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.

The Drag on Affordability Explained

By FirstAm Editor on December 21, 2017
First American’s proprietary Real House Price Index (RHPI) looks at October 2017 data and includes analysis from First American Chief Economist Mark Fleming on the market forces that are keeping a lid on affordability. Read More

Interest Rates Real House Price Index Income Affordability

Best Cities to Maximize Borrowing Power for First-Time Home Buyers

By Mark Fleming on December 11, 2017
It’s a near certainty that the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) will raise the short-term Federal Funds rate this week. The CME group estimates the probability of a 25 basis-point increase at 90.2 percent. Some may fret about how this will impact the housing market, but they are missing the point on mortgage rates and affordability for ... Read More

Housing Interest Rates Federal Reserve Affordability

What’s Behind September’s Surprise Increase in Affordability?

By FirstAm Editor on November 27, 2017
First American’s proprietary Real House Price Index (RHPI) looks at September 2017 data and includes analysis from First American Chief Economist Mark Fleming on the market forces that sparked a surprising increase in affordability in September. Read More

Interest Rates Real House Price Index Income Affordability

Five Best Cities for Economic Opportunity

By Mark Fleming on November 16, 2017
Amazon’s very public search to identify the best location for its second headquarters made me wonder - what criteria would be helpful for young professionals when making their personal decision on where to live and work? Affordable housing would be important. For example, you can buy so much more home in Texas or Ohio than you can in California. ... Read More

Real House Price Index Affordability

Many Experts Miss the Point on Mortgage Rates and Affordability for First-Time Home Buyers

By Mark Fleming on November 6, 2017
Last week, the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) met for the second to last time this year. As most prognosticators expected, the FOMC decided to leave the short-term Federal Funds rate unchanged. While good news for those with credit card debt, car loans and adjustable rate mortgages, the impact of FOMC inaction, or action for that matter, is ... Read More

Housing Interest Rates Federal Reserve Affordability

Will August Uptick in Affordability Continue?

By FirstAm Editor on October 30, 2017
First American’s proprietary Real House Price Index (RHPI) looks at August 2017 data and includes analysis from First American Chief Economist Mark Fleming on what’s behind the surprising increase in affordability in August and whether or not that trend will continue. Read More

Interest Rates Real House Price Index Income Affordability