Lack of supply and an increase in demand across the Lehigh Valley over the last few years has made the housing market ideal for selling. Prices have been kept relatively high in some ares by this lack of inventory and a flood of first-time buyers, and 2018 looks like it will bring more of the same.

Millennials are now leading the home-buying charge, as they control more than thirty-five percent of the national buyer market (a number that continues to rise). According to the National Association of Realtors, millennials are trending more traditional in their home purchases as the years go on—buying homes in the suburbs because of the quality of schools and housing options.That’s right, millennials are not sticking to the cities as much as years past. In fact, the number of millennials who purchased homes in urban areas decreased from twenty-one percent to just fifteen percent over a two-year period, according to a generational survey conducted by NAR.Though more young people are taking the leap of home ownership, the rate at which homes are being built is still decreasing. For more than half a century, new homes were constructed at a rate of over 1.5 million per year, but after the housing market crash in 2008, that number decreased significantly enough to push the market to an all-time low. In the Valley, housing permits averaged several hundred per month before 2008, but in recent years have dropped to less than 50 per month.

The shortage is expected to subside slightly in 2018, which will be good news for buyers in the long run. However, as more millennials flood the market, the rate of new inventory will need to steadily increase in order to make a substantial impact for buyers looking to get a good deal.

Higher mortgage rates might also come into play this year, as current homeowners feel stuck or unable to move—especially with a lack of houses on the market to choose from. During the last year in the Valley, homes that have gone on the market that were priced right and in great condition have often sold extremely fast—sometimes in just a day or two and soemtimes even over asking price.

Overall, sellers will maintain their upper hand in most markets this year, as inventory increases too slowly to meet the influx of demand, thanks to maturing millennial buyers. Competition will remain high among buyers, who will likely have to bid against multiple offers. This is not to say that the market is bleak for buyers—the prospect of home ownership is much brighter than it was just a few years ago. Remember, interest rates are still at record low levels, although they are expected to go up in 2018. However, buyers will need to be open to moving quickly again this year, and be prepared with pre-approval letters and reasonable inspection/concession requirements for the seslers.


Why Choose Our Team?

Each member of the team is an expert in their area and contributes to the synergy. Our well tested systems will smooth the way from starting line to contract dotted line. Contact us for Real Estate services that exceed your expectations and help you achieve your home buying and selling goals.

Visit www.LVhomeExpert.com and visit our Facebook Page to view videos of homes for sale in the Lehigh Valley, Pa, client testimonials, and other helpful real estate information!