Category: The Caton Team Realtors

Mortgage Forbearance Could Spark More Financial Woes

Mortgage Forbearance Could Spark More Financial Woes

 

With business closures and job losses due to the coronavirus outbreak, about 2 million borrowers so far have applied for mortgage forbearance programs. But homeowners should fully understand what forbearance means before entering into such an agreement with their lender, financial experts advise.

Many homeowners who take forbearance options will be on the hook for making up missed payments in a lump sum at the end of the program. As one homeowner in Chicago realized, taking 90 days of forbearance on his mortgage would have meant he would have to pay three monthly payments at once at the end of the period.

In the last month, nearly 17 million Americans have filed for unemployment, as social distancing measures have prevented most businesses from operating as normal. This has left many homeowners scrambling to figure out how to pay their mortgages. Many homeowners with government-backed loans or private loans are being offered up to 12 months of forbearance. Homeowners will want to check on what happens at the end of the forbearance period: Will they be asked to pay back all of those missed payments in a lump sum?

Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and the Federal Housing Administration say they never require their borrowers to make lump-sum payments. Banks may also work out repayment plans with borrowers.

Joseph Sant, deputy general counsel for the Center for New York City Neighborhoods, told realtor.com® that he is concerned that the lack of uniformity among mortgage assistance programs may spark greater confusion among the public. “We are concerned about what’s going on right now, with many people going into these forbearance plans without a clear sense of what will happen at the end,” Sant says.

Financial experts are urging homeowners to weigh forbearance options carefully. “If you can make the payment, make the payment now,” mortgage broker Rocke Andrews, president of the National Association of Mortgage Brokers, told realtor.com®. “Don’t take [forbearance] if you don’t absolutely need it. It all becomes due, and who knows what happens between now and then.”

I read this article HERE 

Got Real Estate Questions?   The Caton Team is here to help.

We strive to be more than just Realtors – we are also your home resource. If you have any real estate questions, concerns, need a referral or some guidance – we are here for you. Contact us at your convenience – we are but a call, text or click away!

The Caton Team believes, in order to be successful in the San Fransisco | Peninsula | Bay Area | Silicon Valley Real Estate Market we have to think and act differently. We do this by positioning our clients in the strongest light, representing them with the utmost integrity, while strategically maneuvering through negotiations and contracts. Together we make dreams come true.  How can The Caton Team help you?

A mother and daughter-in-law team with over 35 years of combined, local Real Estate experience and knowledge – would’t you like The Caton Team to represent you? Let us know how we can be of service. Contact us any time.

Call | Text | Sabrina 650.799.4333 | Susan 650.796.0654

Email |   Info@TheCatonTeam.com

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

The Caton Team Testimonials | The Caton Team Blog – The Real Estate Beat | TheCatonTeam.com | Facebook | Instagram | HomeSnap | Pintrest | LinkedIN Sabrina | LinkedIN Susan

Want Real Estate Info on the Go?  Download our FREE Real Estate App:  Mobile Real Estate by The Caton Team

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts.  Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third party information not verified.


 

The Difference Between Mortgage Deferment and Forbearance

The Difference Between Mortgage Deferment and Forbearance

 

More homeowners are in search of mortgage relief due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and options like mortgage deferment and mortgage forbearance are becoming readily available to those in need.

But “we are seeing the terms being used interchangeably,” Sara Singhas, director of loan administration for the Mortgage Bankers Association, told realtor.com®.

Mortgage deferment and mortgage forbearance allow borrowers to temporarily stop making their monthly payments, but they differ in what happens afterwards. At the end of a forbearance period, the amount of payments missed are due in a lump sum, Singhas explains. However, lenders may choose to work with borrowers to structure a payment plan.

On the other hand, deferment is allowing borrowers to repay the money over time or add it to the end of their loan period.

“Technically, a mortgage forbearance agreement is when you’ve possibly been late, and the lender agrees not to foreclosure during that forbearance period,” Krista Allred, a mortgage loan originator, told realtor.com®.

In the current landscape, many borrowers haven’t become past due on their mortgage yet. But an the pandemic causes unemployment numbers to rise, borrowers are in a rush to seek help before they default.

“The moral of the story right now is to call your lender,” Allred says. “Don’t just assume you can skip a payment. Call them, let them know, and make arrangements.”

Forbearance and deferment aren’t the only options. Some lenders are doing loan modifications, too.

The bottom line is that lenders want to remind consumers: Nothing is free.

“It’s not free mortgage payments; it’s not free money. [Forbearance] is temporarily hitting the pause button on your mortgage, and not having to make the payment,” Mary Bell Carlson, a certified financial planner who operates a blog under “Chief Financial Mom,” told realtor.com®. “It does not necessarily pause the interest that is accruing, and it does mean that you’re going to have to make that principal and interest payment at a later date.”

Source: “Mortgage Deferment and Mortgage Forbearance—Is There a Difference?” realtor.com® (April 7, 2020)

I read this article HERE 

Got Real Estate Questions?   The Caton Team is here to help.

We strive to be more than just Realtors – we are also your home resource. If you have any real estate questions, concerns, need a referral or some guidance – we are here for you. Contact us at your convenience – we are but a call, text or click away!

The Caton Team believes, in order to be successful in the San Fransisco | Peninsula | Bay Area | Silicon Valley Real Estate Market we have to think and act differently. We do this by positioning our clients in the strongest light, representing them with the utmost integrity, while strategically maneuvering through negotiations and contracts. Together we make dreams come true.  How can The Caton Team help you?

A mother and daughter-in-law team with over 35 years of combined, local Real Estate experience and knowledge – would’t you like The Caton Team to represent you? Let us know how we can be of service. Contact us any time.

Call | Text | Sabrina 650.799.4333 | Susan 650.796.0654

Email |   Info@TheCatonTeam.com

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

The Caton Team Testimonials | The Caton Team Blog – The Real Estate Beat | TheCatonTeam.com | Facebook | Instagram | HomeSnap | Pintrest | LinkedIN Sabrina | LinkedIN Susan

Want Real Estate Info on the Go?  Download our FREE Real Estate App:  Mobile Real Estate by The Caton Team

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts.  Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third party information not verified.


 

LOANS ARE CHANGING

Hello Caton Team Friends!

A quick Real Estate Update.  If you’re in the market to purchase before or after the Covid-19 Shelter in Place – it would be wise to connect with your lender today.  Loans and guidelines are ever chaning in the wake of this pandemic and if you want to be prepared – you’ve got to understand your loan and if it will be available come May 1st.

I always find it best to work directly with a lender you know and trust.  Reach out to The Caton Team any time Call | Text | Sabrina 650.799.4333 | Susan 650.796.065  |  Email Info@TheCatonTeam.com and for more broad information you can read this article from CNBC.

Got Real Estate Questions?   The Caton Team is here to help.

We strive to be more than just Realtors – we are also your home resource. If you have any real estate questions, concerns, need a referral or some guidance – we are here for you. Contact us at your convenience – we are but a call, text or click away!

The Caton Team believes, in order to be successful in the San Fransisco | Peninsula | Bay Area | Silicon Valley Real Estate Market we have to think and act differently. We do this by positioning our clients in the strongest light, representing them with the utmost integrity, while strategically maneuvering through negotiations and contracts. Together we make dreams come true.  How can The Caton Team help you?

A mother and daughter-in-law team with over 35 years of combined, local Real Estate experience and knowledge – would’t you like The Caton Team to represent you? Let us know how we can be of service. Contact us any time.

Call | Text | Sabrina 650.799.4333 | Susan 650.796.0654

Email |   Info@TheCatonTeam.com

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

The Caton Team Testimonials | The Caton Team Blog – The Real Estate Beat | TheCatonTeam.com | Facebook | Instagram | HomeSnap | Pintrest | LinkedIN Sabrina | LinkedIN Susan

Want Real Estate Info on the Go?  Download our FREE Real Estate App:  Mobile Real Estate by The Caton Team

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts.  Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third party information not verified.


 

 

 

Spring Lawn Care After Snow, Rain, or Drought

Well – since we’re all home…. let’s work on the house!!!  (If you don’t have a house to work on – great time to plan and budget)…  back to the house – let’s talk about that yard….

Winter can bring extremes to many areas of the country.  Shelter in Place even more so.  If’ you’re stuck at home – what better time to work on the house… 

No matter what this winter was like where you live, your lawn is probably in need of a little TLC. Here is how to bring your yard back from the dead after rain, snow, or drought.

After Rain

If your area had a rainy winter, your lawn may be in very good shape. However, there is a point where there may have been too much rain and lawns can become waterlogged, especially if you have clay or heavily compacted soil. Waterlogging is caused when water sits on the soil surface and drains slowly, or fails to drain at all.

The Problems

  • Algae, lichens and liverworts
  • Moss
  • Clumps of rush may seed themselves, forming tussocks
  • Dry patches

The Solution

  1. Sweep off any excess water.
  2. Aerate your lawn with 1-inch deep holes for mild waterlogged lawns and 4-6 inches for more severe cases. This can be done by hand, or with power tools like a hollow tiner.
  3. Fill the holes with a free-draining material, such as lawn top dressings or horticultural sand which will allow the water to flow from the surface to deeper, less compacted layers.
  4. Remove moss and algae and spray with moss killer.
  5. Fertilize.

Prevention

  • Spiking it every few years in autumn
  • Feeding in autumn with a lawn feed, rich in phosphorus
  • Install a drainage system
  • Replace your lawn using turf laid on a bed of sharp sand

After Snow

After the snow melts, you may find that your lawn is not in the best shape. To help your lawn return to the lush green it once was, here’s what you need to know:

The Problems

  • Dead foliage
  • Snow mold
  • Dry patches
  • Compacted soil
  • Frozen sections

The Solution

  1. Wait for your lawn to completely thaw. Raking or mowing your grass before it thaws is likely to tear out grass and leave open patches in your lawn where weeds will find a home.
  2. Rake using a thatching rake to clear debris and thatch.
  3. Check for grey or pink snow mold; a cottony fungus which grows 6-12 inches in diameter. Though there isn’t a product you can spray to rid your lawn of snow mold, a deep raking will cure most mild cases.
  4. For lawns with compacted soil, aerate and fill holes with free-draining materials.
  5. Don’t water right away. Grass roots need to chase the water from the melting snow and spring rains. This will encourage deeper root growth to make your lawn healthier.
  6. Fertilize.

Prevention

Preventing your lawn from dying after the winter starts with your watering method. To help your lawn stay healthy year round, you should water:

  • Deep
  • Less frequently – don’t water every day
  • In the early morning, never in the afternoon due to evaporation or evening due to fungus.

After/During Drought

Many areas in California, Florida, Nevada, Oregon, Texas, Utah, and Oklahoma are experiencing severe drought conditions. Keeping a lawn healthy in these areas can be a challenge.

The Problems

  • Lack of water
  • Unbalanced soil
  • Unseasonably hot temperatures

The Solution

Before you start treating your lawn during a drought, make sure you know if any drought water laws or regulations exist in your area and comply with them.

  1. Aerate and fill holes with nutrient rich fertilizer.
  2. Water deep, evenly, and infrequently with a garden hose or professionally-installed irrigation system instead of hose sprinklers.
  3. Overseed or “seed and feed” to increase moisture retention and restore soil balance.
  4. Reduce mowing frequency and opt for a push mower instead of a ride-on one as heavy equipment can damage the fragile blades. Don’t mow your lawn until it gets to 3 inches to allow for maximum nutrient absorption into grass blades, and don’t cut off more than 1/3 of the leaf blade.

Prevention

The best prevention for a drought-ridden lawn is a wet winter and sufficient water supplies. Until Mother Nature cooperates, you can:

  • Install a deep irrigation system if you don’t already have one
  • Keep a watering schedule

 

I read this article at: HERE

Got Real Estate Questions?   The Caton Team is here to help.

We strive to be more than just Realtors – we are also your home resource. If you have any real estate questions, concerns, need a referral or some guidance – we are here for you. Contact us at your convenience – we are but a call, text or click away!

The Caton Team believes, in order to be successful in the San Fransisco | Peninsula | Bay Area | Silicon Valley Real Estate Market we have to think and act differently. We do this by positioning our clients in the strongest light, representing them with the utmost integrity, while strategically maneuvering through negotiations and contracts. Together we make dreams come true.

A mother and daughter-in-law team with over 35 years of combined, local Real Estate experience and knowledge – would’t you like The Caton Team to represent you? Let us know how we can be of service. Contact us any time.

Call | Text | Sabrina 650.799.4333 | Susan 650.796.0654

Email |   Info@TheCatonTeam.com

 

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

The Caton Team Testimonials | The Caton Team Blog – The Real Estate Beat | TheCatonTeam.com | Facebook | Instagram | HomeSnap | Pintrest | LinkedIN Sabrina | LinkedIN Susan

Want Real Estate Info on the Go?  Download our FREE Real Estate App:  Mobile Real Estate by The Caton Team

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts.  Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third party information not verified.

 

The Economic Impact of Buying a Home

The Economic Impact of Buying a Home

We’re in a changing real estate market, and life, in general, is changing too – from how we grocery shop and meal prep to the ways we can interact with our friends and neighbors. Even practices for engaging with agents, lenders, and all of the players involved in a real estate transaction are changing to a virtual format. What isn’t changing, however, is one key thing that can drive the local economy: buying a home.

We’re all being impacted in different ways by the effects of the coronavirus. If you’re in a position to buy a home today, know that you’re a major economic force in your neighborhood. And while we all wait patiently for the current pandemic to pass, there are a lot of things you can do in the meantime to keep your home search on track.

Every year the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shares a report that notes the full economic impact of home sales. This report summarizes:

“The total economic impact of real estate related industries on the state economy, as well as the expenditures that result from a single home sale, including aspects like home construction costs, real estate brokerage, mortgage lending and title insurance.”

Here’s the breakdown of how the average home sale boosts the economy:

Screen Shot 2020-03-31 at 4.12.46 PM.png

When you buy a home, you’re making an impact. You’re fulfilling your need for shelter and a place to live, and you’re also generating jobs and income for the appraiser, the loan officer, the title company, the real estate agent, and many more contributors to the process. For every person or business that you work with throughout the transaction, there’s also likely a team behind the scenes making it all happen, so the effort multiplies substantially. As noted above in the circle on the right, the impact is almost double when you purchase new construction, given the extra labor it requires to build the home.

The report also breaks down the average economic impact by state:

Screen Shot 2020-03-31 at 4.13.46 PM.png

As a buyer, you have an essential need for a home – and you can make an essential impact with homeownership, too. That need for shelter, comfort, and a safe place to live will always be alive and well. And whenever you’re able to act on that need, whether now or later, you’ll truly be creating gains for you, your family, local business professionals, and the overall economy.

Bottom Line

Whenever you purchase a home, you’re an economic driver. Even if you’re not ready or able to make a move now, there are things you can do to keep your own process moving forward so you’re set when the time is right for you.  We’re here to help – Contact The Caton Team at any time!  Call | Text | Sabrina 650.799.4333 | Susan 650.796.0654  |  Email |   Info@TheCatonTeam.com

I read this article HERE 

Got Real Estate Questions?   The Caton Team is here to help.

We strive to be more than just Realtors – we are also your home resource. If you have any real estate questions, concerns, need a referral or some guidance – we are here for you. Contact us at your convenience – we are but a call, text or click away!

The Caton Team believes, in order to be successful in the San Fransisco | Peninsula | Bay Area | Silicon Valley Real Estate Market we have to think and act differently. We do this by positioning our clients in the strongest light, representing them with the utmost integrity, while strategically maneuvering through negotiations and contracts. Together we make dreams come true.  How can The Caton Team help you?

A mother and daughter-in-law team with over 35 years of combined, local Real Estate experience and knowledge – would’t you like The Caton Team to represent you? Let us know how we can be of service. Contact us any time.

Call | Text | Sabrina 650.799.4333 | Susan 650.796.0654

Email |   Info@TheCatonTeam.com

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

The Caton Team Testimonials | The Caton Team Blog – The Real Estate Beat | TheCatonTeam.com | Facebook | Instagram | HomeSnap | Pintrest | LinkedIN Sabrina | LinkedIN Susan

Want Real Estate Info on the Go?  Download our FREE Real Estate App:  Mobile Real Estate by The Caton Team

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts.  Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third party information not verified.

Testimonial of the Day- From Tonton and Angela

Testimonial of the Day – 5 Star Review From Tonton and Angela on GOOGLE.

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“The Caton Team were absolutely excellent. They are quick to respond to any issues or questions that I may had. They personally found places that were right for me in the places that I wanted to live in. I ended up buying a place at a much lower price than I initially thought I would have to pay. You can’t do wrong with them.

The Caton Team were absolutely excellent. They are quick to respond to any issues or questions that I may had. You can’t do wrong with them.” – Tonton

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Tonton and Angela – it was our pleasure to help you two buy your first home – the same week as your wedding!  You two were troopers.  Thank you for the kinds words – you two were equally as awesome and together we are grateful to have turned your Real Estate goes into reality.   We wish you all the best and years of happiness in your new home!

Contact us for a consultation if you’re considering buying or selling real estate.

Know of anyone who needs a hard-working, full-time, dedicated Realtor – let us know! We’d be happy to take great care of them!

To read all our testimonials visit The Caton Team Testimonials and Yelp!

 

Got Real Estate Questions?   The Caton Team is here to help.

 

We strive to be more than just Realtors – we are also your home resource. If you have any real estate questions, concerns, need a referral or some guidance – we are here for you. Contact us at your convenience – we are but a call, text or click away!

The Caton Team believes, in order to be successful in the San Fransisco | Peninsula | Bay Area | Silicon Valley Real Estate Market we have to think and act differently. We do this by positioning our clients in the strongest light, representing them with the utmost integrity, while strategically maneuvering through negotiations and contracts. Together we make dreams come true.

A mother and daughter-in-law team with over 35 years of combined, local Real Estate experience and knowledge – would’t you like The Caton Team to represent you? Let us know how we can be of service. Contact us any time.

Call | Text | Sabrina 650.799.4333 | Susan 650.796.0654

Email |   Info@TheCatonTeam.com

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

The Caton Team Testimonials | The Caton Team Blog – The Real Estate Beat | TheCatonTeam.com | Facebook | Instagram | HomeSnap | Pintrest | LinkedIN Sabrina | LinkedIN Susan 

Want Real Estate Info on the Go?  Download our FREE Real Estate App:  Mobile Real Estate by The Caton Team

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts.  Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third party information not verified.

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Americans Are Still Optimistic About Buying

Americans Are Still Optimistic About Buying

Cities may be putting more social distancing measures in place to control the spread of COVID-19, but physical distance is not lessening consumers’ views on buying a home in the future. A new survey released by Point2 Homes, an online real estate marketplace, shows that home buyer sentiment remains resilient despite the global pandemic.

Point2 Homes surveyed 2,900 visitors to its site from March 23 to 26 to learn their views on the short- and long-term impact the coronavirus will have on their home search. Researchers found the 45 to 54 age group is the most optimistic about buying at this time. Fifty-five percent of respondents said they are still looking to buy a home, regardless of the outbreak. Respondents over age 65, on the other hand, showed more reluctance. Twenty-seven percent of respondents over the age of 65 said they have halted any actions in purchasing a new home at this time.

Overall, 34% of respondents said they are determined to buy a home in the next six months, and 25% said they plan to over the next year, the survey shows.

Concerns over the coronavirus aren’t derailing many home buyers’ plans either. Forty-one percent of respondents said they have no major concerns about buying a home during this time. However, 31% said they do worry about their financial situation and how it might change what they can afford. Twelve percent also cited other issues, like worrying about the limited number of homes that will be available. Sixteen percent cited health and safety concerns over house hunting during this time.

Thirty-five percent of prospective home buyers said they were no longer actively searching for a home but keeping an eye on the market and waiting until the coronavirus outbreak comes to an end, the survey showed. Nineteen percent said they are determined to buy as soon as they find the right home.

Screen Shot 2020-03-31 at 4.08.11 PMScreen Shot 2020-03-31 at 4.08.19 PM

More than a quarter of respondents said they’ve started looking for cheaper properties, while 42% of respondents said they haven’t made any changes to the homes they’re looking for, the survey shows.

Many are continuing their house hunt but using virtual tools to do it. Forty-four percent of aspiring buyers say they’ve put their focus on online tools to continue their search, such as putting more emphasis on property pictures, descriptions, and virtual tours.

“The reality at the moment is that many Americans are keeping their eye on the market, or are even actively searching for properties online,” Point2 Homes said in the study. “At the current pace of change, it remains to be seen how many will succeed and how many will put their plans on hold for the time being.”

Source: “Flash Survey Homebuyer Sentiment: U.S. Still Optimistic Despite Outbreak,” Point2Homes (March 26, 2020)

I read this article HERE 

TOGETHER WE’LL GET THROUGH THIS

Got Real Estate Questions?   The Caton Team is here to help.

We strive to be more than just Realtors – we are also your home resource. If you have any real estate questions, concerns, need a referral or some guidance – we are here for you. Contact us at your convenience – we are but a call, text or click away!

The Caton Team believes, in order to be successful in the San Fransisco | Peninsula | Bay Area | Silicon Valley Real Estate Market we have to think and act differently. We do this by positioning our clients in the strongest light, representing them with the utmost integrity, while strategically maneuvering through negotiations and contracts. Together we make dreams come true.  How can The Caton Team help you?

A mother and daughter-in-law team with over 35 years of combined, local Real Estate experience and knowledge – would’t you like The Caton Team to represent you? Let us know how we can be of service. Contact us any time.

Call | Text | Sabrina 650.799.4333 | Susan 650.796.0654

Email |   Info@TheCatonTeam.com

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

The Caton Team Testimonials | The Caton Team Blog – The Real Estate Beat | TheCatonTeam.com | Facebook | Instagram | HomeSnap | Pintrest | LinkedIN Sabrina | LinkedIN Susan

Want Real Estate Info on the Go?  Download our FREE Real Estate App:  Mobile Real Estate by The Caton Team

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts.  Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third party information not verified.


 

4 Ways Coronavirus Could Impact Housing Long-Term

Hi Caton Team Friends, doing my part to stay educated and safe during this Shelter in Place.  I am reading as much as possible and will share articles here.  Thank you for reading! – The Caton Team

4 Ways Coronavirus Could Impact Housing Long-Term

The COVID-19 outbreak will undoubtedly have a long-lasting influence on Americans and the housing market moving forward. Housing analysts are already weighing in on what those changes could be.

In a new report, Apartment List highlights a few of the long-term changes they foresee coming from the COVID-19 pandemic:

Mobility will initially be low before spiking.

“Geographic mobility generally declines during downturns, when a lack of job opportunities catalyze fewer long-distance moves across market or housing upgrades,” the report notes. Evictions and foreclosure moratoriums will also help slow mobility. But housing analysts are predicting a spike in moves once the COVID-19 outbreak eases. “Many upgrade and downgrade moves will be postponed rather than canceled, creating a reshuffling of households throughout the recovery,” researchers note. The future wave will include those relocating for jobs, moves to be closer to family, and young adults forming their own households. Also, those who still hurt financially even after the pandemic lessens likely will need to move too.

Affordable housing is likely to become even more difficult to find.

Affordable rentals and homes for sale were already in short supply prior to the pandemic. “Fewer people moving means fewer homes available,” the report notes. “With both pandemic and policy keeping people in place, affordable units will become even more rare through the 2020 peak season.” Luxury apartment inventory, on the other hand, may be abundant.

Housing inequality could increase.

Higher earners will likely take advantage of low borrowing costs for refinancing to lower their payments as well as have more choices with the growing luxury rental inventory. On the other hand, lower-income households will likely struggle due to a sluggish economy and face increased competition for limited affordable housing. “As shelter-in-place orders cover a growing share of the nation, those who are able to work remotely are at a distinct economic advantage,” the report notes. “Unfortunately, a correlation between income and the ability to work from home reveals that the lowest earners will be hit hardest by these measures. Fifty-two percent of full-time workers who earn more than $100,000 annually say they can work from home. But only 15% of workers who earn less than $25,000 are able to work from home.”

Sight-unseen housing is likely to accelerate.

Some households may need to make a move sight unseen into their new home or apartment. “Many apartment communities are already enabling virtual tours in response to the pandemic, and many renters and owners alike may soon be evaluating their next home through a tablet screen,” the report notes. “Mainstream adoption of sight-unseen moves will bring both opportunities and challenges for the housing market.” In the rental market, sight-unseen transactions may prompt elevated levels of rental fraud, Apartment List notes.

I read this article HERE 

Got Real Estate Questions?   The Caton Team is here to help.

We strive to be more than just Realtors – we are also your home resource. If you have any real estate questions, concerns, need a referral or some guidance – we are here for you. Contact us at your convenience – we are but a call, text or click away!

The Caton Team believes, in order to be successful in the San Fransisco | Peninsula | Bay Area | Silicon Valley Real Estate Market we have to think and act differently. We do this by positioning our clients in the strongest light, representing them with the utmost integrity, while strategically maneuvering through negotiations and contracts. Together we make dreams come true.  How can The Caton Team help you?

A mother and daughter-in-law team with over 35 years of combined, local Real Estate experience and knowledge – would’t you like The Caton Team to represent you? Let us know how we can be of service. Contact us any time.

Call | Text | Sabrina 650.799.4333 | Susan 650.796.0654

Email |   Info@TheCatonTeam.com

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

The Caton Team Testimonials | The Caton Team Blog – The Real Estate Beat | TheCatonTeam.com | Facebook | Instagram | HomeSnap | Pintrest | LinkedIN Sabrina | LinkedIN Susan

Want Real Estate Info on the Go?  Download our FREE Real Estate App:  Mobile Real Estate by The Caton Team

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts.  Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third party information not verified.


 

The numbers are in for 4.6.2020 – 4.13.2020

Hello Caton Team Friends.  Each week I plan on updating us on real time market stats. Here are the numbers for 4.6.2020 – 4.13.2020.  I also included the stats for March 2020.

Lender Update: Jumbo loans are currently on lock down too – as many banks are shying away from that price point.  To obtain a mortgage your Credit Scores must be at 700 and 20% is needed for the down payment.  There are loan products that offer some downpayment assistnace and work arounds so it’s best to check with several lenders and shop for your home loan.  Let us know if you need any help or have any questions.  Call | Text | Sabrina 650.799.4333 | Susan 650.796.0654  |  Email  Info@TheCatonTeam.com

IMG_2142IMG_2143IMG_2140IMG_2141Screen Shot 2020-04-13 at 4.06.28 PM

 

Got Real Estate Questions?   The Caton Team is here to help.

We strive to be more than just Realtors – we are also your home resource. If you have any real estate questions, concerns, need a referral or some guidance – we are here for you. Contact us at your convenience – we are but a call, text or click away!

The Caton Team believes, in order to be successful in the San Fransisco | Peninsula | Bay Area | Silicon Valley Real Estate Market we have to think and act differently. We do this by positioning our clients in the strongest light, representing them with the utmost integrity, while strategically maneuvering through negotiations and contracts. Together we make dreams come true.  How can The Caton Team help you?

A mother and daughter-in-law team with over 35 years of combined, local Real Estate experience and knowledge – would’t you like The Caton Team to represent you? Let us know how we can be of service. Contact us any time.

Call | Text | Sabrina 650.799.4333 | Susan 650.796.0654

Email |   Info@TheCatonTeam.com

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

The Caton Team Testimonials | The Caton Team Blog – The Real Estate Beat | TheCatonTeam.com | Facebook | Instagram | HomeSnap | Pintrest | LinkedIN Sabrina | LinkedIN Susan

Want Real Estate Info on the Go?  Download our FREE Real Estate App:  Mobile Real Estate by The Caton Team

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts.  Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third party information not verified.

The Best Remote Working Essentials for Your Home Office Space

The Best Remote Working Essentials for Your Home Office Space

Being cooped up in a home office all day may not seem like the best way to inspire productivity. But, with the right atmosphere and essential office supplies, you can stay on task and make the best of your work-from-home situation.

Accepting that your home office is the real deal is the first step—that includes having a morning routine that resembles the one you were accustomed to when you were commuting to an office.

“Even though you are in a remote environment, it’s super important to get up and dress the part,” says Nellie Akalp, CEO and founder of CorpNet, in Westlake Village, CA. “Shower, eat breakfast, brush your teeth, and get ready just as you would for your office. Doing all of that instead of staying in pajamas can really affect mood and productivity.”

Next, it’s time to spruce up your professional base of operations to get you going for a productive day of work.

Work-from-home basics

All pre-pandemic remote workers already know a home office isn’t an office until you bust out all of the essential office supplies, all of which can be ordered online.

“For my team who has all gone remote to get through this trying time, we’ve stocked them with some good old-fashioned supplies: pens, pencils, notepads, and sticky notes. I live for sticky notes!” says Akalp.

A stylish notebook can make taking notes during Zoom meetings or Google Hangouts more enjoyable. We love this one with a cheeky message ($12, Amazon), this elegant version with a leatherlike cover ($17.27, Amazon), and this glam one with a marble pattern on the cover ($15.99, Amazon).

Lighting is also important and can set the right mood for the workday and productivity. Akalp recommends setting up your remote office in a room where there is plenty of light so you don’t feel gloomy. Whip open those blinds and curtains!

“A desk lamp ($28, Target) or some other kind of warm lighting helps make the room feel more comfortable than an overhead light,” says Brie Weiler Reynolds, career development manager and coach at FlexJobs.

Work smarter

If possible, you don’t want to just work from your laptop propped on your bed. You want your tech workspace to be comfortable and functional.

“A full-size keyboard and mouse are an ergonomic choice, and wireless versions ($49.99, Amazon) won’t clutter up your office space with more cords,” says Reynolds.

She also recommends a second monitor ($200, Best Buy) to provide relief to eyes and posture, which can help increase productivity.

“Ask your employer what they might be able to provide you,” says Reynolds.

And with everyone working virtually, conference calls are going to be more of a necessity to help keep workers connected (and sane). Friends, too. For situations where you need long videoconferences, you may want to go beyond the camera on your laptop and get an external camera, which frees up your workspace and provides better video quality at the same time ($70, Best Buy).

Reynolds recommends using headphones with a microphone ($16.55, Amazon) for conference calls, instead of holding your phone or using your computer’s microphone, which doesn’t offer the best audio experience for those on the receiving end. Bluetooth headphones or AirPods with a solid microphone ($159, Apple) will also work.

Since you’re going to be in your home office all day, you might as well make it your new 9-to-5 happy space. This means adding everything from freshly cut flowers to artwork to office plants ($8.99, Amazon).

“Greenery in your office has several benefits,” says Reynolds. “They act as a mood booster, an oxygen cleanser, and have some of the similar benefits as getting outdoors can have, including reduced stress, increased energy, and a feeling of calm.”

Since the home office will be your new normal for a while, Reynolds suggests taking advantage of the situation by decorating your office with anything that energizes, inspires, or gives you a happiness boost.

“Opt for lots of photographs of outdoor spaces, your friends and family, and other scenes that are important to you,” Reynolds says. Hanging photo holders ($25.99, Amazon) make it easy to display these cheerful scenes on the wall.

Take a break!

So now that you have your little home office up and running, don’t expect to spend all of your time with your head down. Working from home requires a lot of discipline, and that includes learning when to take a break. If you’re easily consumed by your work and need a little reminder to breathe every now and then, there’s an app for that.

Reynolds recommends Time Out, Self Control, or Workrave.

“Or just set the time on your phone to go off every hour, reminding you to get up a stretch,” she says.

By Ana Durrani | Mar 27, 2020

I read this article HERE 

Got Real Estate Questions?   The Caton Team is here to help.

We strive to be more than just Realtors – we are also your home resource. If you have any real estate questions, concerns, need a referral or some guidance – we are here for you. Contact us at your convenience – we are but a call, text or click away!

The Caton Team believes, in order to be successful in the San Fransisco | Peninsula | Bay Area | Silicon Valley Real Estate Market we have to think and act differently. We do this by positioning our clients in the strongest light, representing them with the utmost integrity, while strategically maneuvering through negotiations and contracts. Together we make dreams come true.  How can The Caton Team help you?

A mother and daughter-in-law team with over 35 years of combined, local Real Estate experience and knowledge – would’t you like The Caton Team to represent you? Let us know how we can be of service. Contact us any time.

Call | Text | Sabrina 650.799.4333 | Susan 650.796.0654

Email |   Info@TheCatonTeam.com

The Caton Team – Susan & Sabrina
A Family of Realtors
Effective. Efficient. Responsive.
What can we do for you?

The Caton Team Testimonials | The Caton Team Blog – The Real Estate Beat | TheCatonTeam.com | Facebook | Instagram | HomeSnap | Pintrest | LinkedIN Sabrina | LinkedIN Susan

Want Real Estate Info on the Go?  Download our FREE Real Estate App:  Mobile Real Estate by The Caton Team

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices – Drysdale Properties

DRE # |Sabrina 01413526 | Susan 01238225 | Team 70000218 |Office 01499008

The Caton Team does not receive compensation for any posts.  Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Third party information not verified.