By the Numbers

New Zillow research explains which metrics can predict a listing’s length of time on the market — and what sellers can do to speed up the process.

Today’s jobs data was stronger than expected, and mortgage rates hit a 5-month low. That could boost home sales if economic anxiety doesn’t scare buyers away.

Rates may drop in the short-term before inflation ramps up, but stock market volatility, higher prices and rising unemployment could stall home purchases.

The number of households that can only afford homes under $300K far exceeds the supply at that price point, while there is a glut of homes valued at $2M and up.

Most first-time sellers who bought during the pandemic report having regrets, and many are preparing to give up the home they thought they’d stay in for life.

Keeping an eye on economic factors like growth, inflation and government borrowing can provide hints about where mortgage rates are headed.

Pending sales are trending behind last year as high prices, economic uncertainty weigh on consumers — but there are positive signs in the new home market.

Sellers in mostly white areas lose nearly $4K per home, Zillow found. A senior economist said the trend threatens to return real estate to “the dark ages.”

Though the stage is set for a strong rebound, one important factor needs to change in order to unleash an anticipated flurry of market activity.

Much of the latest economic and market data falls into the "good news, bad news" category, but improved home sales and stable mortgage rates offer hope.

Economic factors could cause the Federal Reserve to change course, but heading into the spring homebuying season, mortgage rates are likely to remain stable.

While housing starts rebounded from a sluggish January, permits and completions have slowed and builder sentiment is souring.

Economic uncertainty could slow sales during the peak season, but listing in April or May remains a good bet. In some metros, selling season starts now.

New construction is influencing affordability in many areas, with the South seeing the biggest benefits.

While they're showing more interest, economic volatility and uncertainty about the future could keep buyers from pulling the trigger on a home purchase.

The nationwide inventory shortage — 3.8 million homes — is reaching a point of no return in some parts of the country though new construction is increasing.

Fannie Mae’s latest sentiment survey shows that more consumers think mortgage rates will rise. And home sales activity is expected to remain “relatively light.”

Home sales could rise if rates continue to drop, but as the economy shows some signs of a weakening, consumers could become more cautious.

The 7-week streak of declines could “spur on the housing market” this spring — but so far, sales lag behind last year’s pace as economic uncertainty looms.

Rates fell to the lowest level in two months — good news for affordability — but pending sales also dipped, and declining confidence may keep buyers sidelined.