The Summer Real Estate Season Is On

With stay-at-home orders starting to gradually lift throughout parts of the country, data indicates homebuyers are jumping back into the market.  After many families put their plans on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic, what we once called the busy spring real estate season is shifting into the summer.  In 2020, summer is the new spring for real estate.  Applications for home purchases continue to recover from April’s sizable drop and have now increased for five consecutive weeks.  Government purchase applications, which include FHA, VA, and USDA loans, are now 5 percent higher than a year ago, which is an encouraging turnaround after the weakness seen over the past two months.  Additionally, according to Google Trends, which scores search terms online, searches for real estate increased from 68 points the week of March 15th to 92 points the last week of May.  As we can see, more potential homebuyers are looking for homes virtually.

What’s the Opportunity for Buyers?
Another reason buyers are coming back to the market, even with forced unemployment and stay-at-home orders, is historically low mortgage rates.  For the fourth consecutive week the 30-year fixed rate mortgage has been below 3.30%, giving potential buyers a good reason to continue shopping even amid the pandemic.  As states reopen, we’re seeing purchase demand improve remarkably fast, now essentially flat relative to a year ago.  So, with mortgage rates at such low levels and states gradually beginning to reopen, there’s more incentive than ever to buy a home this summer.

 

What’s the Opportunity for Sellers?
Finding a home to buy, however, is still a challenge as this spring sellers removed many listings from the market.  Though more people are now putting their houses up for sale this month as compared to last month, current inventory is still well below last year’s level.  If you’re thinking of selling your house this summer, now may be your best opportunity.  With so few homes on the market for buyers to purchase, this season may be the time for your house to stand out from the crowd.  Trusted real estate professionals can help you list safely and effectively, keeping your family’s needs top of mind.  Buyers are looking.

Bottom Line
If you’re thinking of selling, many buyers may be eager to find a home just like yours.  Reach out to us to make sure you can get your house in on the action this summer.

 

KCM Crew