Welcome to today’s real estate news update! In Washington County, home list prices experienced a slight dip in March, but year-over-year data shows a significant increase, indicating a lively market. Meanwhile, in a heartwarming tale of compassion, an Episcopal nun played a pivotal role in rescuing a stray kitten from Oklahoma and finding it a loving home in Ohio. Kansas City homeowners are holding onto their properties tightly due to low mortgage rates and rising costs, creating unique challenges in the housing market. Bankrate offers predictions for the next five years, providing valuable insights for buyers and sellers. Additionally, a new luxury home community is planned for north Fort Worth, promising elegant living options in a picturesque setting. Lastly, the Chickahominy Falls development is set to reach its grand completion with a 60-acre expansion, offering a vibrant lifestyle for retirees. Explore the links to learn more about these exciting real estate stories!
List prices for Washington County homes were lower in March
In Washington County, the real estate market saw a slight dip in median home list prices to $225,000 in March, marking a 2.8% decrease from February’s $231,500. Despite this monthly fluctuation, the year-over-year data tells a brighter story with a significant 13.8% increase from the previous year’s median of $197,750. Homes in the county are not only gaining value but also selling faster, with properties listed for a median of 45 days, quicker than the national median. This brisk pace is accompanied by an increase in new listings, up 5.9% from last year, indicating a lively market. The local housing scene, characterized by a median size of 1,826 square feet and priced at $113 per square foot, reflects a robust 15.7% rise in price per square foot compared to March 2023. This analysis, focused solely on homes listed for sale and not those sold, provides a snapshot of Washington County’s dynamic real estate environment.
Discover more about Washington County’s housing market trends
Episcopal nun helps stray kitten in Oklahoma find a home in Ohio – Episcopal News Service
In a heartwarming tale of compassion and community, Sister Diana Doncaster of the Community of the Transfiguration in Cincinnati, Ohio, played a pivotal role in rescuing a stray kitten from Oklahoma and finding it a loving home with Melissa Toedtman, the convent’s pianist. The story unfolds through the efforts of the “Clergy with Cats” Facebook group, an interfaith assembly of ordained individuals who share a love for cats. Alerted to the kitten’s plight by Jeannie McMahan of Okemah, Oklahoma, the group mobilized resources, raising funds for the kitten’s medical care and transportation. Dubbed Baby Motka, after Sister Diana’s own Siberian Forest Cat, the kitten embarked on a “kitten train” journey across five states, eventually arriving in Cincinnati. This narrative isn’t just about a kitten finding a home but showcases the power of community, generosity, and divine grace in bringing joy and healing. Sister Diana’s story illustrates how small acts of kindness can have profound impacts, embodying the spirit of love and care that transcends boundaries.
Read more about this incredible journey and the community that made it happen.
Kansas City Homeowners Don’t Want to Sell. Here’s Why
In today’s competitive Kansas City real estate market, homeowners are holding onto their properties tighter than ever. With historically low mortgage rates locked in, the prospect of selling and facing higher interest rates is daunting for many. The scarcity of homes on the market has led to a 13% drop in home sales within the city limits compared to last year, despite a surge in new home construction. However, rising labor and material costs are making these new homes less accessible, especially for first-time buyers. This situation is exacerbated by large corporate investors buying up properties to turn into rentals, further intensifying competition and driving up prices. Amid economic uncertainties and the “lock-in effect” of low mortgage rates, Kansas City’s housing market faces unique challenges that both buyers and sellers must navigate.
Discover more about Kansas City’s housing market dynamics. Click here to read the full story.
Housing Market Predictions For The Next 5 Years | Bankrate
As we navigate through the complexities of the housing market, Bankrate’s team of experts offers a glimpse into the future, predicting the trends and shifts we might see over the next five years. With mortgage rates experiencing significant changes and the real estate landscape adjusting in response, understanding these predictions could be crucial for anyone looking to buy or sell a home. From the potential stabilization of mortgage rates to the expected appreciation of home prices and the evolving dynamics between buyers and sellers, Bankrate’s insights aim to demystify the housing market’s future. Whether you’re planning to buy your first home, considering selling, or simply keeping an eye on the market, these forecasts provide valuable guidance for making informed decisions. Dive into the detailed analysis and prepare yourself for what lies ahead in the real estate world.
Explore Bankrate’s Full Housing Market Forecast
New 1,100-plus luxury home community planned for north Fort Worth
A significant new development is on the horizon for northwestern Fort Worth, promising to enhance the area’s residential landscape. Centurion American Development Group has unveiled plans for The Estates at Eagle Mountain, an expansive 836-acre project set to feature approximately 1,110 luxury homes. With home sites ranging from half-acre to one-acre plots, this community is poised to offer spacious and elegant living options along the picturesque eastern shore of Eagle Mountain Lake. The development’s strategic location is further complemented by its proximity to key roads, enhancing accessibility and convenience for future residents. In addition to residential spaces, the project includes 36 acres of commercial land, promising a well-rounded lifestyle with nearby amenities. While the price range for these luxury homes is yet to be determined, the vision for The Estates at Eagle Mountain speaks to a commitment to quality and excellence in one of North Texas’s most beautiful settings.
Discover more about this luxurious development in Fort Worth
60-acre expansion to finish out farm-centric Chickahominy Falls development – Richmond BizSense
Nearly a decade in the making, the visionary Chickahominy Falls development, dedicated to those aged 55 and up, is set to reach its grand completion with a 60-acre expansion. Spearheaded by Roger Glover of Cornerstone Homes and Crescent Group, this final phase will elevate the community to nearly 250 acres, accommodating an additional 169 units for a total of 637 homes. This agri-community, blending suburban comfort with the charm of organic farming, has captivated residents with its unique approach to active adult living. The expansion not only promises more single-floor homes but also introduces new amenities like pickleball courts and a recreation hall, enhancing the vibrant lifestyle already cherished by its inhabitants. With over 390 homes sold to date at an average price of $528,000, Chickahominy Falls stands as a testament to Glover’s commitment to creating fulfilling environments for retirees. As construction gears up for a mid-2025 start, this development continues to set the standard for innovative community living.
Discover more about Chickahominy Falls and its final expansion