Should I Buy A House Now Or Wait Until 2018 May 2026

The benchmark 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 3.99% at the end of 2017.

Housing starts were projected to increase to 1.33 million units in 2018, offering more options for those frustrated by the lack of existing homes.

Housing market forecast : Experts weigh in on 2018 real estate

Mortgage rates rose significantly, averaging roughly 4.44% by early 2018 and even touching 5% later in the year. This increase in rates often offset any benefits from slower price growth, significantly reducing overall home-buying power . Historical Comparison: 2017 vs. 2018 Late 2017 (Actual) 2018 (Forecast/Actual) Avg. Mortgage Rate (30-yr) ~3.9% – 4.0% ~4.5% – 4.8% Home Price Growth 6.3% increase 4.9% projected increase Market Condition Extreme inventory shortage Modest inventory growth

Home prices rose roughly 6.3% nationally in 2017. By buying earlier, homeowners could capture this equity growth rather than paying a higher entry price later.

The decision between buying a home in late 2017 versus waiting until 2018 presents a classic tradeoff between and potential inventory relief . The Case for Buying in 2017