What is happening to the San Carlos housing market?
How short our memories are—just eight years ago our area was headed for the largest market correction—free fall—since the Great Depression. Three years later, in 2009, the market hit bottom, but it wasn’t until 2012 that things really started to heat up—and heat up fast.
Home values hit unsustainable highs in 2006 fueled by risky loans. The inevitable correction brought values below what would have been considered to be a reasonable correction, so of course when buyers once again felt confident about their jobs, the market rebounded at an exponential rate—quickly wiping out any loses within two years.
Where are we now? Our MSA (Metropolitan Statistical Area) comprised of counties San Mateo, San Francisco, Marin, Alameda and Contra Costsa is still short of the once all-time highs seen in 2006. But real estate is local and the mid-peninsula is rebounding at a much faster rate fueled by the increase in Bio and tech jobs. Our area surpassed the pinnacle of index values in 2012 and we are now in uncharted waters for high home values.
Just this month in San Carlos (March 2014), homes have been selling for on average 113% of the seller’s initial asking price with only two homes selling for under asking.
The one clear standout was this home on Rosewood, a stylish two bedroom 2,184 square foot home in the coveted area of San Carlos referred to as the White Oaks. Listed appropriately for $1,179,000 it sold with multiple offers for $1,728,000—and that is not a typo—$549,000 over the seller’s asking price (47%). To help put that stunning overbid into perspective, it’s about double the median home price in the United States.
Where will this all end? Of course there will be another correction at some point and those who purchased a home near the peak will be in the most precarious position, should they need to sell.
Imagine a game of musical chairs and when the music stops the market crashes. It’s better to be the first one who sat down and enjoy the appreciation while others scramble to find their place.
Is there anything a buyer can do to avoid these historical pitfalls? Innovative home price protection companies have sprung up to help cover any losses—like gap coverage for a car lease. If you are considering buying a home and would like more information visit our web site at MorganHomes.com and click on Home Price Protection tabs in the middle of the page or email us at info@morganhomes.com.
Disclaimer:
Drew & Christine Morgan are REALTORS/NOTARY PUBLIC in Belmont, CA. with more than 20 years experience in helping sellers and buyers in their community. They may be reached at (650) 508.1441 or emailed at info@morganhomes.com.
The information contained in this article is educational and intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute real estate, tax or legal advice, nor does it substitute for advice specific to your situation. Always consult an appropriate professional familiar with your scenario.
Drew & Christine Morgan did not necessarily participate in these sales.