Lisa Mailhot | September 20, 2023
Buyers
The landscape of the American workforce has undergone significant changes in recent years, with remote work taking center stage. Experts predict its enduring popularity, estimating that by 2025, 36.2 million Americans will be engaged in remote employment—a remarkable 417% surge compared to the pre-pandemic era when only 7 million people worked remotely.
If you're in the market for a new home and embrace remote work, whether full- or part-time, this trend is poised to revolutionize your home-buying journey, offering solutions to current affordability and housing inventory challenges.
Remote or hybrid work allows you to reevaluate your approach to finding your dream home. With the daily commute no longer necessary, the proximity to your workplace becomes less crucial. Opting for a suburban location rather than the bustling city can broaden your range of budget-friendly housing options. A recent study by Fannie Mae elaborates:
“Home affordability may also be a reason why we saw an increase in remote workers’ willingness to relocate or live farther away from their workplace . . .”
For those contemplating a move, this newfound location flexibility increases the likelihood of discovering a home that aligns with your financial means. Collaborate with your real estate agent to explore a wider array of areas offering a more affordable cost of living.
As you expand your search to encompass more economical possibilities, you'll likely find the opportunity to obtain greater value for your investment. Given the current scarcity of homes on the market, securing a residence that meets all your desires and necessities can prove challenging.
By broadening your search parameters, you empower yourself with a more extensive pool of options, simplifying the task of finding a home that seamlessly fits your lifestyle. This could include homes with more spacious interiors, diverse architectural styles, and a broader selection of neighborhood amenities previously considered out of reach.
Traditionally, living in close proximity to one's workplace was a coveted perk, often accompanied by a substantial price tag. However, the dynamics have shifted. If your work transpires within your home's confines, you have the freedom to select your ideal living location without the constraints of lengthy daily commutes. This transformation allows you to prioritize affordability and the realization of your dream home features.
Remote work transcends mere job flexibility; it represents an opportunity to expand your horizons in your quest for the perfect home. Unburdened by the constraints of a fixed location, you gain the liberty to explore all the possibilities. Let's connect and explore how this newfound freedom can guide you to your ultimate dream home.
New construction homes declining, builder incentives rising
Discover the best neighborhoods to buy a home in Orange County in 2025. Expert insights on top areas, pricing trends, and investment opportunities.
Mortgage rates drop near a three-year low, improving affordability and boosting buyer power, but pending sales and demand remain sluggish as uncertainty tempers activi… Read more
A new CNBC Housing Market Survey reveals that most potential homebuyers expect mortgage rates to keep falling — and that’s why they’re waiting to buy. With affordabili… Read more
Homebuyers across the U.S.—and right here in Orange County—are scoring the biggest fall discounts since 2019. With homes spending more time on the market and sellers g… Read more
Homebuilder confidence is ticking upward as the Federal Reserve’s recent rate cuts offer a glimmer of hope for the housing market. Despite lingering challenges like ma… Read more
President Trump’s new tariffs on imported lumber, cabinets, and furniture are expected to raise homebuilding and renovation costs nationwide. This blog explores how th… Read more
Across the U.S., new listings are on the rise, yet many buyers remain cautious as mortgage rates hover above 6%. In Orange County, this national slowdown echoes local … Read more
Home-purchase cancellations hit a record high this August, revealing a shift in buyer confidence and seller expectations. From inspection issues to changing financial … Read more
Let's find a time that suits you best to chat about your goals, show you how we work, and figure out how we can help you the most