What You Need To Know About Home Price News
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) will release its latest Existing Home Sales Report tomorrow. The information it contains on home prices may cause some confusion and could even generate some troubling headlines. This all stems from the fact that NAR will report the median sales price, while other home price indices report repeat sales prices. […]
The Worst Home Price Declines Are Behind Us
If you’re following the news today, you may feel a bit unsure about what’s happening with home prices and fear whether or not the worst is yet to come. That’s because today’s headlines are painting an unnecessarily negative picture. Contrary to those headlines, home prices aren’t in a freefall. The latest data tells a very […]
Homeowners Have Incredible Equity To Leverage Right Now
Even though home prices have moderated over the last year, many homeowners still have an incredible amount of equity. But what is equity? In the simplest terms, equity is the difference between the market value of your home and the amount you owe on your mortgage. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) explains how your […]
The Worst Home Price Declines Are Behind Us [INFOGRAPHIC]
Some Highlights
Why Today’s Housing Market Is Not About To Crash
There’s been some concern lately that the housing market is headed for a crash. And given some of the affordability challenges in the housing market, along with a lot of recession talk in the media, it’s easy enough to understand why that worry has come up. But the data clearly shows today’s market is very […]
A Recession Doesn’t Equal a Housing Crisis
Experts are predicting a potential recession on the horizon, which may lead some to worry about buying or selling a house. However, historical data shows that a recession doesn’t always mean falling home prices. In fact, home prices have appreciated in four of the last six recessions dating back to 1980. The 2008 housing crisis was an outlier due to a surplus of homes for sale at the same time as distressed properties flooded the market. In contrast, today’s housing market has a low supply of homes for sale, so while there may be slight price declines in some areas, a crash is unlikely. A recession typically means falling mortgage rates, which creates more opportunity for homebuyers. Overall, experts predict any recession will be mild and short, and there’s no need to fear what it means for the housing market.
Why Today’s Foreclosure Numbers Are Nothing Like 2008
The recent increase in foreclosure filings may have some potential homebuyers worried, but a closer look at the data reveals a different story. Foreclosures have been at record lows in recent years due to relief options for homeowners, such as the forbearance program. While the end of the government’s moratorium on foreclosures has led to an increase, it’s not the sudden flood of foreclosures that some may fear. Rising unemployment rates and other economic challenges are contributing factors, but many homeowners still have significant home equity that can help prevent increased levels of foreclosure activity. Overall, while foreclosures may be climbing, they are nowhere near the levels seen during the housing crisis, and the current market won’t lead to a crash in home prices.
Beyond Mortgage Rates: The 3 Surprising Factors Shaping Home Affordability Today
The current state of home affordability is not just based on mortgage rates, but also on home prices and wages. Although mortgage rates have climbed since their pandemic-era record lows, they have remained relatively stable for the past eight months, hovering between 6% and 7%. Home prices, on the other hand, have varied by market, with some areas seeing slight declines while others continue to climb. However, rising wages are currently the most positive factor in affordability, as higher income reduces the percentage of one’s paycheck needed to cover monthly housing costs. To get a better understanding of how these factors work together in your local market, it’s best to consult with a trusted real estate agent.
What Are the Experts Saying About the Spring Housing Market?
The spring housing market is currently experiencing more competition among buyers, and a growth in housing supply during this time of year. Industry experts predict that while home prices may not experience big changes in the short term, the market is showing signs of improvement with a pick-up in activity despite low inventory. While new listings are increasing, they are not growing as quickly as usual, which may result in more competition among buyers. For those thinking about selling their house, the low inventory makes this a good time to do so. Expert advice should be sought by those in a position to buy.
Think Twice Before Waiting for Lower Home Prices
As the housing market continues to change, you may be wondering where it’ll go from here. One factor you’re probably thinking about is home prices, which have come down a bit since they peaked last June. And you’ve likely heard something in the news or on social media about a price crash on the horizon. […]