Published July 19, 2023
Homebuyers Are Embracing the New Normal: A Look at the Current Housing Market
As a seasoned realtor in the Pikes Peak region since 2001, I've witnessed the ever-changing landscape of the Colorado Springs housing market. In this article, we'll explore the current housing market trends and shed light on an encouraging shift among homebuyers. They are adapting to today's mortgage rates and embracing them as the new normal. So, let's dive in and uncover what this means for sellers and the overall market.
Getting Acquainted with the New Normal:
Before we delve into the details, let's take a moment to understand the context of current mortgage rates. The graph below illustrates the trend for the 30-year fixed mortgage rate from Freddie Mac since last October. Notice how rates have consistently hovered between 6% and 7% for the past nine months:
Stable Rates and Consistent Home Sales:
According to Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), mortgage rates significantly shape buyer demand and, consequently, home sales. Yun highlights the positive impact of stable rates, stating:
"Mortgage rates heavily influence the direction of home sales. Relatively steady rates have led to several consecutive months of consistent home sales."
For sellers, this is good news! Consistent home sales indicate that buyers are actively seeking and purchasing homes. Now, let's delve deeper into how mortgage rates have recently influenced buyer behavior.
Adapting to the New Normal:
When mortgage rates experienced a dramatic surge last year, shooting up from roughly 3% to 7%, potential buyers understandably felt a bit of sticker shock. Many decided to put their homebuying plans on hold. However, as time has passed, buyers have grown more accustomed to the current mortgage rates and have accepted that the record-low rates of the past few years are behind us. Doug Duncan, SVP and Chief Economist at Fannie Mae, affirms this sentiment, saying:
". . . consumers are adapting to the idea that higher mortgage rates will likely stick around for the foreseeable future."
In fact, a recent survey conducted by Freddie Mac reveals that 18% of respondents expressed their intention to buy a home within the next six months. This signifies that nearly one out of every five individuals surveyed plans to make a purchase in the near future. This demonstrates that buyers are gearing up to be active in the coming months. Search houses for sale in Colorado Springs and surrounding areas
Mortgage Rates and Beyond:
While mortgage rates significantly influence buyer demand, they aren't the sole determinant. Regardless of the specific mortgage rates, people will always have reasons to move, whether due to job relocation, changing households, or personal motivations. As a seller, take comfort in knowing there is indeed a market for your house in today's climate. The demand remains strong as buyers settle into the current rates.
Buyers are gradually adjusting their perception of today's mortgage rates, embracing them as the new normal. The stability in rates contributes to robust buyer demand and consistent home sales. So, if you're contemplating selling your home, now is an opportune time to connect with a trusted realtor and get your house on the market. There are eager buyers out there waiting for their perfect home, and your property could be just what they're looking for. Let's work together to navigate the current housing market and ensure your selling journey is successful. Get ready to seize the opportunities that await! 719-434-7525
Posted by:
Derek and Mariana Wagner
The Artisan Group, Keller Williams Premier Realty
25 N. Spruce Street, #200 - Downtown Colorado Springs
Top Colorado Springs real estate agents: 719-434-7525
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