Tuesday, February 18, 2014

Timing the Market - Some Say It's Too Late!

Is Now a Good Time to Buy in Cary?

I hear this question often. The easy answer is Yes! But the best answer is, it depends. It depends on the buyers situation; how long they plan to live in the home, their price point, their ability to make improvements and other factors.

But as a general rule, looking only at historical data and considering the current state of the economy, Gary Keller (Keller Williams Founder and CEO) said it best this week #kwfr, "Buyers are going to look at rising interest rates and prices and think that there will be a better time to buy. The truth is, if they could time the market, they would have already bought.”

Why does he feel so strongly about this? Here is a pictograph that explains his reasoning. Even at 4% interest with current home prices, it already costs more to own a home now than it did in 1989. As rates and prices go up, it will become less affordable.



This is not to say that buyers have missed their opportunity already. There are still deals to be had. But, this is where "it depends" really comes into play. Buyer's need to evaluate all their options and work with a professional Realtor who will look out for their best interest, not just be out for a sale.

Finding the right home, at the right price and in the right condition is critical. Negotiating price, terms and conditions is key. Understanding your long term commitment and costs in home ownership is vital.

At the Don Johnson Real Estate Team, we work very closely with our home buyer clients to ensure that they are making the right move. We welcome the opportunity to meet with you to discuss your situation and how to approach the current local real estate market.

Tuesday, February 11, 2014

306 Crickentree Dr - New Lochmere Listing Coming Soon

306 Crickentree Dr - New Lochmere Listing Coming Soon



WOW! Owners have decided to lower the price prior to making this gorgeous home an active listing. The new price is $369,900! This won't last long!

This beautiful 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath features 2,784 square feet of living space and is located in the Highlands West area of Lochmere, one of Cary's premier neighborhoods.

Lochmere has always been one of Cary's most desirable neighborhoods. Residents who live here certainly understand why. With its convenient location to US1, downtown Raleigh and RTP along with a nearby Hospital and Medical Centers, Lochmere has been a favorite for those seeking a nice lifestyle in a well, manicured neighborhood with excellent amenities.

CONTACT US if you would like more information about this home.

Thursday, January 23, 2014

New Listing Coming Soon - 107 Echowood Dr in Lochmere

107 Echowood Dr - Cary, NC 27518

New Listing Coming Soon in Lochmere


Quiet end of cul-de-sac home backing to walking trails in Cary's desirable Lochmere neighborhood. Minutes to shopping, walking trails, and lakes.

Huge bedrooms and remodeled master bath. Upstairs bedroom could be second master suite. The kitchen features stainless steel appliances. Save on energy costs with a tankless hot water heater, and dual fuel HVAC systems. 

Enjoy mature landscaping, level yard and partially fenced backyard from the privacy of (2) huge rear decks.  

Don't miss this great home! Contact Don Johnson Real Estate team for more information.

Thursday, December 12, 2013

Lochmere Home Sales Update - October 2013

Lochmere Home Sales Update - October 2013

Lochmere Property Values on the Rise

There has been a steady sale of home in Lochmere in 2013. The chart below details the home sold in Lochmere to date. The $300,000 price range saw the most sales for two reasons. One, the majority of home in Lochmere fall in the category and two because this is a very hot price point for buyers across the board. The $400,000 price point saw quite a bit of turnover this year. This is a more challenging price point in our market, but it just goes to show Lochmere is a desirable neighborhood.


The overall Triangle real estate market saw a major improvement in 2013. In Wake County, compared to October of last year, New Listings were up, Closed Sales up, Average Sales Price up, and Year to Date # of Homes Sold were also up. Average Days on Market dropped substantially this year signaling a strengthening housing market. Lochmere was on track with this trend. Some of the higher priced listings in Lochmere moved in October however, price adjustments still need to be made by some sellers to meet the market.


If you would like more detailed information about how this and other market data affects you as a homeowner in Lochmere or as a buyer seeking your dream home in Lochmere, CONTACT US today for a consultation.

“Only the Sun covers Lochmere better than the Don Johnson Real Estate Team”


Tuesday, October 29, 2013

Another Lochmere Home Sold - 5 Star Client Testimonial

105 Echowood Dr in Lochmere - Cary, NC

This wonderful Lochmere home was recently listed and sold by the Don Johnson Real Estate Team. In helping our clients prepare the home for sale and guide them through the selling process, we made lifelong friends. This is what the real estate business really means to us. It's more than just selling homes, it's about building clients for life.

Our clients summed it up perfectly in their recent 5 Star review of our team's service. Read below.


"Don and his team were very professional and gave us the personal touch that made our experience a memorable one. We would recommend Don to our family & friends with pride. I have already talked to couple of my friends in the neighborhood.

Don & Susan both spend lot of time making suggestions on what are the current trends in painting the exterior of our house. They both acted as if this was their house, Don was our guardian angel who took upon him anything that needed done in the house and did it.

We trusted him and had full confidence in his decisions he made for our house. We sold the house in a timely manner and were very pleased with the full service he offered till closing. We have made lifelong friendship with Don and Susan and look forward to enjoying them now as very good friends."



If we can help you or anyone you know with your real estate needs, give us a call. We look forward to the opportunity to serve you and make your real estate experience a positive one.

Friday, October 4, 2013

Lochmere Property Values - Curious About Yours?

Lochmere Property Values - Curious About Yours?

Lochmere has always been one of Cary's most desirable neighborhoods. Residents who live here certainly understand why. With its convenient location to US1, downtown Raleigh and RTP along with a nearby Hospital and Medical Centers, Lochmere has been a favorite for those seeking a nice lifestyle in a well, manicured neighborhood with excellent amenities.

Most people who live in Lochmere are sad to leave. Job transfers, retirement and family relocation needs are the top reasons for leaving. If you are considering a move and would like to know the value of your Lochmere home, take a look at this useful tool. Our Market Snapshot tool utilizes real time MLS data, unlike Zillow and other sites that can be inaccurate due to their aggregating of various data. 

Using the Market Snapshot tool you can view historical data of home sales in Lochmere. You can also view days on the market and other stats to help you get a good feel of your home in comparison.



If you would like a more detailed analysis, please give the Don Johnson Real Estate Team a call. Don has sold many homes in Lochmere and lives in Lochmere too. There is no better resource for Lochmere Home Values.

Friday, September 6, 2013

Lochmere Golf Club - 4th Annual Tournament of Hope

Lochmere Golf Club - 4th Annual Tournament of Hope

Passage Home's 4th Annual Tournament of Hope is going be better than ever with a full day of activities for you and your family. Golf, contests, BBQ dinner, cocktails, silent auction and live music!
100% of the funds raised through the tournament will go directly to providing housing for sixty homeless families, children and veterans over the next year. We hope to see you there!

September 20, 2013 at Lochmere Golf Club