Realtor.com & the National Association of REALTORs just posted their predictions for the top 5 industry trends in 2016.

 

  • A Return to Normal for Real Estate

In the words of Skywalker, "it will bring balance to the force."  While sales will continue strong, most markets will see a return to the more modest gains that are reflected in a balanced (& more sustainable) market.

  • Generational Data Supports Strong Selling Season in 2016 
In 2015, Millennial buyers represented almost 1/3 of home purchases.  This trend is expected to continue in 2016; as well as an expected return of financially recovering Gen-Exers & Baby Boomers.  According to the NAR, Gen-X buyers will be entering their "prime earning" years, just as Baby Boomers are tradtionally seeking to down size &/or relocate for retirement. More predictive analysis for 2016 (several years out) can be found here!
 
  • Builders will Transition to More Affordable Housing
As balance returns to pre-existing home sales and credit availability improves for first-time buyers, builders will see more attractiveness in building products to fill these niches.  Likewise, with the increased capital in the market from 2015, the direction of growth is already trending to the "out-skirts" of traditional suburb areas where land prices are more affordable.
 
  • Interest Rate Rise Will Affect the Higher-Price Markets
The FED has already increased interest rates this past month.  Additional increases are expected in 2016, with mortgage rates predicted to rise up to 60 basis points. As the rate increases, affordability will drop.  In areas where the move-up buyer is a significant part of the market, even a small "affordability" drop can have significant affect.
 
  • Rents Will Continue Their Rise (in some areas meteorically)
In more than 85% of market areas, the average rent to income ratio already exceeds 30%.  Demand aside, increases in property taxes & tax valuations result in double digit rent growth as those cost are passed from landlord to tenant.
 
 
- Christie Cannon - Keller Williams Frisco TX