Central Ohio Real Estate Is Not Normal

By John McGory

A national real estate expert came to Columbus this week to tell us that the real estate market is close to normal again.  The Real Estate Swami says statistics can be deceiving.

Ted Jones, chief economist for Stewart Title, came to town to present his real estate forecast to the Columbus Board of Realtors, Building Industry Association and Columbus Mortgage Bankers.

The Real Estate Swami was there to listen to the Houston, Texas native.  The main thrust of Jones’ speech was we are back to 2002 sales levels and that is as good as it is going to get.  The bubble years from 2003 to 2009 are but a fond memory.   

Swami believes that the evidence in the streets of central Ohio is that while we are improving we have a ways to go before we see a “normal” real estate market.

“There is evidence that the housing market is gaining strength.  But to say this is normal is either a sign of the apocalypse or someone with little faith in the central Ohio housing market,” says the swami.

The swami points to a robust 1990s market with strong residential and commercial building as more typical of a normal central Ohio real estate market.  Those days will return as the economy continues to strengthen and job creation increases.

The central Ohio job market is still down 35,000 jobs from its peak in February 2008.  We have picked up 5,000 jobs in the last 12 months, including a 3,700-job uptick in November 2011.

“Columbus and central Ohio have always been considered the poor stepchildren from real estate experts around the country,” remarks the swami.  “But our market can do much better and will do so in the coming years if we continue to get strong local leadership from business and government.”

The swami did agree with Jones that one group that needs to be encouraged that real estate is a good investment are young adults.

“Renting gives the young the illusion of freedom.  That all is possible if you are not tied down to a property,” he says.  “But we must remember that they have grown up in the worst of real estate times.  The young will soon see that ownership is true freedom.”  

John McGory is a partner at Webface (http://www.web-face-solutions.com/), a content marketing company in central Ohio, and is a licensed real estate agent.

A New Year's Home Resolution

 By
John McGory

Do you have a New Year’s resolution for your home this year? The Real Estate Swami says that January is the perfect time to reflect on where you live and what your plans are for your house or apartment.

“The cold, gray days of January are the time to meditate on where you live,” says the Swami.  “Once you become one with your thoughts then you can begin to plan.”

The Swami suggests looking back before looking ahead.  What activities and events did you enjoy in your home last year?  What would have made those times better?   What limitations or drawbacks in your living arrangements brought discomfort or disappointment?  Thinking about the recent past can give you a clearer vision of where you want to go. 

It may be improving your patio, deck or outdoor space.  A bigger kitchen may bring needed space.  Or it may be that the house or apartment has too many issues and that a new address is the right answer.

Maybe the changes are small but mighty ones.  A resolution need not mean spending a lot of money.   Sometime it is simple as painting or a thorough cleaning. 

Another idea is to practice the feng shui concept of moving 27 items in your house to change your life.   Many practice the Chinese art of feng shui to promote positive energy flowing through the home.  It provides balance and harmony to the home or office.  Here is a short video that explains feng shui

http://video.about.com/fengshui/Learn-Feng-Shui-Basics.htm

“Much can be done to improve the feeling of love and energy in the home.   It starts by uncluttering the mind and feeling the energy that is there.  Then you will begin to understand what needs to be done,” says the swami.

The Swami reminds all that peace starts in the heart and home.  He wishes each of you a joyous 2012.

John McGory is a partner in Webface, a content marketing company. He is also a licensed central Ohio real estate agent.  He can be reached at jrmcgory@gmail.com