Mortgage News October 5, 2023

Mortgage Rates at 23 Year High

As mortgage rates continue to rise, more Americans are feeling stuck in their current homes, unwilling or unable to move at today’s higher borrowing costs. The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage rose to a 7.31% average this past week—the highest level since 2000, Freddie Mac reports.

“However, unlike the turn of the millennium, house prices today are rising alongside mortgage rates, primarily due to low inventory,” says Sam Khater, Freddie Mac’s chief economist. “These headwinds are causing both buyers and sellers to hold out for better circumstances.”  Here is the reality, people still have to move for many different reasons whether it be a job relocation or life event.  So how do you navigate the higher interest rates alongside higher prices?  Lenders have presented a buydown program where the seller or builder can buydown the buyer’s interest rate for the first 2-3 years of ownership.  Here in this video we sit down with local lender Robert Sorrells with Nations Lending to discuss how this program can benefit today’s buyer.

https://vid.us/y6qsgo

 

Mortgage News September 26, 2023

The Cost of Waiting to Buy Real Estate: Why Delay Might Be Costly

In the ever-evolving world of real estate, the decision of when to buy can have significant financial consequences. Delaying your entry into the market, whether as a first-time buyer or seasoned investor, can result in missed opportunities and potentially higher costs. In this blog, we will explore the concept of the “cost of waiting” when it comes to purchasing real estate.
Timing the Market
One of the primary concerns that often paralyze potential real estate investors is the fear of entering the market at the wrong time. They worry that property prices might drop shortly after their purchase, leading to financial losses. While timing the market perfectly is challenging, history shows that real estate has generally appreciated over the long term. By waiting for that elusive “perfect time,” you may miss out on the chance to benefit from this long-term growth.
Interest Rates and Financing
Another crucial factor to consider is the fluctuation of interest rates. Mortgage interest rates can change over time, and waiting too long to buy may mean locking in a higher rate when you eventually decide to make your purchase. This can significantly impact the overall cost of your investment. Lower interest rates not only reduce your monthly mortgage payments but also decrease the total amount of interest you pay over the life of your loan.
Building Equity
Real estate is one of the few investments where you can build equity while enjoying the benefits of ownership. Equity is the difference between your property’s market value and the outstanding balance on your mortgage. By delaying your real estate purchase, you postpone the opportunity to start building wealth through equity.
Bottom Line
While the fear of making the wrong move in the real estate market is understandable, it’s crucial to remember that inaction can also be a costly choice. The cost of waiting to buy real estate involves missed opportunities for price appreciation, potential higher interest rates, delayed rental income, postponed equity building, and foregone tax benefits.
Ultimately, the decision to buy real estate should align with your long-term financial goals and individual circumstances. Instead of trying to time the market perfectly, focus on acquiring property that suits your needs and has good potential for growth and income. Consult with real estate professionals who can provide valuable insights and help you make an informed decision.
In conclusion, while it’s essential to be prudent and informed when investing in real estate, waiting indefinitely can come at a significant financial cost. As the saying goes, “The best time to buy real estate was years ago; the second-best time is now.” Don’t let the fear of the unknown hold you back from seizing the opportunities that real estate investment can offer.
https://vid.us/lnrq94
Watch this video as we discuss our local market with a local lender:  https://vid.us/lnrq94
Local Highlights September 7, 2023

5 events to check out this Fall in Gulf Shores

Here are five big events filled with amazing food, family-friendly activities and unique experiences that are perfect for a mini vacay this October and November.

Orange Beach Freedom Fest  

Celebrate red, white and blue during this weekend-long event at The Wharf in Orange Beach. Perfect for the whole family October 6-7

    • When: Friday, October 7-Saturday, October 8 | 9AM-5PM
    • Where: The Wharf
    • Cost: Free admission

 

50th Annual National Shrimp Fest

Running October 12-15 in Gulf Shores, this annual foodie event is celebrating 50 years of delicious fresh seafood straight from the Gulf of Mexico.

In keeping with the 50-year theme, there will be 50 food vendors serving everything from shrimp and crab cakes to lobster and conch fritters.

    • When: Thursday, October 12-Saturday, October 14, 10AM-10PM | Sunday, October 15, 10AM-5PM
    • Where: Gulf Shores, Alabama
    • Cost: Free admission

 

Experience the Oyster

Love oysters? This is the ultimate event for you, my friend. Featuring two food-filled days November 3-4.

    • When: Friday, November 3, 6PM | Saturday, November 4, 11AM-7PM, VIP 10AM-7PM
    • Where: Friday, November 3 at Zeke’s Restaurant | Saturday, November 4 at The Hangout
    • Cost: General Admission – $75 | VIP – $200 | Tasting Ticket – $40 | Kids 5 + under are free with a paid adult
    • Tickets

 

Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival

Calling all music fans! If you’re looking for a memorable trip, make plans to attend the annual Song Writers’ Festival, November 9-19.

 

Coastal Alabama Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival

Food, beer, vendors and more—there’s no better way to celebrate a weekend away than at the Coastal Alabama Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival in Gulf Shores.

Gulf Shores beaches

Gulf Shores beach

Article Courtesy of:

Patience Itson

Featured Properties August 21, 2023

722 Whittington Ave | Fairhope, AL

Get ready to be wowed by this Gold Fortified move in ready property located in one of the “Best Small Towns in the South” (Southern
Living Magazine)! As you enter into the front door you will immediately feel the comforts of home. Luxury Vinyl flooring throughout,
plantation shutters, open concept kitchen with updated fixtures. The oversized primary walk-in closet offers maximum storage space.
Enjoy your morning coffee in the expansive screened porch overlooking your fenced backyard oasis. Exterior features include eve
lighting, patio, storage building and extended driveway. Schedule your showing today for this gem of a property!
  • 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths
  • 1,831 Sq.Ft.
  • Lot Size 80′ x 133′
  • List Price $369,000
  • MLS# 349881
Listed by Pierce & Susan Kaylor | Coldwell Banker Coastal Realty | 251.269.5250
Featured Properties June 29, 2023

Secluded Coastal Community of Perdido Beach

Welcome to the secluded coastal community of Perdido Beach! Town offers a boat ramp and beach access points for residents, no HOA. Location allows you easy access for sunset boat rides and fishing excursions to the Gulf of Mexico. Take a golf cart ride down to one of the beach access points to capture the views of Perdido Bay.

Introducing this Gold Fortified new construction that will feature luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops and the option to park your RV or boat right at home. Zone X flood zone equals no flood insurance required! MLS# 347319.

https://bit.ly/3qKps2D

Contact Susan Kaylor for more details 251-269-5250.

*Need not be built.  Listing Agent related to seller & builder.

Local Highlights June 2, 2023

Gulf State Park Pier

Many visitors love spending time at the Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier during their annual vacation to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. It is one of the longest in the Gulf of Mexico.

The pier is great for both beginner and experienced anglers and boasts access to a variety of species such as sheepshead, Spanish mackerel, pompano, whiting, and more. Whether you go sightseeing or fishing, there are a few things to know when you go.

Things to Know

  • The pier is open seven days a week, 24 hours a day.
  • No fishing license? No problem. Alabama fishing licenses can be purchased on-site at a kiosk. 
  • Daily pier fishing fees are $9 for adults and $5 for children. Weekly permits are $41 for adults and $11 for children. Children 11 and under fish for free when accompanying a paying adult.
  • Parking fees for personal vehicles are $3 for two hours, $5 for four hours, and $10 for all day. Those who pay the $10 daily fee will also receive a daily fishing permit.
  • If you’re packing light for your vacation and leaving your rod and reel behind, that’s no problem. Rentals are available for $10 for four hours or $20 for all-day fishing.
  • Bait and tackle are available on-site, so there’s no need to bring your own. The pier store offers a selection of frozen bait.
  • An adult must accompany all children under 14.
  • If you plan to sightsee rather than fish, pier admission is $3 for the entire day.
  • The Bywater Beachside Bar and Grill serves food and drinks on the pier during the spring and summer months.
  • Concessions are available for purchase from 11 am to 9:30 pm daily, and bathrooms are available for all pier goers.
  • The pier is equipped with wheelchair-accessible rail areas for both fishing and sightseeing.
  • Learn more about the pier’s rules and regulations.
Source: https://www.gulfshores.com/blog/things-to-do/attractions/spend-a-day-at-the-gulf-state-park-pier/
Local Highlights May 26, 2023

Gulf Coast Adventure

Step aboard Wild Hearts for thrilling Gulf Coast Adventures!  We recently sailed aboard Wild Hearts and had such an enjoyable experience.  Living where others vacation, we never have a shortage of activities for the weekend!  Our tour upon the 53-foot open-ocean yacht consisted of sailing into the Gulf of Mexico where we had stunning views of the Orange Beach coastline.  Before returning back to dock we stopped by Robinson Island and enjoyed some time in the water.  If you are looking for an adventure to get the best view of Orange Beach, we highly recommend Sail Wild Hearts.  There are several packages available to choose from such as the sunset cruise or dolphin cruise.

For more details on available adventures check out their website: https://www.sailwildhearts.com

For more Gulf Coast Adventures contact Pierce & Susan Kaylor (Kaylor Team) 251-269-5250

Market Updates May 9, 2023

Market Trends for Coastal Alabama | April 2023

Market Trends for Coastal Alabama | April 2023

April’s real estate market in Baldwin County held steady with trends we’ve seen over the past several months. Baldwin REALTORS® Multiple Listing Service (MLS) reports increases in Average Sales Prices and Days on Market (DOM) for both the Traditional Residential and Resort/Island-based areas of the county, while both areas experienced decreases in the number of New Listings and Closed Sales last month.

In the Resort area of Baldwin County (all of Orange Beach, Fort Morgan, and anything in Gulf Shores south of Canal Rd/180), average sales price saw a 4.9% increase from April 2022, resulting in an average of $719,229. Listings spent more time on the on market at an average of 64 days, compared to just 35 days the year prior. A decrease was reported in Total Closed Sales as 197 properties solid in April 2023, compared to 288 in April 2022.

Here’s a closer look at Orange Beach, Gulf Shores and Foley markets for April 2023.

For more details on a specific property contact Pierce & Susan Kaylor 251-269-5250.

https://susan.gulfshoresrealestatesearch.com/

Featured Properties May 2, 2023

Beach Access for Eastside Cottages

Eastside Cottages Beach Access 

It was a beautiful day to take a walk in the East Beach District of Gulf Shores and also a great opportunity to show you the beach access for our listing in Eastside Cottages.  A luxury coastal cottage community located in the East Beach District of Gulf Shores. This low density community features brick paved streets, Gold Fortified construction, community pool, and private beach access. A turn key rental, Cottage #F features 2 bedrooms, 3 full baths and twin hall bunks featuring their own wall mounted TVs. Entertain in the open concept kitchen equipped with custom shaker style cabinetry, quartz countertops throughout, and 2 private balconies. Taste the local Gulf Coast Cuisine offered in nearby restaurants, explore the Gulf State Park trails, and enjoy the sugar sand beaches steps away. Make this cottage your piece of paradise and discover why Gulf Shores is consistently ranked one of the best beaches in the US.

For more information on this listing or others nearby reach out to Pierce and Susan Kaylor at 251.269.5250.  https://susan.gulfshoresrealestatesearch.com/homes/435-E-2nd-Avenue/Gulf-Shores/AL/36542/137791662/

Market Updates April 19, 2023

Things are getting really weird in the housing market!

Most housing analysts expected 2023 to be a rough year for the U.S. housing market. In fact, among the 29 major housing forecast models, 24 forecasted a national home price decline for 2023.  Every market should be evaluated locally, which is what we want to share with you.  Watch our video below to view our opinion on this month’s stats.

https://vid.us/fe0jkp

 

Contact The Kaylor Team for more market insights at 251-269-5250.

susan.gulfshoresrealestatesearch.com