Dear Friends,
I’ve been working on growing my business for about 5 years now, and it feels like I’ve hit a new level. It is humbling to step back and look at 2023 as a whole. In a year full of challenges and pitfalls, 2 union strikes, interest rate spikes, historically low inventory, and uncertainty all around, I was still able to meet my targets and surpass my goal for the year (by a lot). How did I do it? I didn’t drastically change how I run my business, except to lean into the things that work for me, so what was it? It was YOU.
Because of you, my business tripled in 2023.
Every time you called me to help you, or mentioned me to a friend, my business grew. Because of you. And I am deeply humbled that you find value in the service I provide. I am proud to call myself a Realtor, and I really enjoy doing it. I often tell people that I am not in sales, I’m in the service industry. I don’t sell homes, I help people sell their homes. I don’t tell you what to do, I offer choices (and pitfalls), ideas, tactics, strategies, and projected outcomes based on 13 years of doing this crazy job, and let you choose what is best for you. I’m here to help you achieve your goals, make smart decisions, and build wealth. I want you to make the best investment/most money possible with your transaction, and I coach, advise, listen, and negotiate on your behalf. But at the end of the day, it’s your decision. It’s your house, not mine.
I think that is what my clients love about me (maybe not? Let me know!) and I am so grateful and humbled every time my name gets shared with others. That is how I stay in business my friends, so please keep sharing! I have a kid off to college in the fall and it ain’t cheap!
So thank you 2023; for the joy and the pain. We got through it. There will be more in 2024. We’ll get through that too if we can stick together. Onward!
Real Estate Roundup:
Market Report:
The Los Angeles market is warming up, mortgage rates are coming down, and all indicators point to a vibrant spring. If you are getting ready to sell your home and are not confident about what needs to be done prior to putting it up for sale, please call me. I’m very happy to come by and give you my thoughts on what improvements will bring you the most profits. If you’re getting ready to make a purchase, make sure you read the rest of this letter.
Interest Rates:
As interest rates continue to fall, prices and activity is seeing an uptick. Remember the rule: interests rates are re-financeable, sale prices are not. Better to lock in a lower price at a higher rate and refinance than be forced to beat out competition when the market comes back full force.
Until next month,
Emily