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Reduced Mortgage Rates Attracting Homebuyers Back to the Real Estate Market

Cathleen Turner

With the rise in mortgage rates last year, the housing market saw a decrease in activity. This led to fewer offers on homes and a longer time for properties to remain on the market, causing some homeowners to delay their plans to sell.

Now, however, rates are beginning to come down—and buyers are starting to reenter the market. In fact, the latest data from the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) shows mortgage applications increased last week by 7% compared to the week before.

So, if you’ve been planning to sell your house but you’re unsure if there will be anyone to buy it, this shift in the market could be your chance. Here’s what experts are saying about buyers returning to the market as we approach spring.

Mike Fratantoni, SVP and Chief Economist, MBA:
Mortgage rates are now at their lowest level since September 2022, and about a percentage point below the peak mortgage rate last fall. As we enter the beginning of the spring buying season, lower mortgage rates and more homes on the market will help affordability for first-time homebuyers.”
Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist, National Association of Realtors (NAR):
The upcoming months should see a return of buyers, as mortgage rates appear to have already peaked and have been coming down since mid-November.”
Thomas LaSalvia, Senior Economist, Moody’s Analytics:
“We expect the labor market to remain robust, wages to continue to rise—maybe not at the pace that they did during the pandemic, but that will open up some opportunity for folks to enter homeownership as interest rates stabilize a bit.”
Sam Khater, Chief Economist, Freddie Mac:
“Homebuyers are waiting for rates to decrease more significantly, and when they do, a strong job market and a large demographic tailwind of Millennial renters will provide support to the purchase market.”

Bottom Line

If you have been considering selling your property, now is the ideal time to prepare it for the market. Connecting with a professional can help you stay informed about local buyer demand and determine the best time to list your home for sale.

The information contained, and the opinions expressed, in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Keeping Current Matters, Inc. does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision. Keeping Current Matters, Inc. will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on the information or opinions contained herein.

Source: Keeping Current Matters https://www.mykcm.com/2023/01/31/lower-mortgage-rates-are-bringing-buyers-back-to-the-market/

About Cathleen Turner

Cathleen Turner is regarded by her peers and clients as a highly accomplished realtor in the complex 30A real estate market. Her industry standing is based on an earned reputation for developing and nurturing trusted client relationships based on integrity, a strong work ethic, and results.

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