Discussing the rise of home ownership rates in single female-headed households and the impact of the pandemic on women's employment and net worth. Analyzing the current state of the spring housing market, forecasting interest rates, and exploring housing market trends among Gen Z and millennials. Emphasizing the need for more inventory to balance the market and providing advice for borrowers and lenders.
Single women are increasingly becoming homeowners, outpacing single men due to higher educational attainment and earning power.
Moderate spring home buying season predicted with low inventory levels, anticipating continued low single-digit house price growth in 2024.
Deep dives
Single Women Homeownership Trend
The podcast discusses the increasing trend of single women becoming homeowners, which has outpaced single men. The home ownership rate among single women rose to 52% from a recent low of 49% in 2016. Factors contributing to this trend include higher educational attainment and earning power among single women, leading them to make financial sacrifices to afford homeownership.
Impact of Pandemic on Single Women Homeownership
The episode highlights the impact of the pandemic on single women's employment and financial situations. Referred to as the 'she session,' it reveals that despite challenges, single women's median net worth increased significantly, with the primary residence being their largest asset. Higher incomes and educational achievements among single women are key drivers of their growing homeownership rates.
Spring Home Buying Market Outlook
The podcast predicts a moderate spring home buying season due to a lack of significant decline in mortgage rates. While inventory levels have improved compared to the previous year, they remain low, impacting market potential. The episode anticipates continued low single-digit house price growth in 2024, aligning more with historical averages, with affordability expected to improve by year-end.
On today’s episode, Editor in Chief Sarah Wheeler talks with Odeta Kushi, deputy chief economist for First American Financial Corp., about homeownership among single, female-headed households, as well as what’s in store for this spring market.
The HousingWire Daily podcast examines the most compelling articles reported across HW Media. Each morning, we provide our listeners with a deeper look into the stories coming across our newsrooms that are helping Move Markets Forward. Hosted and produced by the HW Media team.