The benchmark 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 3.99% at the end of 2017.
If you prioritized monthly affordability , buying in 2017 was generally the better move to secure a lower interest rate. If you were focused on selection and were willing to pay a premium in interest for a house that better fit your needs, waiting for the 2018 inventory bump was a viable, albeit more expensive, strategy. AI responses may include mistakes. Learn more should i buy a house now or wait until 2018
Buyers faced extreme competition and a "tight" inventory environment, with the supply of homes for sale hitting record lows. The Case for Waiting Until 2018 The benchmark 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 3
Housing market forecast : Experts weigh in on 2018 real estate AI responses may include mistakes
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
In 2017, the housing market was defined by , which hovered around 3.9% to 4.0% for most of the year. For many, this presented a "last chance" to lock in lower monthly payments before the Federal Reserve’s planned interest rate hikes took full effect.
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