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The Rilliet Report - June 2015

The first three months of 2015 began a new trend. The activity of buyer foot traffic was stronger than expected. Usually, spring is the buying season, but times may be changing. Pending home sales rose in April for the fourth straight month and reached their highest level in nine years, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR).

Then April marked a decline in existing-home sales nationwide. Lawrence Yun, NAR Chief Economist, expects a rebound in sales into the summer months. Such gains will depend on a boost in inventory, steady interest rates, and moderate price growth.

 

JUST ASK

Q: Is the drought a local or national problem?

A: California has mandated severe water restrictions for the rest of 2015. However, even if you live elsewhere in the country - even Hilo, Hawaii, where there is an average of 125 inches of rain annually- you are still affected by the water shortages in the West. Farmers are losing crops and food prices for fruits and vegetables are rising nationwide.

  • Did you know that up to 70% of household water usage is on outdoor landscapes and pools?
  • Statewide averages usage of about 77 gallons of water per person per day.
  • Highest indoor water usage: toilets - 26.7%, laundry - 21.7%, showers - 16.8%. On average, the bathroom accounts for up to 75% of all indoor water usage.

Go to the EPA website for more ideas on how to cut your water usage.

 

MY TOWN

As we head into summer, vacation homes become a hot topic.

Sales of second homes or vacation homes rose 57% in the U.S. last year compared to 2013, according to NAR. During 2014, 1.3 million vacation homes were sold.

And according to a NAR survey, vacation homes accounted for 27% of all real estate transactions last year. The survey also found that 85% of vacation home buyers think now is a good time to invest in real estate.

As the stock market continues to be strong, many people are leveraging the good financing options and buying a second home, usually approximately three hours from their main home. Let me know if you want a referral for a real estate agent in another area. Happy Summer!

 

FYI

While writing to you about vacation homes, I found an article in Sunset Magazine that tells of some good ideas on vacation travel.

I try to read up on places to visit while taking car trips. Lo and behold, there is a new app that turns your phone into an audio tour guide. Cued by your GPS location, Just Ahead chimes in with stores and directions as you drive along. It's your own private, moving concierge!

So far, guides for Yosemite, Joshua Tree Park, Sequoia and Kings Canyon, Death Valley, Grand Canyon, Cedar Breaks, Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Roof and Bryce Canyon are all included - with more to come.

All from just $4.99 - go to Just Ahead for more info.

 

PERSONAL UPDATE
It's been busy...

Click Images for Property Websites

Listed by Sheldon / SOLD OVER ASKING IN ONE DAY!
741 Celestial Lane  - Foster City
List Price $968,000
Sale Price $1,173,000

Buyers Represented by Sheldon

33 Southridge Court  -  San Mateo
List Price $979,000
SALE PENDING

Sheldon Rilliet

Realtor SF and Peninsula

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