Trends and reflection is what the end of the year, beginning of the new year is about. When Gooder Group is out at conventions and trade shows or back in the office, the conversations we have with real estate rainmakers seems to always turn to some of the same topics. We want to share what we’re hearing with you.
Niche Specialties: When we ask, “How’s your market?” we hear responses like “there are pockets that are good.” But not a universal wave of everything is great. More and more real estate Rainmaker agents are saying they have targeted a specialty niche…or two or three…that are most active in their area.
- First-Time Sellers: The wave of first-time buyers who took advantage of discounted, distressed properties and tax breaks in 2007-2009, will be the next wave of first-time sellers. Clueless about selling, but wanting to move up to their next home as families expand and the instant equity they made from buying low pushes them into the move-up mode.
- Short Sales & REOs: We hear more comments from Florida real estate Rainmakers and other markets that distressed properties have peaked sometime in middle 2009. Short sales and bank-owned foreclosures are still out there. Just that the number is diminishing
- Investors: Recently investors either sold for cash or bought for cash. We expect to see more 1031 exchanges in future, as investors move-up their equity as prices stabilize and increase.
- More Niches Are Big: Other specialties we hear about: International buyers, seniors, military, single women, expireds. Gooder Group is seeing increased sales of particular brochure topics lately: first-time buyers, short sales, Buyers Handbook, price.
What niche markets do you see business moving in right now? Let us know what trends you observe in your market.
I’ve just started a niche market for FSBO sellers to help them fish in the BIG POND – of MLS, internet, more professional tools, etc.
Excellent, Linda. Interesting how many top Rainmakers generate business in today’s market from FSBO’s. In one sense it is counter-intuitive to sell By Owner in a slow market — FSBO’s are most common in an active seller’s market — yet some sellers today want to squeeze every penny out of their sale. Rainmakers report they have excellent success working with By Owners to help them fish in the Big Pond, especially using the strategy that you are more interested in the “extra buyers” who do not buy their property, than listing their home. Of course, when the FSBO gives up and wants to list with a pro you will be their first choice! Keep in touch with your success!