Ho-Ho-Home for the Holidays!!

As we come to an end of 2021, we can look back on this year as being an unusual one, to say the least. A year of transition, perhaps trying to recover from 2020, a year that changed our way of life in many ways.

 Some folks have returned to a sense of normality. Kids going back to school, many workers have gone back to their place of employment, some finding working from home to be the optimal choice, places of worship back open for service, stores reopening for indoor shopping, entertainment and functions once again available to enjoy.

For many folks, spending more time at home has become a new normal.

As we enter the Christmas Season, we find ourselves once again enjoying being in the company of friends and relatives for the Holidays.

Some are comfortable returning to the stores to find that perfect gift for our loved ones.

However, it’s sometimes a challenge to find the right gift for that special someone on your list.

Maybe this year we think of something for the home to be enjoyed for years to come. Something that person will use while being home and think of you with a smile.

Something that will be enjoyed by that one person, or maybe something everyone can enjoy while being home together.

After a long day at work or school, what will they come home to and really appreciate having?

For the kiddos, maybe an outdoor gift they’ll enjoy. Sports equipment and toys like basketball hoop, bike, roller blades, swing set; or games to bring the family together inside.

Pajamas are always welcome, especially super comfy ones they will want to put on as soon as they get home! A warm soft blanket you can personalize with their favorite color or design. Maybe an art kit for the creative one. Package the gift with items included to make something…a sewing kit with material, buttons, zippers, thread and accessories.

Adults may also love to receive a gift to be enjoyed in the home. Maybe a kitchen item for the chef in the house. Something they may not buy for themselves but can use to create a great meal or dessert. Maybe include a recipe and ingredients. I love putting gifts together so the person receiving it doesn’t have to buy something else in order to use it.

Perhaps a cake or cupcake pan including the cake mix frosting sprinkles and even candles.

My son gave me a Cricut machine last Christmas, and it is awesome. I make things for the house and family we all can enjoy.

TVs are more affordable than ever and the lucky recipient of that will think of you while watching their favorite show, or big game.

If you are shopping for someone who was fortunate enough to have purchased a new home this year, maybe a gift card to a local hardware store and wrap it in something that the new homeowner will remember you, like a candy dish or coffee mug.

Most importantly we are together again for the most part, and that will make this Holiday even more special.

As we close the year, I thought I’d include some year-end home sale statistics. Focusing on our single-family home sales in MLS which are up from 2020:

• 2020-year end there were 11602 single family homes sold.
• 2021 Single family home sales as of 1st week in December are at 10536, with 1711 in pending waiting to close for approximate total sales in 2021 at 12247.
• The median single family sale price in 2021 is $385000, up 14.9% from 2020
• There are just 898 Single family homes currently for sale or coming soon in R.I. which is low compared to the number of buyers looking to purchase.

It has been a very busy year in Real Estate for Realtors, sellers, and buyers.

I anticipate the same for 2022 if interest rates remain low and affordable.

Hopefully folks who have put off their decision to transition to upsize, downsize, or relocate will consider making their move in 2022, to increase opportunities for buyers and level out the playing field.

In any case I hope you enjoy the Holidays and have a safe, successful, and healthy 2022!

Donna DeLauro
ReMax Real Estate Center
Dedicated to providing quality service my clients deserve
Also proud founder of Mature Matters —
Senior Real Estate Specialists
401-486-6044
donnadelauro@hotmail.com
www.donnadelaurorealestate.com