What’s Ahead for the Housing Market in the Second Half of the Year

If you’ve been keeping an eye on the real estate market, you’ve probably noticed the ups and downs — from fluctuating mortgage rates to rising home prices. It’s left a lot of people wondering: Is now a smart time to make a move?

While no one has a crystal ball, we can turn to expert forecasts to get a better sense of where things might be heading. And the outlook for the second half of the year is actually more encouraging than you might expect.

Here are a few key takeaways:

1. Mortgage Rates Might Ease Up (a Little)
No one’s expecting a dramatic drop, but most experts agree we could see a gradual decline in mortgage rates as the economy settles and inflation cools. Even a small shift could mean a more manageable monthly payment and a bit of breathing room in your budget.

That said, the market will likely remain a bit unpredictable. Rather than trying to time the "perfect" rate, it’s better to stay informed and act when it feels right for your situation.

2. More Homes Are Hitting the Market
One trend that’s already happening: inventory is rising. Many homeowners who were waiting on the sidelines are starting to list their homes — realizing that waiting hasn’t really changed much in their favor. Experts expect this trend to continue, which is good news if you’ve been struggling to find options.

If rates come down even slightly, that could motivate even more sellers to make a move — giving buyers more choice and more leverage.

3. Home Price Growth Is Slowing
Prices are still expected to rise this year, but the pace is expected to cool down a bit thanks to more inventory. On average, forecasts suggest home prices will go up around 2% this year — a much slower rate than we’ve seen in recent years.

This shift, combined with slightly better rates, could give buyers a bit more purchasing power — something we haven’t had much of in a while.

Bottom Line
If a move is on your mind this year, there are signs the market could become a bit more favorable. It all depends on your local area and your personal goals — and that’s where working with the right team makes all the difference. Let’s connect and talk through what these trends could mean for you.

Source: Keeping Current Matters, Inc.