Are Higher Mortgage Rates Here To Stay?

Are Higher Mortgage Rates Here To Stay?

Are Higher Mortgage Rates Here To Stay?

 

Mortgage rates have been back on the rise recently and that’s getting a lot of attention from the press. If you’ve been following the headlines, you may have even seen rates recently reached their highest level in over two decades (see graph below):

That can feel like a little bit of a gut punch if you’re thinking about making a move. If you’re wondering whether or not you should delay your plans, here’s what you really need to know.

 How Higher Mortgage Rates Impact You 

There’s no denying mortgage rates are higher right now than they were in recent years. And, when rates are up, that affects overall home affordability. It works like this. The higher the rate, the more expensive it is to borrow money when you buy a home. That’s because, as rates trend up, your monthly mortgage payment for your future home loan also increases.

Urban Institute explains how this is impacting buyers and sellers right now:

 When mortgage rates go up, monthly housing payments on new purchases also increase. For potential buyers, increased monthly payments can reduce the share of available affordable homes . . . Additionally, higher interest rates mean fewer homes on the market, as existing homeowners have an incentive to hold on to their home to keep their low interest rate.”

Basically, some people are deciding to put their plans on hold because of where mortgage rates are right now. But what you want to know is: is that a good strategy?

 Where Will Mortgage Rates Go from Here?

If you’re eager for mortgage rates to drop, you’re not alone. A lot of people are waiting for that to happen. But here’s the thing. No one knows when it will. Even the experts can’t say with certainty what’s going to happen next.

Forecasts project rates will fall in the months ahead, but what the latest data says is that rates have been climbing lately. This disconnect shows just how tricky mortgage rates are to project.

The best advice for your move is this: don’t try to control what you can’t control. This includes trying to time the market or guess what the future holds for mortgage rates. As CBS News states:

 “If you’re in the market for a new home, experts typically recommend focusing your search on the right home purchase — not the interest rate environment.”

Instead, work on building a team of skilled professionals, including a trusted lender and real estate agent, who can explain what’s happening in the market and what it means for you. If you need to move because you’re changing jobs, want to be closer to family, or are in the middle of another big life change, the right team can help you achieve your goal, even now.

Bottom Line

The best advice for your move is: don’t try to control what you can’t control – especially mortgage rates. Even the experts can’t say for certain where they’ll go from here. Instead, focus on building a team of trusted professionals who can keep you informed. When you’re ready to get the process started, let’s connect.

Marty Gale

Buy or Sell with Marty Gale

"Its The Experience"

Principal Broker and Owner of Utah Realty™

Licensed Since 1986

CERTIFIED LUXURY HOME MARKETING SPECIALIST (CLHM)

PSA  (Pricing Strategy Advisor)

General Contractor 2000 (in-active)
e-pro (advanced digital marketing) 2001
Certified Residential Specialist 2009

Certified Negotiation Expert 2014

Master Certified Negotiation Expert 2014
Certified Probate Specialist Since 2018

Senior Real Estate Specialist

Certified Divorce Specialist CDS

 

Contact me! 

 

 

The Latest Expert Forecasts for Home Prices in 2023

The Latest Expert Forecasts for Home Prices in 2023

The Latest Expert Forecasts for Home Prices in 2023

Are you thinking about making a move? If so, all the speculation that home prices would crash this year may have you feeling a bit on edge about your decision. Let the data and the experts reassure you. Prices aren’t in a downward spiral and will actually finish the year strong.

Even though you may have heard talk that prices would drop 5, 10, or even 20% this year, that hasn’t happened. The big reason why is the supply of homes for sale is too low. There are just more buyers looking to buy than homes available, and that’s kept prices from falling.

To prove this year wasn’t a bust for home prices, let’s look at the latest 2023 forecast from a number of experts.

Most Experts Project Home Prices Will Net Positive this Year

The general consensus from industry experts is that home price appreciation will actually be positive for 2023. The graph below shows the latest 2023 year-end forecasts from six different organizations:

As you can see, all but one project nationally prices will net positive this year. That’s significant because it shows the majority are optimistic about home price growth.

If you’re still worried about the one red bar that shows an overall price drop for the year, think about this. The projection from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) is for only a slight decline. It’s not the big crash all the headlines called for. Plus, if you average all six forecasts together, the expectation is that prices will net somewhere around 3.3% positive growth for the year.

If these 6 organizations aren’t enough to convince you that prices won’t come tumbling down, here’s something else to consider. One of the six forecasts represented in the graph is the Home Price Expectation Survey (HPES) from Pulsenomics. It combines survey results from over 100 economists, investment strategists, and housing market analysts. The HPES found that the average from all 100 of those experts is 3.3% price growth for the year.

If you look back at the graph above, you’ll notice the blue average for the forecasts in this graph is also 3.3%. While individual forecasts may vary, both the HPES survey and the average of these forecasts provide the same projection. And 3.3% appreciation is a completely different story than prices falling.

Bottom Line

If you’re worried about home prices falling this year, let the experts reassure you. Based on the average of the latest forecasts, home prices will actually show positive growth this year. If you have questions about what’s happening with home prices in our local area, let’s connect.

Marty Gale

Buy or Sell with Marty Gale

"Its The Experience"

Principal Broker and Owner of Utah Realty™

Licensed Since 1986

CERTIFIED LUXURY HOME MARKETING SPECIALIST (CLHM)

PSA  (Pricing Strategy Advisor)

General Contractor 2000 (in-active)
e-pro (advanced digital marketing) 2001
Certified Residential Specialist 2009

Certified Negotiation Expert 2014

Master Certified Negotiation Expert 2014
Certified Probate Specialist Since 2018

Senior Real Estate Specialist

Certified Divorce Specialist CDS

 

Contact me! 

 

 

Key Skills You Need Your Listing Agent To Have

Key Skills You Need Your Listing Agent To Have

Key Skills You Need Your Listing Agent To Have

Selling your house is a big decision. And that can make it feel both exciting and a little bit nerve-wracking. But the key to a successful sale is finding the perfect listing agent to work with you throughout the process. A listing agent, also known as a seller’s agent, helps market and sell your house while advocating for you every step of the way.

But, how do you know you’ve found the perfect match in an agent? Here are three key skills you’ll want your listing agent to have.

They Price Your House Based on the Latest Data

While it may be tempting to pick the agent who suggests the highest asking price for your house, that strategy may cost you. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement when you see a bigger number, but overpricing your house can have consequences. It could mean it’ll sit on the market longer because the higher price is actually deterring buyers.

Instead, you want to pick an agent who’s going to have an open conversation about how they think you should price your house and why. A great agent will base their pricing strategy on solid data. They won’t throw out a number just to win your listing. Instead, they’ll show you the facts, explain their pricing strategy, and make sure you’re on the same page. As NerdWallet explains:

“An agent who recommends the highest price isn’t always the best choice. Choose an agent who backs up the recommendation with market knowledge.”

They’re a Great Negotiator

The home-selling process can be emotional, especially if you’ve been in your house for a long time. You’re connected to it and have a lot of memories there. This can make the negotiation process harder. That’s where a trusted professional comes in.

A skilled listing agent will be calm under pressure and will be your point-person in all of those conversations. Their experience in handling the back-and-forth gives you with the peace of mind that you’ve got someone on your side who’s got your best interests in mind throughout this journey.

They’re a Skilled Problem Solver

At the heart of it all, a listing agent’s main priority is to get your house sold. A great agent never loses sight of that goal and will help you prioritize your needs above all else. If they identify any necessary steps you need to take, they’ll be open with you about it. Their commitment to your success means they’ll work with you to address any potential roadblocks and find creative solutions to anything that pops up along the way.

BankRate explains it like this:

“Just as important as the knowledge and experience agents bring is their ability to guide you smoothly through the process. Above all, go with an agent you trust and will feel comfortable with. . .”

Bottom Line

Whether you’re a first-time seller or you’ve been through selling a house before, a great listing agent is the key to success. Let’s connect so you have a skilled local expert by your side to guide you through every step of the process.

Marty Gale

Buy or Sell with Marty Gale

"Its The Experience"

Principal Broker and Owner of Utah Realty™

Licensed Since 1986

CERTIFIED LUXURY HOME MARKETING SPECIALIST (CLHM)

PSA  (Pricing Strategy Advisor)

General Contractor 2000 (in-active)
e-pro (advanced digital marketing) 2001
Certified Residential Specialist 2009

Certified Negotiation Expert 2014

Master Certified Negotiation Expert 2014
Certified Probate Specialist Since 2018

Senior Real Estate Specialist

Certified Divorce Specialist CDS

 

Contact me! 

 

 

What’s in store for the Greater Salt Lake City housing market this fall?

What’s in store for the Greater Salt Lake City housing market this fall?

Utah Realty has an exciting topic for our fall Season blog.

As the leaves change colors and the temperatures start to cool, we find ourselves eagerly anticipating the shifts and trends that will shape the real estate landscape in one of Utah’s most vibrant and sought-after areas. Whether you’re a homeowner, a buyer, or simply someone interested in the local market trends, join us as we explore the ins and outs of the Greater Salt Lake City housing market this season and uncover the possibilities that lie ahead.

Supply And Demand: Impact On Salt Lake City Housing Prices

The Greater Salt Lake City housing market has experienced significant fluctuations over the past few years, with a notable increase in demand and soaring prices. However, as we transition into the fall season, it is essential to examine the dynamics of supply and demand and their potential impact on housing prices in the area.

Supply and demand play a critical role in shaping the real estate market, and Salt Lake City is no exception. When the demand for homes outweighs the number of available properties, prices tend to rise. Conversely, when the supply of homes exceeds the demand, prices may stabilize or even decline.

Over the past year, the Salt Lake City housing market has witnessed tight inventory levels, placing significant pressure on potential buyers. The combination of population growth, a strong economy, and past low interest rates has led to increased demand for housing in the region. As a result, prices have skyrocketed, making it challenging for many first-time buyers to enter the market.

The supply of homes in Salt Lake City has struggled to keep pace with the rate of demand growth. Limited land availability, strict zoning regulations, and a slower rate of new home construction have contributed to this supply-demand imbalance. While the COVID-19 pandemic initially caused a brief decrease in buyer demand, the rebound has been swift and robust.

Looking ahead to the fall season, indications suggest a continuation of the current supply-demand dynamics, albeit with some potential shifts. The low supply of homes is expected to persist, primarily due to ongoing factors such as limited land availability and construction challenges. This scarcity is likely to keep prices elevated, making it challenging for buyers to find affordable options.

However, there are a few factors that may influence the Salt Lake City housing market this fall. Firstly, as the economy recovers from the pandemic-induced recession, there could be an increase in new home construction activity. Builders may seize the opportunity to meet the growing demand and alleviate the inventory shortage. This increase in supply could have a moderating effect on prices, providing some relief for buyers.

Secondly, interest rates continue to remain historically low. This favorable lending environment can stimulate demand and encourage prospective buyers to enter the market. However, it’s worth noting that rising interest rates in the future could potentially slow down the demand for housing, although it is difficult to predict the exact timing and extent of such a shift.

Additionally, as we progress towards the fall season, traditional market slowdowns may come into play. Historically, there tends to be a reduction in buyer activity during the colder months, as people focus on other priorities such as the holiday season. While this seasonality may provide a brief respite for buyers, it is important to remember that the underlying supply-demand dynamics will continue to shape the market.

In conclusion, the Salt Lake City housing market is likely to maintain its current trend of low supply and high demand into the fall season. While there may be slight fluctuations influenced by factors such as increased construction activity and interest rates, prices are expected to remain elevated. Buyers should be prepared for a competitive market, with limited inventory and the potential for multiple offers. Working with an experienced real estate agent and being flexible in their housing preferences can help prospective buyers navigate the challenging landscape and find their desired home within their budget.

Fall Trends: Analyzing The Greater Salt Lake City Housing Market

As the summer heat begins to fade and the leaves start turning shades of red and gold, it’s time to start thinking about what lies ahead for the Greater Salt Lake City housing market this fall. The real estate landscape in this vibrant metropolitan area has seen its fair share of ups and downs over the years. However, experts are projecting some exciting trends and opportunities for both buyers and sellers alike.

One of the key factors driving the current Salt Lake City housing market is the continued influx of people moving to the area. The city’s robust economy, coupled with its breathtaking natural surroundings and a fantastic quality of life, has attracted a growing number of individuals and families looking to call this place home. This steady population growth has contributed to the high demand for housing, resulting in a competitive market for buyers.

Despite this high demand, there have been signs of a slight cooling off in the housing market recently. As we transition into the fall season, experts predict that this trend will continue, but at a steadier pace. The rate of price appreciation is expected to moderate, providing a more balanced market environment for both buyers and sellers. This means that homeowners looking to sell their properties can still expect favorable returns, while homebuyers may find more reasonably priced options.

Another trend to watch out for this fall is the emergence of new construction projects in the Greater Salt Lake City area. With the demand for housing continuing to rise, developers have been quick to respond by introducing modern and well-designed residential communities. These new developments offer a wide range of housing options, from single-family homes to condominiums and townhouses, catering to various lifestyles and budgets. The expansion of housing inventory can help alleviate some of the supply constraints seen in recent years.

Furthermore, the fall season traditionally brings a more relaxed atmosphere in the real estate market. With the frenzy of the summer buying season subsiding, buyers may find fewer multiple offer situations and more room for negotiations. This doesn’t mean sellers should be discouraged, though. The market remains active, with motivated buyers still on the hunt for their dream homes. By strategically pricing their properties and making necessary upgrades or improvements, sellers can still attract interested buyers and secure favorable deals.

As we look ahead to this fall, it’s important to keep an eye on the broader economic landscape as well. Factors such as interest rates, job growth, and market stability can greatly influence the dynamics of the housing market. While most indicators suggest a steady and healthy real estate climate in Salt Lake City, it’s always wise to stay informed and adaptable to potential shifts.

The Greater Salt Lake City housing market is expected to showcase some exciting trends this fall. With a growing population, new construction projects, and an evolving market environment, both buyers and sellers have unique opportunities to take advantage of. By staying informed and working with knowledgeable real estate professionals, individuals can navigate this ever-changing market and make sound decisions for their housing needs.

Buyer’s Market Or Seller’s Market? Understanding Real Estate Dynamics

As the fall season approaches, homebuyers and sellers in the Greater Salt Lake City area may be wondering about the state of the local housing market. Real estate dynamics play a vital role in determining whether it is a buyer’s market or a seller’s market, ultimately shaping the experience for those looking to make a move. Understanding these dynamics is essential for both buyers and sellers to navigate the market successfully.

A buyer’s market occurs when there is more inventory than active buyers. In this scenario, buyers have the advantage of more choices and negotiating power. They can take their time to compare properties, negotiate on price, and potentially secure more favorable terms. For sellers, a buyer’s market means they may need to price their homes competitively and offer incentives to attract potential buyers.

On the other hand, a seller’s market arises when there are more active buyers than available inventory. This drives competition among buyers, often leading to multiple offers and a quicker sale process. Sellers in a seller’s market often have the upper hand in negotiations, with the possibility of receiving offers over the asking price. However, it’s important to note that even in a seller’s market, pricing a property too high or neglecting necessary repairs can deter buyers.

So, what can we expect in the Greater Salt Lake City housing market this fall? To get a better understanding, it’s crucial to analyze some key factors that drive real estate dynamics.

First and foremost, supply and demand play a significant role in determining whether it’s a buyer’s or seller’s market. Currently, the Salt Lake City area is experiencing a shortage of housing inventory, leading to high demand from buyers. This low supply of available homes gives sellers the upper hand. Multiple offers and bidding wars have become increasingly common, resulting in a greater likelihood of homes selling above the asking price.

The overall economic conditions in the Greater Salt Lake City area also impact the housing market dynamics. The region has seen steady job growth and a thriving economy, making it an attractive place to live. This influx of people moving to the area has increased the demand for housing, further amplifying the seller’s market conditions.

As a prospective buyer or seller in the Greater Salt Lake City area, it’s essential to stay informed and work with knowledgeable real estate professionals who can guide you through the intricacies of the market. Based on the current trends, it is crucial for buyers to be prepared to act fast, make competitive offers, and be open to compromises. Sellers, on the other hand, should work closely with their agents to price their homes strategically and leverage their advantages in negotiations.

In conclusion, the Greater Salt Lake City housing market this fall is undoubtedly favoring sellers, with a shortage of inventory and high demand from buyers. This seller’s market is driven by factors like low interest rates, job growth, and a thriving local economy. However, market conditions can fluctuate, and potential changes in supply, demand, and interest rates may bring more balance to the market in the future. Staying informed and working with experienced professionals can empower both buyers and sellers to make informed decisions in the ever-changing real estate landscape.

Predictions And Recommendations: Navigating The Greater Salt Lake City Housing Market This Fall

As we enter the fall season, many homeowners and potential buyers in the Greater Salt Lake City area are eager to understand the current state of the housing market and what lies ahead. With the changing economic landscape and ongoing shifts in buyer preferences, it is crucial to stay informed and make well-informed decisions. In this section, we will delve into the predictions and offer recommendations to help you navigate the Greater Salt Lake City housing market this fall.

1. Continued Price Growth:

One of the notable trends in the Salt Lake City housing market is the steady increase in home prices. This trend is expected to continue into the fall months, driven by existing low inventory levels and high demand. With eager buyers looking to secure their dream homes before interest rates rise, sellers can expect multiple offers and potentially higher selling prices. This signifies a favorable market for sellers, but it also means that buyers need to be prepared to compete and make quick decisions.

2. Inventory Challenges:

While strong demand persists, the Greater Salt Lake City area continues to face a shortage of available housing options. This scarcity of inventory is mainly due to a combination of factors, including limited new construction, a reluctance among existing homeowners to sell, and an influx of out-of-state buyers. Consequently, buyers are likely to encounter intense competition and may need to act swiftly when they find a property of interest. It is essential for buyers to work closely with experienced real estate agents who can alert them to new listings and promptly navigate the process.

3. Evolving Buyer Preferences:

The preferences and needs of homebuyers have shifted over the past year due to the global pandemic. Buyers are now placing greater emphasis on features like home offices, outdoor spaces, and more versatile living arrangements. The fall season may see continued demand for properties that offer these features, as remote work and lifestyle changes continue to influence the market. Sellers who can highlight these desirable characteristics in their listings may attract more interest and potentially command higher offers.

4. Expert Guidance:

Given the dynamic nature of the Greater Salt Lake City housing market, seeking expert guidance from real estate professionals is crucial. Working with experienced agents who possess extensive knowledge of the local market can provide valuable insights. These professionals can assist both buyers and sellers in navigating the complexities, identifying opportunities, and tailoring strategies to maximize their objectives.

The Greater Salt Lake City housing market is poised for an active and robust fall season.

Marty Gale

Buy or Sell with Marty Gale

"Its The Experience"

Principal Broker and Owner of Utah Realty™

Licensed Since 1986

CERTIFIED LUXURY HOME MARKETING SPECIALIST (CLHM)

PSA  (Pricing Strategy Advisor)

General Contractor 2000 (in-active)
e-pro (advanced digital marketing) 2001
Certified Residential Specialist 2009

Certified Negotiation Expert 2014

Master Certified Negotiation Expert 2014
Certified Probate Specialist Since 2018

Senior Real Estate Specialist

Certified Divorce Specialist CDS

 

Contact me! 

 

 

Unpacking the Long-Term Benefits of Homeownership

Unpacking the Long-Term Benefits of Homeownership

Unpacking the Long-Term Benefits of Homeownership

If you’re thinking about buying a home soon, higher mortgage rates, rising home prices, and ongoing affordability concerns may make you wonder if it still makes sense to buy a home right now. While those market factors are important, there’s more to consider. You should think about the long-term benefits of homeownership too.

Think about this: if you know people who bought a home 5, 10, or even 30 years ago, you’re probably going to have a hard time finding someone who regrets their decision. Why is that? The reason is tied to how home values grow with time and how, by extension, that grows your own wealth. That may be why, in a recent Fannie Mae survey, 76% of respondents say they believe buying a home is a safe investment.

Here’s a look at how just the home price appreciation piece can really add up over the years.

Home Price Growth over Time

The map below uses data from the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) to show just how noteworthy price gains have been over the last five years. And, since home prices vary by area, the map is broken out regionally to help convey larger market trends:

If you look at the percent change in home prices, you can see home prices grew on average by just over 57% nationwide over a five-year period.

Some regions are slightly above or below that average, but overall, home prices gained solid ground in a short time. And if you expand that time frame even more, the benefit of homeownership and the drastic gains homeowners made over the years become even clearer (see map below):

The second map shows, nationwide, home prices appreciated by an average of over 297% over a roughly 30-year span.

This nationwide average tells you the typical homeowner who bought a house 30 years ago saw their home almost triple in value over that time. That’s a key factor in why so many homeowners who bought their homes years ago are still happy with their decision.

And while you may have heard talk throughout the year that home prices would crash, it hasn’t happened. In fact, experts project home prices will continue to rise for years to come.

Bottom Line

If you’re wondering if it still makes sense to buy a home today, it’s important to focus on the long-term advantages that come with homeownership. When you’re ready to start your homebuying journey, let’s chat.

Marty Gale

Buy or Sell with Marty Gale

"Its The Experience"

Principal Broker and Owner of Utah Realty™

Licensed Since 1986

CERTIFIED LUXURY HOME MARKETING SPECIALIST (CLHM)

PSA  (Pricing Strategy Advisor)

General Contractor 2000 (in-active)
e-pro (advanced digital marketing) 2001
Certified Residential Specialist 2009

Certified Negotiation Expert 2014

Master Certified Negotiation Expert 2014
Certified Probate Specialist Since 2018

Senior Real Estate Specialist

Certified Divorce Specialist CDS

 

Contact me! 

 

 

Beginning with Pre-Approval

Beginning with Pre-Approval

Beginning with Pre-Approval

If you’re looking to buy a home this fall, there are a few things you need to know. Affordability is tight with today’s mortgage rates and rising home prices. At the same time, there’s a limited number of homes on the market right now and that’s creating some competition among buyers. But, if you’re strategic, there are ways to navigate these waters. The first thing you’ll want to do is get pre-approved for a mortgage. That way you’ll know your numbers and can set yourself up for success from the start of your home search.

What Pre-Approval Does for You

To understand why it’s such an important step, you need to know what pre-approval is. As part of the homebuying process, a lender looks at your finances to determine what they’d be willing to loan you. From there, your lender will give you a pre-approval letter to help you know how much money you can borrow. Freddie Mac explains it like this:

A pre-approval is an indication from your lender that they are willing to lend you a certain amount of money to buy your future home. . . . Keep in mind that the loan amount in the pre-approval letter is the lender’s maximum offer. Ultimately, you should only borrow an amount you are comfortable repaying.”

Basically, pre-approval gives you critical information about the homebuying process that’ll help you understand how much you may be able to borrow. Why does this help you, especially today? With higher mortgage rates and home prices impacting affordability for many buyers right now, a solid understanding of your numbers is even more important so you can truly wrap your head around your options.

Pre-Approval Helps Show Sellers You’re a Serious Buyer

Let’s face it, there are more buyers looking to buy than there are homes available for sale and that imbalance is creating some competition among homebuyers. That means you could see yourself in a multiple-offer scenario when you make an offer on a home. But getting pre-approved for a mortgage can help you stand out from other hopeful buyers.

As an article from Wall Street Journal (WSJ) says:

If you plan to use a mortgage for your home purchase, preapproval should be among the first steps in your search process. Not only can getting preapproved help you zero in on the right price range, but it can give you a leg up on other buyers, too.”

Pre-approval shows the seller you’re a serious buyer that’s already undergone a credit and financial check, making it more likely that the sale will move forward without unexpected delays or financial issues.

Bottom Line

Getting pre-approved is an important first step when you’re buying a home. The more prepared you are, the better chance you have of getting the home you want. Connect with a trusted lender so you have the tools you need to purchase a home in today’s market.

Marty Gale

Buy or Sell with Marty Gale

"Its The Experience"

Principal Broker and Owner of Utah Realty™

Licensed Since 1986

CERTIFIED LUXURY HOME MARKETING SPECIALIST (CLHM)

PSA  (Pricing Strategy Advisor)

General Contractor 2000 (in-active)
e-pro (advanced digital marketing) 2001
Certified Residential Specialist 2009

Certified Negotiation Expert 2014

Master Certified Negotiation Expert 2014
Certified Probate Specialist Since 2018

Senior Real Estate Specialist

Certified Divorce Specialist CDS

 

Contact me! 

 

 

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