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February 24, 2022
Even with this week’s decline, mortgage rates have increased more than a full percent over the last six months. Overall economic growth remains strong, but rising inflation is already impacting consumer sentiment, which has markedly declined in recent months. As we enter the spring homebuying season with higher mortgage rates and continued low inventory, we expect home price growth to remain firm before cooling off later this year.
Information provided by Freddie Mac.
For many buyers, 2022 marks a new opportunity to make their home purchase dreams a reality. But it won’t be without its challenges.
Inventory of existing homes was at 910,000 at the start of the new year, the lowest level recorded since 1999, and competition remains fierce.
Pending Sales decreased 13.0 percent from January 2021 to 3,122 for the month. Closed Sales decreased 16.7 percent from January 2021 to 2,810 for the month. Inventory levels market-wide decreased 30.1 percent to 3,894 units.
February 17, 2022
Mortgage rates jumped again due to high inflation and stronger than expected consumer spending. The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is nearing four percent, reaching highs we have not seen since May 2019. As rates and house prices rise, affordability has become a substantial hurdle for potential homebuyers, especially as inflation threatens to place a strain on consumer budgets.
Information provided by Freddie Mac.
February 10, 2022
The normalization of the economy continues as mortgage rates jumped to the highest level since the emergence of the pandemic. Rate increases are expected to continue due to a strong labor market and high inflation, which likely will have an adverse impact on homebuyer demand.
Information provided by Freddie Mac.
The number of homes for sale was down compared to this time last year. Inventory levels market-wide decreased 28.3 percent to 4,193 units.
Months’ supply of inventory was down 21.4 percent since last year at 1.1 months. That’s well below the 5 months that’s considered balanced. Percent of List Price Received at Sale remained at 100.7 percent since last year.
Months’ supply of inventory was down 23.5 percent to 1.3 months. A balanced market is about 5-6 months of supply. 1.3 months of supply indicates a pretty extreme sellers’ market.
November 10, 2021
Despite the re-acceleration of economic growth, the recent bond rally drove mortgage rates down for the second consecutive week. These low mortgage rates, combined with the tailwind of first-time homebuyers entering the market, means that purchase demand will remain strong into next year. However, affordability pressures continue to be an ongoing concern for homebuyers.
Information provided by Freddie Mac.
There are some signs of a potential market shift, even though both new and active listings are down compared to last year and sales are up compared to 2019.
In new construction, home builders continue to struggle to meet buyer demand, as housing starts nationwide dropped 7% last month, according to the Commerce Department.
