“If you’re a homeowner planning to sell in 2023, now is the time to get ready.”
The spring season appears to be warming up in housing as more and more buyers enter the market. And after rising mortgage rates sidelined so many buyers last year, that’s a good sign for sellers. Realtor.com has the latest:
“Spring is officially here, and like green shoots emerging from the bleak winter, new data suggests that more buyers are back in the market, although more subdued compared to a year ago.”
We know buyer activity is trending up because of mortgage purchase application data. According to Investopedia:
“A mortgage application is a document submitted to a lender when you apply for a mortgage to purchase real estate.”
That means the number of mortgage applications shows how many buyers are applying for mortgages. Put another way, an increase in mortgage applications means an increase in buyer demand – and as Joel Kan, VP and Deputy Chief Economist at the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), explains, application activity started ramping up as mortgage rates fell steadily in March:
“Application activity increased as mortgage rates declined . . . recent increases, along with data from other sources showing an uptick in home sales, is a welcome development.”
In fact, we can see how mortgage rates have a direct impact on applications over time. As rates rose dramatically last year, applications fell in response (see graph below):
The recent uptick in mortgage applications, as well as the decline in mortgage rates, is good news for sellers because it means more buyers are actively looking for homes.
What This Means for You
Buyers are coming this spring, which is typically the busiest time of the year in real estate. And as Realtor.com tells us, if you’re a seller, you need to prepare:
“If homeowners are planning to sell in 2023, now is the time to get ready.”
The means working with a local real estate agent to maximize your home’s appeal and get it listed at the ideal price for your area.
Bottom Line
Work With a Real Estate Professional if You Want the Best Advice
An expert real estate advisor is knowledgeable about market trends and the ins and outs of the homebuying and selling process.
Why Rising Mortgage Rates Push Buyers off the Fence
If you’re on the fence about whether to buy now or wait for a better deal, buying sooner rather than later might be wise.
Are There More Homes Coming to the Market?
Recent data shows more sellers are listing their houses this season, which may give you more options for your home search.
Will Home Prices Fall This Year? Here’s What Experts Say.
Experts say the housing market isn’t set up for a price decline due to that ongoing imbalance between supply and demand.
How Today’s Mortgage Rates Impact Your Home Purchase
If you’re planning to buy a home, it’s critical to understand the relationship between mortgage rates and your purchasing power.
Three Tips for First-Time Homebuyers
No matter where you’re at in your homeownership journey, the best way to make sure you’re set up for success is to work with a real estate professional.