Home Prices: Both major indices (Case Shiller & FHFA) show home prices still rising year-over-year—though the pace is slowing a bit compared to earlier in the year.
Pending Home Sales: Up 2.2% in November and on the rise for four straight months. That means more people are signing contracts to buy homes, which can be a good sign for sellers.
Mortgage Rates & Applications: Rates are hovering around 7%, slightly higher than last year. Purchases and refinancing activity are down compared to previous months (likely because of those higher rates and holiday season skew).
Unemployment Claims: Filings for first-time unemployment benefits remain low, which generally supports consumer confidence (and can be good news for real estate).
Market Outlook: Mortgage bonds have been bouncing between resistance and support levels, and the 10-year Treasury yield is stuck in a narrow range—signals the market is still a bit cautious.
In a nutshell: Home prices keep inching up, but at a gentler pace; mortgage rates remain elevated, and homebuying activity is edging higher despite the seasonal slowdown. Keep an eye on interest rates—they can change quickly and affect how much home you can afford!
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