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은퇴는 단순히 일을 그만두는 시점이 아니라, 새로운 인생의 시작이라고 할 수 있습니다. 수십 년 동안 열심히 살아온 시간을 마무리하고, 이제는 자신이 진정으로 원하는 삶을 살아갈 수 있는 시기이기도 합니다. 여행을 다니고, 손주들과 시간을 보내며, 오랫동안 미뤄둔 취미를 즐길 수 있는 자유로운 시간이 바로 지금입니다. 하지만 이 자유를 온전히 누리기 위해서는 현실적인 고민도 함께해야 합니다. 그 중 하나가 바로 지금 살고 있는 집과 지역이 앞으로의 삶에 과연 잘 맞는지 돌아보는 일입니다.   생활비 상승 속에서의 고민 최근 5년간 생활비가 23%나 상승했습니다. 이는 미국 노동통계국(BLS)이 발표한 소비자물가지수(CPI)를 기준으로 산정된 수치로, 우리가 일상적으로 사용하는 상품과 서비스의 가격이 그만큼 올랐다는 것을 의미합니다. 이처럼 물가가 오르면 아무리 은퇴 자금을 넉넉히 준비했다 하더라도 앞으로 10년, 20년을 안정적으로 살아가려면 전략적인 계획이 필요합니다. 새로운 선택, 새로운 가능성 요즘 많은 은퇴자들이 생활비가 더 저렴한 지역으로 이사하거나, 지금보다 작은 집으로 다운사이징하면서 예산에 여유를 두고 있습니다. 이렇게 확보한 자금은 손주들과의 여행, 건강관리, 또는 새로운 취미생활에 사용할 수 있어 은퇴 후 삶의 질을 높이는 데 도움이 됩니다. 재무전문 매체 Go Banking Rates는 은퇴 자금이 얼마나 필요한지는 어떤 지역에 거주하느냐에 따라 크게 달라질 수 있으며, 어디에서 은퇴 생활을 보낼지에 대한 결정이 매우 중요하다고 분석했습니다. 꼭 다른 주나 멀리로 이사하지 않더라도, 도시 외곽이나 생활비가 낮은 지역으로의 이동만으로도 큰 차이를 만들 수 있습니다. 중요한 것은 자신이 원하는 라이프스타일과 예산에 맞는 선택지를 찾는 것입니다. 지금이 계획을 세울 시점입니다 지금 살고 있는 집을 팔고 더 작은 집으로 이사하거나, 손주들과 가까운 지역으로 이동하고자 한다면, 지역에 밝은 부동산 전문가와 함께 계획을 세우는 것이 좋습니다. 전문가와 함께하면 집을 시장에 맞게 준비하고, 새로운 지역에서의 주거 환경을 미리 파악할 수 있으며, 타 지역으로의 이사도 보다 수월하게 준비할 수 있습니다. 마무리 열심히 살아온 만큼, 은퇴 후의 삶은 더욱 풍요롭고 의미 있어야 합니다. 지금의 집과 지역이 앞으로의 은퇴 계획에 맞지 않는다면, 변화가 필요할 수도 있습니다. 이사가 꼭 정답은 아니지만, 더 나은 삶을 위한 하나의 선택지가 될 수 있다는 점을 기억해두시길 바랍니다. 당신이 꿈꾸는 은퇴는 어떤 모습인가요? 그 꿈을 실현하기 위한 다음 단계는 무엇인가요? 지금 지역의 부동산 전문가와 상의해보시길 권해드립니다.

Retirement isn’t just the end of a career — it’s the beginning of a new chapter in life. After decades of hard work, this is your time to enjoy what truly matters: traveling, spending time with grandchildren, and diving into long-postponed hobbies. It’s a time of freedom, possibility, and personal fulfillment. But to fully enjoy this freedom, it’s important to consider some practical realities — like whether your current home and neighborhood still support the lifestyle you want in retirement. Rising Living Costs — A Real Concern Over the past five years, the cost of living has risen by 23%, according to the Consumer Price Index from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. That means everyday essentials and services are getting more expensive. Even with a well-prepared retirement fund, living comfortably for the next 10 to 20 years takes thoughtful planning. New Choices, New Possibilities More and more retirees are downsizing or relocating to areas with a lower cost of living. By making a smart move, you can stretch your budget further — freeing up money for travel, healthcare, or hobbies that bring you joy. Go Banking Rates highlights that where you choose to live in retirement can greatly affect how far your money goes. You don’t necessarily have to move to another state — sometimes moving just outside the city or to a more affordable neighborhood can make a meaningful difference. The key is finding a location and home that align with your budget and your desired lifestyle. Now’s the Time to Plan Ahead If you're thinking about selling your current home, downsizing, or moving closer to loved ones, this is the time to speak with a knowledgeable real estate expert. With the right guidance, you can prepare your home for sale, explore your options in a new area, and make a move that truly supports your retirement goals. Final Thoughts You’ve worked hard — your retirement should be rich with comfort and meaning. If your current home no longer fits your future, it might be time to consider a change. Moving isn’t the only answer, but it could be a powerful step toward the life you’ve dreamed of. What does your ideal retirement look like? What’s your next step toward making that dream a reality? Now’s the perfect time to connect with a real estate expert and start planning.

3%대 모기지 금리는 분명히 매력적인 조건입니다.실제로 이 낮은 금리 덕분에 많은 셀러들이 지난 몇 년간 이사를 미뤄왔던 것도 사실입니다. 하지만 아무리 낮은 이자율이라 해도, 공간이 비좁고 불편하거나, 가족과 너무 멀리 떨어져 사는 현실 을 감출 수는 없습니다.이런 '삶의 변화'는 지금도 수많은 사람들이  금리 걱정을 뛰어넘어 이사를 결정하게 만드는 이유 가 되고 있습니다. 금리 3% 이하 셀러 비중, 점점 줄고 있습니다 최근 데이터에 따르면, 3% 이하의 금리를 유지하고 있는 주택 소유자 비중은 서서히 감소하고 있습니다.이는  점점 더 많은 사람들이 이사 결정을 내리고 있다는 뜻 입니다.그에 따라  6% 이상의 금리를 받아들이는 셀러의 비중도 증가 하고 있습니다. 사람들이 이사를 결심하는 진짜 이유는 ‘금리’가 아닙니다 Realtor.com의 설문에 따르면,지금 집을 팔려고 고민 중인 셀러의  79%는 “어쩔 수 없는 이유” 때문에 이사를 고려 하고 있다고 합니다.그 이유 대부분은 금리나 재정 때문이 아니라,  삶의 구조와 환경 변화  때문입니다: 더 넓은 공간이 필요해서 자녀가 크면서 방이 부족해지거나, 부모님을 모시게 되면서 갑작스러운 공간 부족을 느끼는 경우가 많습니다. 이제는 더 작은 집이 어울려서 자녀들이 독립하고 나면, 큰 집은 관리만 부담이 됩니다. 다운사이징은 전기세, 난방비, 청소와 유지비까지 줄여주며 심리적으로도 큰 여유를 줄 수 있습니다. 가족과 가까워지고 싶어서 손주를 돌보거나, 연로한 부모님을 돌보기 위해 멀리서 지내는 것보다 가까이 있는 게 더 의미 있을 수 있습니다. 인생의 관계가 바뀌어서 이혼, 재혼, 혹은 새로운 동거가 생기면 자연스럽게 '새로운 시작'을 위한 집이 필요해집니다. 직장 이동이 생겨서 새로운 직장을 얻거나 배우자의 근무지가 바뀌면서 이사하게 되는 경우도 많습니다. 모기지 금리는 앞으로 어떻게 될까요? 전문가들에 따르면, 모기지 금리는 향후  천천히 완만하게 하락할 전망 입니다.하지만 기대하는 3%대 금리로의 복귀는 당분간 어려워 보입니다.그래서 금리 하락을 기다리기만 하다 보면, 지금 겪고 있는 불편함을 더 오랫동안 감내해야 할 수도 있습니다. Realtor.com의 자료에 따르면,이사 고민을 1년 이상 하고 있는 셀러가  전체의 3분의 2에 달한다 고 합니다.혹시 대표님도 그 중 한 분이신가요? 그렇다면, 지금 이 질문을 스스로 던져보셔야 할 때입니다: "나는 지금 내 삶을 얼마나 더 멈춰두고 기다릴 생각인가요?" 마무리하며 2020년에 "일단 살아보자"며 선택했던 집이2025년의 내 삶에는 맞지 않을 수 있습니다.그건  전혀 이상한 일이 아니고, 오히려 매우 자연스러운 일 입니다. 모기지 금리는 분명 중요한 변수입니다.하지만 더 중요한 질문은 이것입니다: 지금 내 삶에 맞는 집은 어떤 집인가요? 변화된 상황을 함께 짚어보고,대표님의 삶을 한 단계 끌어올릴 수 있는 이사 전략을 함께 고민해드리겠습니다. 📞 지금 내게 꼭 맞는 집이 무엇인지, 함께 찾아보세요 ‘시카고 복덕방 한상철’ 773-717-2227,  ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

The Right Home for Your Life Matters More There’s no denying it — a 3% mortgage rate sounds like a dream.It ’s one of the key reasons many homeowners have delayed moving over the past few years.But no matter how low the interest rate is,it can’t make up for  a cramped space, a long commute, or living far from your loved ones . For many, it’s not about chasing rates — it’s about adapting to real-life changes. 📉  Fewer Homeowners Are Holding 3% Mortgages Recent data shows that the number of homeowners still holding onto mortgage rates below 3% is gradually declining.That means  more and more people are deciding to move , even if it means taking on a 6%+ mortgage rate. 🏡  What’s Really Motivating Sellers? It’s Not Just Rates According to Realtor.com ,  79% of sellers  who are considering listing their homes say they’re moving for “non-negotiable” reasons —not because of rates or finances, but because of  life changes . For example: Needing more space Growing families, aging parents moving in, or work-from-home needs push people toward bigger homes. Needing less space Empty nesters find large homes hard to manage. Downsizing cuts costs (utilities, maintenance) and offers mental clarity. Wanting to be closer to family Grandkids, elderly parents, or life support systems—being nearby often matters more than any percentage point. New life chapter Divorce, remarriage, or starting over often calls for a new space that fits a new beginning. Job relocation New roles, promotions, or partner transfers mean life is moving — and housing needs to move with it. 📊  Will Mortgage Rates Drop Soon? Experts predict that mortgage rates may continue to  slowly decline  over time.But a return to the 3% range?  That’s unlikely anytime soon. Realtor.com also found that  two-thirds of sellers have been thinking about moving for over a year  —delaying in hopes of better rates, all while living in homes that no longer fit their needs. So ask yourself: “How long am I willing to put my life on hold — just to wait for a number?” 🧭  In Closing The home you chose in 2020 — when the world looked very different —might no longer serve your life in 2025. And that’s perfectly normal. Yes, mortgage rates matter.But an even better question is this: “What kind of home truly fits my life right now?” Let’s talk through the changes you’re facing and explore strategies that can elevate your lifestyle — not just your finances. 📞  Ready to find the home that fits your life today? Call  Hansang Chul of Chicago Bokdeokbang  at  773-717-2227  or email  ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

부동산 관련 용어 중에서  가장 자주 혼용되는 단어 가 바로 ‘디드(deed)’와 ‘타이틀(title)’입니다.겉으로 보기엔 같은 의미처럼 들리지만, 실제로는 전혀 다른 개념이며,이를 제대로 이해하지 못하면  법적 문제나 재정적 손해 로 이어질 수도 있습니다. 부동산을 매수하거나 매도하시는 과정에서,혹은 단순히 집 소유권과 관련된 서류를 이해하려 하실 때이 두 용어의 차이를 아는 것은 필수입니다. 디드(Deed): 소유권을 옮기는 '서류' ‘디드’는 말 그대로  부동산 소유권을 한 사람에서 다른 사람에게 공식적으로 이전하는 법적 문서 입니다.예를 들어, 매수인이 집을 사게 되면 매도인으로부터 디드를 넘겨받게 되며,이 서류는 매수인과 매도인의 서명이 모두 포함된  실물 문서 여야 합니다. 디드는 거래가 완료된 후  카운티 등기소에 공식적으로 등록되어야  법적으로 인정되는 소유권 이전이 됩니다. 디드에는 다양한 종류가 있습니다: 워런티 디드(Warranty Deed) : 이전 소유자가 소유권에 아무 하자도 없음을 보증 퀵클레임 디드(Quitclaim Deed) : 단순히 본인이 가진 권리를 넘기는 형태 (보증 없음) 타이틀(Title): ‘법적 소유권’ 그 자체 반면 ‘타이틀’은  문서가 아니라 개념 입니다.즉, 타이틀은 부동산에 대한  법적 소유권 상태 자체를 의미 하며,디드라는 문서를 통해 타이틀을 갖게 되는 구조입니다. 정리하자면, 디드는 ‘소유권 이전을 증명하는 문서’이고,타이틀은 ‘소유자임을 법적으로 인정받는 상태’ 라고 보시면 됩니다. 디드를 받는 과정과 타이틀 확보 절차 부동산 거래에서는  타이틀 회사나 변호사가 등기 기록을 철저히 조사 하여,해당 부동산이 정말 매도인의 소유가 맞는지,미납된 세금이나 담보권(lien), 상속 분쟁 등이 없는지를 확인합니다.이 과정이 바로  타이틀 서치(title search) 입니다. 이상이 없다면 클로징(Closing) 당일, 매도인이 타이틀을 매수인에게 이전하게 되며, 타이틀 회사 또는 에스크로 회사가 디드를 해당 카운티에 등기 하게 됩니다. 클로징 이후 몇 주 내로 디드가 등기되었다는 확인 통지가 오며,이 시점부터 매수인은 디드와 타이틀을 모두 갖춘  법적인 소유자가 되는 것 입니다. 타이틀 보험, 왜 꼭 필요할까요? 모든 서류가 깔끔해 보이더라도,때로는 숨겨진 권리 주장, 위조 서류, 미지급 세금, 과거의 상속 문제 등으로 인해 소유권에 문제가 생기는 경우가 있습니다. 이를 대비해 존재하는 것이  타이틀 보험(title insurance) 입니다. 오너의 타이틀 보험(Owner’s Title Insurance) : 과거에 발생했지만 클로징 당시 드러나지 않았던  소유권 결함 이나 분쟁으로부터 매수인을 보호합니다. 렌더의 타이틀 보험(Lender’s Title Insurance) : 대출기관의 권익을 보호하기 위한 보험으로, 보통 모기지를 받는 경우 은행이 필수로 요구합니다. 타이틀 보험은 단 한 번의 가입으로 평생 보호되며, 예상치 못한 법적 분쟁이나 수천 달러의 손실 로부터 나를 지켜주는 중요한 수단입니다. 마무리하며 부동산 거래는 단순히 집을 사고파는 것 이상입니다. 법적 소유권의 개념을 정확히 이해하고 ,디드와 타이틀의 차이를 알고 있는 것만으로도훨씬 안전하고 신뢰할 수 있는 거래가 가능합니다. 지금 거래를 준비하고 계시거나,과거에 산 집의 소유권 상태가 궁금하신가요? 소유권 확인, 타이틀 서치, 타이틀 보험 가입까지 시카고 복덕방이 함께 도와드리겠습니다. 📞 내 집의 소유권, 확실히 지키세요 ‘시카고 복덕방 한상철’ 773-717-2227,  ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

“Deed” and “title” are two of the most commonly confused terms in real estate.They may sound similar, but they refer to  completely different concepts , and not understanding the distinction can lead to  legal issues or financial loss . Whether you’re buying or selling a home—or just trying to understand your property ownership—knowing how these two terms work is essential. 📝  What Is a Deed? A  deed  is a  legal document  that transfers ownership of a property from one party to another.When you purchase a home, the seller signs over a deed to you.It must be a  physical document  signed by both parties and officially  recorded with the county  to be legally valid. There are different types of deeds: Warranty Deed:  Guarantees the title is clear and free of any issues Quitclaim Deed:  Transfers any ownership interest the seller has— without any guarantees 📌  What Is a Title? A  title  is  not a document —it’s a legal concept.It represents your  legal ownership  of the property. In simple terms: ✅  Deed = the document that transfers ownership ✅  Title = your legal right to own the property You receive the title  through  the deed. 🔍  Title Search & Closing: How Ownership Is Transferred Before closing, a  title company or attorney  conducts a  title search  to make sure: The seller really owns the property There are no unpaid taxes, liens, or legal disputes attached to it If everything is clear, the  title is transferred to the buyer on closing day , and the  deed is recorded  with the county. After a few weeks, you’ll receive confirmation that the deed has been officially recorded—and from that moment, you hold both the  deed and the title  as the legal owner. 🛡  Why Title Insurance Matters Even if everything looks clean, hidden issues can pop up later: Fraudulent or forged documents Unknown heirs claiming inheritance Unpaid taxes or liens not previously discovered That’s why  title insurance  exists. Owner’s Title Insurance : Protects you from title defects or ownership disputes Lender’s Title Insurance : Protects the mortgage lender’s interest and is usually required when taking out a loan You  only pay once , but you're protected for as long as you own the home. ✅  In Summary Real estate isn’t just about buying and selling—it’s about  protecting your legal rights .Understanding the difference between a  deed and a title  makes your transaction smoother and safer. Have questions about your ownership status or preparing for a purchase or sale?Let  Chicago Bokdeokbang  help you with title searches, deed recording, and insurance coverage. 📞  Protect your home ownership the smart way! Call  Hansang Chul of Chicago Bokdeokbang  at  773-717-2227  or email  ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

집을 파실 계획이라면, 집 안에서 신발을 벗는 ‘노 슈즈(No Shoes)’ 정책이 단순한 생활 습관이 아니라  부동산 전략 이 될 수 있다는 사실, 알고 계셨나요? 요즘 같은 경쟁이 치열한 시장에서는 작은 디테일 하나가 큰 차이를 만들어냅니다.그중에서도 바닥의 상태는 바이어에게  첫인상을 좌우하는 중요한 요소 입니다. 바닥이 바이어에게 주는 첫인상 바닥은 바이어가 집에 들어섰을 때 가장 먼저 눈에 들어오는 요소 중 하나라고 합니다.깨끗하게 관리된 바닥은 위생적이고 관리가 잘 되어 있다는 인상을 주며,구매 결정에 있어 신뢰감을 높이는 중요한 요소가 될 수 있습니다. 반대로,  스크래치 난 마루, 얼룩진 카펫, 깨진 타일 등은 집 전체 관리 상태에 대한 의심을 유발 할 수 있습니다. 바닥 상태는 ‘빛’과 ‘공간감’에도 영향을 줍니다 바닥은 단지 위생의 문제가 아닙니다.광택 있는 마루나 반짝이는 타일은  공간을 더 넓고 밝게 보이게  만들고,반대로 손상된 바닥은  답답하고 낡아 보이게  만들 수 있습니다. 게다가 바닥은 교체 비용이 상당히 높은 항목입니다.바이어 입장에서는 처음부터 손 볼 필요 없이  바로 입주 가능한 바닥 상태 가 큰 메리트로 작용합니다. 바닥 종류별 '노 슈즈 정책'의 효과 하드우드 바닥 : 흙, 자갈, 하이힐 자국 등을 방지해 스크래치를 예방하고, 나무 본연의 윤기를 오래 유지시켜줍니다. 잘 관리된 우드 플로어는  집값을 2.5%까지 높일 수 있다 는 연구 결과도 있습니다. 카펫 : 외부에서 유입되는 먼지, 기름, 세균 등을 차단해 얼룩과 냄새를 줄이고, 푹신하고 깨끗한 인상을 유지 할 수 있습니다. 타일, 비닐, 라미네이트 : 먼지와 마찰로 인한 스크래치 방지, 타일 줄눈 오염 감소, 광택 유지 효과가 있습니다. 바이어가 '신발 벗는 집'을 보는 시선 깨끗하고 깔끔하게 관리된 바닥은 단순한 청결을 넘어, 집 전체가 정성스럽게 관리되었다는 신뢰감을 줍니다. 포스트 팬데믹 시대를 살아가는 바이어들은 위생과 건강에 더욱 민감해졌고,‘노 슈즈 하우스’는 이런 바이어에게  매우 긍정적인 인상 을 줍니다. 아이를 키우는 가정이나 알레르기에 민감한 사람들, 건강을 중시하는 바이어는 공기질, 박테리아, 미세먼지까지 고려하여  '신발 벗는 집'에 더 높은 가치를 두는 경향이 있습니다. 곧 집을 내놓을 예정이라면? 이렇게 준비해보세요 정중한 안내문 부착 입구에 "바닥 보호를 위해 신발을 벗어주세요. 감사합니다." 같은 문구의 깔끔한 안내판을 설치하세요. 슬리퍼나 일회용 슈커버 제공 방문객이 편하게 느낄 수 있도록 여러 사이즈의 슬리퍼나 슈커버를 준비해 두세요. 입구 정리 공간 마련 신발장, 벤치, 작은 러그 등을 배치해 자연스럽게 신발을 벗을 수 있도록 유도하세요. 바닥 관리 루틴 만들기 오픈하우스 전에는 먼지 제거, 광택 작업 등 가벼운 클리닝을 해두는 것이 좋습니다. 마무리하며 바닥은 바이어가 집에 들어섰을 때  가장 먼저 느끼는 품질의 상징 입니다.잘 관리된 바닥은 집 전체의 가치를 높이며, 바이어에게 신뢰와 매력을 동시에 전달합니다.그리고 그 시작은 아주 단순한 습관, 바로  신발 벗기 에서 출발할 수 있습니다. 만약 곧 집을 시장에 내놓을 계획이시라면,오늘부터라도 ‘노 슈즈 하우스’로 전환해보시는 건 어떨까요? 📞 시카고 집값 높이는 디테일 전략, 함께 고민해드립니다 ‘시카고 복덕방 한상철’ 773-717-2227,  ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

If you're getting ready to sell your home, did you know that implementing a simple “No Shoes Indoors” policy could actually be a smart real estate strategy? In today’s competitive housing market, the smallest details can have a big impact. One of the most overlooked — but highly influential — features is the  condition of your floors . 👣  First Impressions: Floors Speak Volumes The moment a buyer steps inside, the floor is often the first thing they notice.Well-maintained floors create an impression of cleanliness, care, and move-in readiness.On the other hand, scratched wood, stained carpets, or chipped tiles can raise doubts about how well the home has been maintained overall. ✨  Clean Floors = Brighter, Bigger Spaces It’s not just about hygiene.Shiny hardwood or polished tiles can make a space feel larger and brighter.In contrast, dull or damaged flooring can make a home feel smaller, older, or less inviting. And since flooring is expensive to replace, buyers often favor homes where the floors need little to no work. A home with great floors feels move-in ready — and that’s a big plus. 🧼  How a No-Shoes Policy Helps Each Flooring Type Hardwood:  Prevents scratches from dirt, gravel, or high heels. Keeps the natural luster longer. Some studies suggest well-maintained wood floors can raise home value by up to 2.5%. Carpet:  Reduces stains, odors, and bacteria brought in from outside. Keeps a fresh and soft feel. Tile, Vinyl, Laminate:  Helps prevent grime in grout lines and protects the glossy finish from wear and tear. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦  What Buyers Think of “No Shoes” Homes Clean floors signal more than just tidiness — they suggest  overall care and attention to detail .Post-pandemic buyers are more hygiene-conscious than ever. Families with kids, allergy sufferers, or health-conscious individuals are especially likely to see a no-shoes home as more desirable. 🛠️  Selling Soon? Here’s How to Prepare Post a polite sign  at the entrance: “Please remove your shoes to help us keep the floors clean. Thank you!” Offer slippers or disposable shoe covers  for guests Create a shoe-friendly entryway  with a bench, mat, or small rug Clean your floors  before showings — a quick polish goes a long way! ✅  Bottom Line Floors set the tone the moment a buyer walks in.A clean, well-kept floor enhances your home’s value and helps build buyer trust.And it can all start with one simple habit — taking your shoes off. Thinking of listing your home soon? Start with the floors — and let “Chicago Bokdeokbang” guide you with every detail. 📞  Call: 773-717-2227 📧  Email:  ChicagoBDB@gmail.com

지난 몇 년간, 마음에 드는 집을 찾는 일이 거의  불가능에 가까웠던  시기가 있었습니다.매물이 적고 경쟁이 치열했던 시장에서 바이어들은 소수의 옵션 속에서 선택을 강요받았고,때로는 원하는 조건을 포기하면서까지 집을 사야 했습니다. 하지만 지금은 상황이 달라지고 있습니다. 전국적으로 증가하는 매물 최근 Realtor.com의 데이터에 따르면,  미국 전역에서 매물 수가 증가하고 있는 추세 입니다.미국 4개 지역 모두에서 매물이 전년 대비 최소 19% 이상 증가했으며,특히 서부 지역에서는  무려 41% 가까이 매물이 늘어난 것 으로 나타났습니다. 이처럼 매물이 증가하는 데는 두 가지 주요 이유가 있습니다: 판매를 미루던 셀러들이 움직이기 시작했습니다. 그동안 낮은 이자율을 기다리며 집을 내놓지 않던 셀러들이, 더는 기다릴 수 없다고 판단하고 시장에 나오고 있습니다. 실제로  올해 5월은 지난 3년간 5월 중 가장 많은 신규 리스팅이 나온 달 이었습니다. 집이 팔리는 데 걸리는 시간이 길어졌습니다. 시장에 나온 매물들이 더 오래 머무르게 되면서, 전체 매물 숫자가 자연스럽게 늘어났습니다. 예를 들어, 5월 기준으로 평균 판매 기간은 51일로, 팬데믹 이전 시장의 전형적인 흐름에 가까워지고 있습니다. 결과적으로,  이제 바이어들이 선택할 수 있는 기회가 많아졌고 ,시장도 점차 균형을 되찾는 중이라는 평가가 나오고 있습니다. Realtor.com의 수석 이코노미스트인 Danielle Hale은 현재 상황을 다음과 같이 분석했습니다: 많은 시장에서 매물이 증가하고 있어 바이어들이 수년 만에 더 많은 선택지를 가질 수 있게 되었고, 시장이 점차 균형을 향해 가고 있다 고 합니다. 지역마다 회복 속도는 다릅니다 다만 주의할 점은,  모든 지역이 동일하게 회복되고 있는 것은 아니라는 점 입니다.일부 지역은 이미 팬데믹 이전 수준의 매물 수를 회복했지만,다른 지역은 아직 이전 평균에 미치지 못하고 있는 상황입니다. Realtor.com의 또 다른 분석 자료에서는,2017~2019년 ‘정상적인’ 시장과 비교했을 때일부 지역은 현재 매물이 평균 수준까지 회복된 반면,다른 지역은 아직 개선이 필요하다는 점을 보여주고 있습니다. 지금 이 지역의 시장은 어떤가요? 중요한 건  내가 살고자 하는 지역에서 실제로 어떤 변화가 일어나고 있는지 아는 것 입니다.전체적인 수치는 참고가 될 수 있지만,  구체적인 매물 수와 시장 흐름은 지역마다 다르기 때문입니다. 따라서 지금 내 집 마련을 고민하고 계시다면, 그 지역의 시장 상황을 잘 아는 리얼터와 함께 움직이시는 것이 중요합니다. 실제 매물이 얼마나 늘어났는지, 어떤 조건의 집들이 시장에 나와 있는지,그리고 나의 상황에 맞는 전략이 무엇인지 현실적인 조언을 받을 수 있습니다. 마무리하며 전국적으로 매물이 늘어나고 있고,시장은 바이어에게 조금씩 유리한 방향으로 움직이고 있습니다. 하지만  정상적인 시장 회복까지는 지역에 따라 시간차가 존재하기 때문에 ,지역 전문가와 함께 정확한 시장 흐름을 파악하고 전략을 세우는 것이 매우 중요합니다. 혹시 요즘 마음에 드는 매물을 못 찾고 계셨다면, 지금이 다시 한번 살펴볼 타이밍일 수 있습니다.

Over the past few years, finding the right home has often felt nearly impossible.With limited inventory and intense competition, buyers were forced to make tough choices — often settling for homes that didn’t meet all their needs. But things are starting to change. A Nationwide Rise in Listings According to recent data from Realtor.com , housing inventory is on the rise across the United States.All four major U.S. regions have seen year-over-year listing increases of at least  19% ,with the  Western region  leading the way — showing a nearly  41%  surge in available homes. So, what’s behind the boost in listings? Two main factors: Sellers are re-entering the market. Many homeowners who had delayed selling — hoping for lower interest rates — are now deciding they can’t wait any longer. In fact, this May saw more new listings than any May in the past three years. Homes are taking longer to sell. With properties staying on the market longer, total inventory has naturally increased. For example, in May, the average time on market reached  51 days , a pace closer to pre-pandemic norms. As a result,  buyers now have more choices , and experts agree the market is gradually moving toward a healthier balance.Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com , notes: “Inventory is growing in many markets, giving buyers more options for the first time in years and signaling a shift toward a more balanced market.” Not All Markets Are Recovering Equally That said, recovery isn’t uniform across all areas.Some markets have returned to pre-pandemic inventory levels,while others still fall short of historic averages. Another Realtor.com analysis shows that when compared to the 2017–2019 “normal” market,some regions have made a full comeback, while others are still catching up. So, What About Your Local Market? While national trends are helpful,  what really matters is what’s happening in your target neighborhood .Real estate is hyper-local, and inventory levels can vary widely by area. If you’re considering buying a home, it’s crucial to connect with a trusted real estate professionalwho understands your local market.They can provide insight into how much inventory has actually increased,what kinds of homes are available, and how to craft a strategy that fits your situation. In Summary Housing inventory is rising across the country,and the market is slowly shifting in favor of buyers.However, because every region is recovering at its own pace,working with a local expert is key to making informed decisions. If you’ve been struggling to find the right home, this could be the moment to start looking again  — with fresh options and more negotiating power on your side.

호숫가 집, 한 번쯤은 꿈꿔보셨죠? 매일 휴가 온 듯한 기분으로 사는 삶, 상상만 해도 기분이 좋아집니다. 은퇴를 앞두신 분이든, 조용한 자연 속 내 집 마련을 꿈꾸는 분이든, 혹은 부동산 포트폴리오를 다양화하려는 투자자든, 호숫가 주택은 눈여겨볼 가치가 있습니다. 그렇다면 호숫가 부동산을 구매하려면 어떤 점들을 고려해야 할까요? 함께 살펴보시죠. 호숫가 집, 어떻게 찾아야 할까요? 호숫가 집을 고려하신다면, 가장 먼저 해야 할 일은 어떤 지역의 호숫가가 본인에게 맞는지를 파악하는 것입니다. Lake Homes Realty와 Beach Homes Realty의 CEO 글렌 필립스는 시장을 직접 경험해보는 것이 중요하다고 조언합니다. 그는 해당 지역을 여러 번 방문해 보고, 계절에 따라 어떤 변화가 있는지 느껴보라고 이야기합니다. 예를 들어, 어떤 호수는 1년 내내 수위가 일정하지만, 다른 호수는 겨울이면 수위가 낮아지기도 합니다. 어떤 환경이 본인의 라이프스타일에 맞는지 판단하는 것이 중요합니다. 또 하나 고려해야 할 것은 HOA(주택 소유자 협회)입니다. 일부 호숫가 커뮤니티는 HOA가 있어 별도의 관리비가 청구됩니다. 이 추가 비용이 본인에게 감당 가능한지 따져보셔야 합니다. 예산과 원하는 조건이 정해졌다면, 해당 지역에서 호숫가 거래 경험이 풍부한 부동산 전문가와 함께하는 것이 좋습니다. 온라인으로도 호숫가 매물을 검색해보실 수 있습니다. 빈 땅에 짓고 싶다면? 기존 주택이 아닌 빈 땅을 구매해 직접 짓고 싶은 분들도 계실 겁니다. 필립스는 기존 주택과 토지를 비교하며, 빈 땅은 미지수가 많기 때문에 신중함이 필요하다고 설명합니다. 예를 들어, 기존 호숫가 주택은 이미 하수처리 문제, 호수 접근성, 해안선 문제 등이 어느 정도 해결돼 있지만, 빈 땅은 이런 부분을 처음부터 확인하고 결정해야 합니다. 시간이 더 걸릴 수 있다는 점을 염두에 두셔야 합니다. 호숫가 생활의 현실은? 물가에 사는 가장 큰 장점은 바로 '여유로움과 즐거움'입니다. 자연과 함께하는 생활은 힐링이 되고, 대부분의 호숫가 커뮤니티는 부동산 가치도 잘 유지되는 편입니다. 하지만 단점도 있습니다. 물 근처에 있는 집은 더 많은 유지보수가 필요하고, 그만큼 시간과 비용이 들 수 있습니다. 게다가 해당 지역의 규정이나 특별한 관리 조항이 있을 수도 있으니 이를 반드시 확인해야 합니다. 또한, 호숫가 주택을 판매할 때는 잠재 구매자가 해당 지역에 살지 않을 가능성이 높아, 마케팅과 매매 과정이 더 길어질 수 있습니다. 실제로 필립스는 이런 물건은 꼭 사야 하는 경우가 아니기 때문에, 구매자들이 오랫동안 매물을 지켜보며 신중하게 결정한다고 이야기합니다. 그리고 기후 변화 역시 물가 주택에 영향을 줄 수 있는 요소입니다. 특히 노스캐롤라이나처럼 기후변화로 인한 영향을 받을 수 있는 지역은 더욱 조심해야 합니다. 호숫가 주택의 수익성은? 희소성과 수요 덕분에 호숫가 주택은 장기적으로 봤을 때 높은 가치 상승을 기대할 수 있습니다. 자기 거주용이든, 투자용이든, 적절한 가격에 잘 구매한다면 충분히 좋은 투자처가 될 수 있습니다. 필립스는 팬데믹 당시 호숫가 주택이 급격하게 거래되며 비싼 가격에 팔렸지만, 이런 매물들은 지금 다시 팔 경우 원가에 가까운 수준으로 거래될 가능성이 높다고 설명합니다. 투자 수익을 극대화하려면 숙련된 컨트랙터와 함께 유지관리를 잘 해야 하고, 도크, 수영장, 온수 욕조, 야외 주방 등 다양한 편의시설을 더해 부가가치를 높이는 것도 좋은 전략이 될 수 있습니다. 결론 호숫가 주택은 단순한 집 이상의 의미를 가질 수 있습니다. 안정적인 거주 공간이자 장기적으로 가치를 더할 수 있는 투자처입니다. 하지만 그만큼 꼼꼼한 계획과 지역 이해, 그리고 철저한 준비가 필요합니다. 호숫가에서의 삶을 진지하게 고민하고 계시다면, 경험 많은 전문가와 함께 첫걸음을 내딛어 보시길 권합니다.

Have you ever dreamed of living in a lakefront house? A life where every day feels like a vacation—just imagining it already brings a sense of joy. Whether you’re approaching retirement, dreaming of a quiet life in nature, or looking to diversify your real estate portfolio, lakefront properties are worth considering. So, what should you consider when buying lakefront real estate? Let’s take a look. How to Find a Lakefront Home If you're thinking about a lakefront home, the first step is to determine which lakefront areas suit your needs. Glen Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty and Beach Homes Realty, advises that experiencing the market firsthand is key. He recommends visiting the area several times and seeing how it changes with the seasons. For example, some lakes maintain a constant water level year-round, while others may experience lower water levels in the winter. It’s essential to assess which environment aligns with your lifestyle. Another important factor to consider is the  Homeowners Association (HOA) . Some lakefront communities have an HOA, which may charge additional fees for maintenance and services. You’ll need to decide if these extra costs are manageable for you. Once you’ve defined your budget and desired features, it’s best to work with a real estate expert who has experience with lakefront properties in that area. You can also search online for lakefront listings. Interested in Buying Land to Build? If you're interested in purchasing land rather than an existing home to build your own, Phillips explains that land comes with more unknowns and requires careful consideration. Unlike existing lakefront homes, which already have resolved issues like sewage, lake access, and shoreline conditions, vacant land requires you to assess these aspects from scratch. It may take longer to complete the process, so keep that in mind. The Realities of Lakefront Living The biggest advantage of living near water is the “peace and enjoyment” it brings. Life surrounded by nature is healing, and most lakefront communities tend to maintain strong real estate value. However, there are some drawbacks. Homes by the water require more maintenance, which can be time-consuming and costly. Additionally, it’s crucial to check for specific regulations or management provisions for the area before purchasing. Furthermore, when selling a lakefront home, potential buyers may not be local, which could lengthen the marketing and sales process. Phillips notes that these properties aren’t something buyers feel they must purchase immediately, so they often take more time to make decisions. Climate change can also affect lakefront properties, particularly in regions like North Carolina, where environmental changes might impact these areas more significantly. Profitability of Lakefront Homes Due to their rarity and demand, lakefront homes can see significant long-term value appreciation. Whether for personal residence or investment, buying at the right price can make for a good investment opportunity. Phillips explains that during the pandemic, lakefront homes were rapidly sold at high prices, but these properties might sell closer to their original cost if resold now. To maximize investment returns, it’s important to work with skilled contractors for proper maintenance. Adding amenities like docks, pools, hot tubs, and outdoor kitchens can also increase the property’s value. Conclusion Lakefront homes can mean more than just a place to live—they can be a stable residence and a long-term investment. However, they require careful planning, understanding of the area, and thorough preparation. If you are seriously considering life on the lake, it’s best to take the first step with an experienced professional by your side.