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Factors That Affect The Housing Market

Thursday, May 18, 2023 12:15 PM By Koch Properties

Factors That Affect The Housing Market

If you're a homeowner contemplating putting your property on the market, the question on your mind is likely whether it's a fruitful time to sell. While there is no definitive answer, certain factors can affect the real estate market and influence the level of demand for homes.

An experienced real estate agent can help you navigate market conditions and determine the best time to sell your property.

By keeping an eye on market trends and making informed decisions, you can achieve your goal of selling your home at the right time for the right price.

Several factors contribute to determining the affordability of a home. Let's delve into each one to gain a better understanding.

1. The Accessibility of Mortgages. 

One of the main factors that affect the affordability of a home is the accessibility of mortgages. In general, the availability of mortgages determines how much money homebuyers can borrow and spend on a property. When mortgage rates are low, homeowners can secure larger loans, which can increase their budget for real estate investments.

In contrast, when rates are high, prospective buyers may be deterred from entering the real estate market due to budgetary constraints.

Banks and other financial institutions are the primary sources of mortgages for most homebuyers. When the economy is robust, banks typically make more loans available to borrowers. However, during economic downturns, banks may impose more stringent lending restrictions, leading to a reduction in available funds.

In some cases, banks may even restrict lending to specific geographic areas or types of properties if they determine that the market is too risky.

Another factor that affects the accessibility of mortgages is the creditworthiness of the borrower. Lenders typically use credit scores to evaluate the risk of lending to a borrower.

If a potential homebuyer has a low credit score, they may struggle to secure financing, even if mortgages are readily available.

Conversely, if a borrower has excellent credit, they may be eligible for lower interest rates and more favourable borrowing terms.

Overall, the accessibility of mortgages is a critical factor in determining the affordability of a home. Prospective sellers should keep an eye on market trends and understand how changes in mortgage availability can impact demand for their property.

Working with a knowledgeable real estate agent can help homeowners make informed decisions about when and how to sell their home while navigating current market conditions.

2.Interest Rates


Interest rates are intricately linked to the health of the real estate market. Usually, a lower interest rate creates a positive impact on the demand for homes.

This is because, when interest rates are lower, homebuyers can obtain larger mortgages with less expense and access more affordable payments.

Conversely, when interest rates are higher, many potential buyers may find themselves priced out of the market and unable to obtain financing. Higher interest rates could cause a decline in demand for homes, which could lead to reduced home prices.

3. Economic Growth

Economic growth has a significant impact on the real estate market. When the economy is thriving, people have more disposable income, and the demand for homes is generally higher.

This can lead to an increase in home prices and a competitive market with more bidding wars. Conversely, when the economy is struggling, people may have less money to spend on housing, leading to a decrease in demand and lower home prices.

Additionally, economic growth affects the job market, which is directly linked to the real estate market. When businesses are growing and hiring more employees, the demand for housing can increase as well.

Conversely, job losses can lead to a decline in demand for homes, especially in areas heavily reliant on certain industries.

Moreover, economic growth also impacts interest rates and the availability of mortgages. Inflationary pressures can cause the central bank to increase interest rates to combat rising prices, which in turn can make mortgages less affordable. On the other hand, during periods of economic expansion, the availability of mortgages can increase, making it easier for potential buyers to enter the market.

Overall, economic growth is a critical factor in the health of the real estate market. Homeowners looking to sell their property would be wise to keep an eye on economic indicators and trends to determine the best time to put their home on the market and achieve their desired price. 

Working with an experienced real estate agent who can help navigate the complexities of market trends can make the process smoother and more successful for all parties involved.

4. Consumer Confidence - Housing Prices

Consumer confidence plays a crucial role in the housing market. When consumers feel optimistic about the economy and their own financial situation, they are more likely to invest in a home. When confidence levels are low, consumers may postpone large financial decisions such as purchasing a home.

Consumer confidence is affected by several factors, including employment rates, economic growth, and inflation. In times of economic uncertainty, such as during a recession or a political turmoil, consumer confidence can take a hit, leading to a decline in demand for homes. On the other hand, during periods of stability and financial growth, consumer confidence can increase, leading to higher demand for homes.

The impact of consumer confidence is further bolstered by the power of social proof. When consumers see others investing in real estate and benefiting from it, they are more likely to follow suit. This can drive up demand, leading to bidding wars and driving the price of homes higher.

Overall, consumer confidence is a major factor in the housing market and should be taken into consideration by both buyers and sellers. Staying informed about economic and political trends can help homeowners make informed decisions on when and how to sell their property. By working with a professional real estate agent, buyers and sellers can navigate the market with confidence and achieve their desired outcomes.

5.Supply - Real Estate Market

Supply is another important factor that affects the housing market. Put simply, when the supply of homes is low, prices tend to go up, and when the supply is high, prices go down.

Several factors can impact the supply of homes, including new construction, government policies, and demographic trends. For example, the availability of land, cost of building materials, and labor market conditions can impact the number of homes being built. The government's policies on zoning, taxes, and regulations can also impact the supply of homes.

Overall, the supply of homes is an essential factor in the real estate market and can impact both buyers and sellers. By keeping an eye on supply trends and working with a knowledgeable real estate agent, homeowners can make informed decisions about when to sell their home and optimise their pricing. On the other hand, buyers can use supply trends to make strategic investment decisions based on market conditions.

Conclusion

To navigate the complexities of the real estate market and make informed decisions, it's imperative to have access to the latest information and insights on the key factors that impact affordability and demand. Therefore, it's highly recommended that you connect with a trusted real estate professional today who can guide you through the nuances of market trends and provide you with data-driven advice based on your specific needs and preferences.

Whether you're a first-time buyer or an experienced homeowner, working with a professional agent can provide you with the guidance, support, and resources you need to achieve your real estate goals.

So why wait? Reach out to a trusted real estate agent today and start your home buying journey on the right foot!