A Question of Real Estate

The estaterebate.com blog was created to be your source for "everything real estate." We have covered topics from low mortgage rates to green homes as well as other relevant and timely real estate issues. The estaterebate.com team is open to your suggestions about real estate topics that you would like to see covered in our blog.

We know that many people have concerns and questions about real estate. In the past, the real estate industry was not so open with its customers. In fact, real estate agents were not even required to explain an agent's true role to their clients. Many customers did not know that a real estate agent is bound by law to represent the seller. A buyer's best option is always a broker who works exclusively for the buyer.

In the 1990s, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regulated real estate agents to present a clear picture about their role. Since that time, the industry has been more forthcoming with answers. Yet many people are still in the dark about certain areas of real estate.

Actually, some industry experts believe that the recent housing collapse was spurred on by misinformation given to borrowers. Home buyers and sellers need access to accurate information. Many people have burning questions about the current real estate market.

'Hot' Real Estate Topics

Should I buy now while prices are favorable to buyers?

You should go ahead and purchase a home if you are ready for the commitment. Ultimately, the decision to buy a home has to be based on an individual or family's ability to handle the long term consequences. No matter how good a short term offer or benefit, home buyers have to think in terms of the future. Government incentives or low mortgage rates can be tremendous benefits to buyers who are ready to buy a home. Yet if one is just thinking in the short term, it is easy to get in over your head.

Why do housing markets vary across the US?

Most variations in housing markets are tied to the unemployment rate in the region. Generally, the real estate market is not as strong in areas of high unemployment. Yet sometimes there are exceptions to that rule.

Should I expect a slight drop in my home's value?

The current market does not favor the seller. You can probably expect a substantial drop from 2007 prices. Many sellers in today's market are not expecting the lower returns. They find it hard to believe their real estate agent's quote. A home seller can check with additional sources about local prices. Yet sellers must be prepared to make some compromises in the current marketplace.

How will real estate investors fare in the current market?

The real estate game can usually be lucrative for investors if they are involved in buying and selling. When you are playing both sides, price is not as huge a factor as for the individual home buyer or seller. Real estate investors have to keep the motion going to build profitable investments. Investors cannot afford to be stalled in the process.

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