The US housing industry is showing signs of stabilization but remains in a complex state as of the past 48 hours. Mortgage rates have held steady, with the national average 30-year fixed rate at 6.79 percent, unchanged from last week. The 15-year fixed rate sits at 5.85 percent. This rate stability follows years of significant swings and suggests a cautious optimism among both buyers and sellers. Forecasters expect mortgage rates to hover around 6.5 percent through the end of 2025, barring unexpected economic or policy changes.
On home prices, the market is divided. The National Association of Realtors projects a 1.7 percent price increase by the end of this year, while CoreLogic predicts a 3.7 percent rise. In contrast, Moody’s Analytics expects prices to drop by 4.2 percent, and Zillow forecasts a modest 0.5 percent uptick. Notably, sellers have become more flexible: in May, the average listing price reduction was 17,962 dollars, up from 15,533 dollars a year ago, with 62 percent of homes sold involving a price cut. This reflects buyers’ greater bargaining power and a move toward market rebalancing.
The industry continues to face major supply issues, with inventory levels falling short by several million homes relative to demand. This persistent shortage is expected to keep upward pressure on prices despite slower sales. Many would-be buyers remain sidelined by affordability concerns, with first-time homeownership rates still lagging as households wait for more favorable conditions.
Regulators and city leaders are piloting small-scale solutions. For example, Denver’s mayor has launched a new tax incentive for middle-income housing projects to stimulate development and affordability in urban areas. However, there are no sweeping federal regulatory changes in the past 48 hours.
Major industry players such as Berkshire Hathaway Home Services are advising buyers and sellers to set realistic expectations, emphasizing that the era of two to three percent mortgage rates is unlikely to return soon. Leaders are also focusing on digital solutions, more flexible lending, and collaborations with local governments to unlock inventory and address supply bottlenecks.
Compared with previous months, the current moment is defined by steadier rates, slight pricing flexibility, and a wait-and-see approach as buyers, sellers, and investors monitor for further macroeconomic shifts and potential Federal Reserve actions.
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This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI