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Our Crystal Ball Real Estate Predictions for 2017

By
Industry Observer with Nature As Neighbors

Crystal Balls are lovely to look at, delightful to hold, but pretty worthless when it comes to predicting the future. Instead we choose to consistently monitor market trends, listen carefully to our clients, and pay close attention to who, and what, we attract. This hyper-focused tune-in helped us recognize the growing demand for homes with rejuvenating qualities, nature as neighbors, and elbow room for the soul.™ In addition, we noticed an increasing number of our clients were looking for multigenerational homes. Since we live the lifestyle too, it’s been a natural fit for us. Last year, with the help of our friends and consultants, we developed a strong brand designed to attract these growing demographics. 

 

Our intuition, careful monitoring, and research tells us that 2017 will bring an increasing demand for homes with privacy and views. First-hand experience, and recent trends, indicates not all baby boomers want to downsize. Many, including us, who once wanted to live in small, low-maintenance condos, missed having extra rooms for visiting friends and family, and longed for a yard large enough to accommodate a garden, a place for grandchildren to play, and the chance to soak up nature - at home. Hence we predicted an increasing need for ViewHomes.™ Homes and estates on acreage with pleasing views to soothe and restore. 

 

We are also pleased to be the only REALTORS® in Clark County, WA who specialize in Multigenerational properties. It’s interesting too, as we are now seeing a few other brokerages trying to respond, a bit late we believe, to this growing trend in housing. Our passion for this lifestyle grew from our personal experience. However, we also predicted the trend was picking up in popularity and not just for economic reasons as many believe. Instead, families are often choosing to live together out of love - a desire to share as many moments as possible with one another. They recognize the rich experiences grandparents can impart on their grandchildren, or maybe it’s baby boomers with a strong desire to keep their parents out of nursing homes. We know the Multi-generational housing need will continue to grow in 2017, and beyond. 

 

Further, we are confident enough to predict these two segments of housing will continue to be in strong demand, not only here in Clark County, Washington, but around the country in the coming year. Crystal balls, who needs them? We say pay attention, listen carefully, and do your homework. Be brave in 2017 and lead the trend, instead of following it. 


This is our entry in Praful Thakkar Get Out Your Crystal Balls: What is your prediction for 2017 Contest in Active Rain. Thanks Praful. 

Posted by


Debb Janes  Bernie Stea
Brokers/REALTORS®
Call or Text 360-608-4900

We help buyers and sellers in Camas, Washougal, Brush Prairie/Hockinson, Salmon Creek, Felida, and other Vancouver, Washington Areas. 


We bring our passion for nature and beautiful environments to Real Estate. Multigenerational and family estates, country land and homes, and small farmsteads are our speciality.


We agree with our clients, "The true luxury of rural living is having elbowroom for the soul.

 

Comments(25)

Endre Barath, Jr.
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties - Beverly Hills, CA
Realtor - Los Angeles Home Sales 310.486.1002

Debb & Bernie, the community must have figured out by now that your "predictions" seem to be not only spot on but ahead of the crowd. I recall when it was not hip, cool and trendy to have multi generational homes when you were marketing them. Now it is main stream. I will be looking forward to see these new trends become main stream as well. Endre

Jan 16, 2017 09:45 AM
Debb Janes

Thanks Endre, staying ahead of the curve is critical. 

Jan 16, 2017 11:12 AM
Michael Jacobs
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena And Southern California 818.516.4393

Good morning, Debb and Bernie --- I'm not much into looking at crystal balls for predicting purposes but your thoughtful approach, thorough analysis and "living the life" makes for a better way to "see the light".    

Here's to continued success in 2017 and beyond.  

Jan 16, 2017 10:02 AM
Donna Foerster
HomeSmart Realty Group - Parker, CO
Metro Denver Real Estate Assistant

Crystal balls don't serve much purpose in Real Estate. Following the trends and and actively watching demographics and the news will make the difference.

Multi-generational living is becoming more fashionable...again!

Jan 16, 2017 10:03 AM
Belinda Spillman
Aspen Lane Real Estate Colorful Colorado - Aurora, CO
Colorado Living!

Those are some gorgeous crystal balls.  While they have no real power, they are amazing to look and and imagine the future.

Jan 16, 2017 10:12 AM
Debb Janes

I know Belinda. Fun to look at huh? 

Jan 16, 2017 11:12 AM
Myrl Jeffcoat
Sacramento, CA
Greater Sacramento Realtor - Retired

I think there is a great future in multi-generational real estate.  More and more, we are hearing about it.  I remember back in 2009, I traveled to Lancaster County, PA, to visit the Amish.  They've been living that way for generations!

Jan 16, 2017 12:54 PM
Ed Silva, 203-206-0754
Mapleridge Realty, CT 203-206-0754 - Waterbury, CT
Central CT Real Estate Broker Serving all equally

How astute to recognize the market direction and to be the leader of the pack with others trying to follow as me-to's.  Hope the New Year is healthy and productive

Jan 16, 2017 01:13 PM
Sharon Lee
Sharon Lee's Virtual Assistance - Jonesborough, TN
Retired and loving life

Hi Debb-As Belinda said the crystal balls are beautiful but as you mentioned it takes more than a crystal ball. It takes instinct, research and knowing your area and like Gayle Rich-Boxman Fishhawk Lake Realtor (503)755-2905 you are living the lifestyle for your niche.

Jan 16, 2017 01:44 PM
Gayle Rich-Boxman Fishhawk Lake Real Estate

Ahhh Sharon Lee we three kindred spirits know what nature does for people, don't we?? And all we want to do is share it with those who want it most, too. 

Jan 16, 2017 02:30 PM
Gayle Rich-Boxman Fishhawk Lake Real Estate
John L Scott Market Center - Birkenfeld, OR
"Your Local Expert!" 503-739-3843

Who could ever resist working with you guys when you personify the very essence of Elbow Room for the Soul? And yes, your (our) friends Ron and Alexandra Seigel really brought it "home" with the strategies the four of you put into place to hone in on this most perfectly suited niche market for you. Every post that you write comes with both knowledge and love for what you do and where you work...if even "work" is the right word! It's a passion for creating the right relationship between nature, home and family that you continue to bring to your clients who I believe, fall in love with you both as you embrace the very lifestyle they are seeking. 

 

Jan 16, 2017 02:29 PM
Gayle Rich-Boxman Fishhawk Lake Real Estate

I love you, TOO, pal! And I got tears in my eyes from your thoughtful card. Handwritten--always exciting to get in the mail! 

Jan 20, 2017 12:44 PM
Debb Janes

Simply one of the most gracious comments we've ever received. Love ya, pal. D 

Jan 16, 2017 03:33 PM
Dorie Dillard Austin TX
Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899 - Austin, TX
NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones

Good evening Debb Janes EcoBroker and Bernie Stea JD ,

You are the leaders of the pack with your multi-generational niche! You are living and working in the lifestyle that suits you! Good for you for understanding what works for you would work for many other families. I loved Gayle Rich-Boxman Fishhawk Lake Realtor (503)755-2905  comments...so true!

Jan 16, 2017 03:21 PM
Debb Janes

Oh, thanks so much Dorie. I greatly appreciate both of you and your kind comments. 

Jan 16, 2017 03:34 PM
John Pusa
Glendale, CA

Debb Janes EcoBroker and Bernie Stea JD Thanks for the very good real estate prediction report for 2017.

Jan 16, 2017 04:11 PM
Ginny Gorman
RI Real Estate Services ~ 401-529-7849~ RI Waterfront Real Estate - North Kingstown, RI
Homes for Sale in Southern RI and beyond

Debb Janes EcoBroker and Bernie Stea JD you have identified a great niche that is working well in your area and you have promoted it with empathy and knowledge.  Wish I could say the same for my area...builders do not want to hear it and a very small part of the New England population wants it...it is how different real estate is in parts of the country.

Jan 17, 2017 04:30 AM
Debb Janes

Yes, we do have more inventory here, but still need more. Since we also sell ViewHomes - homes on acreage with views, we have a couple of niche segments of the market that are in big demand. 

Jan 17, 2017 08:17 AM
Debbie Reynolds, C21 Platinum Properties
Platinum Properties- (931)771-9070 - Clarksville, TN
The Dedicated Clarksville TN Realtor-(931)320-6730

You have something better than a crystal ball, you have an innate knowledge and finger on the pulse of what is happening in your market. I know you will have an outstanding year.

Jan 17, 2017 10:32 AM
Joanna Cohlan
Fresh Eyes For Your Home - Chappaqua, NY
Designing, Decorating & Staging Westchester Homes

I totally agree with Debbie Reynolds - you don't need a crystal ball when you have knowledge, experience and an incredible pulse on the market - you guys rock the CAMAS real estate scene and are clearly niche marketeers!

Jan 17, 2017 04:25 PM
Debb Janes

Awww. :) 

Jan 18, 2017 07:14 AM
Patricia Feager, MBA, CRS, GRI,MRP
DFW FINE PROPERTIES - Flower Mound, TX
Selling Homes Changing Lives

Debb Janes EcoBroker and Bernie Stea JD - You make a good case why multigenerational housing should be considered because of its many benefits. This niche is perfect for you because having experienced it yourself, you understand the mindset and the needs of the people. 

I like your photos of the crystal balls. For photography, they make beautiful subjects; for predicting the future, unfortunately, pretty worthless but fun to look at in pictures!

Jan 18, 2017 12:24 AM
Debb Janes

Crystals are beautiful, agree with you. 

Jan 18, 2017 07:14 AM
Kristin Johnston - REALTOR®
RE/MAX Platinum - Waukesha, WI
Giving Back With Each Home Sold!

I think your predictions are spot on and would trust you!

Jan 18, 2017 07:46 AM
Debb Janes

Trust is a good compliment. Thanks Kristin. D 

Jan 18, 2017 07:51 AM
Praful Thakkar
LAER Realty Partners - Burlington, MA
Metro Boston Homes For Sale

Thanks Debb Janes EcoBroker and Bernie Stea JD for participating in this contest.

Jan 18, 2017 07:38 PM
Praful Thakkar
LAER Realty Partners - Burlington, MA
Metro Boston Homes For Sale

Multi-generational homes and homes with privacy and views will be in demand!

Wow, Debb Janes EcoBroker and Bernie Stea JD. I am sure your prediction, based on your own research will be on the spot!

Leaders set the trends and being pioneer in these special segment, you will be the winner, My gut feeling is - your predictions will be 100% true.

Good Luck.

Jan 18, 2017 07:42 PM
Praful Thakkar
LAER Realty Partners - Burlington, MA
Metro Boston Homes For Sale

(Quick question about your pictures - really amazing. Did you take them?)

Jan 18, 2017 07:46 PM
Debb Janes

Wish I could claim them, but no. :( 


 

Jan 26, 2017 06:47 AM
Carol Williams
Although I'm retired, I love sharing my knowledge and learning from other real estate industry professionals. - Wenatchee, WA
Retired Agent / Broker / Prop. Mgr, Wenatchee, WA

I am wrestling with housing option decisions.  Would love a condo, but also love the spaciousness (and guest quarters) in my current home.   Several of my fellow widow friends and I have talked about a "Golden Girls" house.  Maybe not so unreasonable.

Jan 25, 2017 05:03 PM
Debb Janes

Wouldn't that be fun Carol Williams ? :)


 

Jan 26, 2017 06:48 AM
Gita Bantwal
RE/MAX Centre Realtors - Warwick, PA
REALTOR,ABR,CRS,SRES,GRI - Bucks County & Philadel

You always provide good information about your housing market. Anyone thinking of buying or selling a home in your area should call you.

Jan 26, 2017 04:51 AM
Debb Janes

Thanks so much Gita.


 

Jan 26, 2017 06:48 AM