By the Numbers

As the U.S. economy continues to show strength, mortgage rates could stay in the 7% range this homebuying season.

A pair of new reports look at the role investors played in the housing market last year and offer insights into their current outlook and pain points.

While consumers are feeling less enthusiastic about the direction of mortgage rates, they “appear to be moving past the hurdle of last year’s sharp jump.”

Mortgage rates ticked up slightly this week, but have stayed in a narrow range throughout 2024. Upcoming economic reports could test this period of stability.

There are more green shoots for would-be home buyers this spring as inventory grows to its highest point since 2020, according to Realtor.com’s monthly report.

NAR’s annual generational trends report examines buyer and seller characteristics and dives into their needs — and how they compensate agents.

The regions continue to see significant price growth and elevated buyer activity, but national price growth is expected to slow this year as supply increases.

Despite a less competitive market for buyers, cash remains king — not to win bidding wars, but to avoid inflated financing costs.

Mortgage apps dropped this week even as rates fell, but pending sales began to show signs of life.

A new report from Realtor.com looks at the cost gap between renting and owning and finds that many markets are now significantly more favorable to renters.

The inventory of new homes remains elevated, helping offset the low levels of available existing homes.

While home sales still aren’t as strong as they were in 2023, the near-10% jump in February “is a good sign” — but the momentum may not last.

Homebuyers may have more choices, but financing continues to be challenging.

A new Realtor.com report concludes that the best time to list in 2024 is right around the corner.

Low existing home inventory and the expectation of falling interest rates continue to drive builder optimism. Also, housing starts are up 5.9% vs. last year.

Rates eased this week, but they will likely remain elevated throughout the spring months as the Fed waits to take action on interest rates.

A Coldwell Banker survey found a big increase in the number of sellers willing to move to another city or state as price considerations now outweigh location.

A report from Zillow found that summer can be the most lucrative time to list, but low inventory means rate fluctuations can “make their own seasonality.”

Rates fell slightly this week, ending a four-week run of increases, and mortgage applications were up nearly 10%. Inventory and consumer sentiment are also up.

Realtor.com’s February housing report shows inventory rising, especially in the South, and availability of homes priced between $200k-$350k increasing by 20.6%.