Sales figures for New Construction homes closed in July are not in just yet. But I’ve spoken with several builders in the past few weeks and they’ve told me they are crazy busy, even having difficulty keeping up with the limited number of lots they are permitted to release for sale each week. The timetable… Read More
Strong Housing Market
CoreLogic: Static Interest Rates Contribute to Rising Home Prices
For the third year running, Maricopa County is the fastest growing county in the U.S. For those of you who are not residents (yet), Maricopa County is commonly referred to as “The Valley of the Sun”. It is essentially Central Arizona and encompasses some of the most recognizable cities in the state: Phoenix for one,… Read More
New Buy vs. Rent Index Shows U.S. Housing Market Moving Deeper into Buy Territory
New Buy vs. Rent Index Shows U.S. Housing Market Moving Deeper into Buy Territory According to the statistics below, most of the country is well beyond the break-even point when it comes to renting vs buying a home. In all but two major cities, it is now far more financially sensible to buy. The latest… Read More
Housing Market to Retain Forward Motion, Freddie Mac Says
While recent data darkened the growth outlook for the first quarter, April data has experts predicting housing will maintain its momentum in 2016 and be an economic engine of growth. This insight comes from data recently released by Freddie Mac. The report shows that recent declines in mortgage rates have also boosted refinance potential. “We’ve… Read More
Local Appraisers Bring Equity Back to Real Estate
The article below makes some valid points. It is indeed a good thing that appraisers are, by regulation, not beholden to either banks or realtors. My feeling about recent appraised home value is that appraisers are finally feeling less threatened by government regulation and more comfortable with the ‘independent’ label placed on them. ~Bill By… Read More
Existing-Home Sales on Track for Further Expansion in 2016
Following the housing market’s best year since the recession, existing-home sales are expected to increase in 2016 at a moderate pace; although affordability pressures from inventory shortages and rising mortgage rates could slow the potential for even stronger sales momentum, according to an economic forecast forum held last week at the 2015 REALTORS® Conference &… Read More