It’s the time of the year when Windermere Chief Economist, Matthew Gardner looks deep into his crystal ball to see what’s on the horizon for the upcoming year. 2017 was a stellar year for housing across the country, but can we expect that to continue in 2018? Here are his thoughts:
MILLENNIAL HOME BUYERS
Last year, Gardner predicted that the big story for 2017 would be millennial buyers and it appears he was a little too bullish. In 2017, first-time buyers made up about 34% of all home purchases—below the 40% that is expected in a normalized market. Although they are buying, it is not across all regions of the country, rather they are currently attracted to less expensive markets such as North Dakota, Ohio, and Maryland.
This year, the number of millennial buyers should expand further and be one of the biggest influencers in the U.S. housing market. I also believe that they will begin buying in more expensive markets.
EXISTING HOME SALES
In 2018 we should expect existing home sales to increase by 3.7%—or 5.62 million housing units. In many areas, demand will continue to exceed supply, but a modest increase in inventory will help take some heat o the market. Because of this, home prices are likely to rise by 4.4%.
NEW HOME SALES
New home sales should rise by around 8% to 655,000 units, with prices increasing by 4.1%. While housing starts—and therefore sales—will rise next year, they will still remain well below the long-term average due to escalating land, labor, materials, and regulatory costs. I do hold out hope that home builders will be able to help meet the high demand we’re expecting from first-time buyers, but in many markets it’s very difficult for them to do so due to rising construction costs.
Discover how Tyler's process has helped people like you secure their spot in Seattle.
HOUSING BUBBLE
Gardner continues to be concerned about housing affordability. Home prices have been rising across much of the country at unsustainable rates and, although I still contend that we are not in “bubble” territory, it does represent a substantial impediment to the long-term health of the housing market. But if home price growth begins to taper, as I predict it will in 2018, that should provide some relief in many markets where there are concerns about a housing bubble.
MATTHEW GARDNER
As Chief Economist for Windermere Real Estate, Matthew Gardner is responsible for analyzing and interpreting economic data and its impact on the real estate market on both a local and national level. Matthew has over 27 years of professional experience both in the U.S. and U.K.