The Pending Home Sales Index (PHSI) rose to 72.0, still well below the baseline of 100 that reflects 2001 market activity. Overall, pending transactions declined 3.6% compared to the same month a year earlier, underscoring persistent structural hurdles in the housing market.
Mortgage Rates Remain Key Constraint
NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun emphasized the role of mortgage rates in dampening market momentum. Despite the monthly rise, Yun noted that “contract signings remain well below normal historical levels.” He added that a decline in mortgage rates would ease affordability concerns and reduce the mortgage rate lock-in effect, which currently discourages existing homeowners from listing their properties.
NAR projects average mortgage rates will settle at 6.4% in 2025, limiting the likelihood of significant affordability improvements. The group forecasts existing-home sales to rise 6% next year, with new-home…
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