NAR’s existing home sales numbers for August are complete, and they may influence your search for Smoky Mountain real estate.  The National Association of Realtors represents over a million members across the United States and it compiles data relevant to all aspects of the nation’s real estate market.  Data for existing-home sales has been used to track home purchases in America.  Since 1999, existing-home sales have included; single family homes, as well as; condos, townhouses, and co-ops.  These other home components were added to single family homes, because of their significant numbers as residences in large metropolitan areas.  The existing home sales data reflects completed monthly transaction totals for residences.  These are seasonally adjusted.  The monthly figures have more relevant trend significance, when they are compared over larger spans of time and from several different perspectives.  The current period is a good example.  To some readers, the decline of the last few months might appear grim.  However, when viewed longer term, and with the perspective that artificial government housing stimulus has just ended, that conclusion could be inaccurate. 

To gain some perspective, let us back track slightly.  April 2010 was the last month for federal stimulus.  Contracts had to be signed by the end of April, but there was some flexibility on official closing dates to qualify for the tax incentives.  The government intervention obviously beefed up April 2010 sales, by driving buyers into the market to get their cash.  The April 2010 number of 5.8 million looks robust, compared to an anemic 3.8 million in July 2010.  The improvement to 4.1 for last month (August 2010) is encouraging.  Some readers might feel that August 2010’s numbers, while improving, is still below the 5 million range we saw in much of last year. 

However, let us examine some of the potentially beneficial aspects in today’s property markets.  Despite much uncertainty in all investments, real estate offers a tangible place to park some portion of one’s savings.  Properties can be a fun  destination for generating rental income, as a vacation getaway or future retirement home.  NAR’s Chief Economist, Lawrence Yun points out that the residential property market is slowly recovering on it’s own, after substantial government support.  The August increase could be an indicator of this recovery.  The national median existing home price in August 2010 was $178,600 for all types.  This is up 0.8% from last year.  Any increase is impressive, given that deeply discounted properties, like foreclosures, currently make up about 1/3 of all real estate sales.  NAR President Vicki Cox Golder, feels many people are caught in the cross-fire of; Wall Street, the economy’s uncertainty, and housing’s positive aspects.  Prices seem to be stabilizing, interest rates for qualified buyers are low, and there is ample inventory of property for any category of real estate.

                                          

                              

Market timing is never an exact science.  Prices can go up or down. Each family or person must decide for themselves when to buy or sell.  When you are ready to move forward on TN Smoky Mountain real estate, visit us first.  We are leaders in fine Tennessee Smokies’ property.  Let us put years of area knowledge and expertise to work for you.  Contact us by phone at 877-678-2121 or go online to get started today!

Here are a Few of My Latest and Current Listings:

Fully Furnished and Ready for Rental Great deal on a three level home that is fully furnished. Large bonus room that could be a theatre/bonus room. Type: Single Family Home Location: Chalet Village Price: $179,900 Get more information >

Level Parking/Great Views of Mt LeConte! Totally updated chalet with huge wrap around deck to enjoy the spectacular views of Mt LeConte. Private master with sitting area and custom tile shower and 2 shower heads and updated gourmet kitchen. Sold fully furnished and short walk to community pool. Type: Single Family Home Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee Price: $249,900 Get more information >

Contemporary Mtn Home w/Mt LeConte View This contemporary mountain home as been updated. It offers amazing Mt LeConte views with master on main level and two bedroom suites and living room downstairs for privacy. Already on a rental program and producing great income. Type: Single Family Home Location: Gatlinburg ,Tennessee Price: $399,900 Get more information >