Your Trusted Source for Ocala Real Estate News, Tips, and Market Insights

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Aug. 26, 2025

Marion Oaks Open House Event - August 28th, Thursday | 4:30 - 6:30 P.M

 

You're Invited: Open House at 15212 SW 27th Ct — Thursday, August 28 | 4:30–6:30 PM

Step into comfort and style at this beautifully maintained, move-in-ready home in the heart of Marion Oaks. Built in 2022, this modern single-family residence offers 4 beds, 2 baths, and 1,578 sq ft of functional and stylish living space.

Highlights You’ll Love:

  • Bright, open floorplan seamlessly connects the kitchen, living, and dining areas — perfect for gatherings or quiet evenings in.
  • Neutral tile flooring throughout ensures easy maintenance and a timeless aesthetic.
  • Well-equipped kitchen with rich wood cabinets, stainless steel appliances, and generous counter space.
  • Privacy meets convenience thanks to a split-bedroom layout — including a primary suite with a walk-in closet and ensuite bath.
  • Bonus features: interior laundry, attached 2-car garage, and a generous lot with room for a future pool or garden.
  • Prime location: minutes from I-75, schools, shopping, and all the community perks you desire.

Event Details

  • Date: Thursday, August 28, 2025
  • Time: 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
  • Host: Kerry Millhiser, REALTOR®
    Phone: (352) 456-8331
    Email: Kerry@KerryMillhiser.com

Why You Should Attend

Whether you're actively house hunting or simply exploring your options, this home offers a blend of modern comfort, space, and superb value—especially with no HOA and solid construction. Plus, the recent $1,000 price adjustment makes it an even stronger contender.

RSVP or Stop By

Feel free to drop by anytime between 4:30 and 6:30 PM. Want a sneak peek or have questions before the event? Reach out to Kerry – she’s eager to help you discover your next home.

We look forward to welcoming you—see you at the open house!

Aug. 11, 2025

Marion Oaks Open House Event – Sunday, August 17th | 12 PM – 4 PM

If you’ve been dreaming of finding the perfect home in Marion Oaks, this is your chance! Join us on Sunday, August 17th from 12 PM to 4 PM for a special community-wide Open House Event. We’re showcasing four beautiful homes in one afternoon, making it easy for you to explore and compare your options.

This collaborative event brings together local real estate professionals to help you find the home that best fits your lifestyle. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, looking to upgrade, or ready to downsize, you’ll find something worth seeing.

Featured Homes:

📍 15212 SW 27th Court – Ocala, FL 34473
Hosted by Kerry Millhiser | LoKation Real Estate
📞 (352) 456-8331

📍 14984 SW 28th Terrace Road – Ocala, FL 34473
Hosted by Becky Woodall | Bucker Homes Realty Inc
📞 (352) 361-4200

📍 15976 SW 23rd Court Road – Ocala, FL 34473
Hosted by Samantha Pellerin | Majestic Oaks Realty
📞 (352) 246-3523

📍 17442 SW 17th Circle – Ocala, FL 34473
Hosted by Alison Christian | LPT Realty, LLC
📞 (352) 342-1478

Why Attend?

  • Tour Multiple Homes in One Afternoon – Save time and see several properties without scheduling multiple showings.

  • Meet Local Real Estate Experts – Get answers to your buying questions from experienced agents.

  • Discover the Marion Oaks Community – See the neighborhood’s charm, amenities, and lifestyle firsthand.

📅 Date: Sunday, August 17, 2025
🕛 Time: 12 PM – 4 PM
📍 Location: Marion Oaks, Ocala, FL

Don’t miss this opportunity to tour beautiful homes and connect with agents who know Marion Oaks inside and out. Whether you’re ready to make an offer or just beginning your home search, this event is the perfect place to start.

Mark your calendar, bring a friend, and come find your dream home!

Posted in Buying a Home
July 10, 2025

New Construction vs. Resale: What’s the Better Buy in Today’s Market?

🏡 New Construction vs. Resale: Which Is the Better Move in Today’s Market?

In today’s real estate landscape, the decision between buying a new construction home or a resale property is closer than ever—both in price and in value. Recent shifts in the housing market have created a unique moment where buyers can explore both options without a huge difference in cost.

Whether you’re dreaming of something brand new or love the charm of an established neighborhood, here’s how the two compare—and why now may be the right time to consider each.

🆕 Why Buyers Are Giving New Construction a Fresh Look

1. Shrinking Price Gap
For years, new construction homes carried a premium—often 20–40% more than resale homes. But not anymore. As of April 2025, the median price of a new home was lower than that of an existing home ($407,200 vs. $414,000). In some markets, new homes are even selling below resale prices.

2. Builder Incentives
Builders are offering real savings through price cuts, mortgage rate buydowns (some as low as 4.5%–5%), and credits toward closing costs or upgrades. These can make a big difference in affordability, especially in a higher interest rate environment.

3. Modern Features & Energy Efficiency
New construction often means open floor plans, smart home tech, energy-efficient systems, and little to no immediate maintenance. Many homes are move-in ready, and for buyers in a hurry, “quick move-in” options can close in as little as 30–90 days.

🏠 Why Resale Homes Still Hold Strong Appeal

1. Location, Character, and Established Communities
Resale homes are often located in mature neighborhoods with larger lots, mature trees, and a well-established sense of community. If you’re looking to be close to town centers, schools, or work, a resale may offer more convenience.

2. Lower Taxes and HOA Fees
New construction communities often come with higher property taxes or HOA fees to cover new infrastructure. In contrast, resale homes may have more manageable ongoing costs.

3. Negotiation Power
Sellers of resale homes may be more open to negotiations on price, repairs, or closing timelines—especially in a shifting market. This flexibility can give buyers more leverage to make a deal that works for their budget and timeline.

📊 What’s the Right Choice for You?

The great news is that in today’s market, you don’t have to rule either one out. Builders are motivated, incentives are strong, and the pricing gap has narrowed—making new construction more accessible than ever. Meanwhile, resale homes remain competitive, especially for buyers looking for location, charm, or specific architectural styles.

If you’ve been solely focused on one or the other, this is a great time to explore both.

Let’s talk about your needs—whether that’s a turnkey new build or a resale with character—and I’ll help you weigh the options that make the most sense for your lifestyle and budget.

 

📞 Call me at (352) 456-8331 or 📧 email Kerry@KerryMillhiser.com to get started.
Your perfect home might be hiding in plain sight—brand new or beautifully lived-in.

Posted in Buying a Home
May 29, 2025

3 Acres of A1-Zoned Land for Sale in Belleview, FL – Build Your Dream Home or Farm

Nestled in a quiet neighborhood, this A1-zoned lot offers the perfect blend of privacy and convenience. Whether you're envisioning a custom home, a mini-farm, or a serene retreat, the partially cleared land provides a head start for you plans.

🏡 Property Highlights:

  • Size: 3 acres (130,680 sq ft)

  • Zoning: A1 – suitable for agricultural or residential use

  • Topography: Partially cleared with a mix of open space and natural wooded areas

  • Utilities: Electrical nearby

  • Community: No HOA restrictions

  • Location: Close to the Greenway for outdoor activities; easy access to Ocala, The Villages, and major highways.

This property is ideal for those looking to create a personalized living space with room for animals, gardens, recreational areas, or additional outbuildings. Its proximity to nature trails and outdoor activities enhances the appeal for nature enthusiasts.

📍 Location & Schools:

  • Address: SE 130th Street, Belleview, FL 34420

  • Schools:

    • Belleview-Santos Elementary School

    • Belleview Middle School

    • Belleview High School

 

For more details or to schedule a showing, visit the full listing here: SE 130th Street Property Listing

 

Don't miss the opportunity to turn this versatile property into your dream haven.

Posted in Buying a Home
March 14, 2025

Marketing Your Ocala Home: Proven Strategies to Attract Buyers and Maximize Your Sale

Selling your home in Ocala requires a strategic approach to attract the right buyers and secure the best offers. Here are key considerations to effectively market your property:

1. Understand Home Marketing

Marketing your home involves various strategies to showcase its best features and appeal to potential buyers. This includes staging, professional photography, social media promotion, signage, open houses, and setting a competitive price. Discuss with your real estate agent which methods will be most effective for your property. 

2. Maximize Exposure

To ensure buyers and agents know your home is for sale, utilize tools like placing a "for sale" sign outside your property and listing on Multiple Listing Services (MLSs). MLSs are online platforms that compile home listings from various brokerages, providing broad exposure to prospective buyers. citeturn0search0

3. Leverage Showings and Open Houses

Showings and open houses allow potential buyers to experience your property firsthand and ask questions. Showings are typically by appointment, while open houses let multiple buyers visit simultaneously. Your agent will help schedule and prepare for these events, including ensuring your home is presented optimally, possibly through staging. 

4. Enhance Visual Appeal

Before photographing your home for marketing materials or hosting showings, consider enhancing its visual appeal. While not mandatory, cleaning and decluttering—such as washing windows, carpets, lighting fixtures, and walls—can significantly impact buyers' perceptions. Staging, which involves arranging furniture and decor to help buyers envision living in the space, can also be beneficial. 

5. Improve Curb Appeal

Curb appeal refers to how your home looks from the street, influencing buyers' first impressions. Your agent may suggest updates like landscaping or painting to enhance your home's exterior appearance. 

6. Set a Competitive Price

Pricing your home competitively is crucial in attracting buyers. Your agent will assess factors such as your home's size, location, amenities, property condition, and current market conditions to recommend an appropriate listing price. A well-priced home can expand your pool of interested buyers and lead to stronger offers. 

 

By collaborating with a knowledgeable real estate agent and implementing these strategies, you can effectively market your Ocala home and achieve a successful sale. 

This article is based on insights from the National Association of Realtors' (NAR) Consumer Guide to Marketing Your Home. NAR provides valuable resources to help sellers understand the home marketing process and make informed decisions.

Posted in Selling Your Home
Feb. 19, 2025

4 Home Remodeling Projects with the Highest ROI

Ask any homeowner about what they would like to change about their home, and most will say, “How much time do you have?

Home improvements (cue Tim Allen) or home remodeling projects can stem from a variety of motivations, like preparing your home to put on the market, adding space for a growing family, addressing outdated features or aesthetics, or fixing structural/functional issues with the home. 

However, when it comes to home remodeling projects, too many people assume their project will proportionally increase the value of their home. Few actually consider the complete scope of return on investment (ROI), taking into account not only potential impact on resale value but also the total costs of time, labor, and materials. Some renovations may provide more “quality of life” ROI by improving comfort and aesthetics without significantly impacting resale value, while others can deliver notable financial returns.

Whether you’re looking to upgrade your living space, increase the equity of your home, or trying to make some quick changes to improve your resale price, here are four remodeling projects with the highest ROI and some tips on how to get them done.

Top 4 Home Remodeling Projects with the Highest ROI 

Before diving into specific projects, it’s important to understand how the data supporting these ROI estimates was gathered. This article references findings from the 2024 Cost vs. Value Report conducted by Zonda Media, a reputable research firm in the real estate and construction industries. The report’s ROI figures are based on national averages for both the cost of materials and labor, which means that regional differences may lead to variations in actual returns.

1. Garage Door Replacement

● Job Cost: $4,513

● Resale Value: $8,751

● ROI: 193.9%

Replacing an old garage door is one of the simplest ways to dramatically boost your home’s curb appeal—and it happens to deliver the highest ROI of any remodeling project. The impact is largely due to the prominent visual space a garage door occupies on a home’s exterior. A sleek, modern garage door can make your entire facade look fresher and more attractive to buyers.

Garage doors with the highest ROI include insulated steel doors with modern paneling, custom carriage-style doors, and those featuring windows or decorative hardware. These options not only enhance the home’s exterior aesthetics but also improve functionality and energy efficiency.

2. Steel Entry Door Replacement

● Job Cost: $2,355

● Resale Value: $4,430

● ROI: 188.1%

Upgrading to a steel entry door is a simple yet impactful change that can drastically improve both the look and energy efficiency of your home. Steel doors cost less than wood ones, giving you a cost effective way to make a big impact on the curb appeal of a home, without sacrificing performance, life span, or durability.

Why It Works:

● Cost-Effective Curb Appeal: Steel doors are less expensive than wood but provide a similar aesthetic boost. This makes them a budget-friendly way to enhance a home’s exterior.

● Energy Efficiency: Many steel doors come with insulating cores, which can help keep your home comfortable year-round and lower energy bills.

● Increased Security: Steel doors are harder to break into, providing an added layer of safety that appeals to security-conscious buyers.

3. Manufactured Stone Veneer

● Job Cost: $11,287

● Resale Value: $17,291

● ROI: 153.2%

Manufactured stone veneer (MSV) is a high-ROI project because it delivers a striking visual upgrade at a relatively moderate cost. MSV is an artificial cladding material designed to mimic the look of natural stone, making it a cost-effective way to add texture and sophistication to your home’s exterior.

Why It Works:

● Strong Visual Impact: Stone veneers add depth and elegance, creating an upscale appearance that can significantly boost curb appeal.
● Durability and Low Maintenance: Unlike natural stone, MSV is lightweight, easier to install, and resistant to wear and tear.
● Perceived Value: Even though it’s a faux material, MSV adds an air of luxury and craftsmanship that can make your home more appealing to buyers.

Pro Tip: Use manufactured stone veneer to accentuate specific areas, such as around the entryway or along the lower portion of the façade, for maximum visual impact without overspending.

4. Minor Kitchen Remodel (Midrange)

   ● Job Cost: $27,492

● Resale Value: $26,406

● ROI: 96.1%

According to Homelight’s “Top Agent Insights End of Year 2024 Report”, “88% of agents say that upgraded kitchens and appliances are one of the best selling points for homes”--a significant increase from the previous year. https://homelightblog.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/homelight-top-agent-insights-end-of-year-2024-report.pdf

The trick to ROI with a kitchen remodel is the budget, and how you decide to balance what to upgrade, the quality of materials, and how much to work within the existing layout. For example, you can make a big impact with less expense if you keep your current cabinet boxes but upgrade the doors and hardware. However, if you strike that balance, you can recoup much of your investment. If you’re looking to sell, an updated kitchen will appeal to buyers, which can also help your home stand out and sell faster. 

Why It Works:

● High Buyer Interest: Kitchens are a focal point for most buyers, so even modest improvements can make a significant impact.
● Affordable Upgrades: By focusing on midrange materials—such as quartz countertops, midrange appliances, and refaced cabinets—you can keep costs manageable while still delivering a fresh look.
● By keeping the existing layout and avoiding costly structural changes, you can modernize your kitchen while keeping costs down.

Key Takeaways for Homeowners

7 out of the 10 best ROI projects all have to do with improvements to the exterior of your home, which makes one thing very clear: Boosting the curb appeal of your home in a cost-effective manner will give you the best ROI if you’re thinking about selling this year. 

If you look at the current housing market, you can start to see why that is. In the post-pandemic frenzy, buyers had to accept whatever they could find. However, housing inventory has increased over the last couple of years, giving buyers more options. Additionally, due to high-interest rates and affordability issues, the current market favors older, move-up home buyers who are sitting on equity, and these buyers can afford to be pickier about the home they buy. 

You can see these trends play out in the “Top Agent Insights End of Year 2024 Report” conducted by HomeLight:

 

Given these trends, it’s no wonder that the remodeling projects with the best ROI are those that make the home stand out from other homes in the area and leave a strong impression with potential buyers.

Conversely, the projects with the lowest ROI involve major remodels or upscale materials. Anytime you alter the footprint of a home—such as by moving walls or adding square footage—you’ll incur higher costs and lower returns. Unless you’re a general contractor or a skilled DIYer, these high-end renovations typically aren’t worth it from a purely financial perspective. The one caveat is if you’re in a market where high-end appliances and materials are the rule not the exception. 

How to Get Started on a Remodeling Project

Starting a remodeling project can feel overwhelming. Here’s how to set yourself up for success:

1. Outline Your Project Goals
Before you dive into the nitty-gritty of remodeling, take a step back and clarify what you hope to achieve. 
Are you remodeling to improve aesthetics? To improve functionality or comfort for your family? To prepare your home for the market or boost your resale value? Is it an essential repair? After you decide on why you’re doing it, you can take a step back and decide what is worth the cost to you.
2. Get inspired: Take time to gather ideas and give shape to your vision. Whether you're updating a single room or tackling a whole-house remodel, these resources can inspire you:
○ Houzz – A go-to platform for home remodeling ideas, complete with photos, product links, and even local contractor recommendations.
○ Pinterest – Create mood boards for different rooms by pinning your favorite designs and layouts. You can also add '-pinterest' to Google searches to find more targeted boards and collections of remodeling ideas on Pinterest. 
○ This Old House – Packed with articles, videos, and guides on home renovation projects, from DIY fixes to large-scale remodels.
○ YouTube Channels: Follow popular home renovation YouTubers who share real-life projects, product reviews, and practical tips.
○ Visit Local Showrooms: You can visit the showrooms or warehouses from local manufactures for ideas on fixtures, cabinetry, and counter tops. 
○ Open Houses - Stop by open houses in your area to get a feel for what’s popular and what other homeowners have done. 
○ Local Remodeling / Contractor Websites: Many will post galleries and before/after images of their renovations, and these galleries can be a goldmine for practical remodeling ideas! 
3. Prioritize your wants vs. needs: Once you’ve gathered ideas, it’s time to separate the essentials from the extras.
○ Must-Haves: These are the non-negotiable items—structural fixes, code-compliance upgrades, or critical repairs.
○ Nice-to-Haves: These are aesthetic choices or features that you’d like to include if your budget allows. A prioritized list will help you make tough decisions if costs start to climb or timelines get tight.
4. Create a scope and timeline: Clearly defining what’s included (and excluded) in your remodel is critical for staying on schedule and within budget.
○ What’s Included: Are you only updating finishes and fixtures, or are you changing the layout and moving walls?
○ Project Phases: If you’re remodeling multiple areas, consider breaking the project into phases to manage timelines more effectively.
○ Expected Timelines: Be realistic about how long the project will take, especially if you’re working around major life events or seasonal weather.
5. Set a realistic budget: Start by researching the typical costs for your specific type of remodeling project in your area. Resources like Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value ReportHomeAdvisor, and NAHB provide national and regional averages for popular renovations like kitchens, bathrooms, and additions. 
6. Include a Contingency Fund: Even with thorough planning, unexpected costs seem to always arise. Many experts recommend setting aside 15% - 30% of your total budget for contingencies. 
7. Research contractors & Get Multiple Quotes: If you're hiring contractors, request at least three detailed quotes to compare prices and scope of work. Make sure to clarify what’s included in each quote to avoid misunderstandings. And use your checklist below for some tips on hiring a contractor! 

Checklist for Hiring a Contractor

Finding the right contractor is crucial for a successful remodeling project. Here’s a quick checklist to help you hire the right professional:

● Get recommendations from friends, family, neighbors, and your real estate agent.  Word of mouth is one of the most reliable ways to find a trusted contractor. Ask people you trust about their experiences and if they would hire the contractor again. After you have a recommendation, you can also search for reviews online. 
● Check credentials, licensing, and insurance. Verify that the contractor is licensed to work in your state. Most states have an online database for checking contractor licenses. You can also look for contractors certified by reputable organizations, such as the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). 
● Review past projects and ask for client references. Ask to see a portfolio of previous projects similar to yours. Pay attention to the quality of work and whether their style aligns with your vision.
● Request detailed bids from multiple contractors. Ask for written estimates that break down costs into categories such as labor, materials, permits, and any additional fees. Compare bids carefully to ensure all contractors are quoting on the same scope of work.
● Ensure the contract includes a clear scope of work, timeline, and payment terms.
● Check references - A reputable contractor should have no issue providing references. Contact past clients and ask about their experience.
● Avoid red flags
○ Unusually Low Bids: If a bid is significantly lower than others, it could indicate corner-cutting or hidden costs.
○ Pressure to Pay Upfront: A small deposit is normal, but never pay the full amount before work begins.
○ Lack of Written Contract: Never agree to verbal agreements only.
○ Poor Communication: If a contractor is difficult to reach or dismissive during the bidding process, this may continue during the project.

Whether you’re updating your home to sell or simply want to enjoy a more modern space, focusing on high-ROI projects is a smart strategy. From replacing your garage door to enhancing your home’s exterior with stone veneer, these upgrades can boost both your home’s value and appeal.

Curious about what features are popular in your neighborhood? Thinking of moving and wondering what remodeling projects, if any, you should do before listing? Want recommendations on contractors? I’m happy to help! 

 

 

 

Posted in Selling Your Home
Jan. 24, 2025

The Tack Shack of Ocala: The Horse Lover’s Candy Store

 

The Tack Shack Ocala

When it comes to equestrian culture, Ocala, Florida, is renowned as the “Horse Capital of the World,” and at the heart of this vibrant community is the legendary Tack Shack of Ocala. Fondly known as "The Horse Lover’s Candy Store," this iconic destination is a treasure trove for horse enthusiasts. Whether you’re a professional equestrian, a casual rider, or a devoted horse lover, Tack Shack has something special to offer.

A Rich History of Serving Equestrians

Founded over 35 years ago, Tack Shack of Ocala began as a small family-owned business dedicated to providing high-quality tack and equestrian supplies. Over the decades, it has grown into a beloved institution, attracting locals and visitors alike. Tack Shack’s commitment to exceptional customer service, expertise, and an extensive product selection has cemented its reputation as a go-to destination for all things equestrian.

What Tack Shack of Ocala Offers

From horse tack to apparel, Tack Shack of Ocala is your one-stop shop for equestrian needs. Here’s a glimpse into what makes this store a standout:

1. Premium Horse Tack

Whether you’re shopping for English or Western tack, Tack Shack has it all. Their selection includes saddles, bridles, girths, bits, and saddle pads from top brands like Stubben, Circle Y, and Pessoa. They also offer custom tack options, allowing you to add a personal touch to your equipment.

2. Custom Embroidery and Engraving

Personalization is key at Tack Shack. Their in-house embroidery and engraving services make it easy to customize saddle pads, halters, nameplates, and more. These thoughtful touches are perfect for gifts or adding a professional flair to your gear.

3. Equestrian Apparel

Riders of all disciplines can find a wide range of apparel, from breeches and show jackets to casual barn wear and accessories. Tack Shack carries leading brands like Ariat, Kerrits, and Horseware, ensuring you ride in style and comfort.

4. Horse Care Supplies

Keeping your horse happy and healthy is a top priority, and Tack Shack delivers with an impressive array of grooming products, supplements, and stable supplies. They stock trusted names like Absorbine, Farnam, and Equine Omega.

5. Event Awards and Ribbons

Tack Shack is a trusted partner for equestrian events, providing custom awards, ribbons, and trophies. Their craftsmanship and attention to detail make them a favorite among horse show organizers.

6. Tack Repairs and Maintenance

Extending the life of your equipment is easy with Tack Shack’s repair services. From saddle adjustments to leather repairs, their skilled team ensures your gear stays in top condition.

A True Community Hub

More than just a store, Tack Shack of Ocala is a community hub for equestrians. They regularly host events, including tack sales, educational clinics, and charity fundraisers. Their commitment to the local horse community is unmatched, making them a vital part of Ocala’s equestrian heritage.

Why "The Horse Lover’s Candy Store"?

Stepping into Tack Shack is like walking into a candy store for horse lovers. The aisles are brimming with colorful tack, gleaming saddles, and shelves stacked with every imaginable horse-related product. The excitement of discovering something new and the friendly, knowledgeable staff make every visit a delightful experience.

Plan Your Visit

Located conveniently in the heart of Ocala, Tack Shack is a must-visit for anyone with a passion for horses. Their online store also makes it easy to shop from anywhere, with nationwide shipping available.

Store Address: 481 SW 60th Ave, Ocala, FL 34474

Websitehttps://tackshackocala.com/


If you’re an equestrian in Ocala or simply passing through, a trip to Tack Shack is an unforgettable experience. With its rich history, exceptional products, and warm community spirit, it truly lives up to its tagline: "The Horse Lover’s Candy Store." Discover why Tack Shack of Ocala is a cherished gem in the equestrian world.

Posted in Community News
Jan. 21, 2025

Discover the Benefits of Buying a New Construction Home

Inland Homes La Jolla

When it comes to purchasing a home, buyers are often faced with a major decision: should they invest in a resale property or opt for a newly constructed home? While both options have their merits, buying new construction offers a range of unique benefits that make it an attractive choice for many homeowners. Let’s explore some of the key advantages of purchasing a brand-new home.

 

1. Modern Design and Customization

One of the most significant perks of new construction is the ability to tailor the home to your preferences. Many builders offer customization options, allowing buyers to choose finishes, fixtures, layouts, and even certain structural elements. This means you can create a space that perfectly suits your lifestyle and aesthetic tastes without the need for costly renovations.

Inland Homes Plan 406

 

2. Energy Efficiency

Newly constructed homes are built with the latest energy-efficient materials and technologies, from advanced insulation and energy-efficient windows to high-performance HVAC systems and appliances. These features not only reduce your carbon footprint but also lead to significant savings on utility bills over time.

 

3. Lower Maintenance Costs

When you buy a new home, everything from the roof to the plumbing is brand new. This means you’re less likely to encounter major repairs or replacement costs in the near future. Additionally, many builders provide warranties for the home and its systems, giving you peace of mind and protection against unexpected expenses.

Builder home warranties typically cover major structural components like the foundation and framing, as well as systems such as plumbing, electrical, and HVAC. Some warranties may also include coverage for appliances and fixtures installed by the builder. These warranties can vary in duration—commonly one year for workmanship, two years for systems, and up to ten years for structural components—but they all provide an extra layer of assurance that your investment is protected.

Inland Homes La Jolla

4. Smart Home Features

Most new construction homes are designed with modern living in mind, which often includes built-in smart home technology. Features like programmable thermostats, smart lighting, security systems, and even app-controlled appliances are increasingly standard in new builds, enhancing convenience and adding value to your home.

 

5. Healthier Living Environment

New homes are typically built with materials that meet the latest health and safety standards. Improved ventilation systems contribute to better indoor air quality, promoting a healthier living space for you and your family.

Inland Homes Lajolla

6. Modern Community Amenities

Many new construction homes are located in planned communities with access to amenities such as parks, walking trails, fitness centers, and community pools. These features create a sense of community and provide additional recreational opportunities right at your doorstep.

 

7. Higher Resale Value

A new construction home often retains its value better than older properties. Buyers are typically drawn to homes with modern features, energy efficiency, and updated designs, making it easier to sell your home in the future if needed.

Inland Homes Plan 406

8. Peace of Mind

When purchasing a newly constructed home, you won’t have to worry about hidden issues often found in older homes, such as outdated wiring, plumbing problems, or structural wear and tear. Inspections and building codes ensure that new homes meet stringent quality standards, providing added assurance.

 

9. Better Financing Terms and Closing Costs

Some builders offer attractive financing options and may even assist with closing costs as part of their sales incentives. These programs can make purchasing a new construction home more affordable and help streamline the buying process. Be sure to inquire about these opportunities when exploring new builds.

Inland Homes

Buying a new construction home offers a host of benefits, from modern design and energy efficiency to lower maintenance costs and peace of mind. If you’re considering purchasing a home, exploring new construction options might be the key to finding your dream home with features tailored to your needs and a long-term investment in quality living.

 

The photos of stunning new homes are provided by Inland Homes and are move in ready. Would you like to tour one the homes featured or explore other new construction opportunities? Let’s connect and make your dream new home a reality! Call/Text me today (352) 456-8331.

Posted in Buying a Home
Jan. 2, 2025

The 2025 Real Estate Report

Experts Predict Home Values to Increase 1.5% to 3.6% in 2025.

HOME VALUES ARE GOING UP IN 2025

Top housing experts and economists give a glimpse of what mortgage rates, home values and the national real estate market will do in 2025.

Key Takeaways

  • Mortgages are forecasted to remain higher for longer; but there are things you can do to lower your rate.
  • Home values are predicted to increase incrementally on a national level; and there are projects you can do to increase your home’s value.
  • The national market will slightly favor sellers in negotiations; however, real estate is driven by local dynamics and may favor either buyers or sellers.

Note: real estate is a dynamic market and forecasts made in this article will change as the year unfolds.

Mortgage Rates Will Average 6.4% in 2025

In 2023, the average 30-year mortgage peaked at 7.79% following the pandemic. Rates came down from that peak in 2024. What will mortgage rates do in the next year?

The Federal Reserve is predicted to lower the federal funds rate 6 to 8 times in 2025; but mortgage rates are not set by the Federal Reserve and may not drop significantly (National Association of REALTORS®).

Fannie Mae predicts mortgage rates to average 6.4% in 2025. Mortgage Bankers Association also predicts mortgage rates to average 6.4%, but with slightly higher rates compared to Fannie’s forecast.

2025 MORTGAGE RATE FORCAST

📷 Sources: Fannie Mae Housing Forecast: November 2024 and Mortgage Bankers Association Mortgage Finance Forecast: November 2024

When Will Mortgage Rates Drop Back to 3%?

Historically, rates have never been as low as the pandemic era interest rates. 30-Year mortgage rates averaged between 4% and 6% during & after the housing crisis and Great Recession. A return to a 3% range is very unlikely.

30 YEAR FIXED MORTGAGE RATES📷 Source: Federal Reserve of St. Louis

Tips to get a better mortgage rate…

While we can’t affect the average 30 year mortgage rate, you can improve your credit and get the best possible rate. Here’s an example of recent mortgage rates by credit score:

MORTGAGE RATES BY CREDIT SCORE📷 Source: myFICO.com

If you’re thinking of making a move, the earlier you talk to a mortgage finance professional, the more time you have to work on improving your credit to get a better rate.

Need a recommendation to a trusted lender? Send me a message.

Home Values Will Increase by 1.5% to 3.6%

Since 2020, the average sales price of a home has gone up by $97,000 or 29.7% (Federal Reserve of St. Louis). Which indicates homeownership to be a great investment. But, what will home values do in the next year?

On a national level, home price growth is predicted to slow down from 2024. However, home prices are predicted to increase in 2025. Fannie Mae predicts home prices to increase on average by 3.6%. MBA is predicting an average increase of 1.5%.

2025 HOME PRICE PROJECTIONS📷 Sources: Fannie Mae Housing Forecast: November 2024 and Mortgage Bankers Association Mortgage Finance Forecast: November 2024

Home values are influenced by local market dynamics. If you want to understand what home values are forecasted to do locally, consider talking to a real estate professional.

Want to increase your home’s value? Consider these remodeling projects for the highest return on investment.

Will Home Values Crash in 2025?

For home values to drop significantly, a major influx of homes for sale would have to hit the market. Freddie Mac estimates the U.S. housing stock is 3.7 million units below what’s needed to meet demand. It will take time to build up inventory to meet demand. Which is why a major drop in home values and prices is unlikely.

Will 2025 Be a Home Buyers or Sellers Market?

Who will have the advantage in the 2025 housing market, buyers or sellers? One measure of the market is Months Supply and it shows who has the advantage.

Months Supply is calculated by dividing the total number of homes for sale by the average number of homes sold each month. For example if there are 500 homes for sale in a particular area and an average of 100 homes are selling each month, the Months Supply is 5 months.

Here’s a chart of month’s supply going back to November of 2023:

SINGLE FAMILY HOME MONTHS SUPPLY📷 Source: Federal Reserve of St. Louis

6 Months Supply is considered a balanced market. Over 6 months supply is considered a buyers’ market. Below 6 months supply is a sellers’ market. At 4 months supply on a national level, the market slightly favors sellers.

Inventory is rising nationally, however, which could shift the market to favor buyers in the next year. With that said, all real estate is local and local markets will differ in favoring buyers versus sellers.

If you want to know if your area favors buyers or sellers, send me a message.

What This Means for Homeowners

If you own a home, you will likely see a slight increase in your home's value. If you want to increase your home’s value and enjoy the upgrades, consider making some home improvements. If you want advice on which features or projects are best suited for increasing your home’s value, consult with a professional.

Tips for Potential Home Buyers

If you’re thinking of purchasing a home, the sooner you start planning the better. Knowing your price range, optimizing your credit, and working towards your down payment are steps you can take now. Even if you’re in the market to buy in the next 12 to 24 months, talking with a real estate professional early in the process will set you up for success.

Tips for Potential Home Sellers

Sellers need to prioritize their objectives. Is getting top dollar for your home the highest priority, is it moving within a specific timeframe? Do you have to sell a home prior to purchasing your next one? These objectives must be prioritized so that an effective plan and marketing strategy can be put into place. Thinking of making a move? Talk to a real estate professional!

 

Thinking about buying or selling a home in 2025? Contact me today for personalized advice and strategies! Text me at (352) 456-8331 or email me at Kerry@KerryMillhiser.com to get started.

Posted in Real Estate News
July 31, 2017

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