Mortgage Rates EXPLODE! [Charlotte Housing Market Update] -August 2023

Mortgage Rates EXPLODE! [Charlotte Housing Market Update] -August 2023

The Federal Reserve has done it again. Interest rates have been raised, this time reaching a peak that we haven’t seen in over two decades. This historic increase is making waves across the nation, leaving many to wonder, how will this affect the housing market? In this blog post, we will delve into what these changes mean for real estate, with a specific focus on the housing landscape in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Charlotte North Carolina Housing Market Update:  

August 2023

 

1. The Federal Reserve And Mortgage Rates

2. Number of New Listings

3. Number of Pending sales

4. Number of Closed Homes

5. Average Sales Price

6. Market Overview 

7. What Does This Mean For Home Sellers

8. What Does This Mean For Home Buyers

Homes For Sale in Charlotte, NC:

1. The Federal Reserve & Mortgage Rates

In a significant move, the Federal Reserve has raised the Fed Fund rate to 5.5%. This is a notable shift, marking the highest level this key interest rate has reached since 2001.

Surging Mortgage Rates: Crossing the 7% Threshold 

Following the Federal Reserve’s decision, mortgage rates responded dramatically. In July, they surged past the 7% mark, a level that we haven’t seen in years. This sharp increase is a game-changer for many prospective homebuyers, as it significantly impacts what they can afford.

Higher mortgage rates invariably translate to higher monthly payments for borrowers. As a result, this rise in rates is further tightening the screws on buyers’ affordability. For many prospective homeowners, this might mean having to set their sights on smaller, more affordable properties, or considering different neighborhoods than they originally planned.

An Ongoing Inventory Crunch 

As if surging mortgage rates weren’t enough of a challenge, the housing market is still grappling with another critical issue: a lack of available homes for sale. This inventory crunch is a nationwide phenomenon, and it’s hitting us close to home here in Charlotte.

The numbers don’t lie. Current data clearly illustrates the severe inventory shortage in our backyard. With fewer homes available, buyers are often forced into bidding wars, pushing prices even higher in a market that is already challenging due to rising mortgage rates.

Looking Ahead in the Charlotte Housing Market 

As we navigate these unprecedented waters, it’s essential to stay informed and prepared. Whether you are a buyer feeling the pressure of these compounding factors or a seller questioning how this will affect your sale, the landscape of the Charlotte housing market is shifting and we are here to guide you through it. 

2. Number of New Listings

In July, the Charlotte housing market saw a total of 1,134 new listings hit the market . This figure marks a 17% decrease from the number of new listings that appeared in June, and it is notably down by 34% when compared to July of the previous year 2022.

Charlotte Housing Inventory: A Significant Dip!

The decrease in new listings compared to last year is a clear indicator of the ongoing inventory crisis. Homeowners are hesitant to list their properties due to the current market conditions, including high mortgage rates. This hesitancy is contributing to the shortage of homes on the market, creating a challenging environment for buyers.

So, why are so many homeowners refusing to make a move? A key factor appears to be the current state of mortgage rates. A substantial 80% of mortgage holders in the United States have locked in a 30 year fixed-rate mortgage of 5% or lower. Impressively, a quarter of these holders have secured a rate of 3% or less.

 

We’ve recently crafted a comprehensive blog post that delves into the reasons behind the current inventory shortage in the United States. Click below, if you’re keen to gain a deeper understanding of this issue.

The Ripple Effect Of Low Mortgage Rates

These historically low mortgage rates are acting as a powerful incentive for homeowners to stay put. Selling and buying a new property often means taking on a new mortgage. For many, this could result in higher monthly payments, given that current rates for new mortgages are now higher than what many existing homeowners are locked into.

This reluctance to sell isn’t just about the numbers, it’s contributing to a palpable tension in the Charlotte housing market. With so few homeowners willing to list their properties, prospective buyers are left with fewer options, which can lead to competitive bidding wars and continually rising home prices.

 

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3. Number of Pending Sales

 

In July, 1,083 homes in Charlotte accepted an offer. Interestingly, this marks a 1% decrease from June and an 8% drop compared to July of the previous year. At a glance, this might seem like a small shift, but in a bustling market, even slight changes can signal a broader trend.

These lower numbers in accepted offers aren’t occurring in a vacuum. They are directly tied to the number of homes available. With fewer homeowners listing their properties, it’s logical that there will be fewer pending sales. Simply put, fewer listings lead to fewer sales.

New Listings Outpacing Pending Sales

In July, the number of new listings added to the market outpaced the number of pending sales by approximately 5%. This suggests an unexpected dynamic, our inventory is actually growing.

This growing inventory is largely attributable to recent rate hikes. Even in a climate of historically low inventory levels, these rate increases appear to be making a tangible impact on the Charlotte market. What is the result? A steadily increasing number of listings available at any given time, a trend that has held strong throughout this year.

A Sellers Playground: But For How Long? 

Despite the uptick in available homes, make no mistake, Charlotte remains a heavily tilted seller’s market. Buyer affordability has been squeezed significantly due to rising interest rates, and the number of homes available, while growing, is still relatively low compared to demand. This combination continues to favor sellers, who often find themselves fielding multiple offers and enjoying favorable sale conditions.

For sellers, the current market dynamics present an opportune time to capitalize on high demand and potentially secure a premium price for their property. For buyers, the situation is more nuanced. While increased inventory offers more options and potentially less competition for each listing, reduced affordability due to higher mortgage rates presents a significant hurdle.

Navigating A More Patient Market

The classic law of supply versus demand is playing out vividly in Charlotte’s housing market. Inventory levels are indeed inching upward, offering a glimmer of hope for buyers seeking more options. However, this increase is far from the surge needed to genuinely alleviate our housing inventory shortage.

Throughout this year, one trend remains constant, the rise of average home sales prices. Despite the modest uptick in inventory, home prices are not taking a breather. They continue to appreciate, reflecting the sustained demand for properties in Charlotte’s vibrant market.

The average days on market this year has grown by approximately 29% compared to the same period last year. This suggests a subtle, yet potentially significant shift in market dynamics.

4. Number of Closed Homes

In July, the Charlotte housing market saw 975 homes successfully reach the closing table. This figure represents a sharp 24% drop compared to the number of homes closed in June. Even more notably, it marks a 25% decrease from the number of closings recorded in July of the previous year.

It’s important to note that closed data is, by nature, lagging data. It reflects deals that were likely initiated a month or two prior, making it a somewhat delayed indicator of market activity. Nevertheless, a pattern is emerging. Both month over month and year over year comparisons reveal a consistent downward trajectory in the number of closed homes.

Why is Charlotte experiencing this decline in closed transactions? The answer seems to lie largely in the supply side of the equation. Simply put, fewer homeowners are choosing to put their properties up for sale. This reluctance to list is constricting the supply of available homes, which in turn, is resulting in fewer closed deals.

5. Average Sales Price

In July, Charlotte’s housing market observed an interesting turn, the average sales price for a home in July was $534,500. This figure marks an 8% decline from June’s average sales price, but still reflects a solid 6% increase compared to July of the previous year. Notably, July was the first month this year that Charlotte witnessed a decrease in the average sales price.

Just like how we have seasons in the year, the housing market also goes through its own ups and downs. During the later part of summer, house prices usually stop rising so quickly or might even drop a little.

This isn’t something to worry about, it’s just how the market works. As we move further into the year, it will be interesting to see how Charlotte’s housing market changes, especially when compared to the bigger picture of what’s happening everywhere else.

6. Market Overview:

Imagine the housing market as a boat on the ocean. Lately, rising interest rates are like strong winds, pushing and challenging the boat’s direction. If these winds (or rates) keep getting stronger, they might make it tougher for our boat to sail smoothly.

When we step back and look at the past year in Charlotte, things have been going pretty well. The key question now is, how will these increasing rates shape the housing market’s journey in the upcoming months?

The Moves by the Federal Reserve:

Keep a close eye on Jerome Powell and the team there. The decisions they make can stir the waters even more. In their July meeting, Powell hinted at the possibility of interest rates increasing again. He left the door open to further rate hikes when they reconvene in September.

Now, even with the looming prospect of higher rates, Charlotte’s housing market remains robust. Why? We’re seeing a shortage of houses on sale. Think of it like everyone rushing to grab the last few popular toys on the shelf!

However, there’s a catch. If the Federal Reserve does decide to crank up these rates, we might find fewer homeowners wanting to sell their property. After all, why jump ship when it might mean dealing with a pricier loan on the next house? The next few months promise to be a revealing period for Charlotte’s housing market, as it reacts to these broader financial currents.

 

Selling A House Shouldn’t be Stressful

There is a pro-active way to sell your home that gets results

7. What Does This Mean For Home Sellers

Considering a move? Here’s what you need to know:

  • If you decide to sell now, chances are good you’ll get a competitive price for your property. The current inventory in Charlotte is low, and many homes have recently sold above their asking price due to multiple offers.
  • On the flip side, if you’re also planning to buy another home, anticipate potentially higher monthly mortgage payments due to rising rates.

 

If you are considering selling your home, make sure you choose the best Realtor. Watch this video to make sure you are asking your potential realtor the RIGHT questions:  10 Questions You Must Ask Your Realtor Before Hiring Them. 

Are you considering making a move? Give us a call today, we would love to discuss your goals and the market!

8. What Does This Mean For Home Buyers

Is now a good time to purchase a home? Here are some insights:

  • Not every prospective buyer should jump into the market at this moment. Housing options are limited due to low inventory. Moreover, the homes that are available face high demand, which might stretch your budget.
  • If you’re feeling uneasy about high monthly mortgage payments, it might be worth waiting. Some suggest buying now and refinancing later if interest rates drop. However, it’s unpredictable when or if that will happen. Base your decision on current conditions, not potential future scenarios.
  • While some industry watchers think rates might lower slightly by the latter half of 2024, there’s no guarantee they’ll drop below 5% anytime soon. If they do decrease, expect a surge in buyer demand due to the many who have been waiting on the sidelines. This could potentially drive prices up further.
  • Despite the challenges, if buying aligns with your personal and financial situation, then it’s a move worth considering. Always prioritize what’s best for you and your family, without banking on uncertain future rate changes.
  • Given the resilience of our current housing market, a massive drop in home prices isn’t likely. Instead, we might see a steady growth in home values over the next few years.

In a nutshell, Charlotte’s housing scene is vibrant and ever-changing. While broader market trends provide guidance, the best choices always align with individual needs and circumstances.

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Phone:

704-631-3977

Email:

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Visit Us:

3440 Toringdon Way, ste 205

Charlotte NC 28277

Home Ownership Education, Home Sellers and Buyers, Moving to Charlotte NC, Selling My House, Uncategorized

How do rich people become wealthy?  How do successful individuals become generationally wealth?

How do rich people become wealthy?  How do successful individuals become generationally wealth? Well, I was recently asked by a wise sage, "do you know how rich people become wealthy?"  Join Adam Kelly & I as we reveal how the wealthy build generational wealth!...

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How do rich people become wealthy?  How do successful individuals become generationally wealth?

How do rich people become wealthy?  How do successful individuals become generationally wealth?

How do rich people become wealthy?  How do successful individuals become generationally wealth? Well, I was recently asked by a wise sage, “do you know how rich people become wealthy?”  Join Adam Kelly & I as we reveal how the wealthy build generational wealth!

Today we will  walk you through the different ways that you’re able to utilize your equity to better your financial position, invest, and pay off debt. They will also discuss the different tools and methods of extracting wealth from your home’s equity. Here’s a few things that we will cover: 

In This Article We’ll Cover:

1. Ways to Use Your Home’s Equity to Build Wealth

2. Ways to Access Your Home’s Equity

3. How to Save Thousands on Your Mortgage

4. Private Mortgage Insurance

5. What’s Your Homes’ TRUE Value?

Homes For Sale in Charlotte, NC:

1. Ways to Use Your Home’s Equity to Build Wealth

 

Home equity is often the largest asset for many American families, yet many are unaware of the incredible opportunities to leverage this asset to build wealth. However, with the right approach, your home equity can work for you and your family to unlock the potential of your property’s value.

One of the most effective ways to increase your overall wealth while still enjoying the benefits of homeownership is by building your home equity. With refinancing, you can access the equity in your home and utilize it to pursue a variety of investment strategies to increase your total wealth. Whether you want to invest in your business, pay off debts, or make home improvements, home equity refinancing can be an excellent option for you.

By unlocking the value of your home equity, you can invest in strategies that align with your financial goals, which could potentially help you build significant wealth over time. With careful planning and expert guidance, you can make the most of your home equity to create a stronger financial future for you and your family. Here’s a few of the ways you can use your equity to better your financial position:

1. Paying off credit card bills: The average credit card APR is now about 16%, so using a home equity loan to pay off high-interest credit card bills can be smart.

After all, some banks offer home equity loans with rates around 6%. If you transfer high-interest credit card bills to a home equity loan with a rate that’s less than a third of what you’re paying on your credit cards, you could save money and pay down debt faster.

2. Consolidate other debt: While credit card debt is one option for debt consolidation, don’t forget you can use home equity to consolidate other types of debts. The key is choosing debts that have a higher interest rate than you could get with a home equity loan.

If you have a high-interest personal loan, auto loan, or private student loan and have a lot of equity in your home, for example, using your home equity could be smart. Consolidate all your debts with a home equity loan with low or no fees and a lower APR, and you could save big over the long haul.

3. Home improvements: Did you know that you can use your home equity to increase the value of your property and build your wealth? Many homeowners are leveraging this opportunity by using home equity loans to make important home improvements or upgrades.

According to Remodeling Magazine, the top three improvements that yield the highest return on investment are garage door replacement (93.8% cost recouped), manufactured stone veneer (92.1%), and a minor kitchen remodel (72.2%). By investing in these upgrades, you can boost the value of your property and enjoy a higher return on your investment.

But it’s not just about the numbers – any remodeling project can pay off if you personally find value in it. If you’ve always wanted a new kitchen and need to borrow to make it happen, a home equity loan is a smart and affordable option. And if you qualify according to IRS rules, you can even deduct the interest on home equity loans when the funds are used to “buy, build, or substantially improve the taxpayer’s home that secures the loan.”

4. Home additions: Are you running out of space in your beloved home? Well, don’t let limited square footage hold you back! With home equity, you can add an addition to your property and increase its value while also avoiding a pricey move.

Whether you need a new family room, bathroom, mudroom, or bedroom, adding some extra space could be just what you need. And the good news is that you don’t have to dip into your personal savings to make it happen. A home equity loan is an affordable and accessible option that can help you fund your dream addition.

By expanding your living space, you’ll not only enhance your daily life but also increase the overall value of your property. And let’s face it – who doesn’t want a little extra room to breathe and relax in their own home?

5. Down payment for investment property: Looking to level up your real estate game and become a landlord or commercial property owner? Well, get ready to dish out a hefty down payment! But before you start dipping into your personal savings, there’s a smarter way to get the cash you need – with home equity.

By tapping into the value of your property, you can secure a home equity loan with a competitive interest rate, allowing you to pursue your real estate dreams without breaking the bank. And let’s be real – who wouldn’t want to make passive income from a rental property or have a commercial space to call their own?

With a home equity loan, you can unlock the value of your property and use the funds to invest in real estate ventures that align with your financial goals. And since home equity loans are secured by your property’s value, you’ll likely qualify for a more affordable interest rate than other types of loans.

6. Starting a business: Ready to turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality? Look no further than your own home! By tapping into your home equity, you can access the funds you need to start a business – whether that means opening a franchise or starting your own company from scratch.

With a home equity loan, you can get a sizable chunk of money upfront without having to drain your personal savings or take out an expensive small business loan. And let’s be real – every entrepreneur knows that startup costs can quickly add up, so having access to affordable funding is crucial.

And with careful planning and expert guidance, you can use your home equity to start a successful and thriving business. So don’t let a lack of funding hold you back from pursuing your entrepreneurial dreams.

7. Use for an emergency:When life throws you a curveball, having a backup plan can make all the difference. That’s where home equity comes in handy. While home equity loans offer a fixed lump sum, fixed interest rate, and fixed monthly payment, a home equity line of credit (HELOC) works like a credit card, giving you the flexibility to borrow against your equity as needed. 

With a HELOC, you can rest easy knowing that you have a financial safety net to fall back on in case of emergencies. Whether it’s unexpected medical bills, a job loss, or a health scare, a HELOC can provide you with the funds you need to weather the storm.

And the best part? If you don’t use your HELOC, there’s no need to worry about repayment. Plus, since any cash you borrow is secured by the equity in your home, you can enjoy much lower rates than traditional credit cards or loans.

Of course, it’s always best to have an emergency fund in place, but a home equity loan or HELOC can be a reliable backup plan if you don’t yet have one. Just be sure to compare HELOCs and watch out for fees to ensure you get the best deal.

Home equity is a powerful asset that many families underestimate when it comes to building wealth. By refinancing and unlocking the value of your property, you can use your home equity to pursue various investment strategies. Whether it’s paying off credit card bills, consolidating debt, making home improvements or adding an addition to your home, you can use your home equity to increase your wealth and financial stability. You can also tap into your home equity to fund your real estate ventures, start your own business or have a financial safety net in case of emergencies. With careful planning and expert guidance, home equity can be a valuable tool for creating a stronger financial future for you and your family. 

 

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Contact us today

2.  Ways to Access Your Home’s Equity:

Now, how do we access your home’s equity? There’s a few popular methods for tapping into the butt load of cash you’re currently sitting on: cash-out refinancing, refinancing, and Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOCs). By understanding these options, you can make informed decisions that best suit your financial goals, whether you’re upgrading your living space, managing debt, or embarking on new endeavors. 

 

1. Cash-out Refinancing: Sail Away with Extra Cash Cash-out refinancing is like discovering a hidden island filled with gold. You replace your current mortgage with a new loan for more than you owe on your home, and then pocket the difference. It’s a popular choice for homeowners looking to access their equity while potentially lowering their interest rate or changing their loan term.

Advantages:

1. One loan to manage: By consolidating your mortgage and home equity, you’ll only have one monthly payment to worry about.

2.Tax benefits: In some cases, the interest you pay on a cash-out refinance could be tax-deductible.

Disadvantages:

1. Closing costs: Just like with your original mortgage, you’ll need to cover closing costs, which can be 2-5% of the loan amount.

2. Long-term commitment: If you extend the loan term, you might end up paying more interest over time.

2. Refinancing: Smooth Sailing to a Better Mortgage Refinancing is like swapping your old rowboat for a shiny new yacht. It involves replacing your current mortgage with a new one, typically to secure a lower interest rate, reduce your monthly payments, or change your loan term.

Advantages:

1. Save money: Lowering your interest rate can save you thousands over the life of your loan.

2. Flexibility: You can choose a new loan term that better suits your financial needs.

Disadvantages:

1. Closing costs: Just like with cash-out refinancing, you’ll need to pay closing costs on a new loan.

2. Time-consuming: The refinancing process can take several weeks or even months to complete.

3. HELOCs: Float on a Flexible Line of Credit A Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) is like having a trusty life raft on hand. It’s a revolving line of credit that uses your home as collateral. You can borrow against your home’s equity, repay the funds, and borrow again as needed during the draw period, usually 5-10 years.

Advantages:

1. Flexibility: You only borrow what you need, when you need it, making it perfect for ongoing expenses or projects.

2. Interest-only payments: During the draw period, you may have the option to make interest-only payments, keeping monthly costs low.

Disadvantages:

1. Variable interest rates: HELOCs typically have variable interest rates, meaning your payments could rise if rates increase.

2. Risk of foreclosure: Failing to repay your HELOC could result in the loss of your home.

Unlocking your home’s equity can be a fantastic way to achieve your financial goals, but it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of cash-out refinancing, refinancing, and HELOCs. Consider consulting a financial advisor or mortgage professional to help you decide which option is the best fit for your unique circumstances. With the right strategy, you’ll soon be sailing the high seas of financial freedom!

Selling A House Shouldn’t be Stressful

There is a pro-active way to sell your home that gets results

3. How to Save Thousands on Your Mortgage:

 

There is a simple yet powerful strategy to save you tens of thousands of dollars: paying a little extra towards your mortgage each month. This small step can save you thousands of dollars over the life of the loan and help you become mortgage-free sooner.

When you pay more than the required monthly payment, the extra amount goes directly towards the principal balance of your loan. This reduces the overall balance and, in turn, the interest accrued on that balance. The benefits are twofold: you’ll pay less interest over time and shorten the term of your mortgage.

Let’s illustrate this with an example. Imagine you have a 30-year mortgage for $250,000 at a 4% fixed interest rate. Your monthly principal and interest payment would be approximately $1,193. If you were to pay an additional $100 per month, you would save over $26,000 in interest and shave off more than four years from your loan term!

If you’re considering this approach, check with your lender to ensure there are no prepayment penalties and confirm that the extra payments will be applied to the principal. You can also use online mortgage calculators to help visualize the long-term savings this strategy offers.

By consistently paying a little extra each month, you’re investing in your financial future. The thousands of dollars saved in interest can be redirected towards other financial goals, such as retirement, education, or home improvements.

 

“Find what moves you”
Contact us today

4. Private Mortgage Insurance 

Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) is an insurance policy that protects lenders from potential losses if a borrower defaults on their mortgage. It’s typically required when a borrower puts down less than 20% on a conventional home loan. PMI reassures lenders, making it possible for more people to qualify for mortgages with smaller down payments.

The cost of PMI varies based on the size of your down payment and credit score, and it’s usually added to your monthly mortgage payment. The good news is that PMI isn’t permanent. There are several ways to remove it:

1. Automatic cancellation: Under the Homeowners Protection Act, lenders must automatically cancel PMI when your loan balance reaches 78% of the original property value, provided you’re current on your payments.

2. Request cancellation: Once your loan balance falls to 80% of the original property value, you can request PMI cancellation in writing. Your lender may require a home appraisal to verify the value.

3. Refinancing: If your home has appreciated in value or you’ve made significant improvements, you might be eligible to refinance your mortgage without PMI, provided your new loan balance is 80% or less of the home’s current value.

Keep track of your mortgage payments and home’s value to ensure you’re not paying PMI longer than necessary. Removing PMI can save you money, allowing you to reach your financial goals faster.

Selling A House Shouldn’t be Stressful

There is a pro-active way to sell your home that gets results

5.  What’s Your Homes TRUE Value?

 

If you’re curious on what your home’s TRUE value is? Want to know how much it could be worth on the market? Sign up for a free home evaluation today! Our expert team will provide you with an accurate and comprehensive report, giving you insight into the current market and helping you make informed decisions about your property. Sign up now and take the first step towards unlocking the TRUE potential of your home!

 

 

In conclusion, the secrets of the top 1% are within your grasp. By leveraging your home’s equity and utilizing strategies like cash-out refinancing, HELOCs, and real estate investments, you can create generational wealth for your family. We hope this article has inspired you to take action and explore the possibilities that your home’s equity offers.

As your trusted realtor, I’m here to help you make the most of your assets and guide you on this rewarding journey. If you’re ready to explore the possibilities that your home’s equity offers, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Thank you for taking the time to read this article. I’m excited to assist you in unlocking the full potential of your home’s equity and creating a lasting legacy for your family.

 

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Visit Us:

3440 Toringdon Way, ste 205

Charlotte NC 28277

Home Ownership Education, Home Sellers and Buyers, Moving to Charlotte NC, Selling My House, Uncategorized

How do rich people become wealthy?  How do successful individuals become generationally wealth?

How do rich people become wealthy?  How do successful individuals become generationally wealth? Well, I was recently asked by a wise sage, "do you know how rich people become wealthy?"  Join Adam Kelly & I as we reveal how the wealthy build generational wealth!...

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