Homebuyers might want to temper their expectations for significant declines in mortgage rates as the spring housing season commences. The inflation rate increased to 3.2% year-over-year in February, as highlighted in the latest consumer price index report. This marks the third consecutive month of rising inflation rates, diverging further from the U.S. Federal Reserve’s 2% target.
The infographic below from Florida Realtors highlights how real estate professionals will help make your home sale go easier.
To successfully navigate your home-buying journey, I recommend that you adopt a balanced approach of being thoughtful yet decisive in today’s market. The list below reflects some of the main points of that balance.
The inventory levels in Sarasota County continued their material rise in January. The strong seller’s market is very much a thing of the past as we head into peak season for the year. While the market is still largely in balance, buyers have more leverage than at any time in the past several years. It is definitely pointing to a buying opportunity, which may be why we are seeing such a high percentage of cash sales in the county. See the infographic from Florida Realtors below for more.
It was good to see new listings rise faster than closed sales in Manatee County in January. Further, with the percentage of sales being all cash dropping, the market continues to look very reasonable for both buyers and sellers. I expect the normal pickup in sales activity for the next three months as we are in peak season. With balanced negotiating leverage, it should be a very positive 2024 peak sales season in Manatee County. See the infographic from Florida Realtors below for more.
