Five Questions: Jeff Parker

Q: Have you seen an increase in the number of customers coming in to this area from other parts of the country?

A: We’ve seen an increase from the coasts, mostly the West Coast, where they’re selling properties that are much more expensive and realizing how affordable this area is and what they can actually purchase for the same or less. They’re selling and taking equity out of their home, and many of them are cash buyers when they come to Springfield.

Q: Many housing markets nationally are starting to decline. What’s the status of the local market?

A: I’d say the area housing market is still very strong. Interest rates are competitive and there is a lot of activity. Sales volume for the entire market is up 8.5 percent compared to this time last year, and Murney Associates sales are up 19 percent over the same period. It’s because we have such a diverse work force. We don’t depend on a single industry – we’re kind of recession-proof. The hospitals keep that strong, the colleges and various other industries keep us from having those high highs and low lows.

Q: There has been an increase in the number of higher-end homes built recently. Are there too many listings $300,000 and up on the market?

A: Right now there is a lot of inventory, but the market is still strong. There’s a little bit of new construction slowdown, or staying on the market for a little longer than usual, so the existing home market is a little stronger right now. As far as there being too many houses in that price range on the market, I don’t think so. The market can withstand the inventory that we have.

Q: What is the secret to being successful at selling homes?

A: I am actually in the day-to-day management of the firm, so I don’t personally list or sell real estate. But to be competitive in this business, it takes sound market knowledge, along with the best set of marketing tools. Associates need a strong company name behind them, with a well-rounded print, television and Internet marketing program, to get maximum value for a property in the least amount of market time.

Q: What’s your favorite room in your home, and why?

A: I recently temporarily downsized into a condominium, and I haven’t finished the kitchen. So I would have to say that my favorite room would be the loft master bedroom. It’s very open with a lot of natural light.