Is the Housing Market Thawing Finally? | S2 E059 | 07-24-25
Housing data for June may signal a market thaw despite headline numbers missing expectations, with supply increasing and price growth slowing significantly from 6% to just 2% year-over-year.
Although housing transactions fell short of expectations, fundamental shifts in market dynamics could finally break the logjam. Supply of existing homes has increased to levels not seen since June 2016, addressing a critical shortage that had pushed prices to unsustainable heights. New home inventory is similarly expanding, reaching its highest point since late 2022. These inventory gains represent the first essential step toward market normalization.
Perhaps most significantly for inflation watchers and the Fed, housing price growth has dramatically decelerated. Annual price increases have plummeted from nearly 6% at the end of 2022 to just 2% currently – a vital development since housing costs feed directly into inflation metrics. We’re even seeing new homes (median $402,000) priced below existing ones ($435,000), an unusual market inversion that reflects builders’ flexibility in responding to market conditions.
Make no mistake – challenges remain substantial. Mortgage rates stubbornly hover around 6.8-6.9%, significantly above pre-pandemic norms. The housing market hasn’t escaped its recession. But these green shoots of increased supply and moderating prices suggest the first signs of thawing after a long freeze. For potential buyers who’ve been waiting on the sidelines, for the Fed seeking progress on inflation, and for the broader economy that depends on housing stability, these subtle shifts matter tremendously.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
• Existing home sales supply has reached its highest level since June 2016
• New home sales supply is at its highest since Q4 2022
• Housing prices are growing at just 2% annually, down from nearly 6% at the end of 2022
• The median existing home price is approximately $435,000
• The median new home price is lower at $402,000
• Mortgage rates remain stubbornly high at 6.8-6.9% for 30-year fixed loans
• Increased supply and slower price growth could help ease inflation pressures
• Tomorrow we’ll analyze durable goods orders data which feeds into Q2 GDP figures
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