Tuesday, December 31, 2024

🔥 2025 Real Estate Secrets Unlocked + Top Trends You Can’t Miss! 🔑

͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ 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͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­ ͏ ‌     ­
 ͏  ͏  ͏  ͏ ͏  ͏  ͏  ͏ ͏  ͏  ͏  ͏ ͏  ͏  ͏  ͏ ͏  ͏  ͏  ͏ ͏  ͏  ͏  ͏


As we wrap up 2024 and step boldly into 2025, I hope your holiday season was filled with joy, laughter, and everything that makes this time of year magical. Here's to a wonderful Christmas, an excellent New Year, and a 2025 filled with health, happiness, and success.


This month's newsletter is packed with exciting insights you won't want to miss. Whether you're looking to invest, buy, sell, or just stay ahead of the curve, there's something here for everyone. Dive into topics like:


🏦 Wanna Make Bank, Bro? Move to Avondale!
📈 2025 Market Forecast: Insights from Housing and Mortgage Experts
🏙️ Top Commercial Real Estate Trends for 2025: How Phoenix is Affected
🤫 Arizona's Secret is Out: Why It's Perfect for Young Families
🏢 November's Condo Market: Phoenix, Scottsdale, & Tempe – A Must-Read!
🏡 The Top 10 Home Design Trends to Watch for in 2025


Each article is designed to give you actionable tips and valuable knowledge to navigate today's real estate market like a pro. Scroll down, and let's make 2025 your year!

Market Snapshot🎯November 2024


Wanna Make Bank🏦, Bro? Move to Avondale!


Looking for a place where the paychecks are fat and the vibes are fresh? Say hello to Avondale, Arizona, where the median household income jumped 29.4% in just one year—from $66,801 in 2022 to $86,428 in 2023 (thanks, CNBC!).


Why Avondale is Winning

  • Prime Location: Close to Phoenix, with room to breathe.

  • Job Opportunities: Growing industries like healthcare, tech, and manufacturing.

  • Thriving Community: New businesses, new homes, new energy.


Live Well in Avondale

  • Top Schools: Families love the education options.

  • Outdoor Fun: From hiking at Estrella Mountain to Phoenix Raceway action.

  • Friendly Vibes: Tight-knit community feels like home.

Avondale's Real Estate Scoop

  • Inventory: A 4.21-month supply means balance, but buyers have the edge.

  • Selling Speed: Homes average 66 days on market—plenty of time to find your fit.

  • Solid Pricing: Median sold price is $417,731, with sellers holding close to asking.


Avondale = Future Goals

With rising incomes and sustainable growth, Avondale is only going up. Whether you're buying, selling, or investing, now's the time to get in on the action.

the so-Called Housing Experts Weigh In: 2025 Market Forecast

As 2024 wraps up, the 2025 housing market forecast is cautiously optimistic. Experts predict steady recovery—rising home prices, modest sales growth, and no crash in sight—but let's be real: they're not always spot-on.


Key Predictions

Home Prices

  • Average increase: +2.6%

    • Goldman Sachs: +4.4%

    • Wells Fargo: +4.3%

    • HousingWire: +3.5%

    • Pulsenomics Survey: +3.2%

    • Fannie Mae & Morgan Stanley: +3%

    • MBA: +2.9%

    • Zelman, CoreLogic, Zillow: +2.3%

Home Sales

  • Total forecasted sales: 4.47 million

    • Fannie Mae: 4.5 million

    • MBA: 4.3 million

    • Goldman Sachs & HousingWire: 4.2 million

    • NAR: 4 million

Inventory

  • 720,000 active listings projected by year-end (up 13%).


What It Means for You

  • Buyers: Inventory growth = more options. Act now to secure lower prices.

  • Sellers: Rising home values and low competition make it a great time to sell.

  • Investors: Stabilized growth means safe opportunities to expand portfolios.

2025 is shaping up to be a year of cautious optimism. Whether buying, selling, or investing, strategy is key.


Let's Make Your 2025 Move!

Speaking of Predictions…


After roasting the housing experts, it's only fair we give the so-called mortgage gurus their moment. They've rolled out their 2025 rate forecasts, and let's just say, their crystal balls don't exactly scream "good news." Here's a quick breakdown of what they're predicting for mortgage rates next year.


👇 Keep reading for the numbers and what it means for you!


Mortgage Gurus Predict 2025 Rates

Remember when we called out the housing experts for their bold 2025 market guesses? Well, now it's the mortgage gurus' turn! ResiClub compiled rate predictions from 14 firms, and the consensus points to an average forecast of 6.34% by late 2025.


Here's the lineup:

  • Redfin: 6.80% (Clearly, their crystal ball needs a software update).

  • Capital Economics: 6.75% (Still banking on us crying over interest rates).

  • Hunter Housing Economics: 6.60% (A little less pessimistic but still a buzzkill).

  • CoreLogic: 6.50% (Not bad, but I wouldn't pop the champagne yet).

  • Wells Fargo: 6.41% (Trying to be the Goldilocks of predictions—just right).

  • Mortgage Bankers Association: 6.40% (Apparently, Wells' backup singer).

  • Fannie Mae & Moody's: 6.30% (Twinning, with a "meh" vibe).

  • Morgan Stanley & BrightMLS: 6.25% (They must've copied each other's homework).

  • Realtor.com: 6.20% (Trying to sweeten the pot, but still a no).

  • NAHB: 6.12% (Probably stopped guessing halfway through).

  • Goldman Sachs: 6.10% (Could you please share some optimism?).

  • NAR: 5.80% (The bold kid in the class—aiming high, or should I say, low?).


The Average Guess: 6.34%


Earlier this year, experts were hinting that rates could drop below 6%. But now? Most agree that rates will likely hover above 6% for the foreseeable future.

My advice: Plan for rates around 6%, budget wisely, and stay flexible. Have any thoughts or strategies for 2025? Let me know!

Top Commercial Real Estate Trends for 2025: How Phoenix is Affected.

As 2025 unfolds, the commercial real estate (CRE) sector is bracing for transformative changes. Key trends highlighted by Forbes provide a glimpse into what lies ahead and how Phoenix stands to benefit:

  • Office Market Stability: A 5% rise in leasing volume and prime spaces becoming scarce signal opportunities for Phoenix's office market.

  • Industrial Growth: Demand for data centers, cold storage, and EV battery plants aligns with Phoenix's growing tech and logistics sectors.

  • Enhanced Workplaces: Companies in Phoenix are prioritizing well-designed offices to attract employees back, fostering collaboration and productivity.

  • Retail Rent Increases: Limited new construction may hike rents, but securing long-term leases can be advantageous for Phoenix retailers.

  • Biotech Expansion: The city's thriving healthcare sector benefits from the rise of flexible, tech-savvy lab facilities.

  • Border-Accessible Development: Proximity to trade corridors positions Phoenix as a hub for industrial growth.

  • Noise Solutions: Sophisticated sound management will redefine office spaces as employees return.

  • Collaborative Spaces: More "we" spaces will encourage teamwork and innovation in Phoenix workplaces.


Phoenix is uniquely poised to adapt and thrive with these trends. By anticipating shifts and staying proactive, local professionals can capitalize on the opportunities 2025 has to offer.


You can read the Forbes article here and you can read my full post here.

Shhh... Arizona's Secret is Out: A Haven for Young Families


Arizona is no longer just for retirees—it's becoming the go-to destination for young families. Why? Affordable living, spacious homes, a booming job market, and endless recreation make it irresistible.


More Space, More Value

Cities like Buckeye offer some of the largest rental homes in the U.S., averaging 1,409 sq. ft. Gilbert, Chandler, and Scottsdale also provide roomy apartments above the national average of 901 sq. ft., making Arizona perfect for growing families.


Affordability with Challenges

While prices are rising due to demand, suburbs like Gilbert and Surprise are expanding inventory, offering hope for better affordability.


California Families Are Moving In

With homes 49% cheaper in Maricopa County than in Los Angeles, Californians are flocking to Arizona. The savings? An average of $361K per home.


Arizona's mix of affordability, space, and community makes it a top choice for young families. Thinking of making the move? Let me know!


Learn More: Explore Arizona's Real Estate Trends

Decoding November's Condo Market: Phoenix, Scottsdale, & Tempe – A Must-Read for Buyers and Sellers!


The latest condo market trends are in!

  • Phoenix: 7.08 months of inventory (+140%), Median Price: $322,450

  • Scottsdale: 7.02 months of inventory (+98.87%), Median Price: $479,250

  • Tempe: 5.05 months of inventory (+105%), Median Price: $326,000


Buyers enjoy more options, while sellers must price smartly to stay competitive.

Provided by PhxCondosForSale.com – Your source for expert real estate insights.

[Learn More]

the top 10 home design trends to watch for in 2025.


  1. English-Style Kitchens: Featuring rich woods and historical paint colors, these cozy kitchens include natural countertops, wood ceiling beams, and large range alcoves.

  2. Rounded Furnishings: Organic modern styles continue with circular coffee and dining tables, bulbous sofas, and accent chairs.

  3. Arches: Arched walls, doorways, windows, and accessories add playfulness and soften harsh angles.

  4. Shower Rooms: Enclosed shower spaces create a spa-like feel, offering privacy and features like steam and sauna functions.

  5. Kitchen Range Alcoves: These recessed areas create architectural focal points in kitchens and support striking backsplash designs.

  6. Woven and Mesh Cabinet Fronts: Adding texture and visual interest, these details are used in kitchens, bathrooms, and furniture.

  7. Narrow Wet Rooms: Smaller, luxurious wet rooms with shower and tub arrangements are becoming popular in tight spaces.

  8. Wood-Infused Architectural Warmth: Warm neutrals and wood elements add coziness to interiors, shifting away from cool whites and grays.

  9. Layers of Color, Pattern, and Texture: Maximalist styles embrace bold colors, patterns, and textures to reflect personal tastes.

  10. Multiple Outdoor Cooking Options: Beyond just grills, homeowners are incorporating pizza ovens, smokers, and gaucho grills in their backyards.


For a deeper dive into these trends, you can read the full article by Melissa Dittmann Tracey on the National Association of REALTORS® website.

IN OTHER NEWS

Monday, December 30, 2024

Free Download: 'Ingenious Mechanicks' – Plus Our Favorite Spokeshaves

Download 'Ingenious Mechanicks' Free, Plus Our Favorite Spokeshaves

A quick look at all the stuff Lost Art Press published during the last seven days.

We are starting off a busy week today. Megan is in Greenville, South Carolina, speaking to the guild there. Kale is helping get our new Brass Bevel Monkeys ready to ship, and I'm prepping lumber for a class next week. Here's what you might have missed last week….


Lost Art Press Blog


Download 'Ingenious Mechanicks' For Free – Today and Always

As a small contribution to the craft that has given me so much, I've been making all of my books free for a pdf download. Last week, I made "Ingenious Mechanicks" free. This book is about my exploration of Roman workbenches and early workholding. You don't have to register or sign up for sleazy marketing to get it. Just go to the blog entry and there are links for this bok and six others that are free.


'Cut & Dried' Third Printing

This massive volume on wood and how to understand its properties is at the printer for its third run. Author Richard Jones made some small revisions and expansions to the book. We had to change the cover a bit to keep the retail price the same.


Roubo's Craftsmen Sing the Songs of the Season

It wouldn't be Christmas without researcher Suzanne Ellison doing a fun mash-up of an 18th century woodworking drawing and modern Christmas songs.


The American Peasant Substack


Everyday Errors Made Every Day

A look into the messy and frustrating way I design furniture and build prototypes. Plus, a look at the mistakes I made on the way to developing my high stool design for "The Anarchist's Design Book."

(Free for everyone)


The Peak of Poo

A preview of the introduction to my next book "Build a Chair from Bulls%$t," which shows how to make a nice chair from home center materials. Details on the chair (and photos!) are in the entry.

(For paid subscribers, with a free preview)


The Anarchist's Apprentice Substack


Reflections from Charles Hayward

With Kale on vacation, we posted this classic piece from Charles Hayward and his recollections of his time as an apprentice in the early 20th century.

(Free for everyone)


Never Sponsored Substack


The Spokeshaves I Use & Recommend

Like most chairmakers, I am particular about my spokeshaves. Here's why I chose the Veritas shaves over all others.

(Free for everyone)

a wooden stool sitting on top of a wooden table

On Instagram This Week

I've been posting photos of the chair and stool that will be in my next book: "Build a Chair from Bulls%$t."

Monday, December 23, 2024

A Grape Eating Fox, Home Center Chair Legs & a Measuring Tape War

A Grape Eating Fox, Home Center Chair Legs & a Measuring Tape War. Yep, You Read That Right.

A quick look at all the stuff Lost Art Press published during the last seven days.

With the holidays around the corner, we're tying up as many loose ends we can here before our holiday break. Chris is knee-deep in his new book, Megan is cutting dovetails for the blanket chest she's recreating for Williamsburg – and me? I've been carving an awful lot of spoons as I prepare for my next apprenticeship chair. Here's last week in a nutshell.

– Kale


Lost Art Press Blog


Our Top-selling Titles of 2024

A list you didn't know you wanted. Chris shares the top ten, best-selling titles of the year for Lost Art Press. Did your favorite make the list?


The Fox and Grapes on a Philadelphia High Chest

Take a close look at an 18th-century Philadelphia high chest featuring an impressive carved scene of a fox reaching for grapes. What story was this carver attempting to tell?


A Miscellany of 19th-century Tennessee Cabinetmakers & Chairmakers

Contributor Suzanne Ellison's research never misses. Here, Suzanne compiles over a dozen historic newspaper ads from carpenters, cabinetmakers and chairmakers dating from 1809 to 1840. This read is sure to scratch your history itch.


Holiday Shutdown: Dec. 24 – Jan. 1

See ya next year, folks!


Woodworking Charities We Love & Support

It's not too late to give this holiday season. Here's a list of organizations Lost Art Press continues to support so you can too.


Impressed with the Simplicity

"So I had first to unlearn, and then learn. I was lucky in the order that things happened to me. First, I built some chairs – then I got the books and found out how it should be done. By then I was conceited enough to think that I was closer to the men that built the chairs, 200 years ago, than the sophisticated authors. I have no intention of telling anyone how to build a stick chair, but I will tell you how I do it."

– John Brown

The American Peasant Substack


An 'Interesting' Way of Doing a Book

Chris has written many books – but he's never done it like this before. Get a sneak peak of Chris's latest work and his new book-writing process.

(For paid subscribers, with a free preview)


Earlywood: Woodworking Advice from the Food Industry

Once again, Chris compares chairmaking to a subject previously thought to be completely unrelated to woodworking.

(Free for everyone)


For Paid Subscribers: 2 New Products

What's Lost Art Press' version of a red flag? I'm glad you asked. Check out these new products in the works.

(For paid subscribers, with a free preview)


The Anarchist's Apprentice Substack


Ch- Ch- Ch- Changes

Things sure have been changing around the Lost Art Press headquarters. I share a look at our new offices and my latest woodworking hyper-fixation.  

(For paid subscribers, with a free preview)


The Reluctant Manager

How does a business owner who never wanted employees end up with 5 full-time employees within 3 years? Chris provides insight to the business side of Lost Art Press. (I love having a boss that doesn't want to be a boss. Not sarcasm.)

(For paid subscribers, with a free preview)


Never Sponsored Substack


Unofficial Gift Guide Suggestions

In need of a last-minute, stocking stuffer for your favorite woodworker? We got you covered.

(Free for everyone)


Tape Measure Fisticuffs*

Craving measuring tape content from two middle-aged woodworkers? Look no further! Chris and Megan have a passion debate over which woodshop measuring tape reigns supreme.

(For paid subscribers, with a free preview)

On Instagram This Week

No card scraper? No problem. Razor blades make you look cooler anyways. Chris uses a razor blade in lieu of a card scraper to scratch off the lacquer of a store-bought chair leg.

Lie-Nielsen Hand Tool Event, a Storefront Delay, Taytools Plane Review & More

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