Here’s to a year that exceeded expectations. With the real estate recovery in full swing, I’m thankful for the chance to have helped place so many exceptional executives with homebuilders, developers and CRE firms across the country in recent months. What’s more, I’ve also been privileged to watch our digital network grow to 290,000 real estate professionals in November, with more expected to join by year’s end. I’m grateful for each and every one of these colleagues as we explore the opportunities that lie ahead.
New home sales increased for the third consecutive month in October and saw an increase of 1.8 percent over the same month in 2014. Likewise, Commerce Department data show a 7.8 percent increase in October’s housing starts, year over year. The story in multi-family is even more encouraging: The pace of construction for buildings with five-plus units is more robust than at any time since 1989. Plus, the U.S. unemployment rate In September dipped below 6 percent for the first time since 2008, suggesting the strong demand for new housing will continue into next year.
I look forward to the challenges all that growth will bring. And as we take a moment during the holidays to pause and reflect on all we have, I’d like to thank all of you whom I’ve had the privilege of corresponding with over the last year. I sincerely hope this season finds you well and that the new year brings continued professional opportunity and prosperity for you and your family.
Happy Holidays,
Chris Hingle
Principal, Christopher Frederick Search Consultants