A Close Look at the Spring Housing Market

Spring is a hot time of year for the real estate market. 

Between warmer days and pent-up demand from winter months, seasonality plays an enormous role in the flux of supply and demand. Current economic conditions - such as rising inflation, conflict overseas, and the first-rate increase of the year from the Federal Reserve - can also affect seasonal changes. So, all things considered, what can someone who is looking to buy or sell a home expect this Spring? Here’s what our team and other experts are saying: 

1. Mortgage Rates Will Climb

If you’re thinking about moving, you should do it as soon as you can to avoid higher mortgage rates. Freddie Mac recently reported that the 30-year fixed mortgage rate has increased by more than one full point, and they are expecting several more rate jumps in the next few months. For those who don’t act fast, a higher rate will result in a larger monthly payment over the lifetime of your loan, which affects a buyer’s “affordability” as it can certainly add up.

2. Inventory Will Increase

In just the last two months, Realtor.com reported more and more houses have been coming onto the market. Because seasonality also suggests home inventory grows each Spring, buyers might be seeing their best window yet. Meanwhile, sellers should list before inventory creates increased competition - their leverage in any negotiation is impacted as more homes hit the market.

3. Prices Will Rise

Home prices are continuing to appreciate as the demand for housing continues to supersede supply. Prices are forecasted to climb, but unlike the last two years, they’ll rise at a slower pace. Although some worry that rising interest rates will adversely affect home prices, there is actually no direct influence. Mortgage rates jumped by at least 1% six times in the last 30 years, and home values increased during those times.

Recent Trends in Santa Barbara & Montecito

We know that the luxury market is even more fiercely seasonal than the general market, which plays a significant role in median sales prices. Typically, prices rise in spring and then dip when sales decline in fall through mid-winter. In consideration of rising mortgage rates, increased inventory, and gradual home appreciation - your best option as a buyer or seller is to take advantage of what you can before conditions change. Even on a localized level, our team has experienced these market trends first-hand.