We’re in the midst of the longest economic expansion in U.S. history, and economists think there’s still room to grow. Here’s where experts predict the housing market is headed in 2020 and beyond

HOME PRICES WILL KEEP RISING
Economists predict U.S. housing prices will continue to rise, regardless of a recession. Property data firm CoreLogic forecasts a faster rate of growth for home prices in 2020 than we saw in 2019, with the biggest gains at the lower end of the market.
“Low interest rates and a shortage of starter homes will continue to push up prices,” predicts DeFranco. “This is especially the case for lower price points, since builders have tended to focus on more expensive, higher-profit houses and less on replenishing low inventories of entry-level homes.”
What does it mean for you? If you have the ability and desire to buy a home now, don’t let a fear of recession or falling prices hold you in limbo. Economists expect home values, as well as rent prices, to continue rising. So you’ll likely pay more the longer you wait.
INVENTORY CONSTRAINTS WILL CONTINUE
What does it mean for you? If you’re looking to buy a starter home, be prepared to compete for the best listings. Start your search early, and if you’re up against a deadline (like a new baby), build in plenty of time to find the right home. We can help you assess your options, including new construction and up-and-coming developments.
What does it mean for you? If you’re looking to buy a home, act soon to lock in a historically low mortgage rate. It will minimize your monthly payment and could save you a bundle over the long term. And if you plan to stay in your current home for a while, consider whether it makes sense to refinance your mortgage at today’s lower rates.

MILLENNIALS WILL DRIVE THE MARKET
What does it mean for you? If you’re a millennial who has been priced out of urban living or is looking for more space for your growing family, a number of suburbs in our area have a lot to offer. We can point you towards the communities that will best meet your needs. And if you’re a homeowner with plans to sell, give us a call. We know how to market your home to millennials … and can help you sell quickly for top dollar by appealing to this leading market segment!

Sources:
Curbed –
https://www.curbed.com/2019/1/10/18139601/recession-impact-housing-market-interest-ratesHousingWire –
https://www.housingwire.com/articles/corelogic-expects-home-prices-to-do-this-in-the-next-12-months/National Association of Realtors –
https://www.nar.realtor/newsroom/expect-continued-economic-growth-slower-real-estate-price-gains-and-small-chance-for-recession-inRedfin –
https://www.redfin.com/blog/homeowners-staying-in-their-homes-longer/HousingWire –
https://www.housingwire.com/articles/builders-are-coming-to-the-housing-markets-rescue/com –
https://www.realtor.com/research/2020-national-housing-forecast/YCharts –
https://ycharts.com/indicators/30_year_mortgage_rateMBA Mortgage Market Forecast November 2019 –
https://www.mba.org/news-research-and-resources/research-and-economics/forecasts-and-commentaryDallas Morning News –
https://www.dallasnews.com/sponsored/real-estate/2019/11/23/experts-predict-where-mortgage-interest-rates-land-in-2020/