Housing Market Trends

From the First American Economic Center

The First American Economic Center has you covered with in-depth analysis and expert insights on the latest data and trends in the industry.

Quoted on Forbes.com: Rising Rates Can Increase Housing Demand

By FirstAm Editor on June 7, 2018
First American Chief Economist Mark Fleming was quoted Tuesday in a feature article on Forbes.com, explaining how rising rates can increase housing demand. Read More

Housing In The News Interest Rates Millennials Affordability

Unadjusted house prices are higher than ever, but what is the real story?

By Mark Fleming on May 24, 2018
As the home-buying season continues, the inventory of homes for sale remains historically low, while demand is increasing. Not surprisingly, house prices continue to rise. In March, unadjusted house prices increased by 6.4 percent compared with a year ago and they are now 8.7 percent above the housing boom peak for unadjusted house prices reached ... Read More

Real House Price Index Affordability

Interview on CNBC: Explaining the Link Between Rising Rates, Housing Supply and Affordability

By FirstAm Editor on May 18, 2018
First American Chief Economist Mark Fleming was interviewed yesterday on CNBC and explained the link between rising rates, housing supply and affordability. Read More

Housing In The News Interest Rates Millennials Affordability

What Does California's Solar Panel Mandate Mean for Affordability, and April Housing Starts Data Signal Optimism

By Mark Fleming on May 17, 2018
California moved to the center of the new residential construction solar system last week as it became the first state to mandate solar panels on new residential homes. The mandate is part of California’s “Energy Efficiency Strategic Plan,” which includes the goal that both residential and commercial construction be zero net energy by 2030. The ... Read More

Housing Affordability

What Does the Change in the 10-Year Treasury Note Mean for Housing Affordability

By Mark Fleming on May 7, 2018
At the May Federal Reserve (Fed) meeting last week, all eyes were on the 10-year Treasury yield. In late April, that yield topped 3 percent for the first time in more than four years. With yields on the rise, housing market participants expect this to mean higher interest rates from central banks. It’s often overlooked that the popular 30-year, ... Read More

Housing Interest Rates Real House Price Index Federal Reserve Affordability

The Powerful Forces Reducing Affordability

By Mark Fleming on April 23, 2018
Last week, the average 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage rose 5 basis points to 4.46 percent, reaching its highest level since January of 2014. The consensus among economists is that the 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage will approach 5 percent by the end of this year. All else held equal, this will make housing more expensive. However, some perspective is ... Read More

Affordability