Brooklee Han on local housing market inventory and prices
Jul 31, 2024
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Brooklee Han, a seasoned reporter specializing in local housing markets, shares insights on the dynamic shifts affecting regions from Montana to New Hampshire. She discusses the summer cooldown in Montana’s housing market, the unexpected drop in Bozeman’s median list price, and the competitive scene in Northwest Ohio driven by interest rates and inventory shortages. Additionally, Han highlights the unique challenges facing first-time homebuyers, emphasizing how regional differences shape the overall market landscape amidst rising costs.
The Montana housing market saw increased competition from out-of-state buyers, driving up prices despite a recent summer cooldown.
In Northwest Ohio, tight inventory and high interest rates challenge first-time buyers, although demand for affordable homes remains strong.
Deep dives
Current Trends in the Montana Housing Market
The Montana housing market saw a significant surge during the pandemic as buyers sought larger properties and more open spaces, often moving from states with higher home prices. Many of these out-of-state buyers were able to sell their homes for substantial sums and could afford to make all-cash offers, causing local buyers to struggle against the escalating prices. Although the market has cooled somewhat this summer, there remains confidence in steady demand, particularly in luxury sectors and areas with job growth. Agents noted that while the landscape is challenging for first-time buyers due to affordability issues, there’s potential for a more active market if interest rates decrease.
Challenges in the Ohio Housing Market
In Northwest Ohio, particularly around the Toledo area, agents highlight interest rates and inventory as significant hurdles impacting the housing market. Homes priced under $300,000 are still attracting interest, leading to some multiple offer situations, but pricing accurately has become more challenging. First-time buyers, often competing with those looking to downsize, face a market where properties are moving quickly but the inventory remains tight. Despite the pressure from interest rates, the demand for move-in ready homes is keeping the market relatively stable.
Market Dynamics in Northern New Hampshire
Northern New Hampshire has experienced a distinct housing market characterized by seasonal changes, especially around holidays like the Fourth of July, when activity tends to slow. Despite this seasonal lull, some areas are seeing pending home sales increase year over year, suggesting a slight seller's market. The region attracts buyers from crowded cities seeking open spaces and the absence of state income tax, but the market remains quieter than during the pandemic peak. Agents anticipate a pickup in activity as summer vacations end and families prepare for the upcoming school year.
On today’s episode, Editor in Chief Sarah Wheeler talks with Reporter Brooklee Han about the local housing markets she’s covering, from Montana to New Hampshire.
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