We all know that 2020 has been one of the most challenging years in history due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We hope that you and your family had a safe holiday and continue to do our part and Shelter-in-place.
First Half of 2020
The first quarter of 2020 kicked off with a strong Sellers’ market across all real estate product categories. The market was shaping up to be a competitive market for Buyers resulting in steady price increases for Sellers. Then Shelter-in-place hit mid-March and real estate came to a grinding halt for a little over a month. Realtors were not considered essential at first and there was much confusion on how real estate would be sold. By May, Realtors were made essential and we had a procedure on how to show homes safely paired with an understanding from the industry as how to show and close transactions in a safe manner.
Latter Half of 2020
Consumer preferences shifted quickly. First, there was an exodus from the Bay Area especially from downtown city centers such as San Francisco and San Jose. The justification of high prices living in a downtown, when residents are not able to enjoy what a city center offers, made it a simple decision for many to move. Available rental units increased quickly, and rental rates dropped and are still at bargain prices.
The second trend was a migration to the suburbs in the Peninsula, Southbay and even more flocked to the East Bay. With remote work being the norm for the near future, Buyers have flocked further from center for more affordable areas in exchange for larger homes, good schools at a lower cost.
Thirdly, Buyers have steered away from Condominium and Townhomes, while Single-Family Homes are in very short supply. Multiple offers abound for Single-Family Homes and be ready to compete with heavy competition in most areas. For Buyers, the deals will likely continue for Condominiums and Townhomes especially in San Francisco. If you are a Seller of a Single-Family Home, the market is on your side. If you are looking to sell a Condominium or Townhome, the property will sell but patience is warranted.
Lastly, Buyers are looking for move-in ready homes, larger size homes with more space, more rooms for a home office and a yard for the children to enjoy.
2021 Projections and Beyond
2021 looks to be the same narrative as the latter half of 2020 and not likely to change. Single-Family Homes will continue to be in short supply and multiple offers will continue in most areas. Townhomes and Condominiums will likely continue to struggle unless we get back to some semblance of normalcy in 2021. All eyes will be on the effectiveness of the vaccine and overall rollout. All signs point to slow progress and we expect the majority of 2021 to be similar to latter half of 2020. We wish you and your family a better 2021 and please let us all stay vigilant and stay safe.
