2024 Housing Market Predictions: Is It the Right Time to Buy a Home?

Buying a home is a significant financial commitment, and understanding the market conditions can help you make an informed decision. In this article, we will explore the 2024 housing market predictions, including mortgage rates, home prices, inventory levels, and whether it will continue to be a seller’s market. If you’re considering buying a home in 2024, read on to get valuable insights and expert advice.

Will Mortgage Rates Decline in 2024?

In October 2023, the average interest rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage hit 8% for the first time since 2000. The expert consensus is that mortgage rates will come down in 2024, generally landing in the upper 5% to mid 6% range by the end of the year. Here are some predictions:

• Fannie Mae: 5.8%
• Mortgage Bankers Association: 6.1%
• National Association of Realtors: 6.3%
• Wells Fargo: 6.45%
• Realtor.com: 6.5%

Note that these predictions are based on present-day economic data and projections of current trends. Interest rates may go lower or remain high, depending on further developments with the inflation rate and 10-year Treasury note yield.

Will Home Prices Decline in 2024?

Most experts expect home prices to continue to increase in 2024, making homeownership inaccessible to many. However, some forecast a slight drop in prices. Here are a few predictions:

• Morgan Stanley: -3%
• Realtor.com: -1.7%
• National Association of Realtors: +1.4%
• Fannie Mae: +3.2%
• Mortgage Bankers Association: +4.1%
• Goldman Sachs: +5%

For context, home prices rose by 7.1% in 2023, according to Fannie Mae.

Will Inventory Increase in 2024?

Home inventory hit all-time lows in 2023, but experts expect it to start rebounding in 2024. Many experts are cautious, stating that inflation and mortgage rates must drop considerably before inventory makes a meaningful recovery. If interest rates go low enough to persuade more homeowners to sell, inventory could increase by as much as 30%, according to the National Association of Realtors.

Will 2024 Continue to Be a Seller’s Market?

Even if home inventory increases significantly in 2024, it likely won’t be enough to keep up with demand. When supply outpaces demand, it’s almost always a seller’s market. In a seller’s market, buyers face more competition and may need to make an offer above the asking price or waive certain contingencies and seller concessions to have their offer chosen.

Will the Housing Market Crash in 2024?

Home prices rose at a blistering pace in 2020 and 2021, leading some to wonder whether a crash is on the horizon. However, most experts don’t expect that to happen anytime soon. While demand is relatively low, inventory continues to be lower, helping keep prices in check. If demand were to drop even more, for example, if the economy enters a downturn or interest rates don’t go down as predicted, then it’s possible for home prices to plummet.

Should I Buy a House in 2024?

The decision to buy a home is a personal one, regardless of the state of the market. While expert forecasts can help you get an idea of what to expect, you’ll need to carefully consider your financial situation—particularly your budget—and evaluate whether you can afford to buy a home.

If current interest rates are putting home prices out of your reach—the median sales price as of the fourth quarter of 2023 was $417,700, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis—it may be best to wait until interest rates come down more. But if you find your dream home and can afford it in the current market conditions, it can make sense to take a higher interest rate now and potentially refinance at a lower rate later on.

If you plan on buying, experts say that fall and winter are the best times if you’re looking for lower prices. However, inventory is typically lower during those seasons, so you may face stiff competition from other buyers. Spring and summer tend to have more inventory, especially as parents try to complete the moving process ahead of the start of the new school year. But prices are also higher at that point of the year.

With all of those things in mind, think about your situation and goals to determine the best time for you to buy a new home.

Consult With a Professional Who Knows Your Local Market

Predictions for the 2024 housing market are just that, and while economists and analysts tend to focus more on nationwide trends, local real estate agents and other professionals have a finger on the pulse of current trends in your area. As a result, if you’re thinking about moving in the coming year, don’t hesitate to reach out to experts where you live or plan to move. They can help you get a better idea of what to expect and how to maximize your savings on a new home.

Now is also a good time to start preparing your credit history for a home purchase. Review your credit score and credit report to evaluate your credit health and, if necessary, take steps to improve your credit before you start the mortgage process. This process can take time, so keep an eye on mortgage rates to find a good balance between the variables you can control and the ones you can’t.

Contact O1ne Mortgage for Your Mortgage Needs

At O1ne Mortgage, we understand that buying a home is one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll make. Our team of experts is here to help you navigate the complexities of the mortgage process and find the best loan options for your needs. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or looking to refinance, we are committed to providing you with exceptional service and competitive rates.

Don’t wait to make your homeownership dreams a reality. Call us today at 213-732-3074 to speak with one of our experienced loan officers and get started on your journey to owning a home.