Just Listed highlights Arlington properties that just came on the market within the past week. This feature is written and sponsored by Team Cathell, “Your Orange Line Specialists.”
If you talk with leaders in mortgage, title and real estate brokerage, as I do regularly, you’d think our housing market is about to collapse.
The number of transactions and mortgage applications in the last two weeks has dropped significantly in our area, and those industry leaders are worried. Is the drop just normal summertime blues, or is something more ominous lurking over the horizon?
Arlington’s numbers this week are low with only 40 ratified contracts and 49 new listings. It’s too early to tell if this is because of weakening consumer confidence influenced by media bombardment about a possible recession coming soon. Or if its just because it’s the end of summer, public schools in Arlington don’t start until next week when workers resume normal routines, and home buying right now just isn’t the biggest priority.
The next 2-3 weeks will likely bring some clarity and answers. Keep in mind that our economy is overdue for a shift based on historical business and economic trends. We have experienced numerous minor recessions over the last 30 years that left little impact on daily life.
It’s still a great time to buy a home or refinance. Interest rates remain low at about 3.5% for a 30-year fixed rate. Those rates won’t last forever. Ironically, if we have good economic news then mortgage rates will likely rise. But if we have worsening global and U.S. economic news, rates could actually go lower.
I would advise home buyers to ratify a contract as soon as they are able to find the right home. Once ratified, you can lock in your interest rate. Choose a local reputable lender that offers a one-time float down. If interest rates drop after you’ve locked in, the float down allows you to lower your rate before closing. Ask for the float down option.
Click to see all the fresh new inventory in MRIS and call Team Cathell (703-975-2500) when you find a home you like.
- 1001 N. Vermont Street #902, Arlington, VA 22201 — $475,000
- 4819 9th Street S., Arlington, VA 22204 — $679,900
- 115 N. Abingdon Street, Arlington, VA 22203 — $715,000
- 641 N. Tazewell Street, Arlington, VA 22203 — $783,800
- 4737 N. Williamsburg, Arlington, VA 22207 — $1,000,000
- 129 N. Oakland Street, Arlington, VA 22203 — $1,185,000
- 3129 9th Road N., Arlington, VA 22201 – $1,379,000
- 4011 26th Street N., Arlington, VA 22207 — $2,399,000