Buyer Demand Surging as Spring Market Begins
Last fall, some predicted that the 2019 residential real estate market would be a disaster. There was even belief we might experience a housing crash like the one that occurred during the last decade.
However, according to two separate reports*, buyer demand dramatically increased over the last three months, leading into this spring buyers’ market (the March data is not yet available).
Both the ShowingTime Showing Index and the National Association of REALTORS Buyer Traffic Index show that buyer demand has increased in each of the last three months.
Why the increase in demand? Increased buying power.
According to the National Association of Realtors’ Economists’ Outlook Blog, purchasing a home has become more affordable, which has led to increased demand.
“Due to the combination of falling home prices and mortgage rates, the income needed to make an affordable mortgage payment (mortgage no more than 25% of income) on a median-priced home with 10% down payment and 30-year fixed rate mortgage decreased from $60,425 in June 2018 to $53,783 as of February 2019, and the difference of $6,642 represents a gain in buying power because one can afford a home purchase at a lower level of income.”
Bottom Line
It appears the spring buyers’ market is going to be much stronger than many had projected. Whether you are selling or buying, this is important news.
To view original article, visit Keeping Current Matters.
Why It’s Still a Sellers’ Market
While buyer demand is softening due to higher mortgage rates, homes that are priced right are still selling fast. That means your window of opportunity to list your house hasn’t closed.
3 Graphs To Show This Isn’t a Housing Bubble
It’s only natural for concerns to creep in that it could be a repeat of what took place in 2008. Today’s market is nothing like that.
Why Are People Moving Today?
While mortgage rates are higher than they were at the start of the year and home prices are rising, you shouldn’t put your plans on hold based solely on market factors.
A Window of Opportunity for Homebuyers
The housing market is still strong; it’s just easing off from the unsustainable frenzy it saw during the height of the pandemic.
What’s Causing Ongoing Home Price Appreciation?
Experts forecast ongoing home price appreciation thanks to the lingering imbalance of supply and demand.
Think Home Prices Are Going To Fall? Think Again
If you’re planning to buy a home, you shouldn’t wait for home prices to drop to make your purchase.