The spring 2023 housing market is seeing fewer sales despite easing price gains, but according to Redfin, those that are selling are going fast. New listings of homes for sale fell 19% year-over-year during the four weeks ending May 7, but despite that unseasonal monthly decline in total inventory, pending sales increased over the last week, and nearly half of all homes sold are flying off the market within two weeks.
“This spring’s housing market is hot but cold, with scant listings making it less active than usual but fast and competitive at the same time. The good news is that buyers are out there, trying to find a seat in a game of musical chairs. The bad news is there aren’t enough chairs,” said Redfin Deputy Chief Economist Taylor Marr. “A lot of potential home sales are locked up until mortgage rates come down to a level for which current owners would be willing to trade in their 3% rate. The problem is that’s unlikely to happen anytime soon, as although inflation is steadily coming down from last year’s record-high levels, it’s still above target.”
Advertisement
Related Stories
Sales
What the NAR Commissions Settlement Means for Home Builders
The legal settlement will improve transparency during the home sales process, mitigate predatory practices, and help preserve profitability for home builders
New-Home Sales
Mortgage Rates Are Up but New-Home Sales Still Solid in March
Lack of existing home inventory drove a rise in new-home sales, despite higher interest rates in March
Sustainability
Mention of Eco-Friendly Home Features Is on the Rise in Sales Listings
Home listing descriptions using eco-friendly terms have been rising over the past five years in line with growing consumer interest in the environment and energy efficiency