The US Market Housing Outlook for 2019

The US Housing Market Outlook for 2019

Although it’s impossible to predict the future, current trends and statistics create a picture of the market’s health.

The National Market as We Begin 2019:

Home prices are up 4.6 percent and the average home value is $264,800. Sales may be down, but prices will continue to rise. This is good news for sellers, but may keep buyers on the sidelines in high-price markets.

Home sales are down 1.5 percent from a year ago. Experts say that many buyers are priced out of the market or they’re waiting until more homes within their price range are available.

Homes are selling fast. Homes are on the market for an average of only 29 days, with 52 percent of homes on the market for less than a month.

Inventory is tight. People are staying in their homes longer and housing starts are at an all-time low. However, housing permits are up 8.4 percent over last year, which means more inventory to come.

Competition is high. First-time buyers made up 31 percent of home purchasers. For those in the market to buy, get preapproved for a mortgage to stay competitive. If you need a lender, I can refer you to a great one in my network.

New tax code may have an impact. The interest deduction is capped at $750,000 (down from $1 million) and the property tax deduction is capped at $10,000. This may mean less expendable cash for those with, or needing, a big mortgage.

Let’s set a time to talk about our local market. I’d love to share my housing market insights with you and do an annual review if you currently own.

Three things to watch for in 2019

1. Interest rates: Experts predict the Federal Reserve will increase interest rates two times in 2019. However, increases are expected to be gradual.
2. Inflation: Inflation is expected to increase slightly in 2019, due in part to a strengthening labor market and tariffs.
3. Strength of economy: The economy continues to grow and strengthen, a trend that is expected to endure in 2019.

Will We See a Market Correction?

Recently, you may have seen news headlines predicting the next recession. The economy has been growing since 2009, the longest stretch in US history. Since the economy is cyclical, it’s only natural to wonder when the economy will begin to react.

Causes of a downturn: Recessions are often caused by unforeseen events or circumstances that shock the market. Sixty-two percent of experts say an overheating economy will lead to the Fed tightening its belt. Others say a financial meltdown may be caused by an asset bubble, fiscal crisis or international trade disruptions.

Reason to be optimistic: Housing isn’t likely to play a large role in the next recession. Although affordability remains a concern in many areas of the country, experts say that housing is unlikely to cause another recession.

Take headlines with a grain of salt: Experts predicted recessions in 2011 and 2016, and neither transpired. It is important to remember that growth doesn’t last, so a downturn would be considered natural. Over the next year, economists predict the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) will continue to grow an unemployment rates will fall further. The risk of recession in the next year is only about 15 percent, and the changes to the tax code effective this year are expected to drive business investment spending.

Are you thinking of buying this year? – Here are three things to do now:

1. Boost your credit score: This may help you secure a better interest rate, which will lower your payment and save you money each month.
2. Save more for a down payment: A bigger down payment equals a smaller mortgage and lower monthly payments.
3. Please, call or text me! Together we can determine the must-have features of your ideal home and connect you with a reputable lender for mortgage pre-approval.

Are you thinking of selling this year? – Here are three things to do now:

1. Call me for a free comparative market assessment: I’ll show you what your home is worth and how I obtain my assessment, as well as offer suggestions to improve your home’s value.
2. Declutter your storage and living spaces: It may be easier to sort through and donate items now, instead of waiting until it’s time to move.
3. Assess your home’s condition and make list of potential repairs: This will help you prioritize the home repair tasks you need to complete before you list your home.

 

 

As you know, all Real Estate is Local so if you have a specific question about the market, you can check out some of my recent market updates on Youtube or you can call Huntington Beach Realtor, Jeb Smith at 714.376.2711.