“One challenge to the housing industry is the lack of homes available for sale.”
The real estate market is expected to do very well this year as mortgage rates remain at historic lows. One challenge to the housing industry is the lack of homes available for sale. Last week, move.com released a report showing that 2020 is beginning with the lowest available housing inventory in two years. The report explains:
“Last month saw the largest year-over-year decline of housing inventory in almost three years with a dramatic 12 percent decline, pushing the number of homes for sale in the U.S. to the lowest level since January 2018.”
The report also revealed that the decline in inventory stretches across all price points, as shown in the following graph:
George Ratiu, Senior Economist at realtor.com, explains how this drop in available homes for sale comes at a time when more buyers are expected to enter the market:
“The market is struggling with a large housing undersupply just as 4.8 million millennials are reaching 30-years of age in 2020, a prime age for many to purchase their first home. The significant inventory drop…is a harbinger of the continuing imbalance expected to plague this year’s markets, as the number of homes for sale are poised to reach historically low levels.”
The question is: What does this mean to you?
If You’re a Buyer…
Be patient during your home search. It may take time to find a home you love. Once you do, however, be ready to move forward quickly. Get pre-approved for a mortgage, be ready to make a competitive offer from the start, and understand that a shortage in inventory could lead to the resurgence of bidding wars. Calculate just how far you’re willing to go to secure a home, if you truly love it.
If You’re a Seller…
Realize that, in some ways, you’re in the driver’s seat. When there is a shortage of an item at the same time there is a strong demand for that item, the seller of that item is in a good position to negotiate. Whether it is price, moving date, possible repairs, or anything else, you’ll be able to demand more from a potential purchaser at a time like this – especially if you have multiple interested buyers. Don’t be unreasonable, but understand you probably have the upper hand.
Bottom Line
The housing market will remain strong throughout 2020. Understand what that means to you, whether you’re buying, selling, or doing both.
To view original article, visit Keeping Current Matters.
Why Now’s Not the Time To Take Your House Off the Market
By keeping your home on the market, you increase the chances of attracting people who are truly ready to make a purchase.
Now’s the Time to Upgrade to Your Dream Home
A recent survey reveals the top motivator for today’s homebuyers is the desire for more space or an upgraded home.
This Is the Sweet Spot Homebuyers Have Been Waiting For
If you’re waiting for the perfect time to buy, it’s important to understand that timing the market is nearly impossible.
Buying Beats Renting in 22 Major U.S. Cities
Whether you live in one of these budget-friendly cities or any town in-between, it’s time to to talk a local real estate agent to get started.
Don’t Fall for These Real Estate Agent Myths
Don’t let myths keep you from the expert guidance you deserve. A trusted local real estate agent isn’t just helpful, they’re invaluable.
The Down Payment Assistance You Didn’t Know About
Believe it or not, almost 80% of first-time homebuyers qualify for down payment assistance, but only 13% actually use it.