The first couple of months of the new year have seen a small gain in existing home sales. According to the National Association of Realtors, sales were up 1.7% in February over January. Real estate broker Chandler Crouch said that’s a positive outlook heading into the busy spring and summer sea son. “We are entering into the spring and summer market where activity picks up,” Crouch said. “People put their houses on the market, buyers know that it’s the time where they have more inventory to choose from, school lets out, and people start moving.” However, the average mortgage rate rose on Thursday to 6.11%. Just two weeks ago, it touched its lowest level in more than three years. Open House sign Despite that increase, Crouch said the market is balanced for both buyers and sellers. “In my opinion right now, we’re in a balanced market,” Crouch said. “And I really like it, especially as a real estate professional. There’s a level of sanity where buyers and sellers get that you put your house on the market, you have a reasonable chance of selling it.” Crouch added that on the other side, buyers will have plenty of houses to pick from. If you are looking to buy, Crouch recommended you make sure your financials are in order. “It’s go time,” Crouch said. “The house that you might end up buying is probably getting prepared to enter the market right now. So, get pre-qualified from a lender. Figure out if there are any issues on your credit report that can be easily taken care of.” For sellers, Crouch called the market a beauty contest and said fixing the small things to make it appealing to buyers. ...read more read less