Housing Market Update: Optimism Rises as Rates Decline and Year-End Activity Gains Momentum
Election and Fed Rate Cut Could Boost Year-End Housing Activity
With the election concluded and the Federal Reserve announcing a quarter-point rate cut, the housing market shows signs of renewed momentum. Mortgage rates have begun to trend down from last week’s peak, setting a hopeful tone for the holiday season. Adding to the optimism, housing sentiment has climbed to its highest level since early 2022, reflecting increased homebuying interest. The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) predicts a brighter outlook, with solid growth in home sales projected for 2025 and 2026.
Federal Reserve Cuts Interest Rates by 0.25%
As expected, the Federal Reserve lowered the federal funds rate by 25 basis points during its November meeting, citing a resilient labor market and progress toward its inflation target. While the Fed may slow its rate-cutting pace in 2025, another 0.25% reduction is anticipated in December. Following the announcement, mortgage rates eased slightly, driven more by post-election market stability than the rate cut itself.
Housing Sentiment Hits 2022 Highs
Fannie Mae’s Home Purchase Sentiment Index rose in October, reaching its best level since February 2022. Despite elevated mortgage rates, 20% of survey respondents viewed this as a good time to buy a home, reflecting improved job market confidence and hopes for lower rates in 2024. This uptick in sentiment signals resilience among potential homebuyers.
California Sees Modest Affordability Gains
Housing affordability in California improved in Q3, with the statewide index for existing single-family homes rising to 16%. Favorable interest rates and slower price growth helped ease monthly mortgage payments, down 6.8% from Q2. However, with rates hovering above 7%, affordability remains a challenge heading into Q4.
NAR Projects Robust Housing Market Growth
According to the NAR’s latest outlook, the housing market will see steady growth over the next two years. Lawrence Yun, NAR’s Chief Economist, predicts mortgage rates will decline to 6% by 2025, enabling home sales to rise 9.3% in 2025 and 13% in 2026. Median home prices are also expected to climb modestly during this period, accompanied by strong new home sales growth.
If you have any questions about how these trends could affect your home buying or selling decisions, feel free to reach out!
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4859 Autry Ave.
Long Beach 90808
3 Bed | 2 Bath | 1594 SF | $999,000
Charming 3-Bedroom, 2-Bath Lakewood Village Home on a Picturesque Tree-Lined Street! This beautifully maintained home blends classic appeal with modern upgrades. Step into a bright living and dining area with refinished original hardwood floors and a bay window. The spacious kitchen boasts ample storage, a custom breakfast bar, and opens to a formal dining and family room. The primary suite offers a peaceful retreat with an updated bathroom. Additional highlights include central heat and AC, dual-pane windows, bamboo flooring, and a detached 2-car garage. Conveniently located near parks, shopping, and dining, this home provides a comfortable and connected lifestyle.
OPEN HOUSE
Saturday (11/16) 12:00 - 3:00
Sunday (11/17) 12:00 - 3:00
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700 E Ocean Blvd #1706
Long Beach 90802
2 Bed | 2 Bath | 1080 SF | $940,000
Experience luxury coastal living with breathtaking ocean views from every room in this beautifully remodeled high-rise condo at the iconic International Tower. This light-filled unit features an open floor plan, updated kitchen with sleek cabinets, marble countertops, and stainless steel appliances, and a spacious primary suite with a luxurious soaking tub. Enjoy panoramic vistas from the large wrap-around balcony, plus access to top-notch amenities, including a pool, fitness center, and 24-hour security, all just steps from the beach and vibrant local dining.
Eligible for a $20,000 down payment grant from City National Bank!
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223 Elm Ave.
Long Beach 90802
2 Bed | 3 Bath | 1570 SF | $825,000
Enjoy modern luxury living in this stunning 2019-built townhome at The Huxton in the East Village Arts District. This inviting home features an open-concept layout perfect for entertaining, with high ceilings, large windows, recessed lighting, and beautiful flooring throughout. The gourmet kitchen boasts quartz countertops, soft close cabinets, and upscale appliances by Bertazzoni and Bosch. Upstairs, two primary suites offer walk-in closets and luxurious bathrooms. Enjoy city views from the spacious rooftop deck – ideal for relaxing or BBQs. Eco-friendly features include owner-owned solar panels and a garage pre-planned for EV charging. Located in a secure, gated complex, you’ll be steps from the waterfront, dining, cafes, and nightlife. VA Approved.
Eligible for a $50,000 down payment grant from City National Bank!
OPEN HOUSE
Saturday (11/16) 12:00 - 3:00
Sunday (11/17) 12:00 - 3:00
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225 W 6th St #515
Long Beach 90802
1 Bed | 1 Bath | 547 SF | $339,000
Charming top-floor end unit condo in the heart of Long Beach, offering privacy and city views. This updated home features an open living area with a private balcony, a stylish kitchen with butcher block countertops, and a bright bedroom with two mirrored closets. Located near top attractions like the Long Beach Convention Center and Shoreline Village, with easy access to dining, shopping, and transportation.
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706 E Bixby Rd
Long Beach 90807
3 Bed | 2 Bath | 1417 SF | $1,075,000
Welcome to this beautiful California Heights home, featuring over $250,000 in recent updates that blend modern luxury with timeless charm. The spacious living room invites you in with an abundance of natural light, gleaming oak wood floors, a cozy fireplace, and elegant recessed lighting. The newly updated custom kitchen is a chef’s dream, boasting top-of-the-line Café and Miele appliances. Great open floor plan with formal dining room that opens to the living room and kitchen. Both bathrooms have been beautifully remodeled with quartz countertops, custom white oak vanities, stylish tile work, modern lighting, and the primary bath features a luxurious soaking tub for ultimate relaxation. Located just 1-2 blocks from award-winning Blue-Ribbon schools (Longfellow Elementary & Hughes Middle School), and within walking distance to the vibrant shopping, restaurants, and cafes in Bixby Knolls.
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488 E Ocean Blvd #P9
Long Beach 90802
1 Bed + Bonus Room | 1.5 Bath | 1447 SF | $799,900
Experience Luxury Living with Breathtaking Panoramic Views in this Rare Two-Story Penthouse! AMAZING VIEWS!! Discover unparalleled luxury in this stunning 18th & 19th-floor penthouse in the prestigious Aqua high-rise building in downtown Long Beach.
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3503 Marber Ave.
Long Beach 90808
3 Bed | 2 Bath | 1553 SF | $1,120,000
Impeccable South of Conant Home on a Beautiful Tree-Lined Street! This charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath home in a highly sought-after neighborhood exudes curb appeal with designer touches throughout.
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2101 E 2nd St #205
Long Beach 90803
2 Bed | 2 Bath | 1064 SF | $679,900
Enjoy the ocean breeze in this beautiful condo located just 2 blocks to the beach and across from Bixby Park. Walking distance to the beach, Retro Row, Broadway Ave, dog park, Farmer’s Market, and all the great local restaurants, cafes, and nightlife.
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6815 E Monlaco Rd
Long Beach 90815
3 Bed | 2 Bath | 1254 SF | $995,000
Welcome Home to Modern Elegance in the Heart of the Plaza Area, Long Beach! Nestled in the highly sought-after Plaza neighborhood, this newly updated 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence invites you to experience the perfect blend of contemporary comfort and classic charm. Step inside to discover a thoughtfully designed living space that seamlessly combines style and functionality.
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6713 E Almada St
Long Beach 90815
4 Bed | 3 Bath | 2136 SF | $1,174,900
Welcome to Your Dream Home in Los Altos! This stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom, 2-story home is a rare find in the highly sought-after Los Altos community. Conveniently located near Belmont Shore, this home offers easy freeway access, making commuting a breeze. You'll be close to parks and highly rated schools, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
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6600 Warner Ave #182
Huntington Beach 92647
1 Bed | 1 Bath | 765 SF | $425,900
Highly sought after top floor condo at Villa Warner iin Huntington Beach! This beautiful condo offers plush carpeting, smooth ceilings, recessed lighting, large living room with sunny balcony! Villa Warner is a gated community and offers a large pool, spa, cooking area, weight room, billiards room, Extra storage, close to the Ocean, shopping & restaurants.
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