Scarlett Holt, Realtor with The American Dream

Have you heard about the “Silver Tsunami”? Here’s what you need to know:

The idea is that many baby boomers will move or downsize all at once, potentially flooding the market with homes and impacting prices. But there are a couple of faults in that logic.

🏡 Not all baby boomers plan to move. More than half of adults aged 65 and older want to stay in their homes as they age, according to an AARP study.

🔄 Many boomers will modify their current homes or buy a second home, keeping their original as an investment to build generational wealth.

🌅 Freddie Mac forecasts a gradual exit of 9.2 million Boomers by 2035.

Demographics change slowly over time, not overnight.

Don’t stress about a sudden Silver Tsunami shaking the housing market. The transition will be gradual over many years.

Are you a senior looking to downsize? I'm a Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®) and would love to help you!

Scarlett Holt
🏡 Realtor with the American Dream
🔑 Contact me at 229.563.5680
✉️ Email: [email protected]

🏠💔 Housing Crisis for Low-Income Older Adults: 2024 Report

📉 Record Spending on Housing
65% of renters with annual incomes below $30,000 spend over half their income on housing, leaving just $310 for food, transportation, healthcare, and other costs.

🏘️ Critical Need for Affordable Housing
"Affordable housing matters," says Linda Couch, LeadingAge. The need for affordable senior housing is greater than ever, with providers struggling to preserve and build new units.

🚧 Challenges and Scarcity
The nation's affordable housing programs are inadequate, focusing on preserving existing units rather than expanding them. The federal housing safety net is in tatters, leaving many to "claw their way up the mountain."

🏚️ Older Homeowners Facing Hardships
Home prices hit an all-time high, pushing many older adults to spend 30% or more of their income on housing. Ensuring homes are accessible is a growing struggle.

🏡 Urgent Need for Solutions
Housing affordability remains a pressing challenge. Expanding the housing safety net and regulatory relief can help, but buy-in from all sectors and levels of government is essential. LeadingAge urges stakeholders to support strong funding for affordable senior housing.

Need a realtor? Let’s chat!
Source: mcknightsseniorliving.com

Scarlett Holt
🏡 Realtor with the American Dream
🔑 Contact me at 229.563.5680
✉️ Email: [email protected]

Want your house to sell fast? 🏡 Here’s a roadmap to speed up the process:

📈 The supply of homes for sale is growing, giving you more options but also more competition. Fresh listings are like fresh bread—everyone wants them! 🍞

⏳ An agent ensures your home stands out and sells quickly. Sellers with an agent are more likely to accept an offer within a month. 🕒

📅 Bottom Line: Work with a pro who understands market trends and builds a winning strategy.

Need a realtor? Let’s chat!

Scarlett Holt
🏡 Realtor with the American Dream
🔑 Contact me at 229.563.5680
✉️ Email: [email protected]

SOLD!!! CLOSED in JULY, on the market 7 months! Congratulations to my seller!!!!

SUWANNEE RIVER CAMPGROUND, Jasper, FL now has a new lot owner!

A local businessman of Valdosta owned this property in Jasper, FL. The structure on it had fallen in and a tree fell on it during Idalia to boot!
These .18 acre lots in the campground have sold for $3k and under in the past year. The VALUE JUST WENT UP! Patience paid off for my seller! CHA-CHING!! This lot sold for over double the price of resent past sales!!

If you have real estate questions or needs, please give me a call!
229.563.5680 (cell, direct)
800.451.1603

Great news for the housing market! 🌟 Recent reports of home price reductions might make you nervous, but it's important to realize that this is actually a positive sign for the market. Here's why:

📈 Home prices are still rising, even if at a slower pace compared to last year.
📊 The increase in price reductions is a reflection of the market finding balance and adjusting to current demand.
💰 Despite the reductions, actual sold prices are still expected to increase over the next 5 years, providing an opportunity for buyers and sellers alike.
🌎 This growth is happening all over the country, a clear indication of a stable and healthy real estate market.
👁️‍🗨️ As a buyer, this is a perfect time to enter the market with confidence, as you have a better chance of securing a fair price.
💼 For sellers, this is an opportunity to work with a skilled realtor to set a realistic price that aligns with market demand for faster results.
🤝 And for everyone involved, understanding the distinction between asking prices and sold prices is critical in conquering the housing market and achieving success.

So let's celebrate the resilience of the market! And if you're ready to take advantage of this exciting time in real estate, let's work together to make your dreams a reality.

Scarlett Holt
🏡 Realtor with the American Dream
🔑 Contact me at 229.563.5680
✉️ Email: [email protected]

Talk about motivated!! Check out the price improvement on this home!!

Scarlett Holt
🏡 Realtor with the American Dream
🔑 Contact me at 229.563.5680
✉️ Email: [email protected]

My sellers are excited to be Under Contract with buyers who love their home as much as they do!

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⛵️GIVEAWAY TIME⛵️
In honor of The Schooner Freedom’s 23rd birthday, we’re doing a very special birthday giveaway! This year we’ll be giving out prizes to a first, second, and third place winner!

🥇 First place receives a nautical themed basket filled with goodies AND a Gift Certificate for 2 on our Day Sail, Sunset Sail, or Moonlight Sail.
🥈 Second place will win a Schooner Freedom dry-fit shirt or t-shirt of their choosing.
🥉 Third place will win a Schooner Freedom hat.

TO ENTER: ⬇️
➕ FOLLOW us on social media
❤️ LIKE this post
👯‍♀️ TAG the person you wanna sail away with
(more tags = more entries)
✨SHARE this on your story for a bonus entry! (Be sure to tag us so we can see it 😉)

Winners will be announced on Freedom’s birthday 8/13! Good luck!!

❗️BEWARE OF SCAMS❗️
The winner will not be announced until Tuesday! Captain Jack will go live and draw the winning names! ⚓️

Home Builders Association of SGa, Casino Night Fundraiser 2024 at Foxhill Plantation, was another fun night and great success!!

🌟 Gen Z Worries They Will Never Own a Home 🌟

Top Concerns for Gen Z Homebuyers:
54% worry they won't be able to afford it
48% fear hidden costs
High cost of homes (50%)
Steep interest rates (31%)

Savings and Affordability:
61% of Gen Z non-homeowners have less than $10,000 saved for a home
Only 18% believe they can afford a home
52% expect their first home to cost less than $250,000
29% anticipate owning a home worth over $1 million someday

Priorities and Challenges:
92% say owning a home is important
Other priorities: stable employment (51%), building a career (48%), starting a family (32%)
79% of Gen Z homeowners doubt their generation can afford a home
33% received parental assistance for their down payment
31% moved in with parents to save for a home

Struggles and Optimism:
33% of Gen Z homeowners have struggled to pay their mortgage
52% of Gen Z renters have struggled to pay rent
90% believe they will purchase a home before age 35
33% expect to own a home by age 25

Need a realtor? Let’s chat! 🏡
Source: Clever Real Estate

Scarlett Holt
🏡 Realtor with the American Dream
🔑 Contact me at 229.563.5680
✉️ Email: [email protected]

Here are 3 things you can do BEFORE you buy a house 👇🏻

1️⃣ Plan for Multiple Exit Strategies: Anticipate the unexpected and explore potential scenarios beyond your primary residence. Consider if your property could be rented out for cash flow if relocation became necessary. A tip? Utilize platforms like Zillow or consult a realtor to gauge potential rental income, ensuring it covers essential expenses.

2️⃣ Buy Below Market Value Always: Secure your financial foothold by aiming to purchase properties below market value. This strategic approach offers a crucial buffer, providing flexibility to navigate unforeseen circumstances through re-selling or refinancing options if the need arises.

3️⃣ Seek Professional Knowledge: At the cusp of acquiring a substantial asset, embrace the value of education. Whether it's your first home or an investment property, understanding the intricate processes from reputable professionals is paramount. Safeguarding your wealth for generations requires a well-informed approach.

Your future home or investment opportunity awaits – let's align your vision with expertise!

Scarlett Holt
🏡 Realtor with the American Dream
🔑 Contact me at 229.563.5680
✉️ Email: [email protected]

While the market landscape can shift unpredictably, you have more control over your mortgage rate than you may think by focusing on these three mindset-changing components:

🔢 Credit Score: Maintaining a good credit score is essential and can influence your ability to obtain a favorable interest rate. Consult a trusted loan officer or credit counselor to navigate ways to boost your score, unlocking endless opportunities.

🏦 Loan Type: Different loans suit various circumstances and carry different eligibility criteria and interest rates. We're here to guide you through the maze of options, helping you decide which loan type aligns best with your vision.

⏳ Loan Term: Balancing your rate and overall repayment by considering optimal loan term length is essential to achieving your dream lifestyle goals. We're here to help you work your numbers to make the most strategic decisions possible.

Let's shift the dialogue from dreading high rates to emphasizing the elements we can control.

Scarlett Holt
🏡 Realtor with the American Dream
🔑 Contact me at 229.563.5680
✉️ Email: [email protected]

Feeling caught between conflicting mortgage rates and the desire to sell your home and embark on a new chapter? You're not alone. But what if I told you there's a hidden treasure right within your current home that could pave the way for your seamless transition? It's called equity, and it might just be the game-changer you need.

🔍 Understanding the Power of Equity: Your home's equity is a transformative resource, serving as the difference between your home's value and your outstanding mortgage amount. As you've faithfully paid off your loan and witnessed the surge in home prices, your equity has silently grown, potentially far exceeding your expectations.

⚖️ Empowering Your Move with Equity: Imagine selling your home and using the abundant equity to navigate your next steps without the burden of daunting mortgage rates. This compelling equity perspective, as highlighted by Realtor.com's Chief Economist, Danielle Hale, opens doors for a variety of possibilities.

🌟 Fueling Your Next Chapter with Equity: From becoming an all-cash buyer to making a substantial down payment, your equity can unlock avenues that were once out of reach, leading to a smoother, stress-free transition to your next dream home.

📊 Taking the First Step: Curious about the potential treasure trove of equity in your home? Connecting with a local real estate professional can provide you with a detailed Equity Assessment Report (PEAR), completely free of charge. By understanding your equity's worth, you're en route to making your move a vibrant reality.

🤝 Ready to Dive into the Equity Conversation?
Let’s chat!

Scarlett Holt
🏡 Realtor with the American Dream
🔑 Contact me at 229.563.5680
✉️ Email: [email protected]

Selling your house on your own may seem tempting, but it could bring about unnecessary stress and risks, especially if you lack expertise in the field.

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) highlighted the challenges FSBO sellers face, particularly in pricing and paperwork. This is where partnering with a real estate agent can make a world of difference.

📈 Getting the Price Right: Setting the right price is crucial, yet overpricing or underpricing can hinder the sale of your home. With the guidance of a real estate agent, you can tap into their deep understanding of the local housing market, ensuring your home is priced to attract potential buyers and maximize your return on investment.

📑 Understanding and Performing Paperwork: The intricacies of paperwork and legal documentation can be overwhelming for homeowners. A knowledgeable real estate agent can navigate this process with finesse, reducing the risk of mistakes that may lead to legal complications or delays, offering you peace of mind as you embark on your selling journey.

🤝💼 Ready to take the stress out of selling your home? Let’s chat!

Scarlett Holt
🏡 Realtor with the American Dream
🔑 Contact me at 229.563.5680
✉️ Email: [email protected]

If you’re a member of a younger generation, like Gen Z, you may be asking the question: will I ever be able to buy a home?

There’s no arguing this housing market is challenging for first-time homebuyers, but it is still achievable, especially if you have professionals on your side.

Explore your options for a down payment. If a down payment is your #1 hurdle, you may have options to give your savings a boost. Work with a trusted mortgage professional, and ask about any guidelines on getting a gift from loved ones.

Another thing a number of Gen Z buyers are doing is moving back in with family or friends to boost their savings. This can help cut down your housing costs so you can build your savings a whole lot faster.

When looking to buy your first home, cast a broad net for your search. Consider more affordable neighborhoods and explore different types of homes, such as condos or townhouses.

Take a close look at your wants and needs, and consider making some compromises. Remember, you just need to get your foot in the door to start building equity.

Real estate professionals have expertise on what’s working for other buyers like you. Lean on them for tips and advice on ways you can get ready to buy.
With the help of a pro, homeownership is achievable. Need a realtor? Let’s chat! 🏡💬

Scarlett Holt
🏡 Realtor with the American Dream
🔑 Contact me at 229.563.5680
✉️ Email: [email protected]

🏡✨ Let's talk about the best time to sell your home! Here's a hot take: It's not just about the market trends. The best time to sell is when it's right for YOU. Your journey to the next chapter is what matters most. 🌟
But hey, there are benefits to each season if it aligns with your goals:

• Spring brings a 12.8% seller premium and top-notch curb appeal, attracting eager buyers.
• Summer offers extended daylight for convenient viewings and a smooth transition for families.
• Fall sees a decline in seller premiums, but lets you settle in a new home for the holidays.
• Winter presents less competition and draws motivated buyers, often relocating for various reasons.
Which season speaks to you? Drop an emoji to share your preference! 🌷☀️🍂❄️ Let's chat about how to make the most of your selling journey no matter the season. 🗓💬

Scarlett Holt
🏡 Realtor with the American Dream
🔑 Contact me at 229.563.5680
✉️ Email: [email protected]

Please join me for an Open House this Saturday from 10 AM -1 PM! 🎉🏡

🏠✨ Is it time to downsize your home? 🤔 Consider these scenarios:

✔️ Monthly housing expenses have soared by over 30%
✔️ Little to no room in your budget for savings or other expenses
✔️ Feeling burdened by the ongoing maintenance of your home
✔️ Your current home no longer suits your lifestyle or needs
✔️ Changes in career or family dynamics impacting your location needs

If any of these resonate with you, it could be the right time to explore the idea of downsizing. Making a change can lead to a more manageable and fulfilling living situation. 🌼💫 Reach out and let's discuss your options for finding a home that better aligns with your current needs! 📥💬

Scarlett Holt
🏡 Realtor with the American Dream
🔑 Contact me at 229.563.5680
✉️ Email: [email protected]

🏠✨ Wondering about the current state of the housing market and if it's becoming more affordable? Let's break it down. According to Senior Economist Elijah de la Campa at Redfin, there are positive signs that affordability is slowly improving.

Mortgage rates are expected to decrease, making homebuying more accessible. 📉💰

Here are the latest insights on the three key factors influencing home affordability: mortgage rates, home prices, and wages. Despite recent fluctuations, mortgage rates are projected to come down later this year, potentially bringing more buyers into the market. 🏡💸

While home prices are still on the rise, the pace is expected to be more sustainable, offering a more balanced market environment for buyers. Additionally, with wages increasing at a faster rate, it may be easier to manage monthly mortgage payments. 💼💵

In summary, the combination of lower mortgage rates, steady home price growth, and rising wages bodes well for those looking to make their homeownership dreams a reality. Stay informed and empowered on your journey to owning a home! 🌟💪

Scarlett Holt
🏡 Realtor with the American Dream
🔑 Contact me at 229.563.5680
✉️ Email: [email protected]

Selling your home is a big decision filled with emotions. That's why you need a listing agent who understands your perspective and has the expertise to guide you through the process. Here are a few skills to look for in a great agent:

1️⃣ Simplifying Complexity: Your agent should explain the housing market in simple terms, keeping you informed and confident throughout your decision-making journey.

2️⃣ Data-Driven Pricing: Choosing an agent based on the highest asking price may backfire. Work with someone who provides a fair price backed by solid data and a clear pricing strategy.

3️⃣ Objective Negotiation: Selling a home can be emotional, but a trusted agent will stay calm and objective during negotiations, always having your best interests in mind.

Whether you're a first-time seller or experienced, a great listing agent is essential for success. Connect with a skilled local expert to guide you every step of the way. 🤝

Scarlett Holt
🏡 Realtor with the American Dream
🔑 Contact me at 229.563.5680
✉️ Email: [email protected]

🏡 Homeownership is achievable, even for Gen Z buyers! If you're wondering how to overcome the challenges of the current housing market, consider exploring your options for a down payment, moving back in with family, casting a broad net for your search, and making compromises. 😊

Don't go it alone - real estate professionals have the expertise to guide you through every step of the process, from finding the right home to closing the deal. 🤝 Reach out to me if you're ready to make your dream of homeownership a reality! 🏠💙



Scarlett Holt
🏡 Realtor with the American Dream
🔑 Contact me at 229.563.5680
✉️ Email: [email protected]

https://ctbids.com/advance-search/items

CTBids CTBids buyers web app

🏡 Thinking of selling your house? It’s a good time to weigh your options and consider the current market conditions. According to Fannie Mae's Home Purchase Sentiment Index, the percentage of sellers who say it’s a good time to sell is on the rise.📈

Traditionally, late spring and early summer are the best times to sell a house. With high buyer demand and low inventory, sellers are in a favorable position. Homes listed during this time typically sell faster and at a higher price. 💰

If you're thinking about making a move, now might be the right time to prepare your home and get it on the market.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to sell your house quickly and for a higher price. Need a realtor? Let’s chat! 📲

Scarlett Holt
🏡 Realtor with the American Dream
🔑 Contact me at 229.563.5680
✉️ Email: [email protected]

Having a hard time finding a first home that's right for you and your wallet? Here's a tip - think about getting a condominium or a condo.

🏠 Budget-Friendly Option: Condos are typically less expensive than single-family homes, making them a great choice if you want to be a homeowner but need to stay within your budget. (National Association of Realtors)

🌇 Urban Living Perks: Living in a condo can offer a sense of community, with access to amenities like pools and dog parks. You don't have to worry about maintenance either! (Rocket Mortgage)

🏋️‍♀️ A Low-Maintenance Choice: Condos require less upkeep than single-family homes, saving you time and money. Fees are important to consider, too.

👥 Community Living: Condo communities can offer a sense of closeness and neighborliness, with events and get-togethers to look forward to.

🔑 Build Equity Now: A condo can help you enter the housing market and start building equity, setting you up to buy something different as your needs change.

🏘️ Variety and Convenience: A condo could give you the options you need and the convenience you want. It's a truly versatile lifestyle choice!

🏡 Ready to Start Your Search? Let’s chat! 📞💬

Scarlett Holt
🏡 Realtor with the American Dream
🔑 Contact me at 229.563.5680
✉️ Email: [email protected]

Remember, every time a home is sold, it does a lot of good for the whole community.

If you’re thinking of buying or selling a house, it’s important to know it doesn’t just impact you—it helps out the local economy and your community, too.

When a house is sold, it boosts the local economy by creating jobs for people involved in building, fixing up, and selling homes. From city officials to contractors, lawyers to real estate agents, everyone plays a part in making your deal go through.

So, each transaction is a big help to those who work and live in your community. Remember, when you buy or sell a home, you’re not just meeting your own needs—you’re also doing something good for your community.

Scarlett Holt
🏡 Realtor with the American Dream
🔑 Contact me at 229.563.5680
✉️ Email: [email protected]

Did you know that newly built homes could offer you more options and may be more affordable than you’d think?

According to data from the Census and the National Association of Realtors, newly built homes make up over 33% of today’s housing inventory, and builders are focusing on building smaller homes at lower price points.

Plus, some builders are even offering price cuts and mortgage rate buy-downs right now to sweeten the deal. But buying a newly built home is different than buying an existing one, so partnering with a local real estate agent is crucial to understanding builder contracts and exploring this option.

Need a realtor? Let’s talk!

Scarlett Holt
🏡 Realtor with the American Dream
🔑 Contact me at 229.563.5680
✉️ Email: [email protected]

🏡 Housing Update 🏡 More homes are up for sale this year compared to the past few years.

According to Realtor.com, in April 2024, there were 30.4% more homes for sale than the same time in 2023.

👍 Easier House Hunting? While the growing inventory seems like a positive shift, the latest data from Calculated Risk shows that there are still fewer homes for sale compared to the last normal year in the housing market.

👉 What Does This Mean for You? If you're looking to buy but put your plans on hold due to limited inventory, you may have more options now. However, it's wise to work with a local real estate agent who knows the area and can provide accurate information about available homes.

🎯 The Importance of a Local Real Estate Agent: Real estate is location-dependent. An agent can help you navigate the unique features of your neighborhood, so you can make an informed decision.

🏠 Let's Make Your Move Happen: 🏡🤝 If you need a realtor, give me a call or send me a DM! 📞💬

Scarlett Holt
🏡 Realtor with the American Dream
🔑 Contact me at 229.563.5680
✉️ Email: [email protected]