HOUSING CHALLENGE OR HOUSING OPPORTUNITY? IT DEPENDS.

The biggest challenge in real estate today is the lack of available homes for sale. The low housing supply has caused homes throughout the country to appreciate at a much faster rate than what we’ve experienced historically.

There are many reasons for the limited number of homes on the market, but as you can see in the graph below, we’re well below where we’ve been for most of the past 10 years. Today, across the country, there is only a 2.4-month supply of homes available for sale.

This lack of homes for sale is creating a challenge for many buyers who are growing frustrated in their search. On the other hand, this is a huge opportunity for sellers as low supply is driving up home values. And for many homeowners, that’s opening new doors as they re-think their needs and use their equity to move up or downsize.

According to the Rockford Association of Realtors (RAAR), the average home in our area has increased over the past year.

September housing statistics from RAAR show that the explosive growth rate in housing prices reached a new high in September.

Prices are up $21,000+ in one year. The three-month-rolling average price of a home sold in Winnebago, Boone and Ogle Counties rose to $179,351, more than $21,000 than last September’s average price of $158,240, a significant 14.7% growth.

For this reason, many sellers are taking advantage of low interest rates and the equity they have in their homes to make a move.

The biggest challenge in real estate is the lack of homes for sale, but this challenge is also an opportunity for sellers.

If you’re thinking about selling your house, let’s connect to start the process. Call Gambino Realtors at 815.282.2222.