What to Expect: 

Mortgage rates will increase to a modest 4.5%, which is not dramatic enough to keep buyers out of the market.

Rents are expected to rise 4-5% across the board, and possibly higher in some areas. Typically, a 5% increase in rent results in a renter to consider and/or convert to homeownership.

It is predicted that the new Administration will have looser legislation on lending and the economy, which could help boost buying power.

On the purchase side, offset by a stronger economy, household formations accelerating and rising wages will more than offset rising mortgage rates.

A slight increase in inventory is anticipated, as people decide to cash out their home’s equity for various purposes.

It is expected that more first-time home buyers will purchase this year, with many being millennial buyers looking for good school districts in suburban communities with lots of amenities. Investment benefits will be a strong consideration of their purchase.

In comparison to many other large cities, the income required to buy a median priced home in our area, which is $55,000/year, isn’t much different than the national average at $52,000/year. In fact, compared to places like San Francisco or New York, our housing market is extremely affordable.

Sources:

Kelly Mulligan, Attorney

Chicago Title

David Berson, Chief Economist

Nationwide Mutual Insurance


Reference: 2017 Real Estate Economic Outlook by Scott and Tammy Watson (Feb 7, 2017)