GREENWAY BLOG

17 January 2025

MarketMinute | Are starter homes a thing of the past?

Wholesale and consumer inflation rose less than expected in December, supporting speculation of continuing Fed policy rate cuts this year. December retail sales came in slightly lower than expected but showed the economy was still growing at a solid pace at year's end. New jobless claims increased more than expected last week but remained at levels consistent with a healthy labor market.  In 2023, just 9% of homes built in the U.S. were under 1,400 square feet, considered a typical starter home,...

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10 January 2025

MarketMinute | Check out these 2025 rate predictions

Minutes from the last Fed meeting showed members favored slowing rate cuts to balance inflation risks with those of economic overheating. Job openings unexpectedly rose in November. Slower hiring points to a softening labor market but not one that needs Fed intervention. Jobless claims fell to an 11-month low last week. Continuing claims rose slightly. The balance points to relative stability in the jobs market.  MBA and Fannie Mae expect mortgage rates to stay above 6% through 2025 due to a strong...

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8 January 2025

Costs that Come With Buying A Home

  Buying a home is an exciting milestone, but it comes with financial commitments that go beyond the purchase price. Understanding these costs can help you plan and budget effectively, ensuring you’re prepared for every step of the journey. Here’s a detailed look at what to expect:         Down Payment and Earnest Money Before you even purchase the home, you’ll need upfront cash for your earnest money and down payment. While many people believe you must put down 20%, there are loan programs that require much less—as little as 3.5%, or even 0% for those who qualify. Your...

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3 January 2025

MarketMinute | Housing inventory and pending sales reached recent highs

Weekly jobless claims fell unexpectedly last week, indicating low layoffs and a healthy labor market at the end of 2024. Investors are optimistic about U.S. stock market performance in 2025, anticipating a 3rd consecutive year of growth. The economy faces a potential labor supply shock due to reduced immigration, which could strain job growth and exacerbate inflation.  Pending home sales rose 2.2% in November, marking the 4th consecutive monthly increase and a return to the highest levels since early...

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20 December 2024

MarketMinute | Why are builders optimistic for 2025?

The Fed cut policy interest rates by 0.25%. The Board signaled plans to slow rate cuts in 2025, leading to a significant jump in mortgage rates. Retail sales increased more than expected in November, consistent with strong underlying momentum in the economy as the year winds down. Revised final 3rd-quarter GDP figures show the economy grew 3.1%, more than the 2.8% initial estimate. November existing home sales posted the largest annual gain since 2021, helped by increased inventory. Activity remains...

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