Scott G. Murray, Sales Associate, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

🏡✨ As a dedicated REALTOR®, I take pride in offering unparalleled support and expertise at every step of the way. From understanding the process to negotiating the best deals, I’m here to ensure you find your dream home with confidence. Ready to start your home search? Reach out to me at 📱 732.890.3651 and let's get you home. 📞🔑

🏠❤️

🔗 Read the full 2024 NAR Home Buyers and Sellers Generational Trends report: bit.ly/3YmBYEa

With much more to New Mexico than desert landscapes, visitors are flocking to the state to discover its cultural offerings, stunning mountain scenery, and vibrant cities. Thinking about joining them? Explore the Summer 2024 issue of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Prestige magazine for tips on the best places to check out.

Read it here: https://issuu.com/uniquehomes2023/docs/bhhs_summer_2024/12?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social_media&utm_campaign=soci&utm_date=July2024

Unlocking the Benefits of Your Home's Equity

Equity is the difference between what your house is worth and what you still owe on your mortgage. The typical homeowner gained $28,000 over the past year and has a grand total of $305,000 in equity. And there are a lot of great ways you can use that equity. Want to know how much equity you have? Let’s connect so you can get a Professional Equity Assessment Report (PEAR).

Unlocking the Benefits of Your Home's Equity Equity is the difference between what your house is worth and what you still owe on your mortgage.

How the Economy Impacts Mortgage Rates

As someone who’s thinking about buying or selling a home, you’re probably paying close attention to mortgage rates – and wondering what's ahead.

One thing that can affect mortgage rates is the Federal Funds Rate, which influences how much it costs banks to borrow money from each other. While the Federal Reserve (the Fed) doesn’t directly control mortgage rates, they do control the Federal Funds Rate.

The relationship between the two is why people have been watching closely to see when the Fed might lower the Federal Funds Rate. Whenever they do, that’ll put downward pressure on mortgage rates. The Fed meets next week, and three of the most important metrics they’ll look at as they make their decision are:

1. The Rate of Inflation
2. How Many Jobs the Economy Is Adding
3. The Unemployment Rate

What Does This Mean Moving Forward?

While mortgage rates are going to continue to be...

How the Economy Impacts Mortgage Rates As someone who’s thinking about buying or selling a home, you’re probably paying close attention to mortgage rates – and wondering what's ahead.

Uncover the beauty of mountain living—serene views, fresh air, and endless outdoor adventures await you. Whether you’re seeking a homestead, vacation home, or rental investment, there's a perfect spot for you. Read more in this latest blog post.

Read it here: https://www.bhhs.com/blog/blog-detail/2024/6/discover-the-appeal-of-these-popular-mountain-real-estate-locations.html?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social_media&utm_campaign=soci&utm_date=July2024

Questions? Let me know! I’d love to hear from you.

🖥️ https://www.bhhs.com/fox-and-roach-realtors-pa301/holmdel/scott-murray/cid-3012081?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social_media&utm_campaign=soci&utm_date=July2024
📧 [email protected]

A Newly Built Home May Actually Be More Budget-Friendly

If you’re in the market to buy a home, there’s some exciting news for you.

Here are two key reasons working with your agent to look into new home construction could help you find a more budget-friendly option.

Reason 1: Lower Median Prices for Newly Built Homes

The median sales price for newly built homes is lower than the median sales price for existing homes today. This might seem surprising, but it’s true according to the latest data from the Census and the National Association of Realtors (NAR).

Why is that? Builders are focused on building what they can sell. And right now, there’s a very real need for smaller and more affordable homes – so that’s what they’ve been bringing to the market.

Reason 2: Attractive Incentives from Home Builders

Another big reason to consider a newly built home is the range of incentives that many home builders are offering...

A Newly Built Home May Actually Be More Budget-Friendly If you’re in the market to buy a home, there’s some exciting news for you.

A very heart-felt thank to my amazing client for your very kind review and more importantly for your trust in allowing me to assist with the sale of your beautiful home. I wish you many more days of happiness as you begin your new venture!

Are you looking to buy, sell, rent or invest in Real Esate? Let me help your dreams become reality. Call me for personalized professional service 732-890-3651. Exceptional service with exceptional results!

Why a Foreclosure Wave Isn’t on the Horizon

Even though data shows inflation is cooling, a lot of people are still feeling the pinch on their wallets. And those high costs on everything from gas to groceries are fueling unnecessary concerns that more people are going to have trouble making their mortgage payments. But, does that mean there’s a big wave of foreclosures coming?

Here's a look at why the data and the experts say that’s not going to happen.

There Aren’t Many Homeowners Who Are Seriously Behind on Their Mortgages

One of the main reasons there were so many foreclosures during the last housing crash was because relaxed lending standards made it easy for people to take out mortgages, even when they couldn’t show they’d be able to pay them back. At that time, lenders weren’t being as strict when looking at applicant credit scores, income levels, employment status, and debt-to-income ratio.

But since then...

Why a Foreclosure Wave Isn’t on the Horizon Even though data shows inflation is cooling, a lot of people are still feeling the pinch on their wallets.

Learn how to effortlessly transform your yard into an eco-friendly oasis in this recent blog post on www.BerkshireHathawayHS.com. Discover the simple steps to creating a beautiful and beneficial rain garden, perfect for soaking up excess water and attracting wildlife.

Read it here: https://www.bhhs.com/content/bhhs/en/us/blog/blog-detail/2024/6/how-to-install-a-rain-garden.html?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social_media&utm_campaign=soci&utm_date=July2024

Questions? Let me know! I’d love to hear from you.

🖥️ https://www.bhhs.com/fox-and-roach-realtors-pa301/holmdel/scott-murray/cid-3012081?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social_media&utm_campaign=soci&utm_date=July2024
📧 [email protected]

How Affordability and Remote Work Are Changing Where People Live

There’s an interesting trend happening in the housing market. People are increasingly moving to more affordable areas, and remote or hybrid work is helping them do it.

Consider Moving to a More Affordable Area

Today’s high mortgage rates combined with continually rising home prices mean it’s tough for a lot of people to afford a home right now. That’s why many interested buyers are moving to places where homes are less expensive, and the cost of living is lower.

If you’re hoping to buy a home soon, it might make sense to broaden your search area to include places where homes that fit your needs are more affordable. That’s what a lot of other people are doing right now to find a home within their budget.

Remote Work Opens Up More Home Options

If you work remotely or drive into the office only a few times each week, you have many more possibilities when...

How Affordability and Remote Work Are Changing Where People Live There’s an interesting trend happening in the housing market.

🌟 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗵𝗼𝘁𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗵𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗱𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻 𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰! 🌟 From "Organic Modern" to "Dark and Moody" aesthetics, explore the top styles that are transforming homes across the U.S. 🏠✨ Find out why "Reading Rooms," "Japanese Influence," and "Wellness" features are making a splash. Dive into the trends and get inspired to revamp your space!

🔗 Read the full report at https://bit.ly/3W8Fz6e

🛋️🌿📚

The Biggest Mistakes Homebuyers Are Making Right Now

Want to know the biggest mistakes homebuyers are making today? They include everything from putting off pre-approval for too long, holding out for the perfect home, buying more than they can afford, and skipping out on hiring a pro. Let’s connect to make sure you have a pro on your side who can help you avoid these mistakes.

The Biggest Mistakes Homebuyers Are Making Right Now Want to know the biggest mistakes homebuyers are making today?

The desire to own property in this spectacular country is growing year by year. Overseas buyers are eager for a central Athens apartment or a slice of coastal paradise, and with the Golden Visa requirements changing, now is truly the best time to follow suit.

Learn more about Greece’s real estate sales and rental markets in the 2024 European Summer Report from Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices.

Read it here: https://issuu.com/bhhsevents/docs/european_summer_report_2024_issuu?fr=sZTE4ZjYzMTIyMzQ?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social_media&utm_campaign=soci&utm_date=July2024

Have questions? Get in touch today!

🖥️ https://www.bhhs.com/fox-and-roach-realtors-pa301/holmdel/scott-murray/cid-3012081?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social_media&utm_campaign=soci&utm_date=July2024
📧 [email protected]

Unlocking Homebuyer Opportunities in 2024

There’s no arguing this past year has been difficult for homebuyers. And if you’re someone who has started the process of searching for a home, maybe you put your search on hold because the challenges in today’s market felt like too much to tackle. You’re not alone in that. A Bright MLS study found some of the top reasons buyers paused their search in late 2023 and early 2024 were:

• They couldn’t find anything in their price range
• They didn’t have any successful offers or had difficulty competing
• They couldn’t find the right home

If any of these sound like why you stopped looking, here’s what you need to know. The housing market is in a transition in the second half of 2024. Here are four reasons why this may be your chance to jump back in.

1. The Supply of Homes for Sale Is Growing

2. There’s More New Home Construction

3. Less Buyer Competition

4. Home Prices...

Unlocking Homebuyer Opportunities in 2024 There’s no arguing this past year has been difficult for homebuyers.

Why Fixing Up Your House Can Help It Sell Faster

If you’re thinking about selling your house, you should know there are buyers who are ready and able to pay today’s high prices. But they want a home that’s move-in ready.

It makes sense when you think about it. They’re having to pay a lot of money for a house in today’s market. That means they may not be able to easily afford upgrades after they move in. So, if your home is outdated or needs some work, buyers might pass it by or offer a lower price than you were hoping for.

If your house falls into this category, it's important to consider making selective updates to help it appeal to buyers, so it sells faster. But how do you know where to spend your time and money?

Why You Need a Real Estate Agent

By working with a local real estate agent to be strategic about the improvements you make, you can be sure you’re making a smart investment. Put simply, not all upgrades are...

Why Fixing Up Your House Can Help It Sell Faster If you’re thinking about selling your house, you should know there are buyers who are ready and able to pay today’s high prices.

How To Determine if You’re Ready To Buy a Home

If you’re trying to decide if you’re ready to buy a home, there’s probably a lot on your mind. Instead of trying to time the market, focus on what you can control. Here are a few questions that can give you clarity on whether you’re ready to make your move.

1. Do You Have a Stable Job?

One thing to consider is how stable you feel your employment is.

2. Have You Figured Out What You Can Afford?

If you have reliable paychecks coming in, the next thing to figure out is what you can afford.

3. Do You Have an Emergency Fund?

Another key factor is whether you’ll have enough cash leftover in case of an emergency.

4. How Long Do You Plan To Live There?

5. Above all else, the most important question to answer is: do you have a team of real estate professionals in place?

If not, finding a trusted local agent and a lender is a good first step. The pros can talk you through...

How To Determine if You’re Ready To Buy a Home If you’re trying to decide if you’re ready to buy a home, there’s probably a lot on your mind.

Want to boost your home's value? Discover how landscaping can transform your property and attract buyers. Find out more in our latest blog post.

Read it here: https://www.bhhs.com/content/bhhs/en/us/blog/blog-detail/2024/6/how-much-does-landscaping-affect-home-value-.html?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social_media&utm_campaign=soci&utm_date=July2024

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out!

🖥️ https://www.bhhs.com/fox-and-roach-realtors-pa301/holmdel/scott-murray/cid-3012081?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social_media&utm_campaign=soci&utm_date=July2024
📧 [email protected]

Why Working with a Real Estate Professional Is Crucial Right Now

Navigating the housing market can be tricky, especially these days. That's why having an experienced guide when buying or selling a home is so important.
Here are just a few of the ways a real estate expert is invaluable:
Contracts – Agents help with the disclosures and contracts necessary in today’s heavily regulated environment.
Experience – In today’s market, experience is crucial. Real estate professionals know the entire sales process, including how it’s changing right now.
Negotiations – Your real estate advisor acts as a buffer in negotiations with all parties, and advocates for your best interests throughout the entire transaction.
Industry Expertise– Knowledge is power in today’s market, and your advisor will simply and effectively explain processes, market conditions, and key terms, translating what they mean for you along the way along the...

Why Working with a Real Estate Professional Is Crucial Right Now Navigating the housing market can be tricky, especially these days.

Today, luxury residential interiors are sparkling with the finest works created by expert glassblowers. And with contemporary artists pushing the boundaries of the medium, there’s much to discover. Find out more in the Summer 2024 issue of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Prestige magazine.

Read it here: https://issuu.com/uniquehomes2023/docs/bhhs_summer_2024/36?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social_media&utm_campaign=soci&utm_date=July2024

How Do Presidential Elections Impact the Housing Market?

Are you wondering if the upcoming election will have an impact on the housing market? Here’s what history tells us you need to know if you’re considering a move. Data shows home sales slow in November but quickly bounce back and rise the following year. Prices usually keep climbing. And mortgage rates typically come down slightly. Presidential elections have only a small and temporary impact on the housing market. If you have questions, let’s connect.

How Do Presidential Elections Impact the Housing Market? Are you wondering if the upcoming election will have an impact on the housing market?

Why Moving to a Smaller Home After Retirement Makes Life Easier

Retirement is a time for relaxation, adventure, and enjoying the things you love. As you imagine this exciting new chapter in your life, it's important to think about whether your current home still fits your needs.

If it's too big, too costly, or just not convenient anymore, downsizing might help you make the most of your retirement years. To find out if a smaller, more manageable home might be the perfect fit for your new lifestyle, ask yourself these questions:

• Do the original reasons I bought my current house still stand, or have my needs changed since then?
• Do I really need and want the space I have right now, or could somewhere smaller be a better fit?
• What are my housing expenses right now, and how much do I want to try to save by downsizing?

If you answered yes to any of these, consider the benefits that come with downsizing.

Your Equity Can...

Why Moving to a Smaller Home After Retirement Makes Life Easier Retirement is a time for relaxation, adventure, and enjoying the things you love.

Despite current market conditions, waiting to make a move might not be your best bet. That's just one of the insights discussed in The Key—a new regular feature that breaks down the most important real estate topics to provide you with actionable answers. Check out the first installment via the link below and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions at all!

Learn more at https://www.bhhs.com//the-key/buy-now-or-wait?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social_media&utm_campaign=soci&utm_date=June2024 and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions at all!



🖥️ https://www.bhhs.com/fox-and-roach-realtors-pa301/holmdel/scott-murray/cid-3012081?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social_media&utm_campaign=soci&utm_date=June2024
📧 [email protected]

The Price of Perfection: Don’t Wait for the Perfect Home

In life, patience is a virtue – but in the world of homebuying, waiting too long in hopes of finding the perfect home actually isn't wise. That’s because the pursuit of perfection comes at a cost. And in this case, that cost may be delaying your dream of homeownership.

The Cost of Holding Out for Perfection

Nothing in life is ever perfect – and that's true when you search for a home too. Unless you’re building a brand-new home from the ground up, chances are there are going to be some features or finishes you wouldn’t have picked yourself.

But here’s the trade-off you'd be making without even realizing it. In all that time you’d spend searching for the perfect place, you’d overlook a lot of homes that would’ve worked for you.

It’s Time To Redefine Perfection

Especially with affordability and inventory where they are today, buying a home that needs some...

The Price of Perfection: Don’t Wait for the Perfect Home In life, patience is a virtue – but in the world of homebuying, waiting too long in hopes of finding the perfect home actually isn't wise.

Looking to lower your mortgage payments without the hefty cost of refinancing? Find out how you can recast your mortgage and potentially save big. Learn more about this savvy financial move in our latest blog post.

Read it here: https://www.bhhs.com/blog/blog-detail/2024/6/what-does-recasting-a-mortgage-loan-involve-.html?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social_media&utm_campaign=soci&utm_date=July2024

Questions? Ask me today—I’m happy to help.

🖥️ https://www.bhhs.com/fox-and-roach-realtors-pa301/holmdel/scott-murray/cid-3012081?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social_media&utm_campaign=soci&utm_date=July2024
📧 [email protected]

Why Your Asking Price Matters Even More Right Now

If you’re thinking about selling your house, here’s something you really need to know. Even though it’s still a seller’s market today, you can’t pick just any price for your listing.

While home prices are still appreciating in most areas, they’re climbing at a slower pace because higher mortgage rates are putting a squeeze on buyer demand. At the same time, the supply of homes for sale is growing. That means buyers have more options and your house may not stand out as much, if it’s not priced right.

Those two factors combined are why the asking price you set for your house is more important today than it has been in recent years.

And some sellers are finding that out the hard way. That’s leading to more price reductions. That’s because they haven’t adjusted their expectations to today’s market.

If you want to avoid making a pricing mistake that could turn away buyers...

Why Your Asking Price Matters Even More Right Now If you’re thinking about selling your house, here’s something you really need to know.

From bedding to furniture, knowing the grams per square meter (GSM) can make all the difference in comfort and durability. Learn more about GSM and how it impacts your fabric choices in this latest blog post.

Read it here: https://www.bhhs.com/content/bhhs/en/us/blog/blog-detail/2024/6/the-importance-of-measuring-gsm-in-home-d%C3%A9cor-fabric.html?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social_media&utm_campaign=soci&utm_date=July2024

Questions? Feel free to reach out—I’d love to help!

🖥️ https://www.bhhs.com/fox-and-roach-realtors-pa301/holmdel/scott-murray/cid-3012081?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social_media&utm_campaign=soci&utm_date=July2024
📧 [email protected]

Not a Crash: 3 Graphs That Show How Today’s Inventory Differs from 2008

Even if you didn't own a home at the time, you probably remember the housing crisis in 2008. That crash impacted the lives of countless people, and many now live with the worry that something like that could happen again. But rest easy, because things are different than they were back then.

Homeowners Deciding To Sell Their Houses

Although the supply of existing (previously owned) homes is up compared to this time last year, it’s still low overall. And while this varies by local market, nationally, the current months’ supply is well below the norm, and even further below what we saw during the crash.

New Home Construction

People are also talking a lot about what's going on with newly built houses these days, and that might make you wonder if homebuilders are overdoing it. Even though new homes make up a larger percentage of the total inventory...

Not a Crash: 3 Graphs That Show How Today’s Inventory Differs from 2008 Even if you didn't own a home at the time, you probably remember the housing crisis in 2008.

Things To Avoid After Applying for a Mortgage [INFOGRAPHIC]

There are a few key things you’ll want to avoid after applying for a mortgage to make sure you’re in the best position when you get to the closing table. Don’t change bank accounts, apply for new credit, make any large purchases or transfers, and don’t co-sign loans for anyone. Here’s a good rule of thumb. Always connect with your loan officer before making any financial decisions once you’ve started the mortgage process.

Things To Avoid After Applying for a Mortgage [INFOGRAPHIC] There are a few key things you’ll want to avoid after applying for a mortgage to make sure you’re in the best position when you get to the closing table.

Wishing you a spectacular Fourth of July filled with red, white, and blue pride. ❤🤍💙 As we enjoy the fireworks and festivities, let's honor the values of liberty, equality, and democracy that make America truly exceptional. Happy Independence Day! 🎆🌟

Homeownership: The Heart of the American Dream

Everyone’s vision for the future is personal and unique. But for many, common goals include success, freedom, and prosperity — values closely tied to having your own home and the iconic feeling of achieving the American Dream.

So, why is buying a home important to so many today? One reason is the financial and physical security it provides. Many people see homeownership as a way to reduce stress because owning a home with a fixed-rate mortgage stabilizes what is likely their largest monthly expense.
Another factor is the potential for building wealth. That’s because, over time, homeowners gain equity as they pay down their mortgage and as home prices appreciate, leading to longer-term financial stability.
But what about the responsibilities that come with owning and maintaining a home? According to a survey by Entrata, only 23% of renters feel homeownership is too much...

Homeownership: The Heart of the American Dream Everyone’s vision for the future is personal and unique.