US pending home sales fall to record low in January
Published On Feb 27, 2025, 11:11 AM
Pending home sales in the United States dropped to a record low in January, declining by 4.6% according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR). The decrease was larger than expected, attributed to higher mortgage rates and elevated house prices, which have strained affordability for buyers. Currently, mortgage rates hover near 6.85%, and despite a slight reduction, affordability remains a significant issue. If mortgage rates decline further, it might boost buyer interest in the future.
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The decline in pending home sales suggests ongoing weakness in the housing market, primarily due to high mortgage rates and prices. The real estate sector may remain under pressure until greater affordability is achieved. Investors might consider looking into real estate investment trusts (REITs) or ETFs that focus on mortgage-backed securities.
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