Inventory Shortages Are Slowing Down the Market

The real estate market is moving more and more into a complete recovery. Home values are up. Home sales are up. Distressed sales (foreclosures and short sales) have fallen dramatically. It seems that 2017 will be the year that the housing market races forward again.

However, there is one thing that may cause the industry to tap the brakes: a lack of housing inventory. While buyer demand looks like it will remain strong throughout the summer, supply is not keeping up.

Here are the thoughts of a few industry experts on the subject:

Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at NAR:

“Sellers are in the driver’s seat this spring as the intense competition for the few homes for sale is forcing many buyers to be aggressive in their offers. Buyers are showing resiliency given the challenging conditions. However, at some point — and the sooner the better — price growth must ease to a healthier rate. Otherwise sales could slow if affordability conditions worsen.”

Tom O’Grady, Pro Teck CEO

“The lack of inventory is very real and could have a severe impact on home sales in the months to come. Traditionally, a balanced market would have an MRI (Months Remaining Inventory) between six and 10 months.

This month, only eight metros we track have MRIs over 10, compared to 27 last year and 48 two years ago—illustrating that this lack of inventory is not being driven by traditionally ‘hot’ markets, but is rather a broad-based, national phenomenon.”

Ralph McLaughlin, Chief Economist at Trulia

“Nationally, housing inventory dropped to its lowest level on record in 2017 Q1. The number of homes on the market dropped for the eighth consecutive quarter, falling 5.1% over the past year.”

Freddie Mac

“Tight housing inventory has been an important feature of the housing market at least since 2016. For-sale housing inventory, especially of starter homes, is currently at its lowest level in over ten years. If inventory continues to remain tight, home sales will likely decline from their 2016 levels. …all eyes are on housing inventory and whether or not it will meet the high demand.”

Bottom Line

If you are thinking of selling, now may be the time. Demand for your house will be strongest at a time when there is very little competition. That could lead to a quick sale for a really good price.  Give me a call for more details – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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22601 W Mohawk Lane Surprise, AZ 85387

$461,410

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,284 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6693500

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Introducing the latest addition to Surprise, is Frontera in Mesquite Mountain Ranch. Available now is this new detached single-level home, situated on a corner next to a park, this charming one-story residence features four bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms, and a two-car garage. Boasting front yard landscaping, granite countertops, a generously sized kitchen island with a single bowl sink, tile flooring, stainless steel appliances, and a gas range, this home is designed for modern living. It also comes equipped with a smart home package, a gas tankless hot water heater, and Deako smart light switches for added convenience. Residents of Frontera, will have access to an array of community amenities, including hiking and biking trails, pickleball and basketball courts and play areas.

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1266 W Sparrow Drive Queen Creek, AZ 85140

$461,173

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,967 SqFt

Status Active

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Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

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19625 W Cambridge Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85396

$460,995

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,070 SqFt

Status Active

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Property Type Single Family Residence

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41108 W Haley Drive Maricopa, AZ 85138

$460,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,142 SqFt

Status Active

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Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

READY FOR MOVE-IN... This home has 4 bedrooms with a flex space to be used as den or a formal space. We added a shower in the powder room for a total of 3 full baths. Large walk in shower at owner's bath with dual vanity sinks. Stainless steel gas range. Benton ''White'' Birch cabinets throughout the home with 42'' kitchen uppers and roll outs at pantry. AZT Della Terra Quartz countertops in the owner's bath and at the kitchen and on the enhanced kitchen island. Tile backsplash in the kitchen has Colorwheel 4x16 tile. Upgrade flooring includes level 9 carpet in bedrooms/closets and the remaining of the home has DT Cannes Masso 18x18 tile in the great room, kitchen, entry, halls, bathrooms and laundry and so much more.

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