How the Federal Reserve’s Next Move Could Impact the Housing Market

Now that it’s September, all eyes are on the Federal Reserve (the Fed). The overwhelming expectation is that they’ll cut the Federal Funds Rate at their upcoming meeting, driven primarily by recent signs that inflation is cooling, and the job market is slowing down. Mark Zandi, Chief Economist at Moody’s Analytics, said:

“They’re ready to cut, just as long as we don’t get an inflation surprise between now and September, which we won’t.”

But what does this mean for the housing market, and more importantly, for you as a potential homebuyer or seller?

Why a Federal Funds Rate Cut Matters

The Federal Funds Rate is one of the key factors that influences mortgage rates – things like the economy, geopolitical uncertainty, and more also have an impact.

When the Fed cuts the Federal Funds Rate, it signals what’s happening in the broader economy, and mortgage rates tend to respond. While a single rate cut might not lead to a dramatic drop in mortgage rates, it could contribute to the gradual decline that’s already happening.

As Mike Fratantoni, Chief Economist at the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), points out:

“Once the Fed kicks off a rate-cutting cycle, we do expect that mortgage rates will move somewhat lower.”

And any upcoming Federal Funds Rate cut likely won’t be a one-time event. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), says:

“Generally, the rate-cutting cycle is not one-and-done. Six to eight rounds of rate cuts all through 2025 look likely.”

The Projected Impact on Mortgage Rates

Here’s what experts in the industry project for mortgage rates through 2025. One contributing factor to this ongoing gradual decline is the anticipated cuts from the Fed. The graph below shows the latest forecasts from Fannie Mae, MBA, NAR, and Wells Fargo (see graph below):

So, with recent improvements in inflation and signs of a cooling job market, a Federal Funds Rate cut is likely to lead to a moderate decline in mortgage rates (shown in the dotted lines). Here are two big reasons why that’s good news for both buyers and sellers:

1. It Helps Alleviate the Lock-In Effect

For current homeowners, lower mortgage rates could help ease the lock-in effect. That’s where people feel stuck within their current home because today’s rates are higher than what they locked in when they bought their current house.

If the fear of losing your low-rate mortgage and facing higher costs has kept you out of the market, a slight reduction in rates could make selling a bit more attractive again. However, this isn’t expected to bring a flood of sellers to the market, as many homeowners may still be cautious about giving up their existing mortgage rate.

2. It Should Boost Buyer Activity

For potential homebuyers, any drop in mortgage rates will provide a more inviting housing market. Lower mortgage rates can reduce the overall cost of homeownership, making it more feasible for you if you’ve been waiting to make a move.

What Should You Do?

While a Federal Funds Rate cut is not expected to lead to drastically lower mortgage rates, it will likely contribute to the gradual decrease that’s already happening.

And while the anticipated rate cut represents a positive shift for the future of the housing market, it’s important to consider your options right now. Jacob Channel, Senior Economist at LendingTree, sums it up well:

“Timing the market is basically impossible. If you’re always waiting for perfect market conditions, you’re going to be waiting forever. Buy now only if it’s a good idea for you.”

Recap

The expected Federal Funds Rate cut, driven by improving inflation and slower job growth, is likely to have a positive, albeit gradual, impact on mortgage rates. That could help unlock opportunities for you. When you’re ready, connect with a local real estate agent so you’re prepared to take action.

Considering Buying or Selling a Home?

If you are looking to buy or sell a home in Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Estero, Bonita Springs or Naples, I encourage you to work with a real estate professional or consultant who has the experience and knowledge to provide an accurate market comparison so you can set the Price Right. Contact us today to learn more about the current market and if selling how your home or condo stacks up against the competition and how we can position your property to sell quickly and for a fair price. Learn more about selling your home

Bottom Line:

If you’re looking for a focused and goal-oriented Realtor® in Southwest Florida who will help you achieve your Real Estate needs, please reach out to me directly. Additionally, if you are looking at buying or selling a home or condo, vacation home/condo, waterfront home/condo or to build your own dream home, call or text me at 239-770-6880 or email me at Jon@southwestfldreamhomes.com

About Jonathan Blaze, PA

The information contained, and the opinions expressed, in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Jonathan Blaze, Realty ONE Group MVP or Southwest FL Dream Homes Team or Keeping Matters Current does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision. Jonathan Blaze, Realty ONE Group MVP or Southwest FL Dream Homes Team will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on the information or opinions contained herein.

2025 Housing Market Forecasts: What To Expect

Looking ahead to 2025, it’s important to know what experts are projecting for the housing market. And whether you’re thinking of buying or selling a home next year, having a clear picture of what they’re calling for can help you make the best possible decision for your homeownership plans.

Here’s an early look at the most recent projections on mortgage rates, home sales, and prices for 2025.

Mortgage Rates Are Projected To Come Down Slightly

Mortgage rates play a significant role in the housing market. The forecasts for 2025 from Fannie Mae, the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), the National Association of Realtors (NAR), and Wells Fargo show an expected gradual decline in mortgage rates over the course of the next year (see chart below):

Mortgage rates are projected to come down because continued easing of inflation and a slight rise in unemployment rates are key signs of a strong but slowing economy. And many experts believe these signs will encourage the Federal Reserve to lower the Federal Funds Rate, which tends to lead to lower mortgage rates. As Morgan Stanley says:

“With the U.S. Federal Reserve widely expected to begin cutting its benchmark interest rate in 2024, mortgage rates could drop as well—at least slightly.”

Expect More Homes To Sell

The market will see an increase in both the supply of available homes on the market, as well as a rise in demand, as more buyers and sellers who have been sitting on the sidelines because of higher rates choose to make a move. That’s one big reason why experts are projecting an increase in home sales next year.

According to Fannie Mae, MBA, and NAR, total home sales are forecast to climb slightly, with an average of about 5.4 million homes expected to sell in 2025 (see graph below):

That would represent a modest uptick from the lower sales numbers in 2023 and 2024. For reference, about 4.8 million total homes were sold in 2023, and expectations are for around 4.5 million homes to sell this year.

While slightly lower mortgage rates are not expected to bring a flood of buyers and sellers back to the market, they certainly will get more people moving. That means more homes available for sale – and competition among buyers who want to purchase them.

Home Prices Will Go Up Moderately

More buyers ready to jump into the market will put continued upward pressure on prices. Take a look at the latest price forecasts from 10 of the most trusted sources in real estate (see graph below):

On average, experts forecast home prices will rise nationally by about 2.6% next year. But as you can see, there’s a range of opinions on how much prices will climb. Experts agree, however, that home prices will continue to increase moderately next year at a slower, more normal rate. But keep in mind, prices will always vary by local market.

Recap

Understanding 2025 housing market forecasts can help you plan your next move. Whether you're buying or selling, staying informed about these trends will ensure you make the best decision possible. Reach out to a trusted real estate agent to discuss how these forecasts could impact your plans.

Considering Buying or Selling a Home?

If you are looking to buy or sell a home in Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Estero, Bonita Springs or Naples, I encourage you to work with a real estate professional or consultant who has the experience and knowledge to provide an accurate market comparison so you can set the Price Right. Contact us today to learn more about the current market and if selling how your home or condo stacks up against the competition and how we can position your property to sell quickly and for a fair price. Learn more about selling your home

Bottom Line:

If you’re looking for a focused and goal-oriented Realtor® in Southwest Florida who will help you achieve your Real Estate needs, please reach out to me directly. Additionally, if you are looking at buying or selling a home or condo, vacation home/condo, waterfront home/condo or to build your own dream home, call or text me at 239-770-6880 or email me at Jon@southwestfldreamhomes.com

About Jonathan Blaze, PA

The information contained, and the opinions expressed, in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Jonathan Blaze, Realty ONE Group MVP or Southwest FL Dream Homes Team or Keeping Matters Current does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision. Jonathan Blaze, Realty ONE Group MVP or Southwest FL Dream Homes Team will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on the information or opinions contained herein.

The Number One Mistake Sellers Are Making: Overpricing Their House

In today’s housing market, many sellers are making a critical mistake: overpricing their houses. This common error can lead to a home sitting on the market for a long time without any offers. And when that happens, the homeowner may have to drop their asking price to try to re-ignite buyer interest.

Data from Realtor.com shows the number of homeowners realizing this mistake and doing a price reduction is climbing (see graph below):

If you’re thinking about making a move yourself, here’s what you need to know. The best way to avoid making a costly mistake is to work with a trusted real estate agent to find the right price. Here’s a look at what’s at stake if you don’t.

Not Paying Attention To Current Market Conditions

Understanding current market conditions is key to accurate pricing. You don’t want to set your asking price based on what happened during the pandemic. The market has moderated a lot since then, so it’s far better to align your price with today’s reality.

Real estate agents stay updated on market trends and how they impact the pricing strategy for your house.

Pricing It Based on What You Want To Make (Not What It’s Worth)

Another misstep is pricing it based on what you want to make on the sale, and not necessarily current market value. You may see other homes in your neighborhood selling for top dollar and assume yours can do the same. But you may not be considering differences in size, condition, and features. For example, maybe that other house is waterfront or has a finished basement. To sum it up, Bankrate explains:

“How do you find that sweet spot of pricing for profit but not overpricing? The expertise of your agent can be truly valuable here. A knowledgeable agent will understand fair market value in your area, how much your house is worth and how much you might reasonably expect to get for it in the current market.”

An agent will do a comparative market analysis (CMA) to make sure your house is compared with truly similar properties to get an accurate look at how it should be priced.

Pricing High to Leave Room for Negotiation

Another common, yet misguided strategy is to price your house high on purpose, so you have more room to negotiate down during the sale. But this can backfire. A price that seems too high often deters potential buyers from even considering the home. So rather than leaving room for negotiation, what you’ll actually be doing is turning buyers away. U.S. News Real Estate explains:

“You want to sell your house for top dollar, but be realistic about the value of the property and how buyers will see it. If you’ve overpriced your home, chances are you’ll eventually need to lower the number, but the peak period of activity that a new listing experiences is already gone.”

An agent can help you set a fair price that attracts buyers and encourages more competitive offers.

Recap

Overpricing your home can have serious consequences. A knowledgeable real estate agent brings an objective perspective, in-depth market knowledge, and a strategic approach to pricing.

Connect with a local real estate professional to avoid making a pricing mistake that’ll cost you.

Considering Buying or Selling a Home?

If you are looking to buy or sell a home in Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Estero, Bonita Springs or Naples, I encourage you to work with a real estate professional or consultant who has the experience and knowledge to provide an accurate market comparison so you can set the Price Right. Contact us today to learn more about the current market and if selling how your home or condo stacks up against the competition and how we can position your property to sell quickly and for a fair price. Learn more about selling your home

Bottom Line:

If you’re looking for a focused and goal-oriented Realtor® in Southwest Florida who will help you achieve your Real Estate needs, please reach out to me directly. Additionally, if you are looking at buying or selling a home or condo, vacation home/condo, waterfront home/condo or to build your own dream home, call or text me at 239-770-6880 or email me at Jon@southwestfldreamhomes.com

About Jonathan Blaze, PA

The information contained, and the opinions expressed, in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Jonathan Blaze, Realty ONE Group MVP or Southwest FL Dream Homes Team or Keeping Matters Current does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision. Jonathan Blaze, Realty ONE Group MVP or Southwest FL Dream Homes Team will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on the information or opinions contained herein.

Is Affordability Starting To Improve?

Over the past couple of years, a lot of people have had a hard time buying a home. And while affordability is still tight, there are signs it’s getting a little better and might keep improving throughout the rest of the year. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), says:

“Housing affordability is improving ever so modestly, but it is moving in the right direction.”

Here’s a look at the latest data on the three biggest factors affecting home affordability: mortgage rates, home prices, and wages. 

1. Mortgage Rates

Mortgage rates have been volatile this year, bouncing around from the mid-6% to low 7% range. But there’s some good news. Data from Freddie Mac shows rates have been trending down overall since May (see graph below):

Mortgage rates have improved lately in part because of recent economic, employment, and inflation data. Moving forward, some rate volatility is to be expected. But if future economic data continues to show signs of cooling, experts say mortgage rates could keep going down.

 Even a small drop can help you out. When rates decline, it’s easier to afford the home you want because your monthly payment will be lower. Just don’t expect them to go back down to 3%.

2. Home Prices

The second big thing to think about is home prices. Nationally, they’re still going up this year, but not as fast as they did a couple of years ago. The graph below uses home price data from Case-Shiller to illustrate that point:

If you’re thinking about buying a home, slower price growth is good news. Home prices went up a lot during the pandemic, making it hard for many people to buy. Now, with prices rising more slowly, buying a home may feel less out of reach. As Odeta Kushi, Deputy Chief Economist at First American, says: 

“While housing affordability is low for potential first-time home buyers, slowing price appreciation and lower mortgage rates could help – so the dream of homeownership isn’t boarded up just yet.”

3. Wages

Another factor helping with affordability is rising wages. The graph below uses data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to show how wages have increased over time:

Look at the blue dotted line. It shows how wages usually go up in a typical year. On the right side of the graph, you’ll see wages are rising even faster than normal right now – that’s the green line.

This helps you because if your income increases, it’s easier to afford a home. That’s because you won’t have to spend as much of your paycheck on your monthly mortgage payment.

Recap

When you put all these factors together, you see mortgage rates are trending down, home prices are rising more slowly, and wages are going up faster than usual. Though affordability is still a challenge, these trends are early signs things might be starting to improve.

Considering Buying or Selling a Home?

If you are looking to buy or sell a home in Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Estero, Bonita Springs or Naples, I encourage you to work with a real estate professional or consultant who has the experience and knowledge to provide an accurate market comparison so you can set the Price Right. Contact us today to learn more about the current market and if selling how your home or condo stacks up against the competition and how we can position your property to sell quickly and for a fair price. Learn more about selling your home

Bottom Line:

If you’re looking for a focused and goal-oriented Realtor® in Southwest Florida who will help you achieve your Real Estate needs, please reach out to me directly. Additionally, if you are looking at buying or selling a home or condo, vacation home/condo, waterfront home/condo or to build your own dream home, call or text me at 239-770-6880 or email me at Jon@southwestfldreamhomes.com

About Jonathan Blaze, PA

The information contained, and the opinions expressed, in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Jonathan Blaze, MVP Realty or Southwest FL Dream Homes Team or Keeping Matters Current does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision. Jonathan Blaze, MVP Realty or Southwest FL Dream Homes Team will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on the information or opinions contained herein.

Should You Rent Out or Sell Your House?

Figuring out what to do with your house when you’re ready to move can be a big decision. Should you sell it and use the money for your next adventure, or keep it as a rental to build long-term wealth?

It’s a question many homeowners face, and the answer isn’t always straightforward. Whether you’re curious about the potential income from renting or worried about the responsibilities of being a landlord, there’s a lot to consider.

Let’s walk through some key questions to ask to help you make the best decision for your situation.

Is Your House a Good Fit for Renting?

Even if you’re interested in becoming a landlord, your current house might not be ideal for renting. Maybe you’re moving far away, so keeping up with the ongoing maintenance would be a hassle, the neighborhood isn’t great for rentals, or the house needs significant repairs before you could rent it out.

If any of this sounds like it might apply, selling might be your best option.

Are You Ready for the Realities of Being a Landlord?

Managing a rental property isn’t just about collecting rent checks. It’s a time-consuming and sometimes challenging job.

For example, you may get calls from tenants at all hours of the day with maintenance requests. Or you may find a tenant causes damage you have to repair before the next lease starts. You may even have to deal with people falling behind on payments or breaking their lease early. Investopedia highlights:

“It isn’t difficult to find horror stories of landlords troubled with more headaches than profits. Before deciding to rent, consider talking to other landlords and doing a detailed cost analysis. You might find that selling your home is a better financial decision and less stressful.”

Do You Have a Good Understanding of What It’ll Cost?

If you’re thinking about renting out your home primarily to generate extra income, remember that there are additional costs you’ll want to plan for. As an article from Bankrate explains:

• Mortgage and Property Taxes: You still need to pay these expenses, even if the rent doesn’t cover all of it.
• Insurance: Landlord insurance costs about 25% more than regular home insurance, and it’s necessary to cover damages and injuries.
• Maintenance and Repairs: Plan to spend at least 1% of the home’s value annually, more if the home is older.
• Finding a Tenant: This involves advertising costs and potentially paying for background checks.
• Vacancies: If the property sits empty between tenants, you’ll lose rental income.
• Management and HOA Fees: A property manager can ease the burden, but typically charges about 10% of the rent. HOA fees are an additional cost too, if applicable.

Recap

To sum it all up, selling or renting out your home is a personal decision that depends on your circumstances. Whatever you decide, taking the time to evaluate your options will help you make the best choice for your future.

Make sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully and consult with professionals so you feel supported and informed as you make your decision. A real estate agent can be a great person to go to for advice.

Considering Buying or Selling a Home?

If you are looking to buy or sell a home in Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Estero, Bonita Springs or Naples, I encourage you to work with a real estate professional or consultant who has the experience and knowledge to provide an accurate market comparison so you can set the Price Right. Contact us today to learn more about the current market and if selling how your home or condo stacks up against the competition and how we can position your property to sell quickly and for a fair price. Learn more about selling your home

Bottom Line:

If you’re looking for a focused and goal-oriented Realtor® in Southwest Florida who will help you achieve your Real Estate needs, please reach out to me directly. Additionally, if you are looking at buying or selling a home or condo, vacation home/condo, waterfront home/condo or to build your own dream home, call or text me at 239-770-6880 or email me at Jon@southwestfldreamhomes.com

About Jonathan Blaze, PA

The information contained, and the opinions expressed, in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Jonathan Blaze, MVP Realty or Southwest FL Dream Homes Team or Keeping Matters Current does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision. Jonathan Blaze, MVP Realty or Southwest FL Dream Homes Team will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on the information or opinions contained herein.

The Biggest Mistakes Sellers Are Making Right Now

The housing market is going through a transition. Higher mortgage rates are causing more moderate buyer activity at the same time the supply of homes for sale is growing.

And if you aren’t working with an agent, you may not realize that. Here’s the downside. If you’re not informed, you can’t adjust your strategy or expectations to today’s market. And that can lead to a number of costly mistakes.

Here’s a look at some of the most common ones – and how an agent will help you avoid them when you sell. 

1. Overpricing Your House

Many sellers set their asking price too high and that’s why there’s an uptick in homes with price reductions today. An unrealistic price will deter potential buyers, cause an appraisal issue, or lead to your house sitting on the market longer. An article from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) explains:

“Some sellers are pricing their homes higher than ever just because they can, but this may drive away serious buyers and result in unapproved appraisals . . .”

To avoid falling into this trap, partner with a pro. An agent uses recent sales of similar homes, the condition of your house, local market trends, and so much more to find the price that’ll attract more buyers and open the door for multiple offers and a faster sale.

2. Skipping the Small Stuff

You may try to skip important repairs, thinking you can pass the task on to your buyer. But visible issues (even if they’re small) can turn off potential buyers and result in lower offers or demands for concessions. As Money Talks News says:

“Home shoppers like to turn on lights, flush toilets and run the water. If these basic things don’t work, they may assume you’ve skipped other maintenance. Homes that appear neglected aren’t likely to fetch top price.”

If you want to get your house ready to sell, the best place to turn to for advice is your agent. They’ll be able to do a walk-through with you and point out anything you’ll need to tackle before the photographer comes in.

3. Not Looking at Things Objectively

Buyers today are feeling the pinch of high home prices and mortgage rates. With affordability that tight, they may come in with an offer that’s lower than you’d want to see – especially if you didn’t stage, price, or market the house well.

It’s important you don’t take this personally. Getting overly emotional can put the sale at risk. As an article from Ramsey Solutions says:

“Remember, a buyer’s offer is not a reflection of their opinion of your home or your housekeeping abilities. . . The sale of your home is strictly a business transaction. If they start out with a low offer, don’t take it personally and get emotional. Instead, channel that energy toward negotiating. Work with your agent and make a counteroffer.”

4. Being Unwilling To Negotiate

The supply of homes for sale has grown. That means buyers have more options, and with that comes more negotiation power. As a seller, you may see more buyers getting an inspection, requesting repairs, or asking for help with closing costs today. You need to be prepared to have those conversations. As U.S. News Real Estate explains:

“If you’ve received an offer for your house that isn’t quite what you’d hoped it would be, expect to negotiate . . . the only way to come to a successful deal is to make sure the buyer also feels like he or she benefits . . . consider offering to cover some of the buyer’s closing costs or agree to a credit for a minor repair the inspector found.”

An agent will walk you through what levers you may want to pull based on your own goals, budget, and timeframe.

5. Not Using a Real Estate Agent

Notice anything? For each of these mistakes, partnering with an agent helps prevent them from happening in the first place. That makes trying to sell your house without an agent’s help the biggest mistake of all.

Real estate agents have experience and expertise in pricing, marketing, negotiating, and more. That knowledge streamlines the selling process and usually results in drumming up more interest and ultimately can get you a higher final price.

Recap and #1 Take Away

If you want to avoid making mistakes like these, you need to work with a real estate agent.

Considering Buying or Selling a Home?

If you are looking to buy or sell a home in Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Estero, Bonita Springs or Naples, I encourage you to work with a real estate professional or consultant who has the experience and knowledge to provide an accurate market comparison so you can set the Price Right. Contact us today to learn more about the current market and if selling how your home or condo stacks up against the competition and how we can position your property to sell quickly and for a fair price. Learn more about selling your home

Bottom Line:

If you’re looking for a focused and goal-oriented Realtor® in Southwest Florida who will help you achieve your Real Estate needs, please reach out to me directly. Additionally, if you are looking at buying or selling a home or condo, vacation home/condo, waterfront home/condo or to build your own dream home, call or text me at 239-770-6880 or email me at Jon@southwestfldreamhomes.com

About Jonathan Blaze, PA

The information contained, and the opinions expressed, in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Jonathan Blaze, MVP Realty or Southwest FL Dream Homes Team or Keeping Matters Current does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision. Jonathan Blaze, MVP Realty or Southwest FL Dream Homes Team will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on the information or opinions contained herein.

Are Home Prices Going To Come Down?

Today’s headlines and news stories about home prices are confusing and make it tough to know what’s really happening. Some say home prices are heading for a correction, but what do the facts say? Well, it helps to start by looking at what a correction means.

Here’s what Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, says:

 “In stock market terms, a correction is generally referred to as a 10 to 20% drop in prices . . . We don’t have the same established definitions in the housing market.”

In the context of today’s housing market, it doesn’t mean home prices are going to fall dramatically. It only means prices, which have been increasing rapidly over the last couple years, are normalizing a bit. In other words, they’re now growing at a slower pace. Prices vary a lot by local market, but rest assured, a big drop off isn’t what’s happening at a national level.

The Real Estate Market Is Normalizing

From 2020 to 2022, home prices skyrocketed. That rapid increase was due to high demand, low interest rates, and a shortage of homes for sale. But, that kind of aggressive growth couldn’t continue forever.

Today, price growth has started to slow down, which is a sign the market is beginning to normalize. The most recent data from Case-Shiller shows that after being basically flat for a couple of months last year, prices are going up at a national level – just not as quickly as before (see graph below):

The big takeaway? So far this year, there’s been a much healthier pace of price growth compared to the pandemic.

Of course, that’s what’s happening now, but you may be wondering what’s next for prices. Marco Santarelli, the Founder of Norada Real Estate Investments, says:

“Expert forecasts lean towards a moderation in home price growth over the next five years. This translates to a slower and more sustainable pace of appreciation compared to the breakneck speed witnessed in recent years, rather than a freefall in prices.”

It’s all about supply and demand. Increasing inventory plus limited buyer demand, due to relatively high mortgage rates, will continue to ease some of the upward pressure on prices.

 What This Means for You

 If you’re thinking about buying a home, slowing price growth is welcome news. Skyrocketing home prices during the pandemic left many would-be homebuyers feeling priced-out. 

While it’s still a good thing to know the value of the home you buy will likely continue to go up once you own it, slowing price gains are making things feel more manageable. Odeta Kushi, Deputy Chief Economist at First American, says:

“While housing affordability is low for potential first-time home buyers, slowing price appreciation and lower mortgage rates could help — so the dream of homeownership isn’t boarded up just yet.”

Recap

At the national level, home prices are not going down. And most experts forecast they’ll continue growing moderately moving forward. But prices vary a lot by local market. That’s where a trusted real estate agent comes into play. If you have questions about what’s happening with prices in your area, reach out to an agent.

Considering Buying or Selling a Home?

If you are looking to buy or sell a home in Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Estero, Bonita Springs or Naples, I encourage you to work with a real estate professional or consultant who has the experience and knowledge to provide an accurate market comparison so you can set the Price Right. Contact us today to learn more about the current market and if selling how your home or condo stacks up against the competition and how we can position your property to sell quickly and for a fair price. Learn more about selling your home

Bottom Line:

If you’re looking for a focused and goal-oriented Realtor® in Southwest Florida who will help you achieve your Real Estate needs, please reach out to me directly. Additionally, if you are looking at buying or selling a home or condo, vacation home/condo, waterfront home/condo or to build your own dream home, call or text me at 239-770-6880 or email me at Jon@southwestfldreamhomes.com

About Jonathan Blaze, PA

The information contained, and the opinions expressed, in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Jonathan Blaze, MVP Realty or Southwest FL Dream Homes Team or Keeping Matters Current does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision. Jonathan Blaze, MVP Realty or Southwest FL Dream Homes Team will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on the information or opinions contained herein.

Tips for Younger Homebuyers: How To Make Your Dream a Reality.

If you’re a member of a younger generation, like Gen Z, you may be asking the question: will I ever be able to buy a home? And chances are, you’re worried that’s not going to be in the cards with inflation, rising home prices, mortgage rates, and more seemingly stacked against you.

While there’s no arguing this housing market is challenging for first-time homebuyers, it is still achievable, especially if you have professionals on your side.

Here are some helpful tips you may get from a pro.

1. Explore Your Options for a Down Payment

If a down payment is your #1 hurdle, you may have options to give your savings a boost. There are over 2,000 down payment assistance programs designed to make homeownership more achievable. And, that’s not the only place you may be able to get a helping hand. While it may not be an option for everyone, 49% of Gen Z homebuyers got money from loved ones that they used toward a down payment, according to LendingTree.

And chances are you won’t need to put 20% down (unless specified by your loan type or lender). So be sure to work with a trusted mortgage professional to explore your options, find out how much you’ll really need, and learn about any guidelines on getting a gift from loved ones.

2. Live with Loved Ones To Boost Your Savings

Another thing a number of Gen Z buyers are doing is ditching their rental and moving back in with friends or family. This can help cut down your housing costs so you can build your savings a whole lot faster. As Bankrate explains:

“. . . many have opted to stop renting and live with family in order to boost their savings. Thirty percent of Gen Z homebuyers move directly from their family member’s home to a home of their own, according to NAR.”

3. Cast a Broad Net for Your Search

When you’ve saved up enough, here’s how a pro will help you approach your search. Since the supply of homes for sale is still low and affordability is tight, they’ll give you strategies and avenues you may not have considered to open up your pool of options.

For example, it’s usually more affordable if you consider a rural or suburban area versus an urban one. So, while the city may be livelier and more energetic, the cost of living may be reason enough to look at something further out. And if you consider smaller homes and condos or townhouses, you’ll give yourself even more ways to break into the market. As Colby Stout, Research Analyst at Bright MLS, explains:

“Being flexible on the types of home (e.g., a condo or townhome versus a single-family home) and exploring more affordable neighborhoods is important for first-time buyers.”

4. Take a Close Look at Your Wants and Needs

And lastly, an agent can help you really think about your must-have’s and nice-to-have’s. Remember, your first home doesn’t have to be your forever home. You just need to get your foot in the door to start building equity. If you want to buy, you may find making some compromises is worth it. As Chase says:

“An open-minded approach to house-hunting may be one way for Gen Z homebuyers to maintain some edge. This could mean buying in areas that are less expensive. Differentiating needs vs. wants may help in this area as well.”

An agent will help you prioritize your list of home features and find houses that can deliver on the top ones. And they’ll be able to explain how equity can benefit you in the long run and make it possible to move into that dream home down the line.

Recap

Real estate professionals have expertise on what’s working for other buyers like you. Lean on them for tips and advice on ways you can get ready to buy. As Directors Mortgage says, with that support you can make it happen:

“The path to homeownership may not be a straightforward one for Gen Z, but it’s undoubtedly within reach. By adopting the right strategies, like exploring down payment assistance programs and sharing living costs with relatives, you can bring your dream of owning a home closer to reality.”

Considering Buying or Selling a Home?

If you are looking to buy or sell a home in Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Estero, Bonita Springs or Naples, I encourage you to work with a real estate professional or consultant who has the experience and knowledge to provide an accurate market comparison so you can set the Price Right. Contact us today to learn more about the current market and if selling how your home or condo stacks up against the competition and how we can position your property to sell quickly and for a fair price. Learn more about selling your home

Bottom Line:

If you’re looking for a focused and goal-oriented Realtor® in Southwest Florida who will help you achieve your Real Estate needs, please reach out to me directly. Additionally, if you are looking at buying or selling a home or condo, vacation home/condo, waterfront home/condo or to build your own dream home, call or text me at 239-770-6880 or email me at Jon@southwestfldreamhomes.com

About Jonathan Blaze, PA

The information contained, and the opinions expressed, in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Jonathan Blaze, MVP Realty or Southwest FL Dream Homes Team or Keeping Matters Current does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision. Jonathan Blaze, MVP Realty or Southwest FL Dream Homes Team will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on the information or opinions contained herein.

Foreclosure Numbers Are Nothing Like the 2008 Crash

If you’ve been keeping up with the news lately, you’ve probably come across some articles saying the number of foreclosures in today’s housing market is going up. And that may leave you feeling a bit worried about what’s ahead, especially if you owned a home during the housing crash in 2008.

The reality is, while increasing, the data shows a foreclosure crisis is not where the market is headed.

Here’s the latest information stacked against the historical data to put your mind at ease.

The Headlines Make the Increase Sound Dramatic – But It’s Not

The increase the media is calling attention to is a little bit misleading. That’s because it’s comparing the most recent numbers to a time when foreclosures were at historic lows. And that lopsided comparison is making it sound like a much bigger deal than it actually is.

Back in 2020 and 2021, there was a moratorium and forbearance program that helped millions of homeowners avoid foreclosure during challenging times. That’s why numbers for just a few years ago were so low.

Now that the moratorium has come to an end, foreclosures are resuming and that means numbers are rising. But it’s an expected increase, not a surprise, and not a cause for alarm. Just because foreclosure filings are up doesn’t mean the housing market is in trouble.

To prove that to you, let’s expand the comparison out a bit more. Specifically, we’ll go all the way back to the housing crash in 2008 – since that’s what people worry may happen again.

The graph below uses research from ATTOM, a property data provider, to show foreclosure activity has been consistently lower since the crash in 2008:

What the data shows is that things now aren’t anything like they were surrounding the housing crash. The bars in red are when there were over 1 million foreclosure filings a year. In 2023, there were roughly 357,000. That’s a big difference.

A recent article from Bankrate explains one of the reasons things aren’t like they were back then:

“In the years after the housing crash, millions of foreclosures flooded the housing market, depressing prices. That’s not the case now. Most homeowners have a comfortable equity cushion in their homes.”

Basically, foreclosure activity is nothing like it was during the crash. That’s because most homeowners today have enough equity to keep them from going into foreclosure. And that’s a really good thing for homeowners and for the market.

The reality is, the data shows a foreclosure crisis is not where the market is today, or where it’s headed.

Recap

Right now, putting the data into context is more important than ever. While the housing market is experiencing an expected rise in foreclosures, it’s nowhere near the crisis levels seen when the housing bubble burst, and that won’t lead to a crash in home prices.

Considering Buying or Selling a Home?

If you are looking to buy or sell a home in Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Estero, Bonita Springs or Naples, I encourage you to work with a real estate professional or consultant who has the experience and knowledge to provide an accurate market comparison so you can set the Price Right. Contact us today to learn more about the current market and if selling how your home or condo stacks up against the competition and how we can position your property to sell quickly and for a fair price. Learn more about selling your home

Bottom Line:

If you’re looking for a focused and goal-oriented Realtor® in Southwest Florida who will help you achieve your Real Estate needs, please reach out to me directly. Additionally, if you are looking at buying or selling a home or condo, vacation home/condo, waterfront home/condo or to build your own dream home, call or text me at 239-770-6880 or email me at Jon@southwestfldreamhomes.com

About Jonathan Blaze, PA

The information contained, and the opinions expressed, in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Jonathan Blaze, MVP Realty or Southwest FL Dream Homes Team or Keeping Matters Current does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision. Jonathan Blaze, MVP Realty or Southwest FL Dream Homes Team will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on the information or opinions contained herein.

Southwest Florida Economic Outlook

October 2023

2nd Quarter 2023 Outlook

The after-effects of Hurricane Ian continue to be felt in the Southwest Florida economy. As rebuilding
continues in Fort Myers Beach and other coastal areas, Lee County continues to experience the larger
effect in tourist tax revenue, down year-to-year by an average of 52.5 percent in 2023 Q2. Real
taxable sales have also followed this downward trend since Hurricane Ian. All counties have followed
a similar downward trend, with the exception of Charlotte County, where the real taxable sales have
mostly been on an upward trend since the lowest point in September 2022.

Read the Full Report

Considering Buying or Selling a Home?

If you are looking to buy or sell a home in Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Estero, Bonita Springs or Naples, I encourage you to work with a real estate professional or consultant who has the experience and knowledge to provide an accurate market comparison so you can set the Price Right. Contact us today to learn more about the current market and if selling how your home or condo stacks up against the competition and how we can position your property to sell quickly and for a fair price. Learn more about selling your home

Bottom Line:

If you’re looking for a focused and goal-oriented Realtor® in Southwest Florida who will help you achieve your Real Estate needs, please reach out to me directly. Additionally, if you are looking at buying or selling a home or condo, vacation home/condo, waterfront home/condo or to build your own dream home, call or text me at 239-770-6880 or email me at Jon@southwestfldreamhomes.com

About Jonathan Blaze, PA

The information contained, and the opinions expressed, in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Jonathan Blaze, MVP Realty or Southwest FL Dream Homes Team or Keeping Matters Current does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision. Jonathan Blaze, MVP Realty or Southwest FL Dream Homes Team will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on the information or opinions contained herein.