The Liz Moore Market Watch Blog

Noland Trail in Newport News Turns 30

Posted by Lynnette Tully on Mon, Nov 01, 2021 @ 02:07 PM

shutterstock_1600785001

The Noland Trail, one of the most beautiful spots in Newport News, Virginia, celebrated its 30th birthday on October 26th, 2021.

Following the shoreline of The Mariners’ Lake, which is part of Mariners’ Park, is the five-mile Noland Trail. Dedicated as a gift from the Noland Family in 1991 and with significant ongoing financial support from the Noland Family, the trail has 14 bridges, picnic areas, benches, and mile markers. Each fall, The Mariners’ Museum hosts a Park celebration that includes the Noland Trail 50K and Relay and a family-friendly fall festival.

Mariners' Park is one of the nation’s largest privately owned and maintained parks that is free and open to the public.

Park and Trail Hours:

OPEN DAILY

Hours: 6 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day

Tags: Newport News, lizlocal-peninsula-livelocal

What Will We See in the 2019 Peninsula Real Estate Market?

Posted by Lynnette Tully on Mon, Mar 11, 2019 @ 11:09 AM

rawpixel-620230-unsplashBy: Donna Moyer, Managing Broker in Newport News

2018 was another solid year for local real estate. Here on the Peninsula, closed sales finished up 1% for the year, on top of a small increase in 2017. The final quarter was strong, with pending sales up a little over 7%.

We are entering 2019 with less than 4.5 months of active inventory, and homes selling, on average, in only 41 days. On average, sellers accepted offers at over 98% of their asking price last year. That is good news for sellers who are priced properly and in good condition, or for prospective sellers who are thinking about diving into the market. Nationwide, most markets are experiencing inventory shortages, which is the single biggest factor keeping a lid on the number of sales.

The exception here is the upper end market, where sellers need to be significantly more patient – there is currently 10 months of inventory priced at $500,000 and up on the Peninsula.

Prices remained remarkably steady during the past 12 months, with the median sales price on the Peninsula at $192,00 for most of the year.

Here is what I see in the coming 12 months:

A shortage of listings has been our biggest challenge for the past 18 months. My expectation is that we will continue to see more listings come on the market as we move into the Spring. We have seen a significant jump in new listings over the past few months, signaling that wise sellers recognize the importance of beating the competition to the Spring market.

As the typical Spring seasonal demand builds, consumers will realize that moves need to be made ASAP in order to take advantage of a 9 year streak of historically low rates and home values. It’s important to note that the market can shift quickly, and it will not surprise me to see a highly competitive Spring season for homes selling below $400,000.

Interest rates will continue a slow and steady climb this year. Interest rates have been perplexing over the past 12 months. Most predicted the inevitable ascent would begin as the economy gained steam, but rates remained lower than predicted, most likely because the feds were hesitant to do anything that might inhibit the momentum of the recovery.

I believe that 2019 will be the year that interest rates incrementally increase, but the question remains by how much and how frequently. The good news is that this is a sure sign of a strengthening economy, but the bad news is that each hike raises the bar on home affordability. My prediction is that this will add some urgency to the market this year, particularly in the lower price ranges.

Prices will finally begin to show improvement in many neighborhoods. Prices are neighborhood specific, and some areas are definitely improving faster than others. We saw a slight rise in appreciation on the Peninsula last year (with the median sold price up 5%), and I expect we will continue to stay on this more normal appreciation rate in 2019 and beyond.

If a home purchase is on your New Year resolution list, buy early in the year, as interest rates have a much greater impact than most realize. For instance, waiting for prices to drop 5% to save $12,500 on a $250,000 purchase may cost you an extra $225 per month in payments; if rates increase from 4% to 5.5%, then your payment increases from $1194 to $1419. For most buyers, the affordability index of monthly payments is a more critical consideration.

We were fortunate to participate in 1 out of every 6 home sales on the Peninsula in 2018, insuring a position as an agency in the local market. Your support and referrals are much appreciated, and we promise to deliver the extraordinary client experience that has become our hallmark!

*All stats based on Broker Metrics (REIN MLS areas 101-113) residential home sales in 2018

If you are looking to buy or sell a home this year, email us at info@lizmoore.com.  We'd love to help!

Tags: Buyers, Sellers, Hampton, York County, Newport News, Poquoson, lizlocal-Peninsula, relo-peninsula-news

Grand Opening in The Point on Fisher's Creek, Newport News

Posted by Lynnette Tully on Thu, Feb 21, 2019 @ 01:08 PM

POFC-2Join us for the Grand Opening of the Waverly in The Point on Fisher's Creek by Stephen Alexander Homes and Neighborhoods on Sat. March 9th and Sun. March 10th from 1-4pm. The builder, Stephen Quick, will be on-site to offer tours and answer any questions you may have about the home or their product.  

This beautiful home features 3,500 sq. feet of smart living, open concepts and coastal charm. This expansive floor plan includes five bedrooms, three and a half baths, a built-in entertainment center in the family room with bookshelves and a fireplace. A culinary chef’s dream, the kitchen features a large island, 42” custom cabinets, stainless steel appliances, granite, and a beautiful glass tile backsplash. Off the kitchen is a custom butler’s pantry including a culinary station and wine built-in. With 10’ ceilings on the first floor, the home feels open, airy and bright. Upstairs is a spacious master suite with a spa like bathroom, huge tile shower with a glass enclosure, dual showerheads and built-in vanities. Over the garage is a spacious bonus/bedroom that offers space for an office, playroom or both! Don’t forget about the beautiful screened-in porch off the eat-in kitchen area, it completes the house! There are so many gorgeous features in this model home at The Point on Fishers Creek, which is centrally located to shopping, Schools, Military Bases, Hospital, Christopher Newport University, Port Warwick, City Center Newport News.

Stephen Alexander Homes provide quality craftsmanship, unique design, and superior service.   A multigenerational family business, the company is committed to developing and building the finest communities in Hampton Roads.

For more information, ask Cathy Jackson (CathyJackson@lizmoore.com) or follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/lizmoorenewhomes

Tags: Newport News, New Homes, event, event-Peninsula, events

New Homes Tour...with Wine & Chocolate!

Posted by Lynnette Tully on Tue, Feb 05, 2019 @ 03:02 PM

Capture-18Join us on Saturday, February 16th, from 1-4pm for the Liz Moore and Associates New Homes Tour.  With 11 homes on tour from the Peninsula up to Richmond, one is bound to be near you!

And what's better than touring beautiful homes?  Doing so while sampling wine and chocolate! 

Bring your valentine out for a little fun! To download the complete list of participating homes, visit www.lizmoore.com/valentine.

 

Tags: Newport News, Poquoson, New Homes, Williamsburg, Richmond, event, event-Peninsula, event-Williamsburg, event-Richmond, events

Coming Soon: Grand Opening in The Point on Fisher's Creek, Newport News

Posted by Lynnette Tully on Fri, Jan 25, 2019 @ 10:59 AM

POFC-2Coming Soon: Grand Opening of the Waverly in The Point on Fisher's Creek by Stephen Alexander Homes and Neighborhoods. The builder, Stephen Quick, will be on-site to offer tours and answer any questions you may have about the home or their product.  Stay tuned for date and time.

This beautiful home features 3,500 sq. feet of smart living, open concepts and coastal charm. This expansive floor plan includes five bedrooms, three and a half baths, a built-in entertainment center in the family room with bookshelves and a fireplace. A culinary chef’s dream, the kitchen features a large island, 42” custom cabinets, stainless steel appliances, granite, and a beautiful glass tile backsplash. Off the kitchen is a custom butler’s pantry including a culinary station and wine built-in. With 10’ ceilings on the first floor, the home feels open, airy and bright. Upstairs is a spacious master suite with a spa like bathroom, huge tile shower with a glass enclosure, dual showerheads and built-in vanities. Over the garage is a spacious bonus/bedroom that offers space for an office, playroom or both! Don’t forget about the beautiful screened-in porch off the eat-in kitchen area, it completes the house! There are so many gorgeous features in this model home at The Point on Fishers Creek, which is centrally located to shopping, Schools, Military Bases, Hospital, Christopher Newport University, Port Warwick, City Center Newport News.

Stephen Alexander Homes provide quality craftsmanship, unique design, and superior service.   A multigenerational family business, the company is committed to developing and building the finest communities in Hampton Roads.

For more information, ask Cathy Jackson (CathyJackson@lizmoore.com) or follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/lizmoorenewhomes

Tags: Newport News, New Homes, event, event-Peninsula, events

Introducing Barbara Wells, a Liz Moore Rainmaker

Posted by Lynnette Tully on Mon, Oct 15, 2018 @ 12:37 PM

Rainmakers are selected based on their sales accomplishments earning them a spot among the top 20% of Liz Moore & Associates top performers.

In additional to sales volume standards, Rainmakers share client-centric philosophies, a dedication to being masters of their craft, and a commitment to giving back to the community they serve.

Introducing Barbara Wells, a Liz Moore Rainmaker!

 

Tags: Newport News, careers

Port Warwick Summer Concert Series

Posted by Lynnette Tully on Thu, May 31, 2018 @ 03:27 PM

helena-lopes-463976-unsplash

Warmer weather is finally here! Come out to Port Warwick every Wednesday, 6-9pm through August 29th (no concert July 4) to enjoy the summer night air on Styron Square listening to the area’s best music.

The concerts are FREE and all are welcome! Bring your own lawn chairs (no tents), blankets, food and drink – beer and wine allowed. Or enjoy the music from one of Port Warwick restaurant patios.

Click here for a list of bands and dates.

Thinking about moving to this great community?  Click to view homes for sale in Port Warwick.  

 

 

Tags: Newport News, Port Warwick, event, event-Peninsula, relo-peninsula-local

Hilton Art Show & Porch Walk

Posted by Lynnette Tully on Wed, May 09, 2018 @ 03:12 PM

kai-oberhauser-309715-unsplash

The Hilton Art Show & Porch Walk is taking place on Saturday, May 12th from 11am to 7pm!

Stroll through Hilton Village's commercial district, down Main Street and to the James River and view and purchase incredible local art. Live music, food trucks, and a beer garden will be on site.

This event is part of Hilton's Centennial Celebration happening all year long!  

Hilton Village is a planned community located in Newport News, mid-way between Virginia Beach and Williamsburg. Hilton was built in 1918 as part of the war effort to house shipyard workers. Hilton sits on 100 acres of land between the C&O Railroad and the James River. When it was first built, it was a block of houses and a strip of stores in the middle of a vast forest, connected to the shipyard and the rest of the city by a streetcar. After World War I, the homes of Hilton were rented out, and later, sold as private residences. The quality housing of the village and its convenient commercial district became a big draw for the area. Hilton Village was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1969. The village is full of stories waiting to be told from its rich history. Hilton Village started as neo-traditional town planning in 1918 that translates today as a modern community that both treasures its history and looks toward the future. 

Visit http://www.hiltonvillage100.com/ for a calendar of upcoming events.  

Tags: Hilton Village, Newport News, event-Peninsula, events

The Point on Fisher's Creek: New Construction in the Heart of Newport News

Posted by Lynnette Tully on Wed, Feb 21, 2018 @ 02:43 PM

18739040-160606.jpgThe new community of The Point on Fisher's Creek boasts the best large marsh and waterfront lots Newport News has to offer and is currently the only new construction community in the Menchville High School district. This new neighborhood by Stephen Alexander Homes is just a few miles from Christopher Newport University, Port Warwick, and City Center at Oyster Point, where a culinary extravaganza awaits with some of the area best new eateries. An array of grand opening incentives are being offered!  Email us at info@lizmoore.com for details.  

Interested in a brand new homes in The Point on Fisher's Creek?  Download the price list below.

Download The Point on Fisher's Creek Price List

 

Tags: Newport News, New Homes

We Love Local Art!

Posted by Lynnette Tully on Thu, Feb 15, 2018 @ 10:27 AM

NN Art Reception-21.jpgAt Liz Moore & Associates, we truly love where we live!  So much so, in fact, that we commissioned local artist Bob Oller of Oller Creative Studios, to create original vector paintings of some of our favorite places!

Oller introduced his LizLocal collection a few months ago in the Newport News Liz Moore office in City Center – introducing the collection at a reception for VIP clients and Liz Moore agents.

5 paintings were unveiled to an eager audience:

Poquoson Flats
Yorktown Skies
Playing Time Lions Bridge, Newport News
Clear Skies, Air & Space Hampton
City Center Newport News

You can enjoy these works in the lobby at 11801 Canon Boulevard in Newport News, or view them online at lizmoore.com/art.  Various size glycee prints are also available via the website.

What’s next?  Stay tuned for the Williamsburg and Richmond office debuts!

For more information, visit lizmoore.com/art!
Visit lizmoore.com/art

Tags: Hampton, Locals - 101 Reasons, York County, Newport News, Poquoson, lizlocal, lizlocal-Peninsula, relo-peninsula-local

Peninsula Real Estate Market Predictions for 2018

Posted by Lynnette Tully on Tue, Feb 13, 2018 @ 09:54 AM

Donna Moyer, Managing Broker of our Newport News office, shares what she sees happening in the Peninsula real estate market in 2018.

2017 was a solid year for local real estate. Here on The Peninsula, closed sales finished up 3% for the year, with pending sales up over 5%, which indicates a strong start to 2018. Much like last year, we did not experience the typical holiday slowdown, which also bodes well for sales activity in the New Year, despite some early snow events in January.

becca-tapert-391584.jpg

We are entering 2018 with just over 4 months of active inventory, and homes selling, on average, in only 50 days. That is good news for sellers who are priced properly and in good condition, or for prospective sellers who are thinking about diving into the market. Nationwide, most markets are experiencing inventory shortages, which is the single biggest factor keeping a lid on the number of sales.

The exception here is the upper-end market, where sellers need to be significantly more patient – there is currently 12 months of inventory priced at $500,000 and up on The Peninsula.

Prices remained remarkably steady during the past 12 months, with the median sales price on The Peninsula slightly above $180,000 for most of the year, and finishing up at $185,000.

Here is what I see in the coming 12 months:

Consumer confidence has been our biggest challenge in recent years, especially during the contentious presidential election. With that now behind us, activity levels have definitely regained momentum. Record activity in the stock market has also translated to increased real estate interest.

My expectation is that there are many sellers who have been waiting for more favorable market conditions to list – and that will continue to happen as we move toward Spring. We have seen a significant jump in new listings over the past few months, signaling that wise sellers recognize the importance of beating the competition to the Spring market.

As prices continue to climb due to the inventory shortage, consumers will realize that moves need to be made ASAP in order to take advantage of an 8 year streak of historically low rates Real Estate is Local. So are We. and home values. It’s important to note that the market can shift quickly, and it will not surprise me to see a highly competitive Spring season for homes selling below $400,000.

Interest rates will begin a slow and steady climb this year. Interest rates have been perplexing over the past 12 months. Most predicted the inevitable ascent would begin as the economy gained steam, but rates remained lower than predicted, most likely because the feds were hesitant to do anything that might inhibit the momentum of the recovery.

I believe that 2018 will be the year that interest rates incrementally increase, but the question remains by how much and how frequently. The good news is that this is a sure sign of a strengthening economy, but the bad news is that each hike raises the bar on home affordability. My prediction is that this will add some urgency to the market this year, particularly in the lower price ranges.

Prices will finally begin to show improvement in many neighborhoods. Prices are neighborhood specific, and some areas are definitely improving faster than others. The overall Peninsula market appreciated 3% in 2017, and I expect will continue to trend toward more normal appreciation rates (5 to 6%) in 2018 and beyond.

If a home purchase is on your New Year resolution list, buy early in the year, as interest rates have a much greater impact than most realize. For instance, waiting for prices to drop 5% to save $12,500 on a $250,000 purchase may cost you an extra $225 per month in payments; if rates increase from 4% to 5.5%, then your payment increases from $1194 to $1419. For most buyers, the affordability index of monthly payments is a more critical consideration.

We were fortunate to participate in 1 out of every 7 home sales on The Peninsula in 2017, insuring our position as a leader in the local market. Your support and referrals are much appreciated, and we promise to deliver the extraordinary client experience that has become our hallmark!

If you are looking to buy or sell a home this year, email us at info@lizmoore.com.  We'd love to help!

Tags: Buyers, Sellers, Hampton, York County, Newport News, Poquoson, lizlocal, lizlocal-Peninsula, relo-peninsula-news

Introducing Leanne Hester, a Liz Moore Rainmaker!

Posted by Lynnette Tully on Tue, Jan 16, 2018 @ 02:29 PM

Rainmakers are selected based on their sales accomplishments earning them a spot among the top 20% of Liz Moore & Associates top performers.

In additional to sales volume standards, Rainmakers share client-centric philosophies, a dedication to being masters of their craft, and a commitment to giving back to the community they serve.

Introducing Leanne Hester, a Liz Moore Rainmaker!

Tags: Newport News, careers

Liz Moore Raises over $3,200 for Dream Catchers

Posted by Lynnette Tully on Thu, Nov 16, 2017 @ 10:42 AM

IMG_5120.jpg

This past weekend, Liz Moore, President of Liz Moore & Associates, participated in the Cowboys Uncorked fundraising event at the Williamsburg Winery.  Liz was thrown in the Cowboys Uncorked Jailhouse and needed to raise bail money to be released.  She raised a total of $3,240!

All money raised benefits the Dream Catchers at the Cori Sikich Therapeutic Riding Center.

Dream Catchers is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to provide life-changing equine assisted activities and therapies to children and adults with special needs.  Each year, the Center provides over 4,000 lessons to about 500 students from 4 years of age to senior citizens in their 90’s.  

Thank you to all who donated to this amazing cause!

Are you interested in hot real estate topics, tips and trends?  
Click below to subscribe to our blog!

 

Tags: Newport News, Williamsburg, Richmond, lizlocal, lizlocal-Williamsburg

Boathouse Live Coming to City Center in Newport News

Posted by Lynnette Tully on Wed, Oct 04, 2017 @ 10:46 AM

john-raptis-225341.jpg

If you are like many music loving locals, you spent a lot of time at the Boathouse in Norfolk and were the first to see many bands before they "made it big".  The Boathouse canceled shows in 2003 after damage from Hurricane Isabel, later forcing them to close for good, and the warehouse-like music venue has been missed ever since.

Now, Sean Pepe — one of the people behind Hampton restaurants Barking Dog and El Diablo and Newport News’ Kismet Bistro — will pay homage to the Norfolk icon by opening a venue called Boathouse Live at City Center, Mayor McKinley Price announced Tuesday during his State of the City address.

The venue would be filling a space that has been vacant since 2015, when it was last occupied by Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar and Grill. It would also fill one of several vacancies on Mariners Row in City Center.

Price described the future venue as “a dynamic atmosphere for artists and audiences alike.”

The venue should be done by the end of November, and a band called The Jauntee is scheduled to play there on Dec. 1. Hailing from Boston, the band’s website describes its sound as “Funk/Rock/Jazz/Progressive/Bluegrass/Psychedelic and Ambient.”

One thing is for sure, this is big news for the Virginia Peninsula!

Interested in finding more things to do in and around the Historic Triangle? Subscribe here to our blog as we post ideas frequently.  You also can purchase a copy of Liz’s recently published book, 101 Reasons to Love Living in the Historic Triangle, in either paperback or e-book version by clicking the button below.

Purchase "101 Reasons to Love Living in the Historic Triangle"

Are you interested in hot real estate topics, tips and trends?  
Click below to subscribe to our blog!

 

Tags: Locals - 101 Reasons, Newport News, lizlocal, lizlocal-Peninsula

How Did Newport News, Virginia Get Its Name?

Posted by Lynnette Tully on Fri, Jul 21, 2017 @ 02:54 PM

Do you know how Newport News got its name?

Steeped in history, ours is a community of diverse trades including shipbuilding, technological research and international commerce. We are proud of our city and its rich heritage which dates back to the founding of America.

Newport News was named for Christopher Newport, captain of the Susan Constant, the lead ship of the three ship fleet that carried the Jamestown settlers to the new world in 1607. Captain Newport made several more trips between the new world and England. After the Starving Time of 1610, the original colonists abandoned Jamestown and encountered Captain Newport in the James River and learned that reinforcements of men and supplies had arrived, thus prompting their return to Jamestown. The place where that occurred became known for Newport’s good news, ‘Newport’s News,’ and eventually just Newport News.

Since the turn of the 19th century, Newport News has been known as the provider of the nation’s finest, technologically advanced military ships. In more recent years, Newport News has also become a center for international commerce, research and technology. Our economy is strengthened by a strong military presence in Hampton Roads and, in Newport News, we are proud to be home of the U.S. Army Transportation Center at Fort Eustis. The City’s historic sites, museums and cultural facilities compliment the quality of life for Newport News residents and businesses. The City boasts 18 public parks, as well as public boat ramps and recreation facilities.

Interested in finding more things to do in Newport News and around the Historic Triangle? Subscribe here to our blog as we post ideas frequently.  You also can purchase a copy of Liz’s recently published book, 101 Reasons to Love Living in the Historic Triangle, in either paperback or e-book version by clicking the button below.

Purchase "101 Reasons to Love Living in the Historic Triangle"

 

Are you interested in hot real estate topics, tips and trends?  
Click below to subscribe to our blog

Subscribe!

Tags: Locals - 101 Reasons, Newport News, Home Page

Neighborhood Spotlight: Kiln Creek, Newport News & York County

Posted by Lynnette Tully on Fri, Jul 07, 2017 @ 02:59 PM

kiln creek sign-1.jpgKiln Creek is a marvelous cluster of thirty-one complementary neighborhoods stretching from Jefferson Avenue in Newport News into York County along Victory Boulevard. Homes range from one-bedroom condominiums to single family homes in excess of 3,000 square feet.

All are situated in the context of natural beauty and ample amenities: four miles of walking trail, an 18-hole golf course with pro shop, restaurant/grill, conference rooms, a hotel, saltwater swimming pool, tennis courts, a lake view.jpgclubhouse, recreation center, and fitness center. On the York County side of the neighborhood, there are more tennis courts, a community pool, and an adjacent public park. The neighborhood is meticulously maintained.

Living in Kiln Creek, you’ll be within minutes of three major shopping centers, the Newport News- Williamsburg airport, historic Yorktown, Fort Eustis, Langley AFB, Cheatham Annex, USCG Training Center, Williamsburg and most other points on the Peninsula.

For more information, click here to download our Kiln Creek neighborhood guide.

Download Our Kiln Creek Neighborhood Guide 

Tags: York County, Newport News, Kiln Creek, Neighborhood Spotlight, lizlocal, Peninsula, lizlocal-Peninsula

Newport News One City Marathon Is a Go This Blustery Weekend

Posted by Lynnette Tully on Fri, Mar 10, 2017 @ 02:49 PM

Run-alone-1.jpeg

The 3rd annual Newport News One City Marathon, featuring the Nautical Mile Fun Run presented by the Daily Press, the Maritime 8K presented by Anthem, the One City Marathon Relay, and the One City Marathon presented by Newport News Shipbuilding will be taking place on Sunday, March 12th.  

After several days of uncertainty because of potential snow in the weather forecast, Newport News One City Marathon officials announced on Friday morning that the event will go on as planned. 

The marathon and marathon relay start at 7 a.m. at Newport News Park and ends at Victory Arch at 25th Street and West Avenue in downtown Newport News.

The 8K begins at 7:30 a.m. and the Nautical Mile begins at 10 a.m. both at the Victory Arch.

The One City One Celebration event takes place from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday in Victory Landing Park, adjacent to the arch.

Extra precautions are being added to deal with the cold weather and related hypothermia concerns including:

  • Additional busses at the start line to keep runners warm prior to the race;
  • Schools along the route that host water stations and relay exchange zones will be open;
  • Busses stationed on the course in locations that are not near a school to serve as warming stations; and
  • Extra resources added throughout the course and at the finish line such as electric blankets, emergency blankets and disposable outer layers.

Click here for a list of road closures.

One City Marathon...just another reason why we love where we live!

 

 

Tags: Locals - 101 Reasons, Newport News

Liz's Crystal Ball for the Peninsula Housing Market

Posted by Liz Moore on Tue, Feb 14, 2017 @ 02:50 PM

crystal.jpg2016 was a solid year for local real estate. Here on the Peninsula, closed sales finished up
9.5% for the year, with pending sales up just under 10% in December, which is activity higher
than we typically see during the holidays. The New Year has started off with a bang, which I
believe is indicative of another strong year for our market.

We are entering 2017 with only slightly over 5 months of active inventory, and homes selling,
on average, in only 97 days. That is good news for sellers who are priced properly and in good
condition. The exception here is the luxury market, where sellers need to be significantly
more patient – there is currently 10 months of inventory priced at $750,000 and up.
Prices remained remarkably steady during the past 12 months, with the median sales price on
the Peninsula hovering right around $180,000 for most of the year.

Here is what I see in the coming 12 months:

Consumer confidence has been our biggest challenge in recent years, especially
during the contentious presidential election. With that behind us, activity levels have
definitely regained momentum.

My expectation is that there are many sellers who have been waiting for more favorable
market conditions to list – and that should begin to happen as we move toward Spring.
We saw a 30% jump in new listings in December, signaling that wise sellers recognize the
importance of beating the competition to the Spring market.

As prices begin an inevitable rise, consumers will realize that moves need to be made ASAP
in order to take advantage of a 7 year streak of historically low rates and home values. It’s
important to note that the market can shift quickly, and the pendulum is likely to continue its
swing toward lower inventory levels, creating a more competitive environment than we’ve seen
in recent years.

Interest rates will begin a slow and steady climb this year.
Interest rates began their inevitable ascent in the final quarter of 2016, and we are expecting at least 2 more increases in 2017, according to our friends in the mortgage industry. The good news is that this is a sure sign of a strengthening economy, but the bad news is that each hike raises the bar on home affordability. My prediction is that this will add some urgency to the market this year, particularly in the lower price ranges.

We recently got some great news for home buyers as FHA lowered mortgage insurance premiums, and Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are now offering low down payment mortgage products (3%) in order to compete with their government counterparts. That, combined with underwriting restrictions which are finally beginning to ease, should encourage first time buyer activity that has been priced out of the market.

Prices will finally begin to show improvement in many neighborhoods.
Prices are neighborhood specific, and some areas are definitely improving faster than others. I expect the market to continue to trend toward more normal appreciation rates in 2017 and beyond.

My overall message here remains the same as last year: If a home purchase is on your New Year resolution list, buy early in the year, as interest rates have a much greater impact than most realize. For instance, waiting for prices to drop 5% to save $12,500 on a $250,000 purchase may cost you an extra $225 per month in payments; if rates increase from 4% to 5.5%, then your payment increases from $1194 to $1419. For most buyers, the affordability index of monthly payments is a more critical consideration.

Your support and referrals are much appreciated, and we promise to deliver the extraordinary client experience that has become our hallmark!

*All stats based on Broker Metrics for REIN Area 101-113 residential home sales in 2016.

If you’re a seller who has been wondering if it might finally be time to sell, email us at concierge@lizmoore.com, or click below, and we can prepare a complimentary analysis of market value for you – you just may be pleasantly surprised.

How Much is My Home Worth?

Are you interested in hot real estate topics, tips and trends?  
Click below to subscribe to our blog

Subscribe!

Tags: Home Sale Statistics & Trends, Hampton, York County, Newport News, Poquoson

Are You Looking for a Home in Newport News?

Posted by Liz Moore on Tue, Aug 30, 2016 @ 04:17 PM

We are excited to bring you the latest issue of the Liz Moore Newport News Homes MagazineClick the image below to flip through the magazine featuring our newest Newport News homes for sale.

NewportNews DigitalMagazine resized 600

Check out the rest of our digital magazines - Hampton HomesWilliamsburg HomesWaterfront Property, and more!  You can subscribe to one or more of our magazines, and they will be delivered FREE to your inbox once a month, dynamically uploading the latest issues.

Check Out Our Digital Magazines

 

Are you interested in hot real estate topics, tips and trends?  
Click below to subscribe to our blog

 Subscribe!

Tags: Buyers, Newport News

Latest Census Estimates Show Population Changes on Peninsula and in Williamsburg

Posted by Lynnette Tully on Mon, Jun 06, 2016 @ 02:41 PM

up-arrow.jpgThe U.S. Census Bureau released its population estimates from April 2015 - July 2015 for much of Virginia, including many of our local cities and counties.  

Williamsburg shows to be the fastest-growing community in Hampton Roads, according to the Census estimates, with an estimated 10.1% increase in residents to 15,052.  The state's average growth rate is 4.8%. 

James City County grew by 5,746 people between 2010 and 2015, according to Census data, which is up 8.5% from James City County's official 2010 census.

Hampton lost 1,056 residents between 2010 and 2015, while Poquoson lost 98 and Matthews lost 114.

Newport News, which is the largest city on the Peninsula, continues to grow and added 1,474 residents between 2010 and 2015.  York County grew by 2,646 and Gloucester by 285.

Virginia added added more than 381,000 people to its state between 2010 and 2015 - bringing the overall population estimate to around 8.3 million, which makes it the 12th largest state in the union.  

(Source: Virginia Gazette article, April 2, 2016)

If you’re a seller who has been wondering if it might finally be time to sell your home in Williamsburg or on the Peninsula, email us at concierge@lizmoore.com, or click below, and we can prepare a complimentary analysis of market value for you – you just may be pleasantly surprised.

How Much is My Home Worth?

Are you interested in hot real estate topics, tips and trends?  
Click below to subscribe to our blog

Subscribe!

Tags: Buyers, Sellers, Home Sale Statistics & Trends, Hampton, York County, Newport News, Poquoson, Williamsburg