MARKET REPORTS: January 2019
Despite a strong U.S. economy, historically low unemployment and steady wage growth, home sales began to slow across the nation late last year. Blame was given to a combination of high prices and a steady stream of interest rate hikes by the Federal Reserve. This month, the Fed responded to the growing affordability conundrum. In a move described as a patient approach to further rate changes, the Fed did not increase rates during January 2019.
New Listings in the Milwaukee region decreased 3.7 percent to 1,478. Pending Sales were down 61.1 percent to 457. Inventory levels rose 5.9 percent to 3,601 units.
Prices continued to gain traction. The Median Sales Price increased 8.1 percent to $200,000. Days on Market was down 17.2 percent to 53 days. Buyers felt empowered as Months Supply of Inventory was up 14.3 percent to 2.4 months.
While the home affordability topic will continue to set the tone for the 2019 housing market, early signs point to an improving inventory situation, including in several markets that are beginning to show regular year-over-year percentage increases. As motivated sellers attempt to get a jump on annual goals, many new listings enter the market immediately after the turn of a calendar year. If home price appreciation falls more in line with wage growth, and rates can hold firm, consumer confidence and affordability are likely to improve.
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