Real Estate

At the 2024 Oklahoma REALTORS® Annual Conference, held from Oct. 7-9 at the Skirvin Hilton in Oklahoma City, three standout REALTORS® were honored for their dedication and positive impact on communities across the state.

Renee Hoover-Payton of Duncan was named the 2024 REALTOR® of the Year, recognizing her exceptional service, leadership and commitment to both her clients and the community. Steve Reese of Oklahoma City received the Life Membership Award for his long-term contributions, mentorship and positive influence within the profession. Cathy Perez-Whiteside of Northwest Oklahoma earned the Good Neighbor Award for her community-focused work with the Oklahoma Housing Foundation.

– Staff report, The Oklahoma 100

Oklahoma REALTORS® recently opened its new headquarters, nearly doubling its previous space to 13,350 square feet.

The facility is designed to enhance collaboration, professional development and community outreach for more than 14,000 REALTORS® statewide. With dedicated spaces for education, media production and industry events, it equips REALTORS® to better serve homebuyers and sellers across Oklahoma.

CEO Bryan “Hutch” Hutchinson highlighted that the new space demonstrates a commitment to advancing the real estate profession and strengthening community ties. The headquarters provides REALTORS® with the tools they need to navigate the evolving real estate market more effectively and foster stronger community relationships.

– Staff report, The Oklahoma 100

The Oklahoma housing market demonstrates stability and growth, contrasting favorably with national trends and offering significant affordability.

With a median home price of $240,700, according to BankRate.com – reflecting a 0.2% decrease from last year – Oklahoma remains much more affordable than the national median home price of $393,500. Despite declining inventory and stagnant wages, the state’s market favors sellers, with properties moving quickly.

This environment underscores Oklahoma’s affordability and seller-friendly dynamics, making it an attractive option for buyers and investors.

For expert guidance, connect with a member of the Oklahoma Association of REALTORS® to start your homebuying or selling journey.

– Staff Report, The Oklahoma 100

Real estate is complicated and with high home prices nationwide, it can be hard to plant residential roots. Moore, Oklahoma has emerged as a top contender for first-time homebuyers, securing the No. 8 spot on realtor.com’s national ranking. Amidst soaring real estate costs, Moore presents an opportunity to own a home, promising prospective buyers affordability in an otherwise pricey market.

The city does have experience with severe weather, which is a concern for potential homeowners. However, with modern technology, advancements in communications and home protection features such as shelters, weather isn’t turning people away. Read the koco.com article here.

– Staff Report, The Oklahoma 100

Homeownership offers benefits that extend beyond the immediate acquisition. Historically, real estate tends to appreciate over time, providing homeowners with long-term value. Additionally, homeowners have the opportunity to generate extra income through renting out their property.

As a retirement asset, homeowners can downsize or sell their homes, utilizing the equity accumulated over the years. The sense of pride associated with homeownership also represents a significant milestone and accomplishment for individuals and families alike.

A REALTOR® can offer guidance during the search for the right home. Explore the advantages of homeownership and find the value of a REALTOR® at okrealtors.com .

– Staff Report, The Oklahoma 100

The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) announced its Earthquake Awareness Month campaign on Friday, Feb. 2 with a post on X, formerly Twitter, to educate homeowners on the importance of earthquake insurance. Eight hours later, central Oklahoma experienced a 5.1 magnitude quake. The irony was not lost on the department’s audience, and the post quickly garnered the attention of over 43,000 users.

Unlike standard policies, earthquake insurance is an additional safeguard, covering repairs, unattached structures, personal property and living expenses during home reconstruction.

OID encourages homeowners to reach out by calling 800-522-0071 or visiting the Earthquakes webpage for information and assistance.

– Staff Report, The Oklahoma 100

After a nationwide search, the Oklahoma Association of REALTORS® (OAR) has named Bryan Hutchinson as its incoming CEO. Hutchinson is set to assume the role on Monday, Feb. 12, bringing his expertise and leadership to the organization’s helm.

“We are thrilled to welcome Bryan as the new CEO of the Oklahoma Association of REALTORS®,” OAR 2024 President Renee Hoover-Payton said. “His extensive knowledge of the real estate industry, coupled with his dedication to an association with REALTOR® members at the forefront, make him the ideal leader to guide OAR into the future.”

Read more about Hutchinson’s experience and background here.

– Staff Report, The Oklahoma 100

The Oklahoma Association of REALTORS® (OAR) recently honored individuals at its annual conference. The premier real estate conference also offered valuable learning opportunities and networking sessions, featuring expert speakers on appraisal practices and AI utilization.

“Our annual conference showcases the convergence of innovation and passion,” OAR’s Interim CEO Will Gattenby said. “We’re committed to setting the gold standard for real estate across the region.”

The 2023 REALTOR® of the Year Award went to Cindy Rodgers of the Greater Tulsa Association of REALTORS®. Additional industry awards and the 2023 Leadership OAR Class were also honored. For more information, visit okrealtors.com .

– Staff Report, The Oklahoma 100

Do you know what your home is worth in today’s competitive market? This is especially true if you are thinking about selling. Here are five reasons why you should know your home’s value:

1. Setting the right price – If you overprice your home, it will discourage potential buyers.

2. Negotiation power – Confidently defend your property’s value.

3. Financial planning – Enable yourself to make informed decisions about your future.

4. Marketing strategies – Highlight its key features and price your home appropriately.

5. Assess home improvements – Prioritize renovations that will have the highest ROI.

Find a REALTOR® or contact yours to learn more about your home’s value.

– Staff Report, The Oklahoma 100

WalletHub recently ranked each state capital on a number of factors, including affordability, economic well-being and quality life, health and education. According to the article, Oklahoma City is the nation’s most affordable state capital, followed by Raleigh, North Carolina and Des Moines, Iowa. Affordability was determined by the cost of living, median household income and housing costs.

Rounding out the top three least affordable state capitals are Honolulu, Hawaii; Boston, Massachusetts; and Hartford, Connecticut.

Overall, Oklahoma City is ranked as the 10th best state capital, according to WalletHub. What’s not to love about the Modern Frontier? Plan your visit.

– Jack Phillips, Jones PR

With the new year right around the corner, our minds will soon shift to making our annual New Year’s resolutions.

In the past 18 months, we’ve seen a drastic change in the real estate market. The upcoming year may be a great opportunity to set your New Year’s resolution to start planning for a future home purchase.

Home Buyer Savings Accounts creates an affordable pathway for Oklahomans to save for a new home allowing account holders to deduct up to $5,000 for an individual and up to $10,000 for a joint account from taxable income in a single tax year.

– Ashley Glass, Jones PR