By the Numbers

Since peaking in November, rates have been up and down — and up and down. Economists say it's hard to predict what's next, but buyers may want to act now.

NAR reported that February pending home sales were up 0.8% from January, making it the third consecutive month of increases.

The Case-Shiller and FHFA indices reported dips in annual and monthly home price appreciation, with current levels reflecting more typical rates of growth.

Millennials dominated the market in 2021, but as affordability pushed younger buyers to the sidelines, boomers took over as the top group of buyers 2022.

New study finds condos cheaper than homes in most major cities, on par or more expensive in others.

Rates dropped to 6.42% this week, down significantly from 6.73% just two weeks ago, which could give buyers a window to act.

The Federal Reserve increased its benchmark rate by a quarter point, which is likely to influence mortgage rates and slow homebuying activity this spring.

NAR reported a big jump in existing home sales from January to February, though sales and prices are down compared to a year ago.

Zillow research found that homes with the smallest footprints have seen a higher rate of price growth and an annual decline in inventory.

In a new report, the outdoor projects that rank highest on the "joy scale" tend to have lower recovery costs, suggesting that ROI isn't always a top concern.

In the wake of turbulence in the banking sector, the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage fell to 6.6%, down from 6.73% a week ago.

A CoreLogic report found that average home equity rose more than 7% in 2022 — a small gain relative to the big jump seen in 2021, but still above average.

With the value of its residential real estate surpassing $3.6 trillion, Florida edged out New York but trails California among markets with the top home values.

Relocation picked up in 2022, with buyers seeking out more affordable homes in Florida, Texas and California.

Freddie Mac’s weekly survey reported yet another jump in the average 30-year mortgage rate, which is approaching its 2022 peak.

Housing completions went up in 2021, but builders tapped the brakes in 2022. At the same time, more households formed, leading to an ongoing shortage.

After maxing out in June, the percentage of million-dollar homes fell and is nearly flat year-over-year. In pricey markets, the declines were more pronounced.

Newly built homes continue to lose square footage. But agents see an upside for buyers seeking more affordable options.

As the housing stock ages, agents should educate themselves about the features and occasional pitfalls of older homes.

Rates inched up again this week, adding to affordability challenges ahead of the spring shopping season.