Current Real Estate Market Favors Older Buyers

YOUNGER HOMEBUYERS STRUGGLE TO KEEP UP WITH MARKET 

Silver-haired homebuyers increasingly have a leg up over their younger counterparts, who are struggling to afford homes in the current market, new research suggests. 

Rising home prices have boosted older Americans’ equity, enabling them to buy new or second homes, sometimes in cash, according to BBVA Compass data.

“Younger people are finding it more difficult to buy into the American dream of homeownership with price tags that outpace their income growth,” the financial group said in a statement. 

Still, BBVA predicted the U.S. housing market would continue to flourish in 2014, with prices increasing an estimated 8.5 percent and the number of owner-occupied homes growing for the first time in seven years. 

COUPLES CHOOSING PROPERTY OVER WEDDED BLISS 

It should probably come as no surprise then that many couples are delaying tying the knot to buy a home instead.

“These practical pairs haven’t given up on the idea of marriage, they just can’t afford to buy a home and pay for a wedding at the same time, and interest rates are too enticing right now,” Redfin reported just in time for Valentine’s Day. 

The brokerage points out that this may actually be a savvy financial choice. Wedding and honeymoon costs add up to a whopping $35,000 for the average happy pair. But putting that cash down on a $175,000 home could result in nearly $47,000 in gained equity over five years. 

Article courtesy of PacificUnion.com

Saraya and Simon Motley
Pacific Union and Christie’s International Real Estate
Serving Alameda & Contra Costa Counties
510.459.4338/direct . 925.385.8503/direct
925.403.7802/eFax
saraya@eastbayhouse.com
www.eastbayhouse.com
CalBRE License #01265873 

(Photo: Flickr/ChrisGoldberg)

West End Flea Market at the College of Alameda

College of Alameda, Alameda, California

Gather the family, put on your most comfortable walking shoes, and ready yourself for a day of shopping, live entertainment, food, and more.  The West End Flea Market is arriving at the College of Alameda this Saturday, and you will want to see for yourself what all of the “hype” is about.

 

The West End Flea Market at the College of Alameda is the newest Saturday Bay Area Flea Market, capturing the attention of shoppers from near and far.  The Market is ever-changing, always offering something new and different, at amazingly low prices. Collectors, repurposers, treasure seekers, vintage lovers, and regular everyday shoppers, are all invited to indulge in a day of unique vendor rummaging.

 

Items that can be found, but not limited to, include jewelry, clothing, home décor, accessories, handbags, body products, hats, children’s items, collectibles, vintage finds, and much more.  With too many vendors to count, the West End Flea Market guarantees every member of your family to walk away with arms full of diverse merchandise.

 

Take a break from shopping and visit the food court, which will be supplying the much-needed nourishment to keep you going.  The multiple on-sight food trucks will be offering a wide array of foods that you can sit down to eat, while enjoying live entertainment.

 

So, whether you are a serious treasure seeker, or you are merely seeking to stumble upon a unique find, the West End Flea Market is the Market for you.  Believe it or not, you do need that stunning piece of turquoise jewelry, or the very rare 1962 collector’s baseball card.  Who knows what other gems you are likely to unearth at The West End Flea Market?

 

The Market goes far beyond a rare, and unique shopping extravaganza. It is an opportunity for your family to gather with friends, eating, dancing, and taking in the sights and sounds of the live entertainment. This Saturday, indulge in a day of bargain-hunting, entertainment, food, fun, and more.  You will understand what all of the West End Flea Market “hype”, is about.

Saturday February 15^th

9:00AM-4:00PM

Rain or Shine!

For more information regarding this event, please click here.

Saraya and Simon Motley
Pacific Union and Christie’s International Real Estate
Serving Alameda & Contra Costa Counties
510.459.4338/direct . 925.385.8503/direct
925.403.7802/eFax
saraya@eastbayhouse.com
www.eastbayhouse.com
CalBRE License #01265873   

Photo courtesy of Daniel Proulx/flickr.com.