Real Estate News 12/16/2024

Today’s News Synopsis:

In The News:

Fast Company – “Where Freddie Mac predicts the housing market and home prices will go in 2025“ (12-13-24)

“Notably, government-sponsored mortgage lender Freddie Mac stands out with one of the most conservative predictions, anticipating a modest 0.6% growth—the second-lowest estimate among the forecasts reviewed. In a national housing market with just 0.6% annual appreciation, some regional housing markets would end up down year over year in 2025.”

NAR – “2025 Outlook: A Year of Stabilization and Opportunities“ (12-16-2024)

“The year ahead is poised to bring more opportunities for homebuyers as the housing market continues to stabilize. The Federal Reserve is expected to maintain a gradual approach to easing monetary policy in 2025.”

Yahoo Finance –  “The Fed can’t just be ‘data dependent’ in 2025 — it needs to be ‘policy dependent’“(12-13-24)

“Federal Reserve Chair Jay Powell has been very firm and consistent in his messaging about the election and fiscal policy.”

Redfin –  “Homebuying Demand Sitting Near Highest Level Since Early Spring As Mortgage Rates Fall” (12-12-24)

“Home tours, mortgage applications and pending sales are rising as mortgage rates decline from the four-month high they hit in late November. More sellers are coming off the fence, too.”

NBC Bay Area –  “California approves new insurance changes in hopes of stabilizing the market” (12-13-24)

“Friday, the state’s Department of Insurance says it got a major procedural green light to make some changes that might entice insurance companies to stop dropping people’s policies and possibly resume selling homeowners coverage. ”