3 minute read
Associate Spotlight
from March 2022 Building Insight
by BIAW
Navigating the housing market with Debbi Boyd
by Bailee Wicks Communications Manager
Debbi Boyd is no stranger to the building industry. A real estate broker for Real Estate of the South Sound, Boyd is a long-time associate member of the Olympia Master Builders, where she actively serves as Professional Women in Building chair. As BIAW’s (NAHB) associate delegate, she is active at all levels of membership, including serving as a BIAW Past Second Vice President. For her steadfast dedication, Boyd was named 2021 BIAW’s Associate of the Year.
Current market
As you know, there is very little inventory making it a strong sellers’ market. According to Boyd, the average price of a home in Thurston County is $481,500 with an average of seven days on the market. Home prices in Thurston County are now 20.4% higher than 2020.
Predictions for 2022
With many businesses and companies allowing employees to work virtually, the demand for houses has increased.
Even with the price increases, buying is still cheaper than renting. Boyd suggests taking advantage of the low interest rates.
“Supply chain issues, lumber prices and labor shortages are only getting progressively worse, so I suggest buying as soon as possible,” she said.
The forecasts also state there will not be a foreclosure increase because the market is too robust.
“In order to shift market conditions from a sellers’ market to a balanced market, we would need to cut the number of sales in half and increase the number of listings over five times,” said Boyd.“To get to a buyers’ market, the number of listings would need to increase nine times.”
Tips of the trade
Navigating this market can be daunting. Boyd stays up to date with listings right as they go live online and uses automated emails to her clients. Her best advice for other agents and brokers in Washington is to be patient.
“Hold your buyer and sellers’ hands,” said Boyd. “Walk them through the process so they are comfortable because this is a stressful time for them.”
Boyd also suggests getting involved at your local association and in your community Relationship building is a key component to her success.
“Show up to events frequently. Going to one event is not enough,” added Boyd.
“Make sure as you are building your network, you continue to nurture your relationships.”
Want more tips and tricks from Boyd? Don’t miss her episode on The Drill Down, BIAW’s podcast.
For more information about membership and how to get involved, contact BIAW Membership Manager Karen Hall at (360) 352-7800 ext. 137 or karenh@biaw.com.
