National and Local Real Estate Market Trends as 2023 Closes

by Rachel Sadler

National Real Estate Market Overview

As we approach the end of 2023, the national real estate market is showing intriguing trends. Notably, housing inventory levels have been rising, a marked change from the previous year when both sellers and buyers were more cautious. Currently, there are approximately 567,000 single-family homes on the market, with this number remaining stable in recent times.


Key points to note:

  • Inventory Peaks: This year has seen the inventory reaching its peak, with 66,000 new listings in a week and 11,000 already under contract, indicating a healthy supply.
  • Growth in New Contracts: There's a slight uptick in new contracts for single-family home purchases compared to last year, suggesting an easing of the previously supply-constrained market.
  • Stable Prices: Despite price cuts in about 39.2% of homes, overall prices remain stable, hovering around 1-2% above last year's levels. The median price for single-family homes in the U.S. is just under $430,000.
  • Future Outlook: The market is poised for slight home-sales gains in 2024, assuming mortgage rates don’t spike. The recent trends suggest a gradual shift towards a more balanced market​​.

Local Market Update: Southwest Colorado

 
Turning our focus to Southwest Colorado, the local real estate market presents a more nuanced picture compared to national trends.

  • Moderate Sales Volume: Across counties like San Juan, La Plata, Montezuma, and Archuleta, there’s a consistent level of real estate activity with a total of 1,371 homes sold in 2023.
  • Diverse Property Values: The region shows a range of property values, with an overall average sold price of $ 620,239.72, indicating a market with a mix of mid to high-value properties.
  • Balanced Market Dynamics: The average Days on Market (DOM) across these counties is 96 days, signifying a market where homes are selling at a steady pace.
  • Consistent Listings: The number of active listings averages at 133 per month, ensuring a dynamic market with a good balance between supply and demand.

Benefits for Sellers:
  1. Stable Prices: With home prices remaining stable and in some areas slightly above last year's levels, sellers can expect to get fair value for their properties.
  2. Consistent Demand: The steady demand in the market ensures that well-priced and well-maintained properties will continue to attract buyers.
  3. Opportunities for Upsizing/Downsizing: The diverse range of property values and types in regions like Southwest Colorado offers sellers opportunities to relocate or adjust their living situations according to their current needs.

Benefits for Buyers:
  1. Increased Inventory: With a rise in housing inventory, buyers have more options to choose from, reducing the pressure and competition experienced in more constrained markets.
  2. Price Negotiation Leverage: The presence of price cuts in some markets indicates that buyers may have more negotiating power on price.
  3. Stable Mortgage Rates: Assuming mortgage rates remain steady, buyers can plan their finances better and avoid the uncertainty of fluctuating rates.
  4. Long-Term Value: Investing in real estate in a stabilizing market can offer long-term value, especially in regions with consistent demand and growth potential.
The current real estate market, with its blend of stability and dynamism, presents unique opportunities for both sellers and buyers. Understanding these benefits and aligning them with personal real estate goals can lead to successful transactions and long-term satisfaction.
 
 
As we look at the bigger picture, the national real estate market is showing signs of stabilizing, with inventory levels evening out and prices holding steady. This contrasts with the local market in Southwest Colorado, which has been consistently active, characterized by a diverse range of property values and balanced market dynamics. Both nationally and locally, the trends suggest a real estate market that is adapting to the changing economic landscape, offering opportunities for buyers and sellers alike.


For those in Southwest Colorado, this means navigating a market that, while reflective of national trends in some aspects, also has its unique local characteristics. Understanding these dynamics is key to making informed decisions in this ever-evolving market landscape.
Stay tuned for more updates and feel free to reach out for personalized advice on navigating the housing market!

Stay informed! Fill out the form below to SUBSCRIBE to our weekly newsletter!

Let's embark on your real estate journey together!

 Subscribe to our weekly newsletter!

Name*

By registering you agree to our Terms of Service & Privacy Policy. Consent is not a condition of buying a property, goods, or services.

Leave a Comment

Name
Phone*
Message

By registering you agree to our Terms of Service & Privacy Policy. Consent is not a condition of buying a property, goods, or services.