Real Estate News & Market Trends on Florida's Treasure Coast

You’ll find our blog to be a wealth of information, covering everything from local market statistics and home values to community happenings. We feature topics relevant to the Treasure Coast of Florida which includes, Stuart, Port St Lucie, Vero Beach, Palm City & Jensen Beach. That’s because we care about the community and want to help you find your place in it. Please reach out if you have any questions at all. We’d love to talk with you!

Oct. 30, 2023

PGA Village Verano: A Luxurious Haven for Golf Enthusiasts

PGA Golf Club in Port St Lucie Florida

Nestled in the heart of Florida's Treasure Coast, PGA Village Verano stands as a testament to luxury living and golfing excellence. This vibrant community is a paradise for golf enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of world-class golf courses, exceptional amenities, and exquisite luxury homes. In this blog post, we will explore the captivating PGA Village Verano, its golfing allure, and the opulent real estate options that make it a prime destination for those seeking the ultimate in luxury living.  To learn about new construction homes at PGA Verano, please visit our page New Construction luxury homes in PGA Village Verano.

Golfing Excellence:

PGA Village Verano is renowned for its exceptional golfing opportunities. The centerpiece of the community is the PGA Golf Club, featuring three championship golf courses designed by golf legends Tom Fazio and Pete Dye. These meticulously crafted courses offer a range of challenges for golfers of all skill levels, from novice to pro. Imagine waking up to the breathtaking views of manicured fairways and lush greens right outside your window.

Luxury Real Estate Options:

The real estate offerings in PGA Village Verano are nothing short of extraordinary. This community boasts a diverse selection of luxury homes, from elegant single-family residences to spacious condos and townhomes. Each property is meticulously designed and crafted to meet the highest standards of luxury living.

  • Single-Family Homes: PGA Village Verano features a variety of single-family homes, ranging from spacious estates with private pools to cozy retreats perfect for couples or small families. These homes are equipped with top-of-the-line features and exquisite finishes, providing a blend of comfort and opulence.
  • Condos and Townhomes: For those seeking a more maintenance-free lifestyle, the community offers luxurious condos and townhomes with stunning golf course and lake views. These properties are designed to provide residents with the utmost convenience and style.

 

Amenities and Lifestyle:

Living in PGA Village Verano means enjoying a resort-style lifestyle every day. Residents have access to a wealth of amenities, including a clubhouse with a fitness center, resort-style swimming pool, and tennis courts. The community's social calendar is filled with events and activities that foster a sense of camaraderie among neighbors. Whether you're indulging in a relaxing spa day or participating in a friendly golf tournament, there's always something exciting happening at PGA Village Verano.

Location and Surroundings:

Situated in Port St. Lucie, PGA Village Verano offers the perfect blend of serenity and convenience. The community is surrounded by the natural beauty of Florida's Treasure Coast, providing residents with easy access to pristine beaches, nature preserves, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Additionally, the nearby town of Stuart offers a charming downtown area with boutique shops, dining, and cultural attractions.

Conclusion:

PGA Village Verano is not just a community; it's a lifestyle. With its world-class golf courses, luxury real estate options, and an abundance of amenities, it's the perfect place to call home for golf enthusiasts and those seeking the pinnacle of upscale living. If you're in search of a luxurious haven in the heart of Florida's Treasure Coast, PGA Village Verano is the answer. Experience the golfing paradise and the epitome of luxury living that this remarkable community has to offer.  Don't forget to see all of the new construction home information at PGA Village Verano.

Aug. 29, 2023

Port St Lucie Art & Entertainment | September 2023

 

Port St Lucie Arts & Entertainment

 

 

Port Saint Lucie is known for its vibrant arts and entertainment scene, and September 2023 is no exception. With a variety of events taking place throughout the month, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're a music lover, art enthusiast, or theater buff, these top 5 events are not to be missed.

  • Port Saint Lucie Jazz and Art Festival - September 9-10, 2023 at the Port Saint Lucie Civic Center

This annual festival is a celebration of jazz and art, featuring live music performances, art exhibits, and food vendors. The event takes place over two days, with a variety of jazz musicians and artists showcasing their talents. Don't miss the headlining performance by Grammy-nominated jazz artist, Esperanza Spalding. For more information and tickets, visit the festival website at www.psljazzartfest.com.

  • Treasure Coast Music Festival - September 16-17, 2023 at the St. Lucie County Fairgrounds

Get ready for two days of non-stop music at the Treasure Coast Music Festival. With multiple stages and over 50 bands performing, this event is a must-see for music lovers. Headliners include popular rock band, Imagine Dragons, and country music star, Luke Bryan. In addition to the music, the festival also features food vendors, craft vendors, and a beer garden. For tickets and more information, visit the festival website at www.tcmusicfest.com.

  • Port Saint Lucie Film Festival - September 22-24, 2023 at the AMC Port Saint Lucie Theater

Film buffs won't want to miss the Port Saint Lucie Film Festival, showcasing independent films from around the world. With screenings, panel discussions, and Q&A sessions with filmmakers, this event provides a unique opportunity to experience the art of cinema. The festival also features a closing night gala, where attendees can mingle with filmmakers and industry professionals. For more information and tickets, visit the festival website at www.pslfilmfest.com.

  • Port Saint Lucie Art Walk - September 28, 2023 in Downtown Port Saint Lucie

Take a stroll through downtown Port Saint Lucie and experience the local art scene at the Port Saint Lucie Art Walk. This event features local artists showcasing their work, live music performances, and food vendors. It's a great way to support the local arts community and discover new artists. For more information, visit the event website at www.pslartwalk.com.

  • Port Saint Lucie Community Theater - Various dates and times throughout September 2023 at the Port Saint Lucie Community Center

The Port Saint Lucie Community Theater presents a variety of performances throughout September, including plays, musicals, and children's theater. Highlights include "The Crucible" and "The Little Mermaid Jr." Check the theater's website for a full schedule of performances and ticket information at www.psctheater.org.

September 2023 is an exciting time for arts and entertainment in Port Saint Lucie. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, be sure to attend one or all of these top 5 events for an unforgettable experience.

May 15, 2023

The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Home in a 55+ Active Adult Community in Port St Lucie, Florida

Florida Golf Course Home

 

Are you looking for a peaceful and serene place to retire? If yes, then Port St Lucie in Florida is an excellent place to consider. This gem of a city is located on the east coast of Florida, offering excellent year-round weather, exceptional cultural diversity, beautiful sandy beaches, and a plethora of outdoor activities. If you are 55 and older, then you might want to consider buying a home in a 55+ active adult community in Port St Lucie. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of living in a 55+ community and help you make an informed decision when buying a home in Port St Lucie.

 

Why Choose a 55+ Active Adult Community?

 

Living in a 55+ active adult community has a lot of advantages. For starters, it provides a peaceful and tranquil environment for seniors who want to enjoy their golden years in a peaceful neighborhood. You will be around like-minded individuals who appreciate quiet and serene living, making new friends and acquaintances. Moreover, the community amenities are crafted with seniors in mind, including fitness centers, golf courses, hobby rooms, communal swimming pools, and much more.

 

What to Look for When Buying a Home in Port St Lucie?

 

When buying a home in Port St Lucie, you should consider the amenities and services provided by the 55+ community. Ensure that the community offers the facilities and services you need, such as fitness centers, communal swimming pools, and security. Additionally, you should choose a home that fits your budget, suits your lifestyle, and considers other factors such as accessibility, convenience, and affordability. Other crucial factors to consider when buying a home in Port St Lucie are the proximity to healthcare facilities, shopping centers, recreational facilities, and religious institutions.

 

The Benefits of Living in Port St Lucie

 

Port St Lucie is a vibrant and thriving community, offering residents convenience, comfort, and an abundance of amenities and services. The area boasts of a robust healthcare system, multiple shopping centers and malls, world-class restaurants, and a plethora of recreational activities, including golf, tennis, swimming, and much more. The city is conveniently located close to Palm Beach International Airport, making it easy for residents to travel to other parts of Florida, the Caribbean, and South America.

 

The Cost of Living in Port St Lucie

 

Florida has always been known for its affordable cost of living, and Port St Lucie is no exception. The city boasts of a lower cost of living compared to other major cities in Florida, making it an ideal choice for retirees who want to stretch their retirement dollars. Housing costs in Port St Lucie are lower than the state's average, making it an affordable city to buy a home. Furthermore, Florida has no state income tax, property taxes are relatively low, and the state offers homestead exemptions for eligible homeowners, saving you money in the long run.

 

The Best 55+ Communities in Port St Lucie

 

Port St Lucie is home to a plethora of 55+ adult communities, offering different amenities, services, and home styles to suit different preferences and budgets. Some of the best communities to consider when buying a home in Port St Lucie include All of the Riverland, by GL Homes, Valencia neighborhoods, Esplanade at Tradition, by Taylor Morrison, Telaro, by Mattamy Homes, Cresswind at PGA Verano, by Kolter Homes and Del Webb at Tradition. Each of these communities provides senior residents with exceptional amenities, services, and facilities, making them an excellent place to spend your retirement years.

 

In conclusion, buying a home in a 55+ active adult community in Port St Lucie Florida is an excellent choice for seniors who are looking for a peaceful and serene lifestyle. With the right amenities and services, living in a 55+ community can provide an enjoyable and fulfilling experience. Moreover, Port St Lucie offers seniors an abundance of amenities and services, affordable cost of living, and a thriving community. If you are looking for an ideal place to retire, look no further than Port St Lucie in Florida.

Posted in Home Inventory
Jan. 29, 2023

Why buy a home in PGA Verano?

PGA Verano Gate


PGA Verano in Port St Lucie, Florida is a great place to buy a home for several reasons. First and foremost, Port St Lucie is located in the heart of Florida's Treasure Coast, and it is widely considered to be one of the fastest-growing and most vibrant areas in the state. This means that homebuyers can enjoy a high quality of life, with a range of amenities, activities, and attractions that cater to all ages and interests.

One of the most attractive aspects of PGA Verano is its location within the PGA Village, a world-class golf and recreational community. PGA Verano residents have access to three championship golf courses, a state-of-the-art golf performance center, and a variety of other amenities, including tennis courts, swimming pools, fitness centers, and clubhouses. This means that residents have the opportunity to enjoy a healthy, active lifestyle, surrounded by the beauty of the Florida landscape.

In addition to its many recreational offerings, PGA Verano is also located close to a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. This includes the popular Tradition Square shopping center, which features a range of shops, restaurants, and cafes, as well as a movie theater and a grocery store. Residents can also enjoy easy access to the beaches of the Treasure Coast, which are just a short drive away.

Another major advantage of PGA Verano is its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The community is built around the principles of green living, and it features many energy-efficient homes, as well as a range of other environmentally-friendly initiatives, such as solar-powered streetlights and bike paths. This means that residents can enjoy a high quality of life, while also making a positive impact on the environment.

In terms of real estate options, PGA Verano has a wide range of homes to choose from, including single-family homes, townhouses, and villas. These homes are designed with the latest in contemporary architecture and feature a range of finishes, from high-end appliances to designer fixtures and fittings. Whether you're looking for a starter home or a luxurious estate, you're sure to find the perfect property in PGA Verano.

Finally, PGA Verano is a great place to buy a home because of its strong sense of community. The community features a number of resident-led clubs and organizations, which provide opportunities for residents to get involved, meet new people, and build relationships with their neighbors. Whether you're interested in joining a book club, gardening group, or fitness class, there is something for everyone in PGA Verano.

In conclusion, PGA Verano in Port St Lucie, Florida is a great place to buy a home because of its prime location, commitment to sustainability, range of real estate options, and strong sense of community. Whether you're looking for a place to live, work, or play, PGA Verano has something for everyone. So why wait? Come and discover the best that Florida has to offer, and find your perfect home in PGA Verano today!

Posted in Buying, Just Listed
Jan. 27, 2023

Discover the Hidden Gems of Florida's Treasure Coast!

Lifeguard Stand

Are you looking for a fun and exciting way to spend your vacation? Look no further than Florida's Treasure Coast! From its stunning beaches to its dynamic entertainment and shopping options, the Treasure Coast offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach or explore some of the area's hidden gems, you'll find plenty of activities to keep you busy. In this blog article, we'll explore the many wonders of Florida's Treasure Coast and provide some tips for planning the perfect vacation.

 

Introduction to Florida’s Treasure Coast

Florida's Treasure Coast is an area on the Atlantic coast of the state known for its breathtaking beaches and unique attractions. The region spans from the city of Port St. Lucie in the north to the city of Jupiter Inlet Colony in the south, and is often referred to as the "Gold Coast". The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including alligators, dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles, and offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. From fishing and boating to snorkeling and kayaking, the Treasure Coast has something for everyone.

 

Where is the Treasure Coast Located?

The Treasure Coast is located on the Atlantic coast of Florida, and stretches from the city of Port St. Lucie in the north to the city of Jupiter Inlet Colony in the south. The area is known for its stunning beaches, which are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including alligators, dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles.

 

Popular Beaches on the Treasure Coast

The Treasure Coast is home to some of the most beautiful and popular beaches in Florida. From the popular Jensen Beach to the lesser-known Hutchinson Island, there are plenty of beaches to explore. Each beach offers something unique, from stunning sunsets to the opportunity to spot some of the region's wildlife. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot for sunbathing or a place to go swimming and surfing, you'll find plenty of options on the Treasure Coast.

 

Best Restaurants on the Treasure Coast

The Treasure Coast is home to some of the best restaurants in Florida. Whether you're looking for seafood, Italian, Mexican, or any other type of cuisine, you'll find plenty of options to choose from. Whether you're looking for a quick bite to eat or a romantic dinner, there are plenty of restaurants to choose from. Some of the most popular restaurants in the area include J.B.'s Fish Camp, Schooner's Seafood, and The Twisted Tuna.

 

Shopping and Entertainment on the Treasure Coast

The Treasure Coast is home to a variety of shopping and entertainment options. From shopping centers and boutiques to galleries and theaters, there are plenty of ways to spend your time. Whether you're looking for souvenirs or unique gifts, you'll find plenty of options. The area is also home to some of the best entertainment venues in the state, including the Sunrise Theatre and the Lyric Theatre.

 

Outdoor Activities on the Treasure Coast

The Treasure Coast offers plenty of activities for those looking to get out and explore the area. From fishing and boating to snorkeling and kayaking, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors. The area is also home to a variety of parks and trails, perfect for hiking, biking, and bird watching. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or an adventurous hike, there are plenty of options to choose from.

 

Hidden Gems of the Treasure Coast

The Treasure Coast is home to a variety of hidden gems that are perfect for those looking to explore the area. From historic sites and lighthouses to unique art galleries and museums, there are plenty of hidden gems to discover. One of the most popular hidden gems is the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center, which offers visitors the opportunity to explore the region's unique wildlife.

 

Accommodations on the Treasure Coast

The Treasure Coast offers a variety of accommodations to suit any budget. From beachfront resorts and hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you're looking for a luxurious stay or an affordable option, you'll find plenty of options. The area is also home to a variety of campgrounds, perfect for those looking to get away from it all.

 

Tips for Planning a Trip to the Treasure Coast

When planning a trip to the Treasure Coast, it's important to do your research and plan ahead. Make sure to book your accommodations in advance, as the area can get busy during the peak season. It's also a good idea to check the weather and tide conditions before heading out, as some activities may be limited during certain times of the year. Lastly, be sure to budget for meals and activities, as there are plenty of options to choose from.

 

Conclusion

The Treasure Coast is a stunning region of Florida that offers something for everyone. From its stunning beaches and unique attractions to its vibrant shopping and entertainment options, there's plenty to explore. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventurous outdoor getaway, the Treasure Coast has something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to the Treasure Coast today and discover its hidden gems!

Aug. 7, 2022

A Window of Opportunity for Homebuyers

A Window of Opportunity for Homebuyers | MyKCM

Mortgage rates are much higher today than they were at the beginning of the year, and that’s had a clear impact on the housing market. As a result, the market is seeing a shift back toward the range of pre-pandemic levels for buyer demand and home sales.

But the transition back toward pre-pandemic levels isn’t a bad thing. In fact, the years leading up to the pandemic were some of the best the housing market has seen. That’s why, as the market undergoes this shift, it’s important to compare today not to the abnormal pandemic years, but to the most recent normal years to show how the current housing market is still strong.

Higher Mortgage Rates Are Moderating the Housing Market 

The ShowingTime Showing Index tracks the traffic of home showings according to agents and brokers. It’s also a good indication of buyer demand over time. Here’s a look at their data going back to 2017 (see graph below):

A Window of Opportunity for Homebuyers | MyKCM

Here’s a breakdown of the story this data tells:

  • The 2017 through early 2020 numbers (shown in gray) give a good baseline of pre-pandemic demand. The steady up and down trends seen in each of these years show typical seasonality in the market.
  • The blue on the graph represents the pandemic years. The height of those blue bars indicates home showings skyrocketed during the pandemic.
  • The most recent data (shown in green), indicates buyer demand is moderating back toward more pre-pandemic levels.

This shows that buyer demand is coming down from levels seen over the past two years, and the frenzy in real estate is easing because of higher mortgage rates. For you, that means buying your next home should be less challenging than it would’ve been during the pandemic because there is more inventory available.

Higher Mortgage Rates Slow the Once Frenzied Pace of Home Sales

As mortgage rates started to rise this year, other shifts began to occur too. One additional example is the slowing pace of home sales. Using data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), here’s a look at existing home sales going all the way back to 2017. Much like the previous graph, a similar trend emerges (see graph below):

A Window of Opportunity for Homebuyers | MyKCM

Again, the data paints a picture of the shift:

  • The pre-pandemic years (shown in gray) establish a baseline of the number of existing home sales in more typical years.
  • The pandemic years (shown in blue) exceeded the level of sales seen in previous years. That’s largely because low mortgage rates during that time spurred buyer demand and home sales to new heights.
  • This year (shown in green), the market is feeling the impact of higher mortgage rates and that’s moderating buyer demand (and by extension home sales). That’s why the expectation for home sales this year is closer to what the market saw in 2018-2019.

Why Is All of This Good News for You?

Both of those factors have opened up a window of opportunity for homeowners looking to move and for buyers looking to purchase a home. As demand moderates and the pace of home sales slows, housing inventory is able to grow – and that gives you more options for your home search.

So don’t let the headlines about the market cooling or moderating scare you. The housing market is still strong; it’s just easing off from the unsustainable frenzy it saw during the height of the pandemic – and that’s a good thing. It opens up new opportunities for you to find a home that meets your needs.

Bottom Line

The housing market is undergoing a shift because of higher mortgage rates, but the market is still strong. If you’ve been looking to buy a home over the last couple of years and it felt impossible to do, now may be your opportunity. Buying a home right now isn’t easy, but there is more opportunity for those who are looking.

Aug. 7, 2022

3 Graphs To Show This Isn’t a Housing Bubble

3 Graphs To Show This Isn’t a Housing Bubble | MyKCM

With all the headlines and buzz in the media, some consumers believe the market is in a housing bubble. As the housing market shifts, you may be wondering what’ll happen next. It’s only natural for concerns to creep in that it could be a repeat of what took place in 2008. The good news is, there’s concrete data to show why this is nothing like the last time.

There’s a Shortage of Homes on the Market Today, Not a Surplus

The supply of inventory needed to sustain a normal real estate market is approximately six months. Anything more than that is an overabundance and will causes prices to depreciate. Anything less than that is a shortage and will lead to continued price appreciation.

For historical context, there were too many homes for sale during the housing crisis (many of which were short sales and foreclosures), and that caused prices to tumble. Today, supply is growing, but there’s still a shortage of inventory available.

The graph below uses data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) to show how this time compares to the crash. Today, unsold inventory sits at just a 3.0-months’ supply at the current sales pace.

3 Graphs To Show This Isn’t a Housing Bubble | MyKCM

One of the reasons inventory is still low is because of sustained underbuilding. When you couple that with ongoing buyer demand as millennials age into their peak homebuying years, it continues to put upward pressure on home prices. That limited supply compared to buyer demand is why experts forecast home prices won’t fall this time.

Mortgage Standards Were Much More Relaxed During the Crash

During the lead-up to the housing crisis, it was much easier to get a home loan than it is today. The graph below showcases data on the Mortgage Credit Availability Index (MCAI) from the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA). The higher the number, the easier it is to get a mortgage.

3 Graphs To Show This Isn’t a Housing Bubble | MyKCM

Running up to 2006, banks were creating artificial demand by lowering lending standards and making it easy for just about anyone to qualify for a home loan or refinance their current home. Back then, lending institutions took on much greater risk in both the person and the mortgage products offered. That led to mass defaults, foreclosures, and falling prices.

Today, things are different, and purchasers face much higher standards from mortgage companies. Mark Fleming, Chief Economist at First Americansays:

Credit standards tightened in recent months due to increasing economic uncertainty and monetary policy tightening.” 

Stricter standards, like there are today, help prevent a risk of a rash of foreclosures like there was last time.

The Foreclosure Volume Is Nothing Like It Was During the Crash

The most obvious difference is the number of homeowners that were facing foreclosure after the housing bubble burst. Foreclosure activity has been on the way down since the crash because buyers today are more qualified and less likely to default on their loans. The graph below uses data from ATTOM Data Solutions to help tell the story:

3 Graphs To Show This Isn’t a Housing Bubble | MyKCM

In addition, homeowners today are equity rich, not tapped out. In the run-up to the housing bubble, some homeowners were using their homes as personal ATMs. Many immediately withdrew their equity once it built up. When home values began to fall, some homeowners found themselves in a negative equity situation where the amount they owed on their mortgage was greater than the value of their home. Some of those households decided to walk away from their homes, and that led to a wave of distressed property listings (foreclosures and short sales), which sold at considerable discounts that lowered the value of other homes in the area.

Today, prices have risen nicely over the last few years, and that’s given homeowners an equity boost. According to Black Knight:

In total, mortgage holders gained $2.8 trillion in tappable equity over the past 12 months – a 34% increase that equates to more than $207,000 in equity available per borrower. . . .”

With the average home equity now standing at $207,000, homeowners are in a completely different position this time.

Bottom Line

If you’re worried we’re making the same mistakes that led to the housing crash, the graphs above should help alleviate your concerns. Concrete data and expert insights clearly show why this is nothing like the last time.

Aug. 7, 2022

Why It’s Still a Sellers’ Market

Why It’s Still a Sellers’ Market | MyKCM

As there’s more and more talk about the real estate market cooling off from the peak frenzy it saw during the pandemic, you may be questioning what that means for your plans to sell your house. If you’re thinking of making a move, you should know the market is still anything but normal.

Even though the supply of homes for sale has been growing this year, there’s still a shortage of homes on the market. And that means conditions continue to favor sellers today. That’s because the level of inventory of homes for sale can help determine if buyers or sellers are in the driver’s seat. Think of it like this:

  • buyers’ market is when there are more homes for sale than buyers looking to buy. When that happens, buyers have the negotiation power because sellers are more willing to compromise so they can sell their house.
  • In a sellers’ market, it’s just the opposite. There are too few homes available for the number of buyers in the market and that gives the seller all the leverage. In that situation, buyers will do what they can to compete for the limited number of homes for sale.
  • neutral market is when supply is balanced and there are enough homes to meet buyer demand at the current sales pace.

And for the past two years, we’ve been in a red-hot sellers’ market because inventory has been near record lows. The blue section of this graph highlights just how far below a neutral market inventory still is today.

Why It’s Still a Sellers’ Market | MyKCM

What Does This Mean for You?

Ed Pinto, Director of the American Enterprise Institute’s Housing Center, gives a perfect summary of what’s happening in today’s market, saying:

“Overall, the best summary is that we'll move from a gangbuster sellers' market to a modest sellers' market.”

Conditions are still in your favor even though the market is cooling. If you work with an agent to price your house at market value, you’ll find success when you sell your house today. While buyer demand is softening due to higher mortgage rates, homes that are priced right are still selling fast. That means your window of opportunity to list your house hasn’t closed.

Bottom Line

Today’s housing market still favors sellers. If you’re ready to sell your house, let’s connect so you can start making your moves.

Aug. 7, 2022

Housing Market Forecast for the Rest of 2022 [INFOGRAPHIC]

Housing Market Forecast for the Rest of 2022 [INFOGRAPHIC] | MyKCM

Some Highlights

  • The housing market is shifting away from the intensity of the past two years. Here’s what experts project for the remainder of 2022.
  • Home prices are forecast to rise more moderately than last year. Mortgage rates will respond to inflation, and home sales will be more in line with pre-pandemic years.
  • Let’s connect so you can make your best move this year.
July 24, 2022

Expert Housing Market Forecasts for the Second Half of the Year

Expert Housing Market Forecasts for the Second Half of the Year | MyKCM

The housing market is at a turning point, and if you’re thinking of buying or selling a home, that may leave you wondering: is it still a good time to buy a home? Should I make a move this year? To help answer those questions, let’s turn to the experts for projections on what the second half of the year holds for residential real estate.

Where Mortgage Rates Will Go Depends on Inflation

While one of the big questions on all buyers’ minds is where will mortgage rates go in the months ahead, no one has a crystal ball to know exactly what’ll happen in the future. What housing market experts know for sure is that the record-low mortgage rates during the pandemic were an outlier, not the norm.

This year, rates have climbed over 2% due to the Federal Reserve’s response to rising inflation. If inflation continues to rise, it’s likely that mortgage rates will respond. Greg McBride, Chief Financial Analyst at Bankrateexplains it well:

“Until inflation peaks, mortgage rates won’t either. Without improvement on the inflation front, we don’t know where the interest rate ceiling will be.”

Whether you’re buying your first home or selling your current house to make a move, today’s mortgage rate is an important factor to consider. When rates rise, they impact affordability and your purchasing power. That’s why it’s crucial to work with a team of professionals, so you have expert advice to help you make an informed decision about your best move.

The Supply of Homes for Sale Projected To Continue Increasing

This year, particularly this spring, the number of homes for sale has grown. That’s partly due to more homeowners listing their houses, but also because higher mortgage rates have helped ease the intensity of buyer demand. Moderating buyer demand slows down the pace of home sales, which in turn helps inventory rise.

Experts say that growth will continue. Recently, realtor.com updated their 2022 inventory forecast. In the latest release, they increased their projections for inventory gains dramatically, going from a 0.3% increase at the beginning of the year to a 15.0% jump by the end of 2022 (see graph below):

Expert Housing Market Forecasts for the Second Half of the Year | MyKCM

More homes to choose from is great news if you’re craving more options for your home search – just know that there isn’t a sudden surplus of inventory on the horizon. Housing supply is still low, so you’ll need to partner with an agent to stay on top of what’s available in your market and move fast when you find the one. It’s not going to be easy to find a home, but it certainly won’t be as difficult as it has been over the past two years.

Home Price Forecasts Call for Ongoing Appreciation

Due to the imbalance between the number of homes for sale and the number of buyers looking to make a purchase, the pandemic led to record-breaking increases in home prices. According to CoreLogic, homes appreciated by 15% in 2021, and they’ve continued to rise this year.

Even though housing supply is increasing today, there are still more buyers than there are homes for sale, and that’s maintaining the upward pressure on home prices. That’s why experts are not calling for prices to decline, rather they’re forecasting they’ll continue to climb, just at a more moderate pace this year. On average, homes are projected to appreciate by about 8.5% in 2022 (see graph below):

Expert Housing Market Forecasts for the Second Half of the Year | MyKCM

Selma Hepp, Deputy Chief Economist at CoreLogic, explains why the housing market will see deceleration, but not depreciation, in prices:

“The current home price growth rate is unsustainable, and higher mortgage rates coupled with more inventory will lead to slower home price growth but unlikely declines in home prices.

For current homeowners looking to sell, know your home’s value isn’t projected to fall, but waiting to make your purchase does mean your next home could cost more as home prices continue to appreciate. That’s why, if you’re thinking about buying your first home or you’re ready to make a move, it may make sense to do so now before prices climb higher. But rest assured, once you buy a home, that price appreciation will help grow the value of your investment.

Bottom Line

Whether you’re a homebuyer or seller, you need to know what’s happening in the housing market, so you can make the most informed decision possible. Let’s connect to discuss your goals and what lies ahead, so you can determine the best plan for your move.