ChristieCannon.com
www.CannonTeamHomes.com

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Keller Williams Named Among Fast Companies Most Innovative Companies

Tuesday, March 5, 2019
by Christie Cannon

Keller Williams Named Among Fast Companies Most Innovative Companies

Keller Williams has been named to Fast Company's prestigious annual list of the World's Most Innovative Companies (MIC) for 2019. The company ranked No. 1 in the real estate and urban development category on the new ranking.

 

"We are excited and honored to be named one of Fast Company's Most Innovative Companies in 2019," said Gary Keller, co-founder, chairman, and CEO of Keller Williams. "We are developing our technology in close partnership with our associates – from ideation to design and iterating together through release."

 

"It is this collaboration that drives our greatest opportunities for innovation. As technology continues to reshape our industry, I have never been more excited for thehttp://www.christiecannon.com future of our company," said Keller. "This is just the beginning."

 

The real estate industry is changing faster than ever before and Keller Williams is at the forefront of this change. The company is reaching new heights through innovation, disruption and an uncompromising commitment to the agent and the consumers they represent.

 

Christie Cannon | REALTOR
The Christie Cannon Team
Keller Williams Realty Frisco
972-215-7747
www.ChristieCannon.com
www.CannonTeamHomes.com
 

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A Snapshot of Today's Sellers

Friday, March 1, 2019
by Christie Cannon

A Snapshot of Today's Sellers

 

Christie Cannon | REALTOR
The Christie Cannon Team
Keller Williams Realty Frisco
972-215-7747
www.ChristieCannon.com
www.CannonTeamHomes.com

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Photo of Christie Cannon Real Estate
Christie Cannon
Keller Williams Realty
5933 Preston Road #300
Frisco TX 75034
972-215-7747
Fax: 972-215-7748
Send an Email
Keller Williams Frisco - The Christie Cannon Team - http://www.christiecannon.com

 

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