“Here’s a look at the latest data on the three biggest factors affecting home affordability.”
Over the past couple of years, a lot of people have had a hard time buying a home. And while affordability is still tight, there are signs it’s getting a little better and might keep improving throughout the rest of the year. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), says:
“Housing affordability is improving ever so modestly, but it is moving in the right direction.”
Here’s a look at the latest data on the three biggest factors affecting home affordability: mortgage rates, home prices, and wages.
1. Mortgage Rates
Mortgage rates have been volatile this year, bouncing around from the mid-6% to low 7% range. But there’s some good news. Data from Freddie Mac shows rates have been trending down overall since May (see graph below):
Mortgage rates have improved lately in part because of recent economic, employment, and inflation data. Moving forward, some rate volatility is to be expected. But if future economic data continues to show signs of cooling, experts say mortgage rates could keep going down.
Even a small drop can help you out. When rates decline, it’s easier to afford the home you want because your monthly payment will be lower. Just don’t expect them to go back down to 3%.
2. Home Prices
The second big thing to think about is home prices. Nationally, they’re still going up this year, but not as fast as they did a couple of years ago. The graph below uses home price data from Case-Shiller to illustrate that point:
If you’re thinking about buying a home, slower price growth is good news. Home prices went up a lot during the pandemic, making it hard for many people to buy. Now, with prices rising more slowly, buying a home may feel less out of reach. As Odeta Kushi, Deputy Chief Economist at First American, says:
“While housing affordability is low for potential first-time home buyers, slowing price appreciation and lower mortgage rates could help – so the dream of homeownership isn’t boarded up just yet.”
3. Wages
Another factor helping with affordability is rising wages. The graph below uses data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to show how wages have increased over time:
Look at the blue dotted line. It shows how wages usually go up in a typical year. On the right side of the graph, you’ll see wages are rising even faster than normal right now – that’s the green line.
This helps you because if your income increases, it’s easier to afford a home. That’s because you won’t have to spend as much of your paycheck on your monthly mortgage payment.
Bottom Line
When you put all these factors together, you see mortgage rates are trending down, home prices are rising more slowly, and wages are going up faster than usual. Though affordability is still a challenge, these trends are early signs things might be starting to improve.
To view original article, visit Keeping Current Matters.
How Real Estate Agents Take the Fear Out of Moving
Real estate agents are trusted guides to help you navigate the complexities of the housing market with confidence and ease.
Why Home Sales Bounce Back After Presidential Elections
As has been the case before, once the election uncertainty passes, buyers and sellers will return to the market.
Why Your House Will Shine in Today’s Market
If you’re thinking about selling, the shortage of homes for sale means your house is likely to get some serious attention from buyers.
How Long Will It Take to Sell Your House?
If you’re looking for ways to make your move happen as quickly as possible, partnering with a great local agent is the key.
Planning To Sell Your House in 2025? Start Prepping Now
By starting your prep work early, you’ll give yourself plenty of time to get your house market-ready by the end of the year.
What To Expect from Mortgage Rates and Home Prices in 2025
With home prices projected to rise at a more moderate pace, 2025 is shaping up to be a more promising year for both buyers and sellers.