Will There Be MORE Homes to Buy This Year?

Photo: Highland Homes

If you’re looking for a home to purchase right now and having trouble finding one, you’re not alone. At a time like this when there are so few houses for sale, it’s normal to wonder if you’ll actually find one to buy. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), across the country, inventory of available homes for sale is at an all-time low – the lowest point recorded since NAR began tracking this metric in 1982. There are, however, more homes expected to hit the market later this year. Let’s break down the three key places they’ll likely come from as 2021 continues on.

1. Homeowners Who Didn’t Sell Last Year

In 2020, many sellers decided to pause their moving plans for a number of different reasons. From health concerns about the pandemic to financial uncertainty, plenty of homeowners decided not to move last year.

Now that vaccines are being distributed and there’s a light at the end of the COVID-19 tunnel, it should bring some peace of mind to many potential sellers. As Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at realtor.comnotes:

“Fortunately for would-be homebuyers, we expect sellers to return to the market as we see improvement in the economy and progress against the coronavirus.”

Many of the homeowners who decided not to sell in 2020 will enter the market later this year as they begin to feel more comfortable showing their house in person, understanding their financial situation, and simply having more security in life.

2. More New Homes Will Be Built

Last year was a strong year for home builders, and according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), 2021 is expected to be even better:

“For 2021, NAHB expects ongoing growth for single-family construction. It will be the first year for which total single-family construction will exceed 1 million starts since the Great Recession.”

With more houses being built in many markets around the country, homeowners looking for new houses that meet their changing needs will be able to move into their dream homes. When they sell their current houses, this will create opportunities for those looking to find a home that’s already built to do so. It sets a simple chain reaction in motion for hopeful buyers.

3. Those Impacted Financially by the Economic Crisis

Many experts don’t anticipate a large wave of foreclosures coming to the market, given the forbearance options afforded to current homeowners throughout the pandemic. Some homeowners who have been impacted economically will, however, need to move this year. There are also homeowners who didn’t take advantage of the forbearance option or were already in a foreclosure situation before the pandemic began. In those cases, homeowners may decide to sell their houses instead of going into the foreclosure process, especially given the equity in homes today. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at NAR, explains:

“Given the huge price gains recently, I don’t think many homes will have to go to foreclosure…I think homes will just be sold, and there will be cash left over for the seller, even in a distressed situation. So that’s a bit of a silver lining in that we don’t expect a massive sale of distressed properties.”

As we can see, it looks like we’re going to have an increase in the number of homes for sale in 2021. With fears of the pandemic starting to ease, new homes being built, and more listings coming to the market prior to foreclosure, there’s hope if you’re planning to buy this year. And if you’re thinking of selling and making a move, doing so while demand for your house is high might create an outstanding move-up option for you.

Bottom Line

Housing demand is high and supply is low, so if you’re thinking of moving, it’s a great time to do so. There are likely many buyers who are looking for a home just like yours, and there are options coming for you to find a new house too. Contact New Avenue Realty Group today to see how you can benefit from the opportunities available in the Dallas-Fort Worth market.

SOURCE: KEEPING CURRENT MATTERS

Get Into This! Target Black Beyond Measure Collection

I am a Target shopaholic any day of the week. A few years ago, my sister gifted me a “Target is My Happy Place” shirt for my birthday. It literally is. If I am feeling stressed or depressed, I just need Target to make it better. ??‍♀️

My favorite store in the world has a new Black History Month collection called Black Beyond Measure.

Just like last year, this year’s collection is one to grab before they are all out. Here are some goodies that I collected in-store and online.

This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.

Let’s start with The Lip Bar.

Before I go any further, check out this lip color by The Lip Bar (Ms Independent)

Now, I purchased this a few months ago and felt it was fitting for this blog post. I need to go back and add some of the Mented Cosmetics to my lip collection.

The Items

Partake is a snack company started by a black mom who developed snacks for her daughter who had a severe food allergy. I ordered the cookie butter cookies because how can you say no to cookie butter ANYTHING?

Vegan, Gluten Free, AND Black Owned https://goto.target.com/VoGbj

Shea Moisture Wig & Weave Line

If you haven’t heard, I am opening a beauty supply store and I like to try products to see what I would like to carry in my store. This isn’t available by my supplier so I purchased it for myself at Target. I like to switch up my hair style every once in awhile or every 3 days.??‍♀️ One day it could be crochet braids, the next a curly wig, and the next kinky straight hair. A girl needs OPTIONS!!!

I grabbed all that I could in the store to lay down my wigs and smooth it all out.

DesignWorks Ink Black History Every 2021 Planner

It is a new year and a new year needs plans. Some of the planners/calendars have pictures that can be turned into 8×8 pictures after the planner is used. Add some #blackgirlmagic to your office, home, and more.

Black History Month Enamel Pins

I’m a hoarder on pins. I rarely wear them but for some reason I love to have them. I’m going to change that in 2021.

Honey Pot Feminine Products

If you missed the whole hoopla last year, you may not have learned about the popular Honey Pot. Now prior to this ordeal in 2020, I became a fan of Honey Pot. I suffer each month from painful periods and just to use their products give me a relief. I had to add more to my collection. The Honey Pot collection has options from feminine pads, tampons, pantyliners, panty spray, etc. I keep wipes in my bathrooms so now visitors will get to see the magic of HoneyPot.

Capital City Mambo Sauce

I’ve been to DC a few times and mambo/mumbo sauce is a staple in the area. I decided to add this to my shopping cart to add some flavor to my food since I plan to cook more at home in 2021. I’ll report back in April to tell you if I kept my word on cooking at home.

Capital City Mild Mambo Sauce - 12oz - image 1 of 3
Capital City Mambo Sauce

The Fashions

Now let’s get to the clothes! This is where I tend to do too much at Target. The clothes are always super cute and land in my basket or cart.

I give curls for the girls and this let’s that be known.

Black History Month “Curls Kinks” Tee
Black History Month Women’s Silhouette Sweatshirt
Black History Month Women's 'Black Is Beautiful' Hooded Sweatshirt - Beige - image 1 of 6
Seriously, how cute is this? Black is Beautiful Hoodie

I am still awaiting this hoodie and my two year old niece even has one too. I cannot wait to get this one in the mail. Seriously, I am excited. Just purchased one for my nephew and sister. Yes, it will be a family affair or celebration.

Wine Down.

Okay so I saved the best for last. The McBride Sisters. I have been wanting to try this black owned wine brand and didn’t know Target sold them. Now, I couldn’t order this online or even get it curbside. I hopped right into the car to go purchase these. I purchased the McBride Sisters Collection Sparkling Brut Rose, Black Girl Magic Rose, and the Black Girl Magic Red Blends (I gifted this to a neighbor). Target has it where you purchase 4 wines and get 10% off. I grabbed some Stella Rosa to finish my collection. However, there are other wines you can find at other retailers and on their website.

So, what did you think? What are your thoughts on Target’s Black History Month collection? These are the goodies that I personally purchased but if you need more, head here to collect because it will sell out. ✌??

NOW OPEN: Legacy Hall in Plano

Yesterday was the grand opening for this long awaited cafeteria hall projectory in Plano. As if Legacy West wasn’t already amazing, it opened up a food galore called Legacy Hall. It features just about all you can think of when it comes to food. No longer will you and your friends bicker about what to eat anymore. Everyone can find something they enjoy ans meet back at the table to enjoy each other’s company.

I took a brief tour today since I was nearby checking out the Villas at Legacy West by Britton Homes. All I can say is the brunch lines will be LONG on the weekends. I fell in love with this place as soon as I entered it. However I hate crowds and know the weekend will be the time I would not want to be near. ?

It has great seating with eclectic decor around. Take a view with my photos. You can learn more about the restaurants located inside the food hall here: Legacy Hall Restaurants. How are you living in your neighborhood?

Arts, Beats, and Lyrics Recap

In my spare time I love to enjoy friends and eat. I don’t get much spare time because I am constantly working but this particular Friday night, I was ready for it.

I had a friend who was supposed to accompany me but I ended up being solo. The first thought of that made me feel like I should stay home but this event was right up my alley and I could not NOT attend. I was ready for a solo night in Dallas.

This was the Jack Daniels’ “Arts, Beats, and Lyrics” event. This is basically all of my favorite things mixed into one. When I got there, I ran into my friend, Blythe which made the solo dolo event worth it. I wasn’t alone after all.

I didn’t do much networking this night as I had planned to have a chill day and really immerse myself with my culture and take a much appreciated “night off”

Unlock Your Opportunity | #NewAveRealty 2016

Can you believe that we are near the end of 2016? This year is really over in a less than 48 hours. I am one who is excited about 2017. 2016 was a great year, ready to rock 2017! Thanks to all who were apart of 2016!

 

 

Visit our Website: Unlock Your Opportunity in 2017

[Sunday Funday] Dallas Mavericks and Mexican Food

If you’ve been following my blog, you know that I love to share my places in Dallas a lot. I like to eat despite my palate being small and I like to adventure to places.

One of my favorite places to go is the American Airlines Center. This includes Mavericks games, concerts, comedy shows, etc. I like the whole feel of the arena and this Sunday, I was able to participate in a Dallas Mavericks game.

Sidebar: I love that you can get all the professional sports in Dallas. You can watch a major baseball league game with the Texas Rangers, professional hockey with the Dallas Stars, NFL games with “America’s Team” aka the Cowboys, and NBA games with the Mavericks. You simply cannot beat the sports entertainment here in Dallas.

A few months ago, I held a contest privately for previous clients. The winner was able to choose one of a few prizes and we’d celebrate from there. My winners were Chauntel and Bendita who purchased a condo last year in Dallas. They preferred a Mavericks game which was a nice choice since I wanted to get a game in this season. As soon as our schedules matched (more so theirs because their travel game is years ahead of mine), we decided on the Mavericks versus the Kings game. The schedule changed from a night game to a daytime one so Bendita could no longer attend. My friend Blythe happily took her place.

You can grab really great seats for the low at a Mavericks game. I have been really surprised on the price of tickets that I score. Earlier in the year, I scored Mavs and Thunder playoff tickets in the 100 section for less than $150. Last night, the tickets were behind the goal for $45 each. Can we say winning?

After the game, we ventured to Campuzano in Oak Lawn. The reason being this:

I don’t know the name of this drink but we selected this restaurant based on Yelp pictures of it. It was this drink and the shrimp nachos that won us over. Let’s just say that it won’t be our last time going to Campuzano.

Our day started at 3:15 and we spent over 5 hours just enjoying the day DESPITE the 60 degree weather drop in Dallas. I forgot yesterday was Sunday and expected to take a rest day today. 

 

Champagne-A-Rita

Shrimp nachos

I wanted brunch food but at 6pm, is it even called brunch? Nachos will do.

 

What’s your favorite Sunday Funday activity in Dallas?

MEGA CAMP 2016 – Keller Williams

I’m back on the road again but this time it is for the Keller Williams annual convention in Austin, Texas called Mega Camp. I’ve been a KW agent for almost three years. I attended for the first time last year and this is by far my favorite training to attend.

I love to learn things that mega agents across the country are using to utilize their business. This helps me drum up all the ideas, processes, systems, and service that I am able to give my clients.

Every since I made it yesterday, I’ve been writing new things to incorporate into New Avenue Realty and how it would be beneficial to clients. My goal is to make the process of buying and selling a home smooth and retain the relationship that is built durig the process.

You know why? Real estate is a relationship building business. How far I go or what I do will always be dedicated to the people who trust and support it as I grow.

This convention always shows me how much I need to continouly add new components to do just that in my business.

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Drea’s Favorites: Dallas Happenings

Drea's

If you follow my Instagram page, @NewAveRealty, then you will know that I always share my experience of my Dallas “happenings”. I love to get out and explore Dallas in my free time. This is usually on Sundays. I work Monday – Saturday and all I ask for is some time to myself on Sundays. That basically means to catch up with girlfriends and brunch. I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorites places. If you have a place that you’d like to mention, place it in the comments and I will hit it up.

*BONUS: There is a new Instagram page called @YouPeopleReviews, that highlight a lot of places to eat around the metroplex. I’ve gotten some places from them as well.

FOOD:

I’m a Louisiana girl so I love me some Cajun food. I am not big on Creole (there is a difference) but I love me some Cajun food. Here is my list of my top favorite cajun food spots.

  1. Cajun Tailgators (Plano)
  2. Bayou Market (Lewisville)
  3. Good Times Cajun Cuisine (Lewisville)
  4. NOLA Grill (Frisco) – Had this last night and I must say the food was amazing. The collard greens tasted just like my Mama Elsie’s.

If they don’t have anyone from Louisiana as the owner or cook, I don’t believe it to be Louisiana cooking. There is no debate about that.

Soul Food/Chicken Spots

Now for some good down home cooking, you have to head south of the metroplex. My favorite spots to get food just how I like it is in Oak Cliff. Seriously, I will wait in line for these places.

  1. South Dallas Cafe (Oak Cliff – Red Bird Area)
  2. Rudy’s Chicken (Oak Cliff – Bring cash…be prepared to wait, no seriously. If time is not on your side, you may not be eating Rudy’s THAT day. It has happened to me before.)
  3. Floyd’s Catfish (Oak Cliff) – Now I am not sure if this place is still open. If it is, you’re in luck. If not, I am so sorry that you missed out.
  4. Chicago’s Chicken Coop (Carrollton) – So this one isn’t in the southern part of the metroplex. It opened up last year and I went like everyday the first week. I have to admit that it was mainly for the butter cookies.
  5. Pluckers (Various Locations) – This should really have a category of its own but since I included chicken in this category I thought to place it here. There is no other wing spot that can beat Pluckers to me.
  6. Wing Daddy (Little Elm) – this little gem in Little Elm has some fun margaritas and fried pickles are to die for.

Bars/Hip Places

By any means, I am not a party animal. I do like to get out and enjoy myself every now and then

  1. Beauty Bar (Dallas – Knox/Henderson)
  2. Happiest Hour (Dallas – Hardwood/Victory Park) I have found a way to make my way here so often (Brisket Nachos…though)
  3. Decks in the Park (Klyde Warren Park) – This is my favorite summer time event in Dallas. It’s a perfect unwind in the park at night and just vibe along the music.

Brunch

This category is my all-time favorite. This is what I love to do and I will try new places often. So please send me some awesome brunch spots.

  1. Smoke – Plano and Bishop Arts (BBQ for brunch, need I say more)
  2. Black Walnut Cafe (Various Locations)
  3. Julia Pearl (Plano) – I went here for brunch last weekend. I want to go back for dinner soon to give it another chance but it wasn’t bad at all.
  4. Public School 214 – It is all about concept to me (sometimes) and this one steals the show.  It has a grade school concept with menus being on composition books and drink menus on scantrons. It is the cutest thing to me.

Those are just a few of my favorite places to go. They aren’t in any order. Try them out and let me know what you think. If you ever need a recommendation on a place, contact me or just follow my Instagram. I am sure I will post it there.

 

 

Sunday Funday

This weather in the Dallas/Fort Worth has been for the birds. Last week consisted of all four seasons in 7 days (rain, sleet, snow, ice – oh the ice!) Unfortunately I missed the warmest day but I got to experience warmth as I traveled to Louisiana. My taste of shrimp and grits was halted by the weather in Dallas/Fort Worth. I decided to cut my trip short to head back to the metroplex before I was stuck in my college hometown of Baton Rouge or my actual hometown of Ruston.

So when Sunday came, I was already over the weather and just needed the time to myself. I will say that Saturday I trucked my way to Paradise Cove in Southlake to see my sorority sister marry the love of her life. I think I still have a natural high of that. (P.S. I love Louisiana weddings. It is different from normal ones just more of our unique culture added to it (cajun/creole food, second line, other music)).

So Sunday I decided to have a personal “Sunday Funday.” Now Sundays are my days that I have off from work so I tend to do all the things I just didn’t quite make it to throughout the week like laundry, grocery shopping, and BRUNCH. I know that is a weekend thing but I absolutely love brunch on a Sunday.

My first stop was to Coppell  at Black Walnut Cafe. This has become my new all time favorite spot in Coppell. I cannot fully describe the ambiance at Black Walnut Cafe. All that I can say that if you go get the thick peppered bacon. I promise you that you will not regret it. Oh and the traditional pancakes. It is mixed with powdered sugar, butter, and has syrup on the side. My mouth is watering just thinking about it.

Black Walnut Cafe in Coppell (Denton Tap and 121 Toll)

Next I ventured over to Flower Mound. I was headed home but after a week of rain, ice, sleet, and snow, I thought my couch wouldn’t miss me so I made my next stop to Five Below. To you reading this, why didn’t you tell me about Five Below? When I walked in, I literally felt like a kid in a candy store. There snack specials for days (Disclaimer – I am a huge snacker. My favorites are Lifesaver Wild Berries gummies, rice krispy treats, cheddar cheese and sour cream Ruffles, and the list goes on). This store was like a mix of Wal-Mart and Dollar Tree. It took some time to get me out of there.

My last journey was to grocery shop. I decided to go the Market Street in Flower Mound since I was already in the town. Immediately as I walked in the store, I realized that this one was nothing compared to the one in Coppell. I mean it had its similarities but this one was a little different. I tasted wine, I found Louisiana boiled shrimp (yes this made me happy since I missed out on shrimp and grits), and even tried the advertised burgers and fries. Market Street is the ONLY store that I am willing to try their “hot food.” If I miss their breakfast, I am highly upset.

This was a normal grocery store run for me UNTIL I saw this as I checked out:

Libations Bar at Market Street Flower Mound (FM2499 and FM1171)

Now I have never known a grocery store that has a full bar inside but Market Street in Flower Mound does. I was upset that it wasn’t open when I shopped but that was the “oh wow” factor for me. 
How do you spend your Sunday Funday? Is it a relaxing one as mine was this past Sunday? What’s your favorite place to frequent in your neighborhood? 

Rents at an All-Time High in North Texas?

If you have lived in an apartment in the Dallas/Fort Worth region, you know that paying for a peace of security and safety does not come cheap no matter where in the metroplex you decide to live. Last year, 2014, rents reached an all time high in North Texas. According to Jenny Doren and Sandra Baker of WFAA and the Star- Telegram:

“Rents rose 4.9 percent in 2014 and now the average monthly rent for an apartment in Dallas-Fort Worth is $919, said MPF Research in Dallas.

“Annual increases above 4 percent are rare in this market,” said Greg Willett, an MPF Research vice president. “Because we’re such a construction hot spot, the flow of new product moving through initial lease-up normally holds rent growth below the national norm.”

Locally, however, renters were leasing up units almost as fast as they came on the market, Willett said. Renters leased 15,226 units during 2014, when 15,575 units were completed, making North Texas the strongest market nationwide.”

 
I always advise those who are paying more than $1,000 in rent to consider purchasing their own home. The benefits in purchasing outweighs the benefits of owning. There are no apartment rules to follow, no additional fees, and no paper thin walls to hear your neighbors conversation.

I would to talk to you if you are considering purchasing a home in 2015. Let’s get you on a Royal Plan today to see where your new avenue awaits you at. Contact me via phone or email at 972.813.9788 or [email protected].

Find your new avenue here: New Avenue Realty

Doren, Jenny, and Sandra Baker. “N. Texas Apartment Rents Reach an All-time High in 2014.” WFAA. N.p., 6 Jan. 2015. Web. 26 Jan. 2015.