York Real Estate Market Favors Buyers, Offers Great Deals

by Kaitlin Kraft (interview with Jerry Pilgrim)
Although 2007 may have been a bumpy road for many
markets and real estate agents, the Pilgrim Team of the
Professional Realty Associates has had a different
experience. With so many hyped-up stories about the
lending crisis and the supposed downfall of the real
estate market, how does Jerry Pilgrim, broker/owner,
remain positive?
"We expect to have a great year in 2008. The Pilgrim
Team actually had a positive increase in volume this year,
which we're very pleased about. We expect that trend to
continue in the upcoming year, even though volume may
be down with the competition," says Pilgrim.
Pilgrim continues that not only did his team fare better
in 2007 than the competition, but that the York housing
market has also been holding stable. "There hasn't been
a drastic price reduction here as there has been in other
parts of the country, or even other parts of Pennsylvania.
We have experienced only a slight drop, approximately 5
percent, compared to the 30 - 40 percent decrease some
other area markets are feeling," he says.
Pilgrim emphasizes the importance of knowing when
to snatch up a good deal, and right now the market is
ripe with good deals. "In the current market, buyers are
like kids in a candy store-there are a lot of houses to
choose from and the options are endless. Interest rates
are low again, so that gives buyers opportunities that they
haven't experienced in the past few years," he says.
"There are a lot of good buys out there, but don't wait
because that may change in the new year."
Buyers need not be worried about slightly dipping
home values either, according to Pilgrim. "Traditionally,
home values always go up. The market may have peaks
and valleys, but don't be hesitant to buy. Even if the
market drops slightly, history has proven that home
values will always trend up," he explains.
And now, sellers are working harder than ever to attract
serious buyers, says Pilgrim. "A year and a half ago, you
couldn't find today's properties for the current price,
location and amenities that are being offered," he
explains. "Savvy sellers are reducing their prices, offering
to pay closing costs and making sure their houses are in
excellent, move-in-ready condition for buyers."
Pilgrim adds that with all these buyer perks, 2008
should prove to be the best year yet for motivated buyers.
"We pride ourselves in customer service and do
everything we can to help buyers find their perfect home,"
he says. He and everyone on the Pilgrim Team are always
ready to negotiate a lower price for you and have proven
their dedication to their clients year after year.