Active adults exploring Northeast Florida have more choices than ever, with fresh communities now selling and others on the horizon. Here’s a look at what’s currently available and what’s coming soon.
Del Webb Saint Johns – Vibrant Amenities in a Prime St. Johns County Location
Del Webb Saint Johns has opened in northwest St. Johns County, bringing the brand’s signature active-adult lifestyle to one of the area’s most convenient and desirable spots. The community sits close to both Jacksonville and historic St. Augustine, with easy access to beaches, the St. Johns River, and everyday conveniences.
A standout feature is the expansive amenity campus, anchored by a large clubhouse that includes an on-site bar and grill, fitness center, pickleball and sports courts, a community garden, and dedicated spaces for social activities. A full-time Lifestyle Director helps residents stay connected and engaged. Multiple floor plans are available to suit different preferences and stages of retirement living.
This option tends to appeal to buyers who want robust on-site amenities, social opportunities, and the lifestyle advantages of St. Johns County living.
Regency at EverRange – Toll Brothers Luxury in Jacksonville
Regency at EverRange is Toll Brothers’ new gated 55+ community in Jacksonville, positioned between the popular master-planned areas of Nocatee and eTown. It offers single-story homes with modern open layouts and high-quality finishes in a more intimate setting.
Because the community is still in its early sales phase, buyers often have the chance to select preferred lots and personalize their homes with the builder’s design options. The surrounding EverRange master plan adds long-term value, with planned green space, a future town center, and convenient connections to nearby retail and dining.
This community suits those who prioritize customizable luxury construction and a quieter neighborhood feel while still enjoying proximity to Jacksonville and coastal access.
Exciting Developments on the Horizon: Fleet Landing Communities
Looking ahead, Fleet Landing — the well-established not-for-profit Life Plan Community from Atlantic Beach — is expanding with two notable projects that will add more options for active adults.
In Nocatee, Fleet Landing broke ground in late 2025 on a new 35-acre campus. This resort-style Life Plan Community for adults 62 and older will feature independent living residences, on-site health services, and a full continuum of care. Construction is underway, with the first residents expected in 2027. Strong early interest has already been reported, reflecting demand for this type of comprehensive retirement living within the Nocatee master plan.
Separately, Fleet Landing is advancing plans for a riverfront community in Downtown Jacksonville. The proposed development includes a significant residential tower along the Northbank, with potential for high-rise living and amenities that could serve both residents and the broader community. This project remains in the planning and review stages, so timelines are still being finalized, but it represents an exciting new urban option for those drawn to downtown riverfront living.
Finding the Right Fit
These communities each offer something different — from established amenity-rich environments to customizable new construction and upcoming Life Plan options. The best choice usually depends on the lifestyle you want: how social or private you prefer to be, whether you value on-site services and care options, and which location best matches your daily rhythms.
Because details like availability, incentives, and exact timelines can change, a personal tour and conversation with someone familiar with the local market can help clarify what feels right. If you’re exploring these or similar communities and would like straightforward guidance or help arranging visits, we’re happy to assist. Kevin and Jennifer Hanley, REALTORS The Hanley Home Team of Keller Williams Realty Atlantic Partners Southside 904-515-2479 HanleyHomeTeam.com
We hope you all have a safe and relaxing time during your vacation this summer. It’s crucial that we all have time to recharge and recognize what’s important in life. We only go around once, so it’s important to savor what we have.
Before you leave town, we thought you might be interested in a few precautionary safety tips to keep your home and your possessions safe while you’re gone. Often in the run-up to a vacation, people neglect to take simple steps to protect themselves from becoming a victim of theft or vandalism.
You’ve probably covered your bases, but just in case, here are 10 basic precautions you can take:
1. Have someone collect your mail and newspaper daily.
2. Leave shades and blinds in normal positions.
3. Put at least two lights and a radio on automatic timers.
4. Have someone leave trash at your curb on garbage collection day.
5. Have someone park a car in your driveway occasionally. If you leave your car outside, arrange to have it moved every so often.
6. Leave a key with a trusted neighbor in case of an emergency. Let the neighbor know where you are going and when you are expect to return, also leave them a way to get in contact with you in case of an emergency.
7. Lock all windows and doors before you go. Do not forget to double-check basement and garage doors.
8. On extended trips have someone to maintain your landscaping, (grass mowed, leaves raked, etc.)
9. Consider turning off your home’s water main to prevent damage from a burst pipe.
10. Be careful how much you check-in on social media while on vacation. If your privacy settings are incorrect you might reveal to strangers your home is vacant!
Be safe and have a blast…
Is buying or selling your home a priority in 2018? Give us a call and let’s make your New Year’s resolution a reality – Kevin and Jennifer Hanley, REALTORS The Hanley Home Team of Keller Williams Realty Atlantic Partners Southside 904-515-2479 www.HanleyHomeTeam.com Kevin Hanley, Loan Officer, Texana Bank NMLS #2639641 https://mortgage.texanabank.com/loan-officer/kevin-hanley/
We hope you all have a safe and relaxing time during your vacation this summer, too. It’s crucial that we all have time to recharge and recognize what’s important in life. We only go around once, so it’s important to savor what we have. Before you leave town, we thought you might be interested in a few precautionary safety tips to keep your home and your possessions safe while you’re gone. Often in the run-up to a vacation, people neglect to take simple steps to protect themselves from becoming a victim of theft or vandalism.
The devil is really in the details when buyers look at a home. Lots of everyday wear and tear that you don’t even notice can ding your home in the eyes of potential buyers. Here’s the Hanley Home Team’s list of ten simple improvements you can do to help your home sell faster:
1. Spruce up your baseboards: Pets, kids, and stumbling husbands in the dark can make a mess of your baseboards. Repainting baseboards after repairing scratches with putty can make the border of any room look new.
2. Fill in nail holes: Part of interior repainting should be careful attention to those errant nail holes from pictures, shelves, and other wall-mounted baubles. Putty, smooth, sand and paint!
3. Sniff for smokers: Filter replacement is a must if someone’s been puffing in your home. Also wash down those walls, prime them to seal in any cooked-in nicotine, and repaint. Be sure to check entryways and lawns for cigarette butts, too!
4. Review the roof: Do you have missing shingles? Broken tiles? Is mold and moss sprouting up there? Do some cleaning and spot replacing.
5. Reinforce your gutters: Clean them out, dry them out, then caulk them to prevent leaks. This will keep water off the siding, reducing staining and damage.
6. Replace bad vinyl floors: Not only are they tacky when they’re cracked or cut, but they can suggest water damage to buyers.
7. Repair dripping faucets: Buyers will turn faucets on and off. What will they find? If your sinks and baths dribble, fix them before buyers imagine their future headache.
8. Tune up screens: Did you have a dog that liked to lean against the front door? Look for the sagging, hanging, bent, and bubbling screens, especially around doors. New screens look clean. Old screens suggest neglect.
9. Patch cabinet scratches: Tibet Almond Stick, Old English Scratch Cover, or even some artful re-staining can make cabinets seem new. Remember to polish them up when you’re done!
10. Reseal wobbly toilets: If the bowl moves when you sit on it, the bolts are rusted, or the bathroom floor is damp and discolored around the commode, replace the toilet or at the very least reseal it.
By the way, you can also use our tools and vendors to help you sell faster, too! Get in touch today. http://www.HanleyHomeTeam.com – Kevin and Jennifer Hanley, REALTORS – The Hanley Home Team of Keller Williams Realty Atlantic Partners Southside 904-515-2479
REALTORS® aren’t just agents. They’re professional members of the National Association of REALTORS® and subscribe to its strict code of ethics. This is the REALTOR® difference for home buyers:
Ethical treatment.
Every REALTOR® must adhere to a strict code of ethics, which is based on professionalism and protection of the public. As a REALTOR®’s client, you can expect honest and ethical treatment in all transaction-related matters. The first obligation is to you, the client.
An expert guide.
Buying a home usually requires dozens of forms, reports, disclosures, and other technical documents. A knowledgeable expert will help you prepare the best deal, and avoid delays or costly mistakes. Also, there’s a lot of jargon involved, so you want to work with a professional who can speak the language.
Objective information and opinions.
REALTORS® can provide local information on utilities, zoning, schools, and more. They also have objective information about each property. REALTORs® can use that data to help you determine if the property has what you need. By understanding both your needs and search area, they can also point out neighborhoods you don’t know much about but that might suit your needs better than you’d thought.
Expanded search power.
Sometimes properties are available but not actively advertised. A REALTOR® can help you find opportunities not listed on home search sites and can help you avoid out-of-date listings that might be showing up as available online but are no longer on the market.
Negotiation knowledge.
There are many factors up for discussion in a deal. A REALTOR® will look at every angle from your perspective, including crafting a purchase agreement that allows enough time for you to complete inspections and investigations of the property before you are bound to complete the purchase.
Up-to-date experience.
Most people buy only a few homes in their lifetime, usually with quite a few years in between each purchase. Even if you’ve done it before, laws and regulations change. REALTORS® handle hundreds of transactions over the course of their career.
Your rock during emotional moments.
A home is so much more than four walls and a roof. And for most people, property represents the biggest purchase they’ll ever make. Having a concerned, but objective, third party helps you stay focused on the issues most important to you.
The Hanley Home Team has a team of REALTORS to help you! Have any questions? Give us a call today! Kevin and Jennifer Hanley, REALTORS The Hanley Home Team of Keller Williams Realty Atlantic Partners Southside 904-515-2479 http://www.HanleyHomeTeam.com
Have you recently fallen in love with a “flipped” home? Does the idea of moving into a cleanly renovated space excite you? To see an old home tuned up with brand new appliances, gleaming marble countertops, and fresh wood floors can make other homes seem shabby by comparison, but be careful before you make the leap. There are some precautions you want to take before you close.
“Flipped” or “rehabbed” homes are homes which real estate investors buy in order to renovate them and sell them for a profit. Sometimes these homes have been secured after short sales, foreclosures, surviving relatives, or even at auction. For real estate investors, part of the profit depends on how fast and affordably they can renovate the property. In seller’s markets, there’s even more pressure to make sure a home is ready to sell, fast.
While there’s nothing necessarily wrong with a flipped house, you will want to make sure you know a bit about the home’s history. Naturally, you’ll want to do all the due diligence you’d normally do when buying a home, but it can be useful to dig a little deeper. Here are some questions to ask:
1. What shape was the home in before it was renovated? Was it just outdated? Vacant? Trashed by squatters? Find out the state of the home when the flipper purchased it.
2. What deficiencies, damage, or other defects did the home have when the flipper bought it? Ask for a list of issues, if possible.
3. Who did the work on the house during the renovation? Contractors? Handymen? Did the flipper do the work personally? Are there invoices which detail the work completed and the money spent on the repairs? Were the appropriate permits secured?
4. Was anything left “as is”? What sort of issues were deemed too small or not vital to the renovation?
5. What was the legal history of the transfer of ownership? Short sales and foreclosures might have legal obligations on the flipper or other liens.
You shouldn’t shy away from a flipped home you love, but don’t go into the situation blind. We have experience working with buyers who have purchased flipped homes, and We’re be happy to help you navigate the questions. Let’s talk!
Jennifer Hanley, REALTOR – The Hanley Home Team – Keller Williams Realty Atlantic Partners Southside 904-515-2479 http://www.HanleyHomeTeam.com
Whether you’re a die-hard charcoal fan, or more of a Hank Hill “taste the meat not the heat” propane griller, I hope you enjoy these tips and recipes. One of the great joys of owning your own home is making a space for a little outdoor cooking. It can be hard to grill on an apartment balcony!
The Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (http://www.hpba.org/) recently shared these interesting facts for National Barbecue Month. You can see why grilling is so popular!
81% of Americans report that at least one aspect of grilling outside is easier than cooking indoors. The most convenient parts are cited as cleanup (49%) followed by the cooking process itself (40%).
The majority of adults (58%) agree that cooking out is more fun and relaxing than dining out and beneficial for avoiding travel (58%), dress codes (57%) and crowds (56%).
70% of Americans say cooking out gets them in a healthier routine, specifically by encouraging time spent outdoors instead of cooped up in the house. Outdoor cooking also encourages adults to make smarter food choices such as eating fresh rather than frozen foods (54% agreed) and cooking healthier food on the grill overall (40% agreed).
Get your tongs, spatulas, brushes, rubs, marinades, and skewers ready. Grilling doesn’t always have to be about meat. If it grows, you can grill it, and adding garden variety fruits and veggies can transform a BBQ experience. Check out 15 amazing recipes, recently featured on the Pacific Coast Farmer’s Market website: Quick and Easy BBQ & Grilling Recipes
Also: Don’t neglect to “set the stage” for grilling when selling your home. Dressing the patio for cookouts can get your buyers thinking of the fun summer afternoons ahead.
Invite the neighbors over and get grilling!
Looking for a patio you can call your own? Time to upgrade from no back yard to a grill-worthy lot? Get in touch with us today! Jennifer Hanley, REALTOR The Hanley Home Team of Keller Williams Realty Atlantic Partners Southside – www.HanleyHomeTeam.com – 904-515-2479
Losing weight, starting an exercise plan, or giving up on smoking are some of the most common New Year’s resolutions for a vast majority of individuals. But have you ever thought that buying a home should be in your New Year’s plan? Let’s face it, you have been dreaming about moving into your own home for such a long time. You even have plans for the kitchen cabinets and a backyard where your kids can play with your dog. But somehow you have not been able to convert your dreams into reality. It is finally the time to stop postponing your decision and start the home buying process….welcome to 2019!
Buying a home is a great New Year’s resolution
If you have been living in a rented place for a long time, isn’t it the right time to stop making the bank account of your landlord happy? It’s time to treat your family to a place that it can truly call its own!
Benefits of home ownership should spur you into action
There are so many benefits of buying a home that it would take a full article to describe each one of them. But just the fact that you can have your own home with the same (or less) monthly payment that you are now paying as rent should be reason enough to spur you into action. You would need money to put forward in the form of down payment but this money helps in building equity into your home.
Mortgage rates are going up and so are the prices of properties. Waiting any longer will only make it that much more difficult for you to buy a home. If you make home buying as a New Year’s resolution, the first step is to contact The Hanley Home Team to help you create an achievable action plan. Give us a call and let’s make it a GREAT 2025 together – www.HanleyHomeTeam.com 904-515-2479 Kevin and Jennifer Hanley, REALTORs The Hanley Home Team of Keller Williams Realty
Top 10 Housing Markets For Every Generation in 2022
Alexandria Quintana January 20, 2022
2021 was an unprecedented year for the housing market, leaving many buyers still actively looking for their dream home. We at Knock wanted to provide our outlook on the top 10 housing markets in 2022 for each generation that will provide affordability and availability of homes for buyers in the metros best suited for their stage of life.
Our analysis found that out of the top 100 MSA’s, the metros selected for the millennial, Gen X, and baby boomer generations shared distinct commonalities across that age group that highlights their unique preferences:
Millennials
Considering that 82% of younger millennials and 48% of older millennials are first-time homebuyers, more affordable and less competitive metros position this generation with higher odds at landing a home.1 Our data shows that top millennial metros boasted affordability and availability of homes, above-average employment levels in the tech, finance, and healthcare industries, as well as high population shares of millennials, and strong year over year population growth of the generation.2
Gen X
Statistically, at the height of their career and most likely to have school-aged children, top Gen X metros tend to lean on the pricier side, where there are strong levels of management positions across industries, top-rated school systems, and larger homes on average.
Baby Boomers
A generation that is most likely approaching or enjoying retirement, their top metros have move-down appeal from costlier locales, as well as lower tax rates, ample access to primary care, largely moderate climates, and low crime surroundings.
A National Look at 2022
Overall, in the next year as interest rates rise, we anticipate median sale price growth to moderate significantly across the country at less than half of the growth rate experienced in 2021. However, due to pent-up demand, we will continue to see constrained supply resulting in lower days on market and months of supply.
2022 National Forecast
Metrics
Average 2021
Average 2022
YOY Change
Median Sales Price
$369,413
$399,484
8%
Sales Price YOY
18%
8%
-10%
Median Days on Market
22
20
-9%
Months of Supply
2.38
2.14
-11%
Furthermore, our data shows that housing prices will fluctuate at varying levels across the country. In 2022, we anticipate the Northeast to have the lowest levels of median sale price increases as more Midwest and Southern markets provide higher levels of affordability, and lower cost of living for all generations, while secondary markets in the West continue to attract transplants from higher-cost metros in the region:
2022 Regional Forecast
Region
Median Sales Price
Sales Price YOY
Median Days on Market
Months of Supply
Northeast
$335,406
7%
27
2.60
Midwest
$282,835
9%
22
2.28
West
$668,123
11%
20
1.80
South
$341,180
13%
29
2.23
Our analysis denotes 10 top markets for each generation that boast affordability and availability of homes in areas best suited for each generation:
Knock’s 2022 Top 10 Housing Markets for Millennials
The largest contingent of homebuyers, the millennial generation, spans 15 years, with the youngest 25 years old and the oldest having celebrated their 40th birthday in 2021. Migrational trends show that as millennials grapple with affordability amidst soaring home prices, many have spread their wings to smaller metros for a shot at homeownership. When compared to the 100 largest metros, the 2022 top millennial markets are 11% more affordable and offer 19% more homes for sale on average. In these metros, millennials make up 20-25% of the population on average. They also attract an average of 90% more inbound millennials year over year than the largest 100 metros and have 1.17 times the national average concentration of jobs in the tech, finance, and health industries.See Millennial housing markets
Knock’s 2022 Top 10 Housing Markets for Gen X
Aged 41 to 56, Gen Xers are statistically at the top of their careers and most likely to have school-aged children. The best markets for Generation X tend to skew pricier, but still offer relative affordability, available inventory, space without sacrificing career opportunities, good schools, an abundance of green space and family-friendly activities. In 2021, the median home in the best Gen X markets was 17% more expensive than the U.S. median-priced home, but offered relative affordability compared to New York, San Francisco and Seattle. Homes in these markets provide 150 more square feet than the national average. These markets also have strong job markets with a diverse employer base, 1.2 times more managerial positions than the national average and a larger than average number of highly ranked school systems.See Gen X housing markets
Knock’s 2022 Top 10 Housing Markets for Baby Boomers
Baby boomers, the generation born between 1946 and 1964, have handed in their resignations in record numbers since the start of the pandemic, providing the freedom to cash in on the equity they’ve amassed in their homes. The markets on this year’s list offer retirees affordability and tax-friendly advantages that allow them to stretch their dollar further as well as access to good healthcare, strong diverse economies with part-time employment opportunities, culture and recreational activities. Nine of the 10 metros are college towns, affording the opportunity for boomers to continue their education. On average, residents pay 75% less in sales, property and inheritance taxes than the national average. They also have access to 35% more primary care physicians per 100,000 residents than the nation’s 100 largest metros and thousands of active adult communities.See Baby Boomer housing markets
Knock’s 2022 Top 10 Housing Markets for Millennials
1. Austin, Texas
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price: $519,005
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price Change: 15%
Forecasted 2022 Months of Supply: 2.6
It’s no surprise that Austin ranks as the No.1 metro on this year’s list of top millennial markets. The market boasts 40 times more inbound millennials on average than the other 100 largest metros. Austin increasingly has been noted for its growing tech industry, with over double the national average of tech jobs. Although home prices grew more than 30% in 2021, it continues to be more affordable than Silicon Valley and other major tech hubs. Home to the University of Texas, Austin offers a vibrant downtown with live music, bars, restaurants, festivals, and outdoor activities, making it a great place to both work and live.
2. Des Moines, Iowa
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price: $267,060
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price Change: 8%
Forecasted 2022 Months of Supply: 2.3
Iowa’s capital city and home to a number of financial services companies, including Wells Fargo, Principal and Nationwide, and a growing tech industry, Des Moines is drawing nearly 15% more millennials on average each year than the 100 largest metros. It also is growing in popularity as a potential innovation hub. In 2021, the median-priced home in Des Moines was $249,059, $120,000 below the U.S. median home price. Des Moines was named a Top 10 Best Place for Business and Careers by Forbes in 2019, the No. 5 Best Place to Live in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report in 2020 and the No. 1 Best Place to Live in the Midwest for High Salaries and Low Cost of Living by The Ascent in 2021.
3. Charleston, South Carolina
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price: $368,613
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price Change: 6%
Forecasted 2022 Months of Supply: 2.6
Offering the charm of a harborside city with cobblestone streets, warm sandy beaches, parks and a quaint downtown area with bars, restaurants and coffee shops, Charleston is a popular tourist destination. It also is routinely included on lists of the “next Silicon Valleys” and has emerged as a desirable location for a wide range of technology-based companies, making it a millennial magnet. Charleston’s low cost of living also makes it a great place for those who have the flexibility to work remotely. With the second-highest number of homes for sale out of all of the top 10 millennial metros, Charleston not only offers affordability but a better chance to find a home.
4. San Antonio, Texas
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price: $326,994
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price Change: 15%
Forecasted 2022 Months of Supply: 2.2
Home to the Riverwalk and the Alamo, San Antonio has an active downtown area with boat rides and many bars and restaurants lining its miles of pedestrian-friendly streets. It also has an above-average concentration of tech and healthcare jobs and boasts a top 5 tech salary out of the 100 metros at $101,540, surpassing Austin. With the typical San Antonio home selling for nearly $200,000 less than a comparable home in Austin and a strong job market, San Antonio is becoming a more affordable alternative, attracting over 7,000 movers from the Austin area to San Antonio in 2019.
5. Atlanta, Georgia
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price: $372,457
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price Change: 16%
Forecasted 2022 Months of Supply: 1.9
The capital of Georgia and the nation’s ninth-largest housing market, Atlanta has a diverse job market, including a higher than an average number of tech, finance and healthcare employers, and is home to big companies such as Coca-Cola, The Home Depot, and UPS. The area has been noted as one with the best value, offering its residents a median sale price that is 25% lower than the nation’s top 10 metros and homes that are nearly 400 square feet larger on average. With its affordability, nightlife, entertainment, major league sports as well as outdoor activities, it is no wonder the metro is attracting over 4,000 millennial transplants year over year.
6. Providence, Rhode Island
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price: $408,190
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price Change: 13%
Forecasted 2022 Months of Supply: 2.6
Just one hour from Boston, the median home price in Providence is nearly $250,000 less than a similar home in the nearby metro and also has more available homes for sale. Providence has a thriving economy of its own, averaging more tech and healthcare jobs than the 100 largest metros and commensurate salaries to those found in Boston. It also is home to a number of universities, including Brown University, University of Rhode Island, and the Rhode Island School of Design. Downtown Providence has a quaint boutique-style array of bars, restaurants, and shopping.
7. St. Louis, Missouri
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price: $236,620
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price Change: 7%
Forecasted 2022 Months of Supply: 1.5
With a 2021 median home price of $221,315, St. Louis is the most affordable of Knock’s best markets for millennials. It offers a strong job market with an above-average concentration of finance, tech, and healthcare employers. Major employers include Edward Jones, Centene, Square, and Anheuser-Busch. Rated one of the top 10 walkable metros in the country, St. Louis is home to the iconic Gateway Arch, a large blues music scene, major universities, and several major league sports teams.
8. Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price: $249,840
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price Change: 11%
Forecasted 2022 Months of Supply: 2.1
Winston-Salem is a Southern city with international appeal. It is part of the research hub triad that also includes Greensboro and High Point, home to a collective of innovations in research, testing, and medical laboratories. With a 2021 median home price of $225,968, Winston-Salem is the second most affordable metro for millennials at 43% below the national median sale price. Residents often refer to the area as a blend of hip and historic, where you can enjoy restaurants, brew pubs, wineries, international film festivals, heirloom gardens, and outdoor activities, including hiking trails.
9. Charlotte, North Carolina
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price: $378,330
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price Change: 11%
Forecasted 2022 Months of Supply: 1.8
Charlotte has seen a steady influx of millennials, with the most recent year-over-year increase attracting six times the inbound rate compared to the 100 metro average. A business and financial hub, as well as a university town, the state’s largest city, offers a strong job market overall, higher than average employment opportunities in the tech and finance industries, good weather, and quality of life. Charlotte is home to big companies like Bank of America, Lowe’s, and Honeywell as well as the NFL’s Carolina Panthers, the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets, and the NASCAR Hall of Fame. It also has a dynamic culinary scene, historical architecture, parks, and museums.
10. Spokane, Washington
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price: $426,584
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price Change: 13%
Forecasted 2022 Months of Supply: 1.8
The only top millennial market located in the West, Spokane provides more affordability and inventory than nearby Seattle and Portland, making it an attractive option for those looking to escape large urban metros. Spokane offers a small-town atmosphere with the advantage of a vibrant downtown featuring big-city amenities, including a wide variety of restaurants, entertainment, breweries, and wineries. With the Spokane River running through downtown and easy access to numerous lakes, ski resorts, mountains, and bike paths, Spokane lives up to its motto: “Near Nature, Near Perfect.”
Knock’s 2022 Top 10 Housing Markets for Gen X
1. Miami, Florida
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price: $441,093
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price Change: 11%
Forecasted 2022 Months of Supply: 4.3
Miami’s status as an international business hub, with family-friendly attributes and availability of homes for sale, pushes it to the top of Knock’s list of best Gen X markets. Miami offers warm weather year-round, top-notch schools, world-class beaches, an abundance of culture, more than 800 parks and no state income tax. Ranked as the 10th best metro for managerial positions in the U.S., Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ryder Systems and Office Depot are among the U.S. companies headquartered in Miami. Due to its proximity, it also serves as the Latin American headquarters for more than 1,100 multinational corporations, including Disney, Sony, Visa International and Wal-Mart.
2. Austin, Texas
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price: $519,005
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price Change: 15%
Forecasted 2022 Months of Supply: 2.6
Knock’s top pick for millennials comes in at the No. 2 spot for Gen X. Offering more managerial positions than the national average, Austin is more than a millennial town. While many are attracted to the city during the early stage of their careers, it’s also a great place to raise a family and progress professionally. With more than a quarter of the state’s top-rated school districts, a world-class zoo, outdoor activities and museums, there’s much to do outside of the bars and restaurants in the downtown area. In addition to its large base of tech companies, Austin serves as the corporate or regional headquarters for Indeed, Whole Foods, Charles Schwab and General Motors.
3. Knoxville, Tennessee
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price: $317,953
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price Change: 16%
Forecasted 2022 Months of Supply: 2.5
Knoxville offers the best of both worlds for professionals looking for career opportunities and quality of life for their families. Situated on the Tennessee River, Knoxville boasts many big-city amenities, including bars, breweries, live music venues, and museums. Although its managerial salaries fall below the national average, it ranks as one of the top 100 cities for the lowest cost of living. The metro is a prime location for outdoor enthusiasts with five state parks and a 500,000-acre national park all nearby, offering lakes, hiking trails, fishing, and caverns for exploring. It’s also home to the SEC-affiliated University of Tennessee. Knoxville has been ranked as one of the best cities for jobs and the suburban school districts are among the best in the state.
4. Portland, Oregon
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price: $540,878
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price Change: 9%
Forecasted 2022 Months of Supply: 1.6
Set along the Columbia River at the base of Mount Hood, Portland is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts offering four seasons of activities, including camping, hiking, biking, surfing, and skiing. Portland has become a destination for those looking to escape the high cost of living in California and Seattle. Its schools rank in the top 25% in the state and there are a number of family-friendly activities, including the zoo, local parks, and children’s theater companies. Major employers include Intel, Nike, and U.S. Bank.
5. Boise, Idaho
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price: $521,259
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price Change: 14%
Forecasted 2022 Months of Supply: 2.4
A popular pre-pandemic relocation destination for Californians looking for quality of life and affordability, Boise has seen its popularity rise in the age of remote work. However, it is still relatively affordable compared to Silicon Valley and the costly coastal cities. A college town and the capital of Idaho, the Boise River dissects the city, which is surrounded by the Greenbelt, a 25-mile trail with paths for runners and cyclists as well as 850 acres of parks and a golf course. It also offers a bustling downtown and easy access to hiking, rafting, and skiing. Major employers include Albertsons, Hewlett-Packard Co./HP Inc., Boise Cascade, and Micron Technology, Inc.
6. Omaha, Nebraska
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price: $267,767
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price Change: 7%
Forecasted 2022 Months of Supply: 1.6
Omaha is the most affordable of Knock’s best markets for Gen X. The metro ranks as one of the top places to raise a family in the U.S. due to its great schools, ease of commute, low crime rate, and attractions like the Omaha Children’s Museum and Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium. Famous for its steaks and burgers, the metro has developed a foodie scene with chefs from Los Angeles and New York opening their doors. The city Warren Buffett calls home is considered one of the most recession-proof in the U.S. In addition to Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway, Omaha has four other Fortune 500 companies – ConAgra Brands, Union Pacific, Kiewit, and Mutual of Omaha.
7. Raleigh, North Carolina
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price: $424,684
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price Change: 18%
Forecasted 2022 Months of Supply: 1.8
Although home prices have risen in recent years, Raleigh remains affordable compared to other large metros. A large city with small-town charm, it offers good schools and low crime levels. Raleigh is also home to three elite universities – North Carolina State University, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and Duke – and the largest research park in the U.S. It’s ranked as one of the best tech and medical cities in the world. This, along with an abundance of cultural and outdoor activities, such as the Neuse River Greenway Trail and close proximity to the mountains and beaches, makes Raleigh a desirable location to raise a family.
8. Phoenix, Arizona
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price: $469,542
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price Change: 19%
Forecasted 2022 Months of Supply: 1.9
Known as a haven for snowbirds, Phoenix also ranks as one of the best markets for those in the prime of their career. Although home prices have risen in recent years, it remains an affordable alternative to high-cost California metros. Phoenix sees more sunshine than any other metro in the country and is home to more than 200 golf courses. It’s also ranked as the nation’s best hiking city. In addition to the great outdoors, residents can enjoy Spring Training, all four major professional sports leagues, and numerous cultural events, such as the ballet, symphony, and theater. Phoenix is headquarters to five Fortune 500 companies: Freeport McMoRan, PetSmart, Avnet, Republic Services, and Insight Enterprises.
9. Salt Lake City, Utah
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price: $526,447
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price Change: 16%
Forecasted 2022 Months of Supply: 0.8
The capital of Utah, Salt Lake City’s relatively low cost of living and good schools have made it an attractive alternative for those looking to escape higher-priced urban metros, especially during the pandemic. It is close to some of the best skiing, hiking, and fishing in the country with miles of hiking trails within the city limits,11 nearby ski resorts, and five national parks within a four-hour drive. Salt Lake City offers 1.4 times more managerial positions than the rest of the country, and a growing tech hub nicknamed Silicon Slopes, where Adobe, eBay, Microsoft, and Oracle all have a presence. Major non-tech employers include Zions Bancorporation, Overstock, and Resource Management.
10. Boston, Massachusetts
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price: $637,344
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price Change: 6%
Forecasted 2022 Months of Supply: 2.3
The most costly of the best Gen X markets, Boston offers professional opportunities that come from being a financial services, healthcare, and tech hub, the quaintness of a small town, and all of the amenities of a big city. The metro ranks No. 1 when it comes to managerial opportunities with an average salary near $150,000. Bain Capital, BBN Technologies, Bose, Samuel Adams, and Fidelity Investments are several of the companies with headquarters in Boston. It is home to a number of world-class universities, including MIT, Harvard, and Boston University. Its surrounding suburbs with highly ranked school districts provide families with green space and close proximity to the city’s rich culture, history, and beloved major league sports teams.
Knock’s 2022 Top 10 Housing Markets for Baby Boomers
1. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price: $222,491
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price Change: 5%
Forecasted 2022 Months of Supply: 3.8
Pittsburgh does not fit the stereotypical retirement destination. However, the former industrial town with bitterly cold winters tops Knock’s list for baby boomers for good reason, including its number of active retirement communities. Pittsburgh offers ample, inexpensive housing options and a lower cost of living than other major metros, one of the best healthcare systems in the country, and tax advantages. It also blends the best of small-town friendliness with the benefits of big-city living, including lush botanic gardens, 400 miles of trails, a vibrant cultural scene with renowned theater and museums, and a burgeoning food landscape. The metro is home to 34 colleges and universities, including Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh.
2. Lansing, Michigan
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price: $187,095
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price Change: 7%
Forecasted 2022 Months of Supply: 2.4
Lansing is Michigan’s capital and home to Michigan State University. The metro’s cost of living is 57% lower than the national average and its cost of housing is 53% lower. It also ranks among the best cities in the country for healthcare. Outdoor enthusiasts have a number of options – the Lansing River Trail with more than 20 miles of pathways for bicycling and walking, Mt. Brighton for skiing, and Crego Park for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. Summers are packed with festivals and art fairs. Michigan State offers jazz concerts, classical music recitals, dance, and theater performances throughout the school year, and the vibrant downtown is filled with unique boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and breweries.
3. Knoxville, Tennessee
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price: $317,953
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price Change: 16%
Forecasted 2022 Months of Supply: 2.5
Knoxville is not only a great place to raise a family, it’s also a good location to retire. In addition to its low cost of living, Knoxville affords all of the amenities of a big city along with no state or local income tax, access to quality healthcare, cultural and outdoor activities. Residents can cheer on the University of Tennessee Volunteers or the city’s minor league baseball and hockey teams, take in the symphony, or browse the many shops in downtown Knoxville. There are 25 golf courses within 20 minutes of the city, while Cumberland Gap National Historical Park and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are both within a 90-minute drive for those who enjoy hiking.
4. New Orleans, Louisiana
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price: $276,931
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price Change: 3%
Forecasted 2022 Months of Supply: 2.5
One of the most vibrant cities in the South and home to Tulane University, New Orleans ranks high for baby boomers based on its lower cost of living, quality healthcare, and tax-friendly policies. In addition to its amazing architecture, historic homes, galleries, and shops in the French Quarter and Bourbon Street bars, locals enjoy the city’s walkability, professional sports teams, museums, live music, and many festivals, including the annual Jazz & Heritage Festival and Wine & Food Experience, museums and pro sports. Seniors can also take advantage of the highly-rated programs and services offered by the New Orleans Council on Aging.
5. Birmingham, Alabama
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price: $273,281
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price Change: 7%
Forecasted 2022 Months of Supply: 2.4
Locals have long considered Birmingham the best-kept secret in the South, and recently it’s become one of the hottest markets for people of all ages looking for affordability and quality of life. In fact, Alabama ranked No. 6 for inbound movers in 2021, with nearly half of its transplants aged 55 and above, most likely due to its low taxes, especially for retirees. The city’s strong job market has fueled an increase in dining options, entertainment, sports, and cultural activities. Its mild winters and Red Mountain Park, a 1,200-acre public space that’s larger than New York’s Central Park, make it easy to spend time outside. Nearby Ruffner Mountain and Oak Mountain State Park offer beautiful views, hiking trails, and lakes for swimming, fishing, or canoeing.
6. Augusta, Georgia
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price: $256,533
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price Change: 7%
Forecasted 2022 Months of Supply: 2.4
Home to the Masters golf tournament, Georgia’s second-largest metropolitan area offers retirees warm weather, a low cost of living, and the state’s tax-friendly policies, including no tax on retirement benefits. Its residents also have access to a thriving culinary scene, a revitalized downtown, and a wide range of outdoor activities. The Augusta Riverwalk runs along the Savannah River where the farmers market and jazz concerts take place during the warmer months. Phinizy Swamp Wildlife Management Area offers hunting and fishing and Clarks Hill Lake boasts 1,000 miles of shoreline for boating, water skiing, swimming, and hiking. Augusta University provides free classes for residents aged 62 or older, and its healthcare network includes doctors who focus on geriatrics and senior health.
7. Greenville, South Carolina
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price: $301,455
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price Change: 14%
Forecasted 2022 Months of Supply: 2.7
Greenville’s mild winters, low cost of living, access to low-cost healthcare along with a thriving cultural and food scene makes the metro an excellent choice for retirees. Seniors can take advantage of the state’s free tuition program at the University of South Carolina and also benefit from friendly social security, retirement, and property tax policies. The Greenville metro offers a wide variety of housing choices, including many options in the city’s redeveloped downtown, which includes Main Street, a 10-block stretch that features many boutiques, restaurants, and year-round festivals. There are also miles of bike paths that run through the heart of downtown and Falls Park on the Reedy with gardens and waterfalls and a performing arts center that includes a 2,100-seat concert hall and smaller theater.
8. Palm Bay, Florida
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price: $336,754
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price Change: 16%
Forecasted 2022 Months of Supply: 3.0
Known as the Bass Fishing Capital of the World, Palm Bay is located on Florida’s Atlantic coast about an hour southeast of Orlando. Its median home price is 9% below the national median and its cost of living is 29% below the national average. Like the rest of the state, Palm Bay offers its residents the advantage of no state, estate, and inheritance taxes. A short drive to the beaches in Melbourne and Kennedy Space Center, Palm Bay residents have access to several golf courses and 29 parks for hiking, biking, boating, fishing, and paddle boarding. World-class bass fishing takes place at Stick Marsh, and Turkey Creek Sanctuary offers 130-acres of trails and bird-watching.
9. Jacksonville, Florida
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price: $351,900
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price Change: 18%
Forecasted 2022 Months of Supply: 2.1
For seniors looking for the tax advantages Florida offers its residents along with affordability and safety, Jacksonville is a prime location. It is full of restaurants, cultural and outdoor activities and its cost of living is 5% lower than the Florida average. Fort Caroline National Memorial Park provides a breathtaking view of St. John’s River and trails for hiking. The city has a number of parks for hiking and biking. It also is home to four main beaches, which offer everything from a place to relax to surfing and fishing. In addition to a number of events throughout the year, there’s high-end shopping, restaurants, and a thriving art scene along with live theater and professional sports, including the NFL’s Jacksonville Jaguars and minor league baseball and hockey teams.
10. Tuscon, Arizona
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price: $350,503
Forecasted 2022 Median Sale Price Change: 17%
Forecasted 2022 Months of Supply: 2.6
A mid-size city with the feel of a small town and big-city amenities, Tucson offers sunshine and warmth, affordability, and no tax on Social Security benefits, making it a prime retirement location. In addition to its more than 400 golf courses and other outdoor activities, the nearby mountain ranges provide great views, especially at sunset. Tucson is a melting pot of cultures, which is reflected in its dining options. There’s also a number of malls, movie theaters, and art galleries to escape the extreme summer temperatures. Tucson is home to the University of Arizona and 10 active adult communities.
Methodology
Analysis was conducted on 100 of the United States’ top MSA areas by population size. In comparing affordability and supply metrics via Knock’s forecasting model by Joe Hutchings, and combining this data with each generation’s unique factors specific to their age group, selections were made for MSA’s best suited for each population:
When conducting analysis, the unique factor metrics were used to eliminate metros that fell below the 50th percentile for quantifiable factors:
Millennial metros were selected based on the millennial share of the population (US Census Bureau), the year over year influx of the population 25 – 40 (American Community Survey), and the average distribution of employment in the tech, finance and health industry compared to the national average (Burea of Labor Statistics).
Gen X metros were selected based on the Gen X share of the population (US Census Bureau), the average management employment distribution across all industries compared to the national average (Burea of Labor Statistics), the % of schools in the metro area that ranked in the state’s top 10% ( Public School Review), and the median home size (Realtor Data Center).
Baby boomer metros were selected based on the baby boomer share of the population (US Census Bureau), Primary care physicians per 100k residents (County Health Rankings via U of Wisconsin Population Health Institute), States that offer tax-friendly benefits for retirees (Smart Asset), diversified selection of climates with emphasis on warmer temperatures, and safety rankings (Niche.com crime ranking).
When buying a home, there may be no single event as important as the open house. Attending an open house gives you the opportunity to see, feel, and experience the home for yourself, far beyond what’s possible from looking at photos, taking digital tours, or driving by on a sunny afternoon. The open house is when you really get to find out whether you can see yourself living in the home or not.
But if you want to get the most from an open house, there are some things to keep in mind (and some costly mistakes you’ll want to avoid). Not only is it possible to cost yourself money at an open house, but in some (rare) instances, a seller might not even entertain an offer based on somebody’s behavior at the open house.
So if you want things to go smoothly, and want the best opportunity to buy your dream house, here are nine things you should never do at an open house:
1. Keep your shoes on when you’ve been asked to take them off
No one likes to walk around without shoes on, especially in somebody else’s home. But as an open house guest, you need to respect the seller’s instructions. If you refuse, you might be asked to leave, and blow your chance at landing an accepted offer.
2. Let your children roam around unattended
Parenting is difficult, and bringing your kids along with you to an open house is understandable—after all, they’ll be living there too. But when touring an open house, make sure to keep an eye on your children, because, as we all know, they tend to get into things, and a packed home is full of all sorts of interesting items. A good rule of thumb is to just pretend that you’re at a museum.
3. Loudly make negative comments about the house
We all have opinions, especially when it comes to a house that we’re considering paying hundreds of thousands of dollars for. But keep your negative opinions between you, your partner, and your agent, because if the seller’s agent overhears you, they might not only feel insulted, they’re likely to relay the comments to the seller, who might not take them too kindly if you put in an offer.
4. Pry into the seller’s personal belongings
Being allowed into someone’s home for an open house does not give you carte blanche to go through their personal stuff, no matter how intriguing it might be. Opening dresser drawers, touching clothing, pulling back bedding, and rifling through bookcases is a no-no, and violators are likely to be asked to leave. You’re there to see a property, not personal property.
5. Overshare
Unless you’re a trained spy, you probably don’t think too much about tempering your speech when chatting with strangers. But an open house is an exception, and you might want to consider what you’re revealing during conversations with (and around) seller’s agents. Even though talking about how much you’re pre-approved for, where your kids go to school, how desperately you need a new home, or that your lease is ending soon might seem harmless, it can put you in a poor position when you begin negotiations, so act accordingly.
6. Make an offer
Even if you absolutely love the house and would be willing to give up a kidney for the chance to live there, you don’t want to make an offer during the open house. Not only would this be out of the norm, but it would also reveal your eagerness and put you in a position of weakness during negotiations. So even if you’re absolutely obsessed, take a deep breath, step outside, and regroup with your agent and your loved ones before making a decision.
7. Spend too little time there (if you’re interested)
There’s no need to spend hours at an open house, but if you walk in and walk right out, you might be doing yourself a disservice. To be sure, sometimes you know that it’s not a fit right away, but if you dolike it, there’s nothing wrong with spending some time looking around and taking in the details. At the very least, it might help you remember the little things that you’ll be thinking about once you start planning to move
8. Lie about your intentions
Some people like to play games, but there’s really no upside to being disingenuous about your intentions during an open house (or after). Whether you’re just there to look, or are truly serious about making an offer, don’t present yourself otherwise. Not only is it bad form, but word can travel a lot quicker than you might think, and the next time you want to be taken seriously, you might not be.
9. Show too much enthusiasm
When we love a property, it can be difficult to contain our excitement, especially if we’re not used to playing our cards close to the chest. The open house, however, is one occasion when you’ll want to put on your poker face and play it cool. If you show too much enthusiasm, the seller’s agent (and therefore the seller) will know that you’ll do just about anything to get the house—and that’s not the position you want to be in.
We are happy to attend an open house with you! Just reach out – Kevin and Jennifer Hanley, REALTORS 904-515-2479 HanleyHomeTeam.com The Hanley Home Team of Keller Williams Realty Atlantic Partners Southside
Home prices have been steadily increasing in 2020—and as home prices increased, many buyers found they needed larger mortgages in order to purchase homes. But because there’s a limit on conforming loans, many buyers either had to explore alternative loan options (which often carry a higher interest rate) or look for homes in a lower price range (which, with inventory low in markets across the country, proved extremely difficult).
Luckily, access to larger conforming loans is on the horizon.
On November 24, the Federal Housing Finance Agency announced they would officially be increasing the conforming loan limits for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac-backed mortgages in 2021. Currently, the limit for conforming loans for single-family units for most areas of the United States is $510,400. That limit will increase to $548,250 in 2021—an increase of 7.4 percent.
In higher cost markets (like areas of California and New York), the limit for conforming loans will be higher at $822,375—which is 150 percent of the baseline conforming loan limit of $548,250.
The Takeaway:
What does that mean for you? Increasing the limit for conforming loans will allow buyers to increase their purchasing power and keep up with rising prices—so if you’ve been thinking about buying a home, 2021 is looking like a great time to make a move. Let’s get started! Kevin and Jennifer Hanley, REALTORS The Hanley Home Team of Keller Williams Realty Atlantic Partners Southside 904-515-2479 HanleyHomeTeam.com
Have you recently fallen in love with a “flipped” home? Does the idea of moving into a cleanly renovated space excite you? To see an old home tuned up with brand new appliances, gleaming marble countertops, and fresh wood floors can make other homes seem shabby by comparison, but be careful before you make the leap. There are some precautions you want to take before you close.
