Existing-Home Sales Rise in December as Days on Market Widen

Key takeaways:

• December existing-home sales increased 2.2% month-over-month and 9.3% annually
• The nationwide median existing-home sales price hit $404,400 in December — a 6% gain from the previous year
• The inventory of unsold existing homes fell 13.5% month-over-month and grew 16.2% year-over-year to a 3.3-month supply at the current pace of sales

Existing home sales grow

Existing-home sales increased 4.8% in December compared to November and 9.3% from the year before, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR).

Meanwhile, the median existing-home sales price grew to $404,400. That increased 6% annually from $381,400 and marked the 18th straight month of yearly gains.

“Home sales in the final months of the year showed solid recovery despite elevated mortgage rates,” said NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun. “Home sales during the winter are typically softer than the spring and summer, but momentum is rising with sales climbing year-over-year for three straight months. Consumers clearly understand the long-term benefits of homeownership. Job and wage gains, along with increased inventory, are positively impacting the market.”

Regionally, the South had the most existing-home sales in November, with an annual rate of 1.93 million units. That rose 3.2% from the year prior. The median price grew 3.4% annually to reach $361,800.

The Midwest’s 990,000 units came next, up 6.5% year-over-year. Its median price grew 9% to $298,600.

The West accounted for 790,000 existing sales, increasing 12.9% from one year ago. Typically the costliest part of the country, the median price increased annually by 4% to $614,500.

The Northeast’s 530,000 sales grew 10.4% annually. The median price jumped 11.8% from a year earlier to $478,900.

Factors influencing the market

NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun has pointed to two significant factors impacting existing-home sales: low for-sale inventory and high mortgage rates.

Given the ongoing tight supply, properties on the market still receive multiple offers, especially starter- and mid-priced homes, he said.

“The housing market continues to unthaw slowly amid considerable affordability challenges brought on by high interest rates and rising homeownership expenses,” said Selma Hepp, chief economist at CoreLogic. “Lower mortgage rates later this year will provide a breather, though the average potential home buyer continues to maintain a wait-and-see approach. Improvements in existing for-sale inventory are critical and will help thaw out sales further.”

Housing inventory reached 1.15 million units at the end of December, down 13.5% monthly but up 16.2% year-over-year. Unsold homes sit at a 3.3-month supply at the current sales pace, below November’s 3.8 months but above December 2023’s 3.1 months. Traditionally, six months worth of inventory defines a balanced housing market.

Moreover, time on market expanded to 35 days in December, up from 32 days in November and 29 days the year before. All-cash buyers accounted for 28% of existing-sales, up from 25% the pervious month and down from 29% the year prior.

Navigating the housing market

Embarking on the journey to homeownership is an exciting and significant step in one’s life. To help you navigate this path successfully, we’ve compiled three practical tips:

1. Stay on top of housing inventory: Keep an eye on changes in inventory levels, as this can impact your choices and negotiation power. Be ready to act when the right opportunity arises.
2. Assess your budget and financing options: With low housing affordability being a factor in declining sales, it’s crucial to evaluate your financial circumstances. Explore different financing options and ensure that you find a home that aligns with your budget and long-term financial goals.
3. Be proactive and act quickly: When you find a home that meets your criteria, be proactive and act quickly to avoid missing out. The best way to do so is by securing a mortgage prequalification in advance.

The bottom line

As a home buyer, navigating the current real estate market can feel overwhelming at times. But armed with the right knowledge, you can approach the process with confidence.

Stay informed about the latest trends, assess your budget, explore down payment assistance programs in your area, and act quickly when you find the right home.