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Consumer prices rose more than expected in March, up 0.6% from February and 2.6% from a year ago. However, the Fed expects inflation to be transitory and is not concerned.

 

Retail sales surged 9.8% in March over February, boosted by stimulus funds, warmer weather, and the removal of some pandemic related restrictions.

 

Jobless claims fell last week to the lowest level since March 2020, when the pandemic began. The decrease in claims shows the labor market continues to improve.

 

Home builder confidence increased slightly in April, according to the NAHB index, even as builders continued to grapple with rising lumber prices and supply chain issues.

 

Google searches reflect homebuyer challenges in a low-inventory market. Consumers are googling phrases like, "How much over asking price should I offer on a home in 2021?"

 

Purchase applications made up a majority of mortgage applications in March (52%), beating out refinance apps for the first time since December 2019 and underscoring the market's shift.