Geek's Number Talk: Parenthood Deferred

Digging deep into the data, the Census Bureau recently found that people are having children later in life. Between 1990 and 2019, the median age of first-time parents rose from 27 to an all-time record of 30. A variety of factors are at play here but the bottom line is more people are having kids in their 30s and 40s instead of their 20s. This shift could also have a significant impact on when new families get into the housing market. The AP has more numbers.

Geek's Number Talk: The Honeymoon is Over

According to a new report from Redfin, average monthly mortgage payments are up 39% over just one year ago — a record spike — while interest rates are at their highest mark in more than a decade. But while median sales and asking prices are still rising, home searches, touring activity, and mortgage applications are all in decline, indicating a slowing market as buyers take pause. Get more numbers from Forbes.

Geek's Number Talk: Gallons of Savings

Did you know? Californians use an average of 196 gallons of water per day, and I guarantee most of us don’t drink more than half a gallon a day. So where does all that other water go?

Well, at least half our household water is used outdoors, so we can start by following the mandate from the County to cut our lawn watering down to two days a week. It’s also important to check your house for leaks, which cost the average American household 27 to 90 gallons of water each day.

Get more tips for reaching your 15% reduction goal.

Geek's Number Talk: San Mateo County Market Snapshot - March 2022

First-time homebuyers in San Mateo County finally found a silver lining in March, as condo sales actually outpaced activity from the same month one year ago by 9%, while median sales prices only inched up 5%.

Unfortunately, it’s still a hot and fast market, with properties barely having time to marinade before the bidding wars begin. And if you’re looking for a detached house, be ready to spend at least $2M to get into the game.

Geek's Number Talk: Santa Clara County Market Snapshot - Feb. 2022

The Santa Clara County market continues to heat up. House inventory in February was down 17% from one year ago. Consequently, properties are staying on the market half as long and selling at 23% higher rates. The window of opportunity is open slightly wider for condos, but not by much.

Long story short: If you’re considering putting a property on the market, it’s go time!