We know buyer activity is trending up because of mortgage purchase application data. According to Investopedia:“Spring is officially here, and like green shoots emerging from the bleak winter, new data suggests that more buyers are back in the market, although more subdued compared to a year ago.”
That means the number of mortgage applications shows how many buyers are applying for mortgages. Put another way, an increase in mortgage applications means an increase in buyer demand – and as Joel Kan, VP and Deputy Chief Economist at the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), explains, application activity started ramping up as mortgage rates fell steadily in March:“A mortgage application is a document submitted to a lender when you apply for a mortgage to purchase real estate.”
In fact, we can see how mortgage rates have a direct impact on applications over time. As rates rose dramatically last year, applications fell in response (see graph below):“Application activity increased as mortgage rates declined . . . recent increases, along with data from other sources showing an uptick in home sales, is a welcome development.”
What This Means for You
The means working with a local real estate agent to maximize your home’s appeal and get it listed at the ideal price for your area.“If homeowners are planning to sell in 2023, now is the time to get ready.”