With available housing supply falling to record lows during the fourth quarter of 2016 and mortgage rates rising, some real estate observers are concerned about affordability.
Gains in wage growth might not be enough to offset these cost pressures, according to an economist with the National Association of Realtors. Home prices have reached peak in 52% of the 178 markets measured by the association. Increased home building is needed to address the affordability challenge, industry observers say.
Advertisement
Related Stories
Sales
Sales and Texting? Know the Rules
Texting your sales prospects en masse can be an efficient way to get your message through if you follow these best practices
Affordability
Will NAR's Landmark Commissions Settlement Lower Housing Costs?
The $418 million deal changes long-standing rules—written and unwritten—that consumers claim inflated sales commissions for home sellers, including new-home builders
Market Data + Trends
January's Mortgage Rate Dip Prompts Some Thawing of the Housing Market
A drop in mortgage rates from recent peaks nudged more homebuyers and sellers into the market, signaling the start of greater supply and demand