New Study Reveals One Surprising Reason for the Inventory Shortage
There has been a great amount written on millennials and their impact on the housing market. However, the headlines often contradict each other. Some claim this generation is becoming the largest share of first-time home buyers, while others claim millennials don’t want to own a home, blaming them for the dip in homeownership rate.
While it is true that millennials have achieved milestones like getting married, having kids, and buying homes later in life than their parents and grandparents did, they are not solely to blame for today’s housing market trends.
Freddie Mac’s Insight Report explored the impact of the Silent and Baby Boomer Generations on the housing market.
If millennials are unable to find a home to buy at a young age like their predecessors, then who is living in those homes?
The answer: Seniors born after 1931 are staying in their homes longer than previous generations, instead choosing to “age in place.”
Freddie Mac found that,
“this trend accounts for about 1.6 million houses held back from the market through 2018, representing about one year’s typical supply of new construction, or more than half of the current shortfall of 2.5 million housing units estimated in December’s Insight.
Older Americans prefer to age in place because they are satisfied with their communities, their homes, and their quality of life.”
According to the National Association of Realtors, inventory of homes for sale is currently at a 3.5-month supply, which means that nationally we are in a seller’s market. A ‘normal’ housing market requires 6-7 months inventory, a level we have not achieved since August 2012.
“The most important fundamental in today’s housing market is the lack of houses for sale. This shortage has been identified as an important barrier to young adults buying their first homes.”
Bottom Line
If you are one of the many seniors who desires to retire in the same area you’ve always lived, you’re not alone. Will your current house fit your needs throughout retirement? If you have any questions about demand for your house, let’s get together to discuss the opportunities available today!
To view original article, visit Keeping Current Matters.
Mortgage Rates Drop to Lowest Level in over a Year and a Half
Mortgage rates have fallen more than half a percent . . . and are at their lowest level since February 2023.
The Best Time to Buy a Home This Year
Mortgage rates just hit their lowest point in 19 months, and that goes a long way to help with your purchasing power and affordability. Are you ready to buy?
Why Pre-Approval Should Be at the Top of Your Homebuying To-Do List
While home affordability is finally starting to show signs of improving, it’s still tight. Your lender can help you.
2025 Housing Market Forecasts: What To Expect
Looking ahead to 2025, it’s important to know what experts are projecting for the housing market.
Could a 55+ Community Be Right for You?
the number of listings tailored for homebuyers in this age group has increased by over 50% compared to last year.
Are We Heading into a Balanced Market?
Whether you’re buying or selling, understanding how the market is changing gives you a big advantage. Your agent has the latest data and local insights.