Strength of the Economy Is Surprising the Experts
We’re currently in the longest economic recovery in U.S. history. That has caused some to ask experts to project when the next economic slowdown (recession) could occur. Two years ago, 67% of the economists surveyed by the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) for the Economic Forecasting Survey predicted we would have a recession no later than the end of this year (2020). The same study done just three months ago showed more than one third of the economists still saw an economic slowdown right around the corner.
The news caused concern among consumers. This is evidenced by a recent survey done by realtor.com that shows 53% of home purchasers (first-time and repeat buyers) currently in the market believe a recession will occur by the end of this year.
Wait! It seems the experts are changing their minds….
Now, in an article earlier this month, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) revealed only 14.3% of those economists now believe we’re in danger of a recession occurring this year (see graph below):
The WSJ article strongly stated,
“The U.S. expansion, now in its 11th year, will continue through the 2020 presidential election with a healthy labor market backing it up, economists say.”
This optimism regarding the economy was repeated by others as well.
CNBC, quoting Goldman Sachs economists:
“Just months after almost everyone on Wall Street worried that a recession was just around the corner, Goldman Sachs said a downturn is unlikely over the next several years. In fact, the firm’s economists stopped just short of saying that the U.S. economy is recession-proof.”
“When Barron’s gathers some of Wall Street’s best minds—as we do every January for our annual Roundtable—we expect some consensus, some disagreement…But the 10 veteran investors and economists who convened in New York on Jan. 6 at the Barron’s offices agree that there’s almost no chance of a recession this year.”
“The U.S. economy is heading into 2020 at a pace of steady, sustained growth after a series of interest rate cuts and the apparent resolution of two trade-related threats mostly eliminated the risk of a recession.”
Robert A. Dye, Chief Economist at Comerica Bank:
“I expect that the U.S. economy will avoid a recession in 2020.”
Bottom Line
There probably won’t be a recession this year. That’s good news for you, whether you’re looking to buy or sell a home.
Early October is the Sweet Spot for Buyers
Early October is the Sweet Spot for Buyers Are you looking to buy a home? If so, we’ve got good news for you. While there’s no denying the housing market is having a great year, many of the headlines are focused on the perks for sellers. But what about buyers today?...
As Home Equity Rises, So Does Your Wealth
As Home Equity Rises, So Does Your Wealth Homeownership is still a crucial part of the American dream. For those people who own a home (and those looking to buy one), it’s clear that being a homeowner has considerable benefits both emotionally and financially. In...
Free Fall Selling Guide is Here! Get Yours!
Selling your home this fall? Free Fall Selling Guide is Here! Get Yours!
If You’re a Buyer, Is Offering Asking Price Enough?
If You’re a Buyer, Is Offering Asking Price Enough? In today’s real estate market, buyers shouldn’t shop for a home with the expectation they’ll be able to negotiate a lower sales price. In a typical housing market, buyers try to determine how much less than the...
It’s Still a Sellers’ Market In Utah
It’s Still a Sellers’ Market Some Highlights Due to low supply and high demand, today is one of the strongest sellers’ markets we’ve seen. Sellers can benefit from more offers to pick from, higher home values, and a faster sales process. That might be why 73% of...
Is a 20% Down Payment Really Necessary To Purchase a Home?
Is a 20% Down Payment Really Necessary To Purchase a Home? There’s a common misconception that, as a homebuyer, you need to come up with 20% of the total sale price for your down payment. In fact, a recent survey by Lending Tree asks what is keeping consumers from...
Market Stats for So Jo
South Jordan Market Update
Have You Ever Seen a Housing Market Like This?
Have You Ever Seen a Housing Market Like This? Some Highlights Whether you’re buying or selling – today’s housing market has plenty of good news to go around. Buyers can take advantage of today's mortgage rates to escape rising rents and keep monthly...
Is the Number of Homes for Sale Finally Growing?
Is the Number of Homes for Sale Finally Growing? Salt Lake County Active Single Family on September 1st was at 820 Units as of September 16th up slightly to 887 Utah County September 1st was at 664 as of September 16th down to 651 An important metric in today’s...
Reasons You Should Consider Selling This Fall
Reasons You Should Consider Selling This Fall If you're trying to decide when to sell your house, there may not be a better time to list than right now. The ultimate sellers' market we're in today won't last forever. If you’re thinking of making a move, here are four...