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.
4 Smart Ways To Find a Reliable Real Estate Agent
Homebuyers and sellers can benefit from working with reliable real estate agents, as 89% of recent homebuyers chose to do so. To find a trustworthy agent, consider these strategies: 1. Research recent property sales in your area to identify active agents. 2. Call...
5-Year Forecast Favors Buying Over Renting
Buying isn’t just a home — it’s a wealth-building move for your future. Example: Buy a $300K home with 5% down = $82K equity in 5 years.
Do New Roofs Save Money and Energy?
Impact-resistant shingles and metal roofs extend roof life while safeguarding against costly storm damage. Solar-compatible roofs allow easier renewable energy adoption, even for homeowners not installing panels yet. Cool roofing systems lower household cooling bills...
Smart Steps to Buy Your First Home
Start with patience, flexibility, and assembling a trustworthy Real Estate team from day one. Work with a reliable realtor to avoid rushed or financially risky buying decisions. Compare lenders to find strong pre-approval options, like a pre-underwritten mortgage....
Steps to Take Between Mortgage Closing and Moving Day
After closing on your mortgage, follow this checklist to prepare for moving into your new home. Change your address with the Post Office and update utilities. Review your inspection report for necessary repairs and create a maintenance schedule. Deep clean your new...
Guide for First-Time Homebuyers
Buying your first house can be both exciting and overwhelming. Resources are available to empower you with the knowledge needed for homeownership. You can save up to $1,250, and if you find lower costs elsewhere, there are incentives. Local experts are available to...
Housing Market Predictions 2025
In 2025, the housing market shows slow stabilization with mortgage rates declining from near 7%, boosting buyer interest. Home sales remain sluggish but may rise 6% by year-end, while prices continue modest growth due to limited supply. Inventory has increased,...
What Mortgage Rate Will Get Buyers Moving?
A 6% mortgage rate could make homes affordable for 5.5 million more households, potentially unlocking major buying activity across key U.S. metro areas. NAR forecasts rates falling to 6% by 2026, possibly increasing home sales 14%. Current high rates and inventory...
Homeowner Equity Grows Even as Home Prices Dip
After 3 quarters of slipping, equity-rich homes finally ticked up in Q2 2025. ~50% of U.S. homes with mortgages are now equity-rich. Equity-rich = owing less than 50% of your home’s value. In just one quarter, equity-rich homes jumped from 46.2% to 47.4% nationwide....
Is a 31% Boom in Home Prices Possible by 2029?
US home prices ↑ 19.8% cumulatively from 2025 to 2029, averaging ↑ 3.7% annual growth. Annual growth accelerates to ↑ 10.8% by 2027, then reaches ↑ 19.8% cumulative increase in 2029. Optimistic forecasts predict up to ↑ 31% total growth by 2029, pessimistic as low as...