The Roanoke region experienced a rise in median sale price in much of the area in February, according to Long & Foster Real Estate’s Market Minute Report.  Frankin County lead the way with a 38% jump in median sale price, followed by a 30% hike in Salem City, while Botetourt County exhibited a 7% decline.

The number of units sold were up throughout much of the region with the most significant rise in Botetourt County with a 43% increase, followed by a 30% incline in Franklin County. Inventory once again dipped in the double digits and homes sold swiftly with days on market ranging from 25 days to 62.

The Long & Foster Real Estate Market Minute report for the Roanoke region includes the cities of Roanoke and Salem, and Botetourt, Franklin and Roanoke counties.

With the new stimulus package and the vaccine rollout, people are feeling more optimistic. We asked Long & Foster Real Estate president, Gary Scott, what impact he believes this optimism will have on the housing market. “As businesses open, the economy will pick up because more people will be working, which can only be a positive outcome for the housing market,” said Scott. “The stimulus will add energy to the economy and the vaccine will add confidence to consumer behavior, which will contribute to a continued strong real estate market in 2021. Sellers will feel more comfortable listing their home and buyers will feel more comfortable looking for a home.”

Scott commented that we currently have a unique combination of a super-sellers’ market, because of low inventory, and a great buyers’ market due to low interest rates.  “Although interest rates have moved up slightly, it’s best to compare rates to the last 10 to 15 years, rather than the last 10 to 15 days,” said Scott. “It’s important to note that rates are still at or near historic lows and we’re confident the spring market will be strong.”

Even with many businesses and restaurants reopening, Scott does not anticipate people moving back into more urban areas. “More people are working remotely and want more space, so they don’t have to live near the city, where it’s usually higher-priced,” Scott explained. “Teleworking will play a role in future buying behavior patterns and I don’t believe it will ever go back to the way it was.”

To learn more about your local market conditions, visit Long & Foster’s Market Insights. You can also learn more about Long & Foster and find an agent at LongandFoster.com.