Why You Should Buy A Home When Interest Rates Are High

Over the last year, inflation has been on the rise and interest rates have gone up right alongside it. For many prospective home buyers, higher interest rates that lead to higher monthly mortgage payments can feel incredibly discouraging, impacting affordability significantly.

Despite these higher mortgage rates, there are several reasons why buying a home right now may still be very much worthwhile, not the least of which is a sharp decline in competition among buyers. The benefits of buying a home when mortgage rates are high are certainly worth considering.

Rates Are Temporary

Taking out a mortgage may initially seem like a set-in-stone thirty-year commitment, but the truth is that it’s hardly the case. When you purchase your home, think about interest rates as temporary. While you may buy your home for a higher interest rate, you will be able to refinance once rates fall back down, and you’ll be able to secure better terms. Understanding that you have the option to refinance down the line allows you to take advantage of the other perks that higher interest rates offer to prospective homebuyers.

Broader Selection of Homes For Sale

As mortgage rates continue to rise and homebuyers who cannot afford higher monthly payments pump the brakes on their search, more homes are coming on the market. When you take these two trends into consideration, the end result is much broader selection of homes for sale. Ultimately, higher interest rates give prospective homebuyers more choices. Higher rates also mean that homes are staying on the market for longer than in previous years, giving buyers the opportunity to negotiate price and reducing the level of competition for any one home.

Inflation Isn’t Always Bad

While inflation is widely regarded as negative due to its destabilizing effects on the economy, it’s important to bear in mind that inflation comes with a silver lining. As the value of the dollar declines during a period of inflation, so does the value of debt. Therefore, it is possible for inflation to make owning a home and paying a mortgage more affordable for some people than paying rent. Every year, landlords raise rent prices to account for inflation, meaning that no matter what is happening in the rest of the market, rent will always continue to go up.

Conversely, when you have fixed debt by way of a mortgage, you’ll pay the same price for thirty (or fewer) years no matter how much the state of the economy fluctuates. Lenders cannot make adjustments to your mortgage as interest rates or inflation changes.

Home Prices Decrease

With higher interest rates, many prospective home buyers are priced out of purchasing homes they once could have afforded. The result is less competition for homes, and when the supply outpaces the demand, home prices are sure to fall. The longer a home sits on the market, the less leverage the seller has to command a higher price. Over time, you will likely start to see prices decrease all around as sellers compensate for higher rates with price reductions to close the sale.

Reduced Buyer Risk

When home buyers are rushing to close the sale to beat out competition, they often make the risky decision to waive offer contingencies. Sellers are likely to accept an offer with less contingencies because not only does it reduce the likelihood of the buyer stopping the deal as a result of an observed issue, but it also speeds up the timeline of the sale. 

Contingencies that tend to get waived include the inspection and appraisal, both of which are key to a sound purchase. When buyers waive these critical contingencies, they assume quite a bit of risk. When inspections are waived, buyers remain unaware of any potential issues with the home.

Why Now Is The Time to Buy

Taking all of these factors into account, it’s plain to see that for some prospective homebuyers, the benefits of seizing the moment outweigh the downsides of higher interest rates. The decline in bidding wars, increased selection of homes, and the ability to refinance in years to come make current market conditions quite favorable for getting a foot in the door of the real estate market.

Ready to seize the opportunity in today’s real estate market? Don’t wait any longer! Higher interest rates can offer unique advantages for savvy homebuyers. If you’re considering making a move, now is the perfect time to explore your options and start your journey towards homeownership. Take the first step towards your dream home today – contact us to discuss your homebuying goals and discover how we can help you navigate this market with confidence. Don’t miss out on the benefits of higher interest rates, get in touch now and secure your future in the real estate market! CLICK HERE

Multifamily Remains Popular In Shifting Phoenix Market ? !

The big question on everyone’s mind is where Phoenix’s multifamily market is going. After several years of pandemic-caused uncertainty, the implications are still transforming the market. Whether it is workforce mobility, supply chain issues, or labor shortages, uncertainty and inflation have affected all areas of real estate — no place more so than here in the Phoenix Metro Area. 

The perfect storm of historically low interest rates, job opportunities, limited new development and a low cost of living have given rise to the housing shortage that has played out in the Valley over the past several years.  We saw multifamily effective rent increase 22.7 percent year over year in the third quarter of 2021, and an average market sale price per unit of $297,697, with a 3.9 percent year-to-date cap rate.

Over the past 10 years, vacancy rates have dropped every year. They fell from 8.3 percent in 2012 to a low of 5.8 percent in 2021. Conversely, year to date we are seeing a vacancy increase for the first time during that timeframe, to 7.7 percent. Last year also saw the highest level of absorption over the past 10 years at 11,438 units. The most active 12-month delivery submarket is downtown Phoenix, with 3,522 units delivered and another 4,612 under construction. 

Downtown Phoenix also has the highest current vacancy rate at 11 percent. The North Phoenix, South Phoenix and Southeast Valley tied with the lowest vacancy at 5.6 percent. However, market influences are changing. Interest rates rose from 2.88 percent to 5.51 percent within the past six months. Single-family resale inventory is up 237.3 percent year over year, according to June 2022 ARMLS statistics, while 29,107 multifamily units are under construction and scheduled to be delivered over the next couple years. 

There is some upward pressure on multifamily cap rates due to rising interest rates, as well as the potential for vacancy rates to continue increasing with new deliveries. However, multifamily investment can still offer a hedge against inflation due to short-duration leases versus other real estate investments that see longer lease timeframes that may not keep up with inflation. The recent expansion in inventory of (resale) single-family residential is already leading to an increase in days on the market. However, the average sale price in June, per ARMLS Statistics, was $590,800. This is an increase of 16.3 percent year over year. 

The Phoenix Metro area benefits from the continued positive net migration of job opportunities created through new developments like the Taiwan Semi-Conductor Facility in North Phoenix. The continued influx of population will ensure housing demand remains high for the next several years. If interest rates stay steady or increase — thereby challenging home purchase affordability — rental demand will continue. It just may not continue at the velocity from the past couple years.

Tips For Choosing The Right Property Development Project

The path to successful property development can often be labyrinthine, involving numerous critical decisions. This guide aims to simplify this journey, from understanding the market landscape and identifying prime locations to budgeting accurately, evaluating profitability, and assembling a competent team.

Determining Your Goals and Budget

As a prospective property developer, it’s vital to clearly define your objectives before embarking on a project. Are you developing a property to sell for profit, or are you planning to create a rental income stream? Maybe you want to diversify your investment portfolio or capitalize on an emerging market trend. Your goals will guide the type of development you undertake, its location, size, and design.

Once your objectives are clear, setting a realistic budget is the next critical step. Property development goes beyond purchasing land or a building. Your budget must account for costs like construction or renovation, professional fees for architects and engineers, legal costs, planning and permit fees, and contingencies for unexpected expenses. Don’t forget the ongoing costs, like property taxes, maintenance, and insurance.

Furthermore, consider the financial implications of the project timeline. Delays can increase costs significantly, impacting your return on investment. Proper planning and consultation with professionals can help you create a comprehensive and realistic budget.

Having clear objectives and a well-planned budget will provide a solid foundation for your project. This early groundwork is integral to ensuring your venture into property development is successful and financially rewarding.

Conducting Thorough Market Research

Comprehensive market research empowers you to make informed decisions, mitigates risks, and maximizes the potential for profitability.

One key factor to consider is competition. Understanding who your competitors are, the type of developments they offer, their pricing, and their unique selling points can help shape your project to stand out in the market.

Next, evaluate demand trends. Are people in the area looking for single-family homes, apartments, or commercial properties? Identifying the type of properties in demand can guide the direction of your project and increase its marketability.

Understanding the area’s demographics is crucial too. Information on the population’s age, income levels, family size, and lifestyle preferences can help you design a development that caters to their needs and desires.

Furthermore, keep abreast of any local regulatory changes, infrastructural developments, or economic trends that could affect property demand or values in the area.

In essence, thorough market research can provide a clearer picture of the opportunities and challenges you may face in your property development venture. It’s a critical tool that can help you tailor your project to meet market needs, stay competitive, and ultimately achieve your investment goals.

Understanding Zoning and Building Regulations

Zoning laws and building regulations are pivotal in shaping property development projects. They dictate what can be built, where, and how, directly impacting the feasibility and costs of your project.

Zoning laws determine land use in specific areas. They specify building types (residential, commercial, industrial), heights, densities, and aesthetics. Ignoring zoning laws can lead to hefty fines, legal complications, and project halts.

Building regulations ensure that structures meet safety, health, and environmental sustainability standards. These cover structural safety, fire protection, energy efficiency, and accessibility. Non-compliance can lead to penalties and the potential demolition of the building.

When considering these regulations, it’s crucial to consider a building warranty. A comprehensive building warranty can help manage the risks associated with regulatory non-compliance while assuring potential buyers or tenants about the building’s quality and safety.

Understanding and adhering to zoning laws and building regulations and securing a reliable building warranty are vital steps in choosing a successful property development project.

Assembling Your Team

Bringing together a competent team is a critical aspect of successful property development. Key roles typically include:

Real Estate Agent: Assists in marketing, selling, or leasing the property, leveraging their understanding of the local market.

Architect: Designs the project, ensures its aesthetic appeal, and confirms it meets functional requirements and building regulations. They create the blueprint that brings your vision to life.

Contractor: Translates the architect’s design into a physical structure. They manage construction, hire subcontractors, and ensure the project stays on time and within budget.

Engineer: Handles the technical aspects of construction, ensuring the structural integrity and safety of the building.

Real Estate Lawyer: Helps navigate legal aspects such as contracts, permits, and land use laws, reducing your risk of legal issues.

When selecting professionals for your team, consider their experience, particularly with similar projects. Check their licensing and insurance, and ask for references or portfolio examples. Good communication skills are crucial, too, as your project’s success relies on clear, consistent collaboration among team members.

A qualified, experienced team can significantly increase the likelihood of your property development project’s success, ensuring your vision becomes a tangible, profitable reality.

Evaluating Project Risks

Every property development project comes with its unique set of potential risks and challenges, which, if not appropriately managed, can lead to financial losses or even project failure. 

The risks may include financial, construction, market, regulatory, and environmental risks. Financial risk involves the availability and cost of financing the project. Construction risks encompass delays, cost overruns, or building defects. Market risks relate to changes in market demand, price fluctuations, or increased competition. Regulatory risks involve changes in legislation, and environmental risks pertain to unforeseen site conditions or natural disasters.

Mitigating these risks requires a proactive approach and diligent planning. Financial risks can be mitigated by securing finance early, preparing a realistic budget, and allowing contingencies. Construction risks can be minimised by hiring a competent construction team and closely monitoring the construction process. Market risks require a thorough market analysis and a flexible project plan. Regulatory risks call for staying abreast of changes in legislation, while environmental risks can be minimized by conducting detailed site inspections and investing in appropriate insurance.

By identifying and managing these potential risks, developers can enhance the chances of successful project completion and maximize returns on investment.

Now that you have a clearer understanding of how to choose the right property development project, take the first step toward your real estate goals. Get started today and turn your vision into a profitable reality!

Ready to begin your property development journey? Contact us today to discuss your project and receive expert guidance and support. Your dream property development project is just a click away!



Arizona Center In Downtown Phoenix Sells For $27 Million

The Arizona Center, Phoenix’s original downtown entertainment destination located at 3rd Street and Van Buren, was recently sold for $27 million, according to Vizzda.

In 2019, the retail and office center completed a $25 million makeover, which included new creative office space, outdoor work stations, shopping, entertainment and casual dining. Complementing the new modern aesthetics was a new logo, website and brand identity.

Other improvements to the massive multi-use center included opening up the property to surrounding streets creating a more integrated downtown experience, new modern colors, outdoor furnishings and lounge areas, modern shade structures, new landscape and water features, additional lighting and illuminated signage including a 60 ft. LED jumbotron on the corner of 3rd Street and Van Buren. Valet parking was also added as were bike racks and a stage for entertainment.

The buyer of the Arizona Center is Presson Corporation.

Arizona Center

Property description from Vizzda: 461,599-square-foot mixed-use office and retail. Five Class A buildings built in 1990 and renovated in 2017 on a total of 7.31 acres zoned DTC-BCORE (City of Phoenix). Retail includes shops, restaurants, cafes and banking. 58,500 square feet of parking beneath One Arizona Center (not included in total square footage). Total square feet per lease flyers, parking square feet per assessor.

One Arizona Center (400 E Van Buren): 342,614-square-foot office building. One 19-story building built in 1990 with 3.0:1,000-square-foot parking ratio, underground parking with direct access to tower elevators. Built on 1.46 acres.

Garden Office Pavilion (455 N 3rd St): 118,895 square feet of retail and office built on 4.56 acres. Private, secure elevator lobby area, 3.0:1,000-square-foot parking ratio and adjacent to on-site retail shops and restaurants.

Exciting changes are afoot at the Arizona Center, and with its recent sale to the Presson Corporation, we can only imagine what the future holds for this iconic downtown destination. If you haven’t had the chance to experience the new and improved Arizona Center, now is the perfect time to visit and see the transformation for yourself. Explore the creative office spaces, indulge in shopping and dining, and take in the vibrant atmosphere of this revitalized hub. Whether you’re a local or just passing through Phoenix, make sure to put Arizona Center on your must-visit list and be part of the next chapter in its storied history.

Why Multifamily Investment Real Estate Is Key To Early Retirement

When it comes to investment real estate, one question is always at the forefront of the conversation: “Should I buy a single or multifamily home?” As specialists in multifamily investing in The Maricopa County, we firmly believe in the superiority of multifamily real estate. 

The Advantages of Multifamily Properties Investment Real estate

More Money in Your Pocket:

Imagine you have a piggy bank. Now, instead of having one piggy bank, you have many. Each one of them is putting coins in your pocket every month. That’s what it’s like to own a multifamily home. Even if one of your homes is empty (no tenant), others are still filled with people who are paying rent.

Cheaper to Look After:

Let’s say you have four dogs, but they all live in different houses. It would take a lot of time and gas to drive to each house to feed them, right? But what if they all lived in one big house? You’d only have to drive to one place. It’s the same with multifamily homes. Having all your rental units in one place makes it cheaper and easier to look after them.

Less Risky:

Imagine you’re walking on a tightrope. If you only walk on one rope and it breaks, you fall. But if you have many ropes under your feet and one break, you won’t fall because the other ropes are still there to support you. It’s the same with multifamily homes. If you lose one tenant, others are still there to pay rent.

Faster to Grow Your Savings:

With a multifamily home, you can add more units to your rental business quicker. It’s like planting a whole garden of money trees instead of just one. Each tree (or unit) grows money (or income) for you. More trees mean more money.

Easier to Get Loans:

Banks like to lend money for things that make money. So, if you want to borrow money from the bank to buy a multifamily home, they might say yes quicker because they can see how you will pay them back with the rent money you’ll get from your tenants.

You Become More Experienced Faster:

With a multifamily home, you’ll learn how to be a great landlord quicker because you’ll have more tenants and situations to handle. It’s like learning to ride a bike with training wheels before you ride a big bike. You’ll make mistakes, but you’ll also learn a lot.

You Can Live in One of the Units:

If you buy a multifamily home, you can choose to live in one unit and rent out the others. That way, you’re not only making money, but you also have a place to live. It’s like having your cake and eating it too!

These are just a few reasons why buying a multifamily home can help you reach your goal of retiring early. So, if you’re considering becoming a landlord, consider starting with a multifamily home!

Is It Good to Own Multiple Properties?

Owning multiple properties can be a good way to spread risk. However, it also spreads your time and resources thin. That’s why many people turn to the multifamily investing model. It allows you to focus your efforts and resources in one place, making management more manageable and efficient.

How Much to Invest in Multifamily?

Deciding how much to invest in multifamily depends on your personal goals and financial situation. A seasoned Multifamily Investing Company can help you assess your situation and find the right property.

Remember, investing in multifamily real estate doesn’t have to mean investing in a huge apartment building. Smaller buildings with just a few units can be a great starting point, such as a duplex.

How to invest in multifamily properties in a simple way:

  1. Savings: Just like how you save up your allowance to buy something big you want, you need to save money to invest in multifamily properties. This could be money from your job, a business, or other investments.
  2. Join a Team: Investing in multifamily properties can be like a group project at school. You don’t have to do it alone! You can join with other people who also want to invest. This team is sometimes called a real estate investment group. They can help you find good properties and manage them.
  3. Find a Good Property: This step is like going on a treasure hunt. You and your team look for a multifamily home that you can buy. You want one in a good neighborhood where people want to live, so you’ll always have tenants.
  4. Hire a Property Manager: Do you have chores at home, like cleaning your room or taking out the trash? Running a multifamily property also comes with chores, like fixing things that break and collecting rent. But you can hire a property manager to do these tasks. They’re like the captain of a ship. They make sure everything runs smoothly.
  5. Sit Back and Relax: Once you’ve done all these steps, you get to watch the money come in from the rent your tenants pay. This is the “passive” part of the investment. It’s like having a lemonade stand where you just sit back and watch people buy your lemonade.
  6. Reinvest Your Earnings: When you’ve saved up enough money from the rent you collected, you can buy another multifamily property and repeat the process. This is like leveling up in a video game.

Final Thoughts

So, should you consider buying multi family properties? Absolutely. Multifamily real estate offers stable income, lower risk, and economies of scale that single-family homes just can’t match. Whether you’re hoping to retire early or looking for a way to build wealth, multifamily investing may be the best option for you.

Take the first step on your journey with us and watch your investment grow into fruition, your trusted multifamily investment real estate company in the Greater Phoenix Area. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your financial goals. CLICK HERE

Verrado Marketplace: Here’s What Site Plan Shows Is Coming

In the sprawling landscape of Buckeye, Arizona, a vibrant retail and community haven is on the horizon – the Verrado Marketplace. This eagerly anticipated project, featuring an array of retail offerings, movie theaters, a gym, and a grocery store, is set to redefine the essence of community living in the heart of the Verrado master-planned community.

A Dynamic Partnership for a Visionary Project

The driving force behind this visionary endeavor is DMB Associates, the esteemed Master Developer of the Verrado community. Earlier this year, they made a significant announcement – a strategic partnership with Vestar, the largest privately-held shopping center owner, developer, and manager in the western United States. Together, they aim to craft the Verrado Marketplace, a dynamic retail epicenter poised at the threshold of Verrado, an 8,800-acre master-planned community in Buckeye, Arizona.

Setting the Stage: Verrado Marketplace

Verrado Marketplace is more than just a shopping destination; it’s a concept designed to serve as a Town Center not only for the residents of Verrado but also as a welcoming space for the broader Buckeye community to enjoy. This ambitious retail development will span over 500,000 square feet of commercial space, promising an abundance of options for every visitor.

Harmonizing with Small-Town Charm

One of the distinguishing features of Verrado Marketplace is its commitment to preserving the small-town neighborhood charm that defines the Verrado community. This retail haven is meticulously planned to seamlessly integrate into the existing fabric of Verrado, offering an ideal balance of convenience and community spirit.

Retail Excellence at its Core

The marketplace is set to feature a premier grocery store, catering to the daily needs of residents and visitors. In addition, a carefully curated selection of apparel and home decor stores, a department store, state-of-the-art movie theaters, and an array of specialty shops will provide a diverse and engaging shopping experience. Furthermore, a vibrant culinary scene awaits with a variety of restaurants and service providers.

Community-Centric Design

Verrado Marketplace extends its commitment to community building through thoughtfully designed public outdoor spaces, teeming with amenities. These expansive gathering spots are destined to become central hubs for residents and neighbors to come together, connect, and create lasting memories. Drawing from Vestar’s extensive experience, the marketplace will host numerous free community events throughout the year, echoing the success of projects like Tempe Marketplace and Desert Ridge Marketplace.

The Visionaries Speak

David Larcher, President & CEO of Vestar, expressed his excitement, stating, “Verrado Marketplace will be no different, and we are excited to be partnering with a visionary company like DMB and especially to be developing at the front door of the Verrado community.”

Susan Bansak, Chief Executive Officer of DMB, added, “We believe Vestar is the perfect partner to develop a primary town center of Verrado. Both companies are driven to create thoughtful and inspiring places, and we look forward to a successful collaboration.”

An Anticipated Milestone

Verrado Marketplace is scheduled to break ground in mid-2023, pending approvals from the City. It will be situated at the northeast corner of Verrado Way and I-10, seamlessly complementing the existing commercial services on the west side of Verrado Way. As this exciting project unfolds, it promises to be a shining beacon of community spirit, convenience, and retail excellence in the heart of Buckeye, Arizona. Stay tuned for updates on this transformative venture.

Seize Your Opportunity to Embrace the Verrado Lifestyle!

As you explore the endless possibilities of making Verrado, Buckeye your new home, we invite you to take the next step towards this exciting journey. Discover the vibrant community, the forthcoming Verrado Marketplace, and all the wonders that await you in this thriving corner of Arizona.

Connect with us today to:

  1. Schedule a Personal Tour: Experience Verrado firsthand with a guided tour of this remarkable master-planned community.
  2. Stay Informed: Receive exclusive updates on the Verrado Marketplace, ensuring you’re among the first to know about exciting developments.
  3. Explore Your Options: Let us help you explore your housing options in Verrado, from charming neighborhoods to modern residences.
  4. Join the Verrado Community: Gain insights from current residents, get involved in community events, and start building connections before you even arrive.

Your Verrado adventure awaits – don’t miss out on this exceptional opportunity to become a part of something truly special. Contact us now to start your journey toward a brighter future in Verrado, Buckeye, Arizona.

The Value Of Home Inspections 

The home buying process can take time and involve quite a few steps. Finding the perfect property, from size to location to price range, is one major milestone. And once that’s done, initiating a home inspection is quite possibly the most important next step for every buyer.

A home inspection, an expense of about $350 to $700 handled by the buyer, is conducted by a professional who evaluates the integrity of the home — from its structure to its HVAC system to its roof, electrical, plumbing and beyond from a visual perspective. Potential problems lurking under the surface can be costly down the road if a buyer goes in blind, which is why a home inspection is so valuable. 

That said, home inspectors evaluate a home visually. They don’t have the ability to examine the foundation, for example, unless it is exposed. And they rely on other issues that may indicate a bigger problem with a system or structure that is unseen, such as uneven floors or walls. 

Often, when issues are flagged during a home inspection, it leads to a negotiation between the seller and the buyer regarding either a remedy for the problem before the close, a credit to the buyer in lieu of the repair, and/or an adjustment to the sale price. The home inspection is an added layer of information for the buyer, complementing the seller’s disclosure statement, which details any other past or present problems or issues with the home that the seller is aware of and that would be material to a buyer’s decision to purchase.

Buyers preparing for or reviewing the results of a home inspection should probably hone in on a few key components. 

Foundation + Roof. The foundation of a home is critical to its integrity, which is why an assessment of it is vital when considering a purchase. That said, it is common for foundations to settle and crack, but significant cracks should raise a red flag with a home inspector and a potential buyer. When it comes to the roof, lifespans can stretch to 25 years and beyond, but a home inspection should identify if any shingles are damaged or missing and if any leaks are present. 

HVAC + Ventilation. Air movement, coupled with heating and cooling, is essential for a comfortable and safe living environment. Home inspections should include an analysis of the property’s HVAC system, the condition of the cooling and heating units, a chimney check if needed and an assessment of the system’s air filters. Replacement of units can be costly, so a thorough evaluation of the state of the HVAC system is essential. 

Moisture + Water Damage. Checking for water damage, moisture or mold is also an important part of the home inspection process. Basements, bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms should be evaluated for water stains and evidence of leaks. Cabinetry near plumbing should also be looked at to see if there is any evidence of exposure to excessive moisture or leaks.

Landscape + Outdoor space. The most important part of an inspection of landscaping, beyond understanding the work that it may entail to maintain or update the property’s current landscaping, is evaluating the drainage of water from the structure. Improperly graded landscaping will allow water to pool in places it shouldn’t, so ensuring proper drainage away from the home is critically important. 

If you’re considering a home purchase or sale, the team at Vergara Real Estate powered by HomeSmart are ready to help. We keep an eye on market trends so you don’t have to. Moving or investing in real estate is an exciting time of transition, and we’re ready to help you with it. Contact us today so we can learn more about how we can support your needs.