Tariffs, Home in 5 is back, Your VIP Giveaway + Workshop Invite!

Home in 5 Program is back!

The Home in Five program is back, but with limited funds—once they’re gone, they’re gone. This down payment and closing cost assistance program has helped many Maricopa County homebuyers, but it isn’t always available. Before last year, funding was unavailable for several years. If you’ve been waiting for an opportunity to buy, now is the time to see if you qualify before the funds run out. Click here for more info

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Market Update, Rates and Tariffs

More listings hitting the market and mortgage demand is surging after interest rates dropped to their lowest level since last October. Home prices remain stable, and demand is showing signs of life as buyers take advantage of improved borrowing conditions.

A major factor shaping the coming months is the recent drop in mortgage rates, which led to a 20% jump in weekly mortgage demand. Refinance applications surged 37% in just one week, showing that buyers from the last two years are finally seeing an opportunity to improve their rates. Purchase applications also rose 9% for the week and are now 2% higher than the same week one year ago. While this is a slow and steady increase, it’s a positive sign that demand is ahead of last year’s pace.

With mortgage rates trending down, the market could gain even more momentum heading into the peak spring and summer season. Additionally, new tariffs on materials from China, Canada, and Mexico are expected to put upward pressure on construction costs, which could push new home prices even higher. As a result, resale homes may become a more attractive option for buyers, strengthening their position in the market.

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🏡 Exclusive Open House: New Build Duplex & Investment Workshop! 📈

This isn’t just a walk-through—it’s a chance to learn how to build wealth through real estate. Over 20 years ago, I started with my first fix-and-flips. Now, I’m developing new builds from the ground up. I want to share the lessons, the wins, and the strategies that got me here!

✨ What You’ll Learn:
✅ How to get started in real estate investing
✅ The process of buying land & building new construction
✅ Investment lending options – land & build financing included!

A lender will be on-site to answer all your financing questions, so you can see how this strategy might work for you. Whether you're an experienced investor or just curious, this is your chance to take the next step!

🔗 RSVP now – space is limited! Click picture for more info.

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ANOTHER GIVEAWAY!! ☕️

We love to support local business and we love coffee! We are giving away 5 gift cards to our friends at THE STAND parked daily - 2601 E Baseline Rd. GIlbert, AZ 85234

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO WIN ONE OF THESE GIFT CARDS, email us back at ocotillorealtyteam@gmail.com and we will give the first 5 people to email us a gift card to try them out! Trust us, you want to try them out!

Efficient Simultaneous Home Buying and Selling: Bonus Cocktail Recipe Included

Embarking on the journey of buying or selling a home can be an exhilarating adventure, and for some, the thrill lies in tackling both endeavors simultaneously. If you find yourself in the position of needing to navigate the complexities of buying and selling concurrently, consider these tips to steer through the potentially challenging course ahead.

1. Evaluate Your Local Market: Before diving into the dual process, assess the local real estate market. While many prefer to sell their current home before making an offer on another, the decision may vary based on market conditions. Research your target area to determine if it's a buyer's or seller's market. A surplus of properties might indicate a favorable time to list, while low inventory could suggest waiting for the market to pick up. Consulting with a trusted real estate agent familiar with current trends can provide valuable insights tailored to your unique situation.

2. Understand Your Finances: Finances play a pivotal role in both buying and selling transactions. Whether you're aiming to sell or buy, a clear understanding of your financial situation is crucial for informed decision-making. Knowing the equity in your current home, especially if you have a mortgage, is essential. This equity could potentially serve as a down payment for your new home, though accessibility is typically after closing. Consider a property inspection to identify necessary repairs or improvements, influencing the sale price or concessions for prospective buyers.

3. Utilize A Contingency: Since synchronizing the sale and purchase on the same day is often challenging, incorporating contingencies into your contracts can be beneficial. A contingency is a provision accounting for possible events or circumstances affecting the financial ability to close a purchase sale. If buying before selling, make your offer contingent on the sale of your current home. Conversely, if selling before buying, opt for a settlement contingency, tying the purchase to the sale of your existing home. Negotiating a rent-back, where you sell your home but rent it back for a specified period, can provide flexibility in finding a new home.

   It's worth noting that in low inventory markets, sellers may be hesitant to accept contingencies due to high demand and limited properties. In such cases, buyers might encounter resistance when proposing a sale contingency.

In the realm of real estate, where significant financial transactions are at play, uncertainty can be daunting. If you're unsure where to begin or whether to undertake both processes simultaneously, seeking professional guidance is advisable. Ensure your financial records are current, have a realistic expectation of your home's market value, and, if searching for a new home while selling, devise a contingency plan in case of unforeseen delays. Your real estate professional is a valuable resource, offering insights into market dynamics and sharing experiences of other buyers and sellers.

As a delightful bonus to your real estate journey, enjoy the 'Realty Reliever' cocktail. Crafted to provide a moment of tranquility, it's the perfect way to unwind and celebrate your achievements in the dynamic world of home buying and selling.

• Realty Reliever

  • 2 oz Vodka

  • 1 oz Fresh Lemon Juice

  • 1/2 oz Simple Syrup

  • Splash of Club Soda

  • Lemon Slice for Garnish

  • Ice Cubes

  1. Mix Ingredients: In a shaker, combine vodka, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup.

  2. Shake Well: Shake the mixture with ice until well-chilled.

  3. Strain and Pour: Strain the mix into a glass filled with ice.

  4. Top with Club Soda: Add a splash of club soda for a fizzy touch.

  5. Garnish: Garnish with a lemon slice on the rim.

  Enjoy your Realty Reliever – a calming companion for your real estate journey!