Now that 2018 is here, it’s time to look ahead at what the year may bring for the real estate market. Though there’s no way to predict exactly what will happen, housing experts and economic forecasters can make educated guesses based on data and historical trends. According to reports, here’s what to look for in the coming year if you’re planning to buy or sell a home.
Urban Land Institute and PricewaterhouseCoopers predict a “soft landing”
According to the annual report released by the Urban Land Institute and PricewaterhouseCoopers, the real estate market in 2018 will be fairly smooth. They predict that moderately priced, single-family residences will remain in demand and offer opportunities for developers and investors. Their experts believe that our low unemployment rate coupled with new economic policy could lead to slow but steady growth in the market. They also think that the homebuilding industry will see a breakthrough in technological advances, such as 3D printing and prefab homes.
Realtor.com suggests tax reform could dampen growth
Realtor.com’s National Housing Forecast for 2018 predicts that although the year could see gains in inventory and sales prices, tax reform could have a big impact. Their research suggests that by fall, year-over-year inventory growth will be positive, though mostly felt in mid- and upper-tier homes. Inventory for starter homes will likely remain stagnant due to high demand.
Their forecasts show a slowing in the appreciation of home prices, with growth at just over three percent. Millennials will gain a larger share of the market and will become more of a driving force. Cities in the south will likely see the most growth in home sales, with Tulsa, Little Rock, Dallas and Charlotte taking the top spots. However, tax reform legislation is the wild card, and could slow any growth due to decreased incentives and tax benefits for homeowners.
More information
If you’d like more information about buying or selling a home, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We look forward to helping you navigate the 2018 real estate market, no matter what it has in store.
