The Federal Reserve’s new interest rate increase will likely be felt throughout the real estate industry, with mortgage rates surpassing last week’s data highlighting a two-year peak. According to Freddie Mac’s latest Primary Mortgage Market Survey, the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 7.28%, up from last week’s average of 7.03% and up from last year’s…
Unemployment continues to remain steady around the 4% range, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The latest Employment Situation Summary from the BLS reports that the unemployment rate grew slightly—but not dramatically—to 4.2%, with the addition of 29,000 jobs. Previously, the unemployment rate sat at 4.1% for August. Categories like construction and manufacturing…
The Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) reported that inflation grew at a faster rate throughout August, possibly contributing toward the Federal Reserve’s decision to raise rates in mid-September. The Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) price index increased 0.3% on a monthly basis, a slight increase from July’s index increase of 0.2%. On a yearly basis, inflation…
Renting is typically the stepping stone to homebuying, but the latest data on housing affordability shows that homeownership may continue to be out of reach for many. As such, property owners can expect to see rentals remain in demand, but may have to adjust their policies to incentivize renters. One policy that can make or…
In the face of ongoing geopolitical uncertainty and economic headwinds, consumers’ feelings about the economy remain dim. The nonprofit research firm, The Conference Board, released its latest month report Aug. 25, with its Consumer Confidence Index falling by 0.8 points to 89.4. July’s revised estimate was 90.2, leaving behind nearly a whole point between the…
In a statement released this morning, the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) appeared to defer on the question of whether Zillow’s new ChatGPT app complies with MLS policies regarding use and display of data, as real estate continues to grapple with big questions around AI technology. “For enforcement, each MLS is individually responsible for conducting…