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.”
Will 2026 Finally Jumpstart Home Sales?
High mortgage rates in 2025 slowed home sales, but improvement is expected starting in 2026. Experts predict existing home sales may ↑ 10–15% as conditions improve in 2026.
Homebuyers, Don’t Wait for a Miracle Rate
Mortgage rates increased after five weeks of declines, driven by stronger-than-expected economic indicators. Experts forecast minimal rate relief through late 2025 despite Federal Reserve predictions of future cuts. Waiting for rate drops may backfire as housing...
Slight Dip Ahead for U.S. Home Prices
U.S. home prices are projected to decline by 0.9% by Early-Q2 2026. The forecast reverses earlier predictions of price increases, signaling a cooling housing market.
Mortgage Rate Predictionsfor Q3 2025
Long Forecast predicts slight drops: July 6.84%, August 6.79%, September 6.74%. MBA expects 6.7% average in Q3; NAR, Realtor.com see 6.2%–6.4% by year-end. 15-year fixed rates forecasted to drop from 6.01% in July to 5.88% in September. Experts expect gradual rate...
Are mortgage rates falling? What homebuyers need to know
Mortgage rates for 30-year fixed loans have dropped to around 6.63%, the lowest since April, due to a weaker-than-expected jobs report causing Treasury yields to fall. Experts suggest this dip may be temporary but advise buyers to act now rather than wait for perfect...
The Salt Lake metro area is shifting to a renter’s market after an apartment construction boom.
Apartment vacancy rates rose to 7.1% in July, signaling an overbuilt market with slowed rent growth. Despite high rents, the market favors renters, with rent days on market decreasing. Utah's average rent dropped to $1,399 in 2025, causing many to delay home...
Forget Tariffs! There’s a New Crisis Impacting Rate Cuts
The Fed held rates at 4.25–4.5%, ignoring Trump’s calls for aggressive cuts. Trump imposed steep tariffs, triggering fears of price hikes on goods and vehicles.
How to Know if a Home Fits Your Lifestyle?
Research local schools even if you don’t have kids — they influence home values. Consider internet availability and speed, especially for remote work or streaming needs.
Are Buyers Really Optimistic About Housing?
Over half of U.S. buyers feel the market is better than last year, showing cautious optimism. Seventy-five percent of buyers are waiting for lower prices and interest rates before purchasing homes.
Why You Should Move to Utah
Suburbs of Salt Lake City are booming with new homes. Low unemployment and tech sector growth fuel migration. Affordable pricing compared to West Coast states. Access to skiing, hiking, and national parks. Ideal for families seeking active, balanced lifestyles.