Buyer Demand Surging in Utah as Spring Market Begins
Last fall, some predicted that the 2019 residential real estate market would be a disaster. There was even belief we might experience a housing crash like the one that occurred during the last decade.
However, according to two separate reports*, buyer demand dramatically increased over the last three months, leading into this spring buyers’ market (the March data is not yet available).
Both the ShowingTime Showing Index and the National Association of REALTORS Buyer Traffic Index show that buyer demand has increased in each of the last three months.
Why the increase in demand? Increased buying power.
According to the National Association of Realtors’ Economists’ Outlook Blog, purchasing a home has become more affordable, which has led to increased demand.
“Due to the combination of falling home prices and mortgage rates, the income needed to make an affordable mortgage payment (mortgage no more than 25% of income) on a median-priced home with 10% down payment and 30-year fixed rate mortgage decreased from $60,425 in June 2018 to $53,783 as of February 2019, and the difference of $6,642 represents a gain in buying power because one can afford a home purchase at a lower level of income.”
Bottom Line
It appears the spring buyers’ market is going to be much stronger than many had projected. Whether you are selling or buying, this is important news.
*The methodology behind the indices:
The ShowingTime Showing Index
“The ShowingTime Showing Index® tracks the average number of buyer showings on active residential properties on a monthly basis, a highly reliable leading indicator of current and future demand trends.”
The National Association of REALTORS® Buyer Traffic Index
“In a monthly survey of REALTORS®, NAR asks respondents ‘Compared to the same month last year, how would you rate the past month’s traffic in neighborhood(s) or area(s) where you make most of your sales?’ NAR compiles the responses into an index, where an index above 50 indicates that more respondents reported “stronger” traffic than “weaker” traffic.”
Looking to Sell a Home in 2025? Take These 5 Steps
Start by researching and interviewing realtors knowledgeable about your local market before selling.A fresh home makeover, including new paint and flooring, boosts appeal and first impressions.
Homeowner Tax Breaks: All the Ways Your House Can Boost Your Tax Refund
Owning a house in the US is expensive, with rapidly rising home prices and hidden expenses. However, tax credits and deductions for homeowners can lead to a bigger tax refund. Homeowners can take advantage of tax deductions by itemizing their deductions using Form...
How 2025 Trends Fuel Homeownership Potential
Home sales may rise 1.5%, prices climb 3.7%, and mortgage rates stay above 6% despite slight cuts. A historic 11.7% home inventory jump and 13.8% new construction surge mark supply resurgence in 2025.
Buying a Home in 2025? Do 3 Things ASAP!
Mortgage rates are expected to fall in 2025, easing the path to homeownership. As rates drop, more homeowners may sell, boosting real estate inventory and market opportunities.
What is ‘missing middle’ housing, and could it solve Utah’s housing crisis?
Since 2015, 87% of building permits in Utah have been for single-family homes, but experts suggest focusing on "missing middle housing" like duplexes and triplexes to address affordability. Daniel Parolek, who coined the term, emphasizes that these smaller,...
5 Reasons to Buy in 2025
Reduced demand could lead to stagnant or declining prices, creating better deals for new buyers. Buyers prepared with savings and good credit can benefit from hesitant competition.
What’s The Most Expensive Zip Code In Southern Utah?
A unique perspective on the current housing market highlights the challenges of home buying, especially in Utah, where prices have surged. A recent analysis of 184 ZIP codes revealed Park City (84060) as the most expensive, with a median home value of over $2.047...
Capital Economics 2025 Home Price Forecast
Capital Economics forecasts U.S. home prices will ↑ 4.0% in both 2025 and 2026, signaling a stable housing market.Limited inventory will likely prevent price declines, supporting steady growth despite constrained buyer demand.
Will 2025 Finally Be a Normal Housing Market?
New listings ↑ 8% weekly, signaling more seller activity as the market heads into 2025. Pending home sales ↑ 10% yearly, reflecting slight optimism in the housing market.
Happy Lunar New Year
恭喜發財. Wishing you prosperity. Lunar New Year, is the most important celebration observed in China, with cultural and historic significance.The New Year celebration is centered around removing the bad and the old, and welcoming the new and the good. Traditional...