The National Association of REALTORS reported that pending home sales slowed in February but still remained at the second highest level that has been seen in almost three years. As inventory decreases it is believed that limited available choices for buyers are causing the leveling out of activity. Let’s look a little closer at the market activity.
The Pending Home Sales Index, which reflects contracts not closings, fell less than half a percent from January but remains 8.4% higher than February of 2012. Lawrence Yun, NAR Chief Economist, said “Only new home construction can genuinely help relieve the inventory shortage and housing starts need to rise at least 50 percent from current levels.” In light of this KB Home, the fifth largest U.S. home builder has announced that they intend to invest more than a billion dollars this year in land acquisition. Jeff Mezger, KB Home Chief Executive explains “With the backdrop of a housing recovery that is now accelerating, we feel it is the right time to step up our investment growth.” Other builders are chiming in with the same sentiment. Increased builder activity will have a positive effect on the economy as jobs are created and money is spent in building materials and by new owners in the market purchasing furniture, appliances and household services.
In the Smoky Mountain area we are seeing a slight decline in inventory and a gradual rise in prices but there are still plenty to choose from. Last week we spoke about the launch of a new search website that features:
*Simplified navigation
*Photos are larger/easier to view
*Mobile site enabled
*Same page viewing of properties
*Better map search feature
*Specific and accurate saved searches
The site is now live and we invite you to log in and take a look around. For those of you whom have an account on our old search site, keep an eye out for an email from us containing your new login information. Haven’t been using our site? Take a look here. We hope you enjoy the upgrade and would love to hear your feedback.
Here Are A Few Of My Featured Listings:
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A View Second To None Over $40,000 in rental income for 2012! Aptly named A View Second To None, this chalet has breathtaking views of Mt. LeConte. Located just minutes to downtown Gatlinburg & Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort. Type: Single Family Home Location: Chalet Village Price: $269,900 Get more information > |
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Cozy Chalet On A Mountain Stream Over $16,000 in rental income for 2012! Sitting right on a mountain stream this cozy chalet is only about a mile from the first traffic light in Gatlinburg, which is a super handy and scenic location Type: Single Family Home Location: Chalet Village Price: $149,900 Get more information > |
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Turn Key Condo Near Ober Gatlinburg These condominiums are one of the best values in the area. High quality masonry construction and only 36 units. This building is in excellent condition with a newer roof, recently painted, resurfaced parking area, nice landscaping & a well managed HOA. Type: Condo Location: Chalet Village Price: $139,900 Get more information > |