Above the Roar!

Even while the national media continues to bombard us with lots of bad news related to the national economy and the housing market, more local stories appear describing the strength of the Tulsa metro area real estate market. On January 9, 2008, the Tulsa World featured an article which showed the change in median sales prices in 2007 versus 2006 in several cities and towns. Overall, the greater Tulsa median sales price rose 7.26% in 2007 over 2006. Most suburban towns showed increases ranging from 0.3% to 12.3%.
While the median price and percent change varied from town-to-town, and the increases do not mean that every home within a given community rose by a like amount, the report does seem to show the Tulsa area is not having price declines like those being experienced in some other parts of the country. In addition, interest rates in the 5 ¼% - 5 ¾% range and this region’s extremely affordable prices make it a great time to buy and/or sell a home in the greater Tulsa market. If you are thinking of making a move, don’t let the national news stories about real estate dissuade you. Call me for the facts about this market, and make a decision based on what is really happening in our area.

For more information contact me at slaunchbaugh@cbtulsa.com

Lucky Eleven!

The official results are compiled, and for the 11th consecutive year Coldwell Banker RaderGroup has SOLD more homes in the greater Tulsa area in 2007 than any other real estate company. Obviously, we are proud of our tradition of success! At the same time, we are humbled by trust and loyalty shown by our many friends and customers. Thank you!
Now, as 2008 is well underway, we recognize the importance of providing ever higher levels of service. We are committed to continue improving the marketing tools we use to sell homes and the level of professionalism we provide to our customers. We look forward to helping many of you with your real estate needs during the coming year!

* Statistics compiled from NORES, INC (MLS) data. Deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

For more information contact me at slaunchbaugh@cbtulsa.com

Market News

As you know, the fourth quarter of 2007 showed less buyer activity than the previous quarter. While some of the slowdown is seasonal, our market has been affected by the press coverage of larger real estate markets which are experiencing significant downturns. This coverage decreases buyer confidence that their home will be worth more after they buy it, instead of less.

Our real estate market area has not experienced the downturns of some other markets, however, the perception of a “slow” real estate market results in two things:

1. Fewer Buyers. Meaning more competition for those buyers among sellers.

2. Tougher Buyers. Meaning price becomes more significant to
buyers who are afraid of “overpaying” in this market.

These two things alert us even more that properties must :

1. Be priced competitively in comparison to other homes in the area.
2. Be staged, in excellent condition, and easily accessible to show prospective buyers.
3. Be effectively marketed and exposed to as many potential buyers as possible.

For more information contact me at slaunchbaugh@cbtulsa.com

Happy New Year!

I wish you all a Happy and Prosperous New Year! I hope that if 2008 includes plans to buy or sell your home that you will think of me!

For more information contact me at slaunchbaugh@cbtulsa.com