2025 Housing Trends To Watch
And just like that, we find ourselves at the beginning of another new year. At about this time each year, economists share their predictions for the housing market for the upcoming year. Honestly - no expert knows exactly what's ahead - but I like to note what they think will happen and review at the end of the year to see how accurate their forecasting was.
Fannie Mae Economists recently shared their 5 housing predictions for 2025.
•Average mortgage rates will decline modestly but remain above 6 percent, with likely bouts of volatility.
•Existing home sales will remain near 30-year lows, but location matters.
•New home sales will remain a bright spot in the housing market (where they can be built).
•National home price growth will decelerate.
•Multifamily housing will remain in a holding pattern.
In short, from an affordability perspective, experts think the 2025 housing
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How a Heat Pump Helped Our Family Sleep Better and Live Greener
By Seth Frame
When our son Lorenzo was born, keeping him asleep felt like an impossible task. We tried blackout shades to keep his room dark, but our window air conditioning unit left a slight gap that let in early morning light, waking him at dawn and disrupting afternoon naptime. The unit's noise and inconsistent performance didn’t help either, further disturbing his sleep.
Our home had window units for cooling and oil for heat. My wife and I had often thought about switching to a heat pump, but the idea of a new system installation and the hefty cost held us back. However, as sleep-deprived new parents, we eventually decided to take the plunge. We had done our research and felt it was the right move.
Initially, the cost seemed overwhelming but we were pleasantly surprised by the available rebates. In New York, programs like NYS Clean Heat offer not only
educational resources and contractor referrals but also significant incentives that may cover the entire cost of installation for eligible households. This made the heat pump much more affordable than we anticipated. For us, moving away from fossil fuels had been a long-term priority and between rebates, tax credits, and fuel oil savings, our heat pump nearly paid for itself.
During our research, understanding the technology behind heat pumps work was impressive—they use electricity to transfer heat rather than burning fuel, which reduces greenhouse gas emissions. They also improve indoor air quality by eliminating carbon monoxide risks and offering better air filtration and dehumidification. One of the many improvements we saw after our heat pump installation was consistent heating and cooling throughout every room in our home. Our old boiler system created inconsistent temperatures from room to room, but the heat pump maintained a steady temperature that we could customize room by room.
I also learned that, in the US, heat pump sales have surpassed those of gas furnaces over the past few years. Their efficiency, comfort and health benefits are winning people over. Even in cold climates like upstate New York, modern heat pumps can function efficiently in
temperatures as low as -15 degrees Fahrenheit. They come with advanced features like variable speed compressors and smart thermostats, further boosting energy efficiency and user control.
The installation was straightforward and quick, which was a huge plus for our busy family. We prepared the wiring and electrical setup in advance, allowing the team to finish in half a day. Lorenzo napped peacefully that same afternoon—blackout curtains fully drawn and no window unit noise. A parent’s dream come true.
Since then, we’ve moved to a new home and I’m scheduled to have three heat pump units installed this month. If you’re considering a heat pump, my advice is to go for it. It’s easy to use, made our home more comfortable, saved on energy bills and reduced our carbon footprint.
This time, I was able to skip the research, confident that I’m investing in an efficient, effective and eco-friendly heating and cooling system for our new home. I’ll also benefit from recent federal tax credits thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, making energy efficiency upgrades like this even more cost-effective.
(Seth Frame is a resident of Schenectady, NY)
Looking to Sell or Buy A Home?
Looking to Sell or Buy A Home?
Well cared for and mostly updated two-family home on 2 acres, including a 26X32 garage with an 8X26 attached lean-to.
For those who desire one floor living you will love the three-bedroom, 1 bath unit featuring an updated center island kitchen, updated bath, newer furnace, and Central Air. The newly remodeled and heated front porch could be your new favorite spot overlooking the well-manicured yard, plus new LVT flooring, trim and paint throughout!
The appealing & comfortable two-story unit offers 4 bedrooms, 1.5 baths a mud room, eat in kitchen, a spacious living area, some new trim, and updated baths. Both units feature plenty of natural
light shining through newer vinyl windows with rural views, decks, updated electric, 40-gallon propane water heaters, and washer dryer hookups. There is plenty of storage including built-in closets, two attics, three basements, one with an overhead door, plus an attic over the garage. 508 ft of road frontage on state rt 46 and 165 ft of frontage on Glur rd.
This property could be a great fit for an owner-occupant that needs an in-law suite, an owner-occupant renting out one side, or an investment. Located very close to Rome, VVS Shools and ten minutes to Turning Stone or Sylvan Beach. In addition, this property generates income from sign space rental.
Contact Ryan Kirch 315-264-4198 for more information.
Your Gateway to the Simple Life
Charming Home with Exceptional Features! Welcome to your slice of paradise, where comfort meets nature in this stunning 4-bedroom, 3 1/2 bath house. This unique property offers a blend of modern amenities and outdoor delights, making it a perfect home for your family. The metal roof, vinyl siding with cedar wood accents, and meticulous landscaping create an inviting and picturesque curb appeal. Enjoy beautifully raised perennial flower beds with convenient soaker hoses, making it effortless to maintain a vibrant garden all year round. Flood your home with natural light through the Pella designer windows, enhancing your living space’s ambiance. Benefit from a 162’ driven well and a 1,000-gallon concrete septic system, ensuring water reliability and efficient waste management. Experience tranquility with your very own pond featuring cascading waterfalls and electric access for evening enchantment. Proudly display your patriotism with a flag pole and accentuate your yard with a flower island, both equipped with electric lighting. The cellar features Bilco steel doors, a backup generator, a propane stove, sump pump and a pantry unit, offering an ideal space for all your storage needs. Contact Nick Polce at Gateway Properties today for more information or to schedule your showing.
Welcome to Your Home, Where Comfort Meets Nature in Perfect Mix!
This splendid property offers a host of features to enhance your lifestyle. 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, attached garage, overlooking the tranquil brook. Separate workshop with in-ground pool in back. The master bedroom is a retreat in itself, featuring an en-suite bathroom. Enjoy peaceful moments on the enclosed balcony attached to the master bedroom. Relax and unwind in the spa tub, a luxurious touch to the master en-suite.
Cozy up by the fireplace in the spacious living room. Finished room in the basement that previously was ment for added convenience. Central Air and water conditioner throughout the home. Hot Water on Demand is
modern conveniences, and accessibility. If you are looking for a home that provides a peaceful escape without sacrificing convenience, this is the one for you! Contact Nick Polce at Gateway Properties today for more information or to schedule your showing.
Cozy Camping Cabin Retreat in the Heart of the Adirondacks!
Rt 365, Russia • $89,900
Escape to your very own slice of paradise with this charming 380 sq. ft. small camping cabin on .6
for
getaways or year-round living. Featuring a cozy kitchen, a warm wood stove and a comfortable living area complete with a couch and dining table, this cabin is designed for relaxation and comfort. The interior boasts touches of knotty pine and beautiful brickwork surrounding the wood stove, creating a rustic atmosphere. Enjoy peace of mind with modern 100 amp circuit wiring and energyefficient Pella windows installed in 2016. The cabin sits on a sturdy concrete slab with a moisture barrier, ensuring durability for years to come. With low Herkimer County taxes totaling just $487, this is an affordable retreat! The true highlight is the direct access to hundreds of acres of stateland and close proximity to the expansive 60,000 acres of Black River Forest. Located on a quiet dead-end private right-of-way road, you’ll relish the tranquility, all while being near the picturesque Hinckley Reservoir and the serene West Canada Creek, nestled within the breathtaking Adirondack Park. Note: the cabin will need to be connected to a power pole for electricity. Give Nicholas Polce a call today to schedule your showing!
643 NYS 365, Remsen • $429,000
sbaisley@hbegroup.com
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