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January 18, 2024
Mortgage rates decreased this week, reaching their lowest level since May of 2023. This is an encouraging development for the housing market and in particular first-time homebuyers who are sensitive to changes in housing affordability. However, as purchase demand continues to thaw, it will put more pressure on already depleted inventory for sale.
Information provided by Freddie Mac.
For Week Ending January 6, 2024
Median priced single-family homes and condos were less affordable compared to historical averages in 99% of counties nationwide in the 4th quarter of 2023, according to ATTOM’s Q4 2023 U.S. Home Affordability Report. Major homeownership expenses currently take up 33.7% of the average national wage, a slight improvement from the third quarter, when major expenses consumed 35% of the average national wage. ATTOM reports homeowners need an annual income of more than $75,000 to afford a home in approximately 57% of the county markets in the report.
IN THE TWIN CITIES REGION, FOR THE WEEK ENDING JANUARY 6:
FOR THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER:
All comparisons are to 2023
Click here for the full Weekly Market Activity Report. From MAAR Market Data News.
January 11, 2024
Mortgage rates have not moved materially over the last three weeks and remain in the mid-six percent range, which has marginally increased homebuyer demand. Even this slight uptick in demand, combined with inventory that remains tight, continues to cause prices to rise faster than incomes, meaning affordability remains a major headwind for buyers. Potential homebuyers should look closely at existing state and local resources, such as down payment assistance programs, which can considerably help defray closing costs.
Information provided by Freddie Mac.
For Week Ending December 30, 2023
U.S housing starts surged following the drop in mortgage rates, jumping 14.8% from the previous month to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1,560,000 units, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The latest reading was boosted by an increase in single-family starts, which climbed 18% from the previous month. Housing completions were also up, rising 5% month-over-month. The average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage has fallen more than one percentage point since its peak in late October, leading to an increase in building activity and builder sentiment.
IN THE TWIN CITIES REGION, FOR THE WEEK ENDING DECEMBER 30:
FOR THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER:
All comparisons are to 2022
Click here for the full Weekly Market Activity Report. From MAAR Market Data News.
January 4, 2024
Between late October and mid-December, the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage plummeted more than a percentage point. However, since then rates have moved sideways as the market digests incoming economic data. Given the expectation of rate cuts this year from the Federal Reserve, as well as receding inflationary pressures, mortgage rates will likely continue to drift downward as the year unfolds. While lower mortgage rates are welcome news, potential homebuyers are still dealing with the dual challenges of low inventory and high home prices that continue to rise.
Information provided by Freddie Mac.
