Here is your open thread for the weekend beginning Friday December 24th, 2010. You may post random links and off-topic discussions here. Also, if you have an idea or a topic you’d like to see covered in an article, please make it known. Be sure to also check out the forums, and get your word…
Author: The Tim
Tim Ellis is the founder of Seattle Bubble. His background in engineering and computer / internet technology, a fondness of data-based analysis of problems, and an addiction to spreadsheets all influence his perspective on the Seattle-area real estate market. Tim also hosts the weekly improv comedy sci-fi podcast Dispatches from the Multiverse.
Analyze a “Below-Market” Deal: Nearby Rents
Unfortunately when you’re looking at single-family homes, it can be difficult to get an accurate read on what people in the neighborhood are currently paying in rent. However, studying asking rents in the rental section of Craigslist is the next best thing, and it is definitely better than nothing. photo by The Tim Do a…
Analyze a “Below-Market” Deal: Comparable Sales
The art of analyzing a home’s “comps”—once the exclusive domain of real estate agents and appraisers—is now open to everyone thanks to sites like Zillow and Redfin that display detailed data on sold homes. The basic process is simple: Make a list of recently sold (within the last 3 months, ideally) homes similar to the…
How To: Analyze a “Below-Market” Deal
I personally believe that a reasonable analysis of the local economic fundamentals points to another ten to fifteen percent decline in Seattle-area home prices. However, I also believe that barring a major economic catastrophe that slashes wages and dramatically increases unemployment, buying in today’s market can be a good move if you can find a…
Mid-Week Open Thread (2010-12-22)
Here is your open thread for the mid-week on December 22nd, 2010. You may post random links and off-topic discussions here. Also, if you have an idea or a topic you’d like to see covered in an article, please make it known. Be sure to also check out the forums, and get your word in…