What is attracting out-of-towners to invest in a home in Oxford, and where are they coming from? Visitors who come to Oxford fall in love with the town’s true charm. The southern kindness from the residents, unbelievable restaurants, music, arts, sporting events, theater and everything that the University offers is a huge reason Oxford is so appealing. People seem to be coming to Oxford from everywhere, as is evident from the enrollment increase at Ole Miss, Oxford City Schools, Lafayette County Schools and Regents School of Oxford. All these things are such a draw for out-of-town visitors, along with a first-class medical community. Our low crime rate and excellent law enforcement provides people with a peace of mind to enjoy the community. Ole Miss sports continues to be our community’s largest draw, as SEC football is “King” in the south. I love watching people experience their first time in the “Grove” and the greatest tailgate in all of football.
What advice do you give when people are comparing Oxford to bigger cities? Oxford has the feel of a big city while maintaining the quaintness of a small town. From Square Books to our many retail shops and restaurants, people are able to enjoy all the amazing attributes of Oxford. So many retirees choose Oxford to experience everything the University has to offer, as well as events like the Morgan Wallen concert and the Double Decker Arts Festival. People feel safe in Oxford and know that when they send their children to Ole Miss they are safe to walk around and enjoy all our town has to provide. People have a chance to participate in so many things like the Yoknapatawpha Arts Council, Gertrude Ford Center and the Oxford Film Festival. Many visitors travel to Oxford to visit Rowan Oak, William Faulkner’s home. Oxford is fortunate to have so many talented writers amongst our midst. Retirees love all the amenities that we offer because there are always numerous events.
What’s the single biggest challenge in the current housing market? The number one issue we have presently is a lack of inventory and pricing. People love Oxford but also want to find a home they can afford. The condo market is very much in-demand. Many parents now realize that with the rate of the cost of rent increasing, they can purchase a condo and have their children reside there while building equity in their property. Providing affordable housing for residents of Oxford is still one of the main concerns for many of our long-time Oxford residents.
What do you wish people knew more about when they buy a home? Most first-time homebuyers are overwhelmed with the process of purchasing a home. So many clients are not prepared for the process of obtaining a loan or mortgage. Getting pre-qualified is one of the most important things that I can suggest to someone, as it helps with an offer regarding the tight inventory we’re seeing in Oxford. Getting a home inspection is one of the most important things a person can do after they have an accepted contract. Dealing with a local mortgage company or bank is also a plus to expedite the process. Also, select a Realtor that will represent you like you would want to be represented. A good Realtor, an excellent banker/mortgage company, and a good closing attorney can help make the entire process easier as you navigate closing on your home.
On a perfect day, what do you most enjoy doing outside of work? I enjoy traveling with my wife, Terri, playing golf and duck hunting. Work takes up most of the day, as I focus on my clients. I treat them as I would want to be treated. I also always enjoy spending time with my family. I am blessed to have my son, Pittman, living in Oxford again after working in Washington, D.C. and Memphis. I wish my step-daughter lived closer, but she is thriving in graduate school at Arizona State. Oxford has so much to offer and there’s always something entertaining to do. Watching the Rebs win the National Baseball Championship last year in Omaha with family members has to be one of the best weeks ever being a life-long Ole Miss fan.
