What's New This Month

As we step into the blank canvas of 2024, West Virginia Bankers Title has our eyes on the horizon, where whispers of hope in the housing market are starting to surface. Embracing this new year with a spirit of optimism, we’re ready to navigate the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. 


As partners in lending, banking, real estate and law, let’s forge ahead, united in our commitment to success and prosperity. Here’s to a year filled with growth, resilience and shared achievements. Welcome to January, where new beginnings take root. 


Rachel Showalter, Interim Agency Manager of West Virginia Bankers Title

Visit our website

Federal Reserve Heads Into 2024 Ready to Cut Interest Rates

As we enter the New Year, the Federal Reserve signals optimism with signs of easing inflation. Jerome Powell, the Chair, expressed confidence in moderating growth, a balanced labor market and inflation progress. Economic projections anticipate three 2024 rate cuts, with traders expecting even more. Easing inflation is a positive signal, potentially making homeownership more accessible in the coming year.

WV Lawmaker Proposes Homestead Exemption Expansion for Senior Citizens

Delegate John Hardy of Berkeley aims to assist older homeowners with fixed incomes in the 2024 legislative session. He’s proposing a crucial change to West Virginia’s Homestead Exemption, aiming to ease seniors’ cost of living. He suggests expanding eligibility and raising income qualifications to 200% of the poverty level. Currently benefiting homeowners aged 65 or older, the exemption provides up to a $20K reduction in assessed property value. 

What Will Buyers and Sellers Prioritize in 2024?

What will buyers and sellers be talking about in 2024? In this insightful commentary by Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC, industry professionals provide expert opinions on the top 10 trends expected to shape the real estate market this year. As people seek their most valuable asset, their homes, this analysis anticipates key considerations and shifts in preferences for those navigating the buying and selling landscape.

Innovation

Dive into the digital revolution reshaping the property and real estate sector. Traditionally slow to embrace modern technologies, the industry now leverages AI, VR, AR and IoT. Explore how these innovations are enhancing the client-tenant experience and empowering informed investment decisions. Discover the key players driving transformation and the untapped opportunities that lie ahead in this rapidly evolving landscape.

Creative Strategies to Drive the Market in 2024
The Evolving Digital Frontier
Fostering the Future of Fintech

Mortgage Trends

2024 is predicted to shift to a buyer’s market, anticipating a 1% drop in home prices due to increased supply. With mortgage rates around 6.6%, homebuyers can expect some relief. The real estate industry is evolving, offering consumers more choices and transparency. Renting is gaining popularity for its flexibility. 

3 Mortgage Rate Scenarios That Could Occur in 2024
The Housing Sector is Coming Out of the Doldrums
Falling Mortgage Rates Have Boosted Homebuying Power

Professional Development

Unleash the power of LinkedIn with tips from Marie Presti, Broker-Owner of The Presti Group. A  comprehensive profile expands networking possibilities, and connecting with professionals beyond the industry is key. Personalized connection requests enhance relationships, and volunteer experience boosts industry connections. Stay active with regular updates, engagement with notifications and profile updates for visibility and robust connections.

Heading Into 2024, What Are Three Ways to Stand Out?
The Best Mortgage Podcasts to Follow in 2024
How to Handle Difficult Conversations at Work

Market Highlights

In 2024, a more positive housing market is anticipated, with declining mortgage rates at 6.61%. The NAR predicts a modest sales increase.  While housing shortages will persist, a slight uptick in single-family home construction is expected. Mortgage rates are projected to hover between 6.1% and 7%, offering potential relief to homebuyers. A rise in single-family housing construction starts is forecasted, marking a recovery after declines in 2022 and 2023.

Boost in New Listings Shakes Up the Market
2024 Commercial Real Estate Outlook
5 Year Housing Market Predictions

Measuring the Effect of Snow on Home Values

Delving into the winter wonderland, a recent report explores the impact of snow on home values, revealing a slight positive correlation. Alaska, the snowiest state, boasts a median home value of $336,900. While affordable housing can be found in both snowy and snow-free states, the silent cost of snow, from home damage to early morning shoveling sessions, is a factor to consider in snow-prone areas.

Facebook
LinkedIn
Twitter