Question: How did the real estate market for the second half of 2021 compare with 2022?
Answer: The City of Alexandria’s real estate market in the second half of 2021 looked a lot like the second half of 2020.
Ask McEnearney
Question: Now that I have moved into my dream home in Alexandria, what would you suggest as a way to get involved in the community?
Answer: That is a great question, and one I hear from my clients, especially those who are moving from out of state. Although I have lived in Alexandria since 1989, I am from Florida, and lived in Texas, New Jersey, and New York prior to finding my true home in Virginia. For that reason, I will use myself as an example for how to become a “local”.
Question: Is it a Boom or a Bubble?
Answer: Happy New Year, real estate readers! I hope you’re as excited as I am for another unpredictable year in real estate in Northern Virginia. These last couple of years have been ones for the record books — unprecedented times have led to unexpected results. Who would have thought the real estate market would soar during a global pandemic? More than surviving, the market is thriving. But…
Question: This might be a silly question, but…?
Answer: “I have a silly question” is something that I hear far too frequently and usually followed by something that I’ve been asked before and isn’t silly at all. Frankly, in my opinion, there are no silly questions.
Question: How did the real estate market in the City of Alexandria finish the year in 2021?
Answer: In September we wrote about contract activity from January through August of 2021 for the City of Alexandria compared to the same months of 2020 and 2019. It was not a surprise to see increases in contract activity compared to 2020 which was impacted by shutdowns and isolation due to COVID, but the increases were also significant when compared to the more “normal” market of 2019.
1. What in the real estate market do you think has changed the most over forty years?
I would have to say technology has driven the greatest change. Look at the way we conduct our business today. Property information is available to everyone, agents and customers alike, at our fingertips. The internet, phone apps and QR codes give instant access in real time. Purchasers view photos and videos of homes for sale from their home or car. Contract offers are written, signed and presented to sellers electronically. The access to information makes everyone better informed. The systems and programs advanced through new technologies impact every aspect of the buying and selling process for real estate agents and their clients.
Question: Man vs. Machine?
Answer: For many a successful Realtor, this recruiting call will sound familiar… “Technology will boost your business and make you a star.” (While I agree it helps, personal relationships and real substance mean the most to me. Signed, Ann D.)
Question: Should I consider a home in an HOA?
Answer: When looking to buy a home, an important thing to consider is whether or not you are interested in having a home within either a homeowner’s association or condominium association. What is also important is understanding the differences between the two! While many have heard of HOAs and condos, not many understand exactly what they are. It is even a common misconception that the terms can be used interchangeably — however, they are actually quite different.
Question: I have often wondered how real estate agents juggle multiple listings, numerous buyers, pre-listing updates and their personal priorities all at the same time. Would you mind sharing your strategy?
Answer: During this season of thanks, I value the occasion to recognize those who have truly helped me throughout the year. Whether in my business or my personal life, surrounding myself with amazing contractors, terrific service providers, wonderful clients, great friends, collaborative agents, supportive brokers, lovely neighbors and of course my fabulous golden retrievers, makes all the difference in my fast-paced lifestyle.
This week’s Q&A column, sponsored and written by McEnearney Associates Realtors®, the leading real estate firm in Alexandria, is a bit of a departure from our usual format. To learn more about this article and relevant Alexandria market news, contact us at 703-549-9292. You may also submit your questions to McEnearney Associates via email for response in future columns
It’s Beyond Selling Homes
Question: Why is Zillow closing their iBuyer program?
Answer: If you follow real estate at all, you probably saw the announcement that Zillow is closing its iBuyer program. This is big news, but what does it really mean for Zillow and the real estate industry?