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Navigating the 2023 Real Estate Landscape

Melissa Edwards October 26, 2023

Navigating the 2023 Real Estate Landscape: National Trends & Baltimore Insights

In the dynamic real estate market of 2023, the winds of change have been blowing, impacting the market in unforeseen ways. According to data from the National Association of Realtors® in October 2023, existing-home sales in the U.S. experienced a significant dip of 13.5% from August, marking a nearly 19% decrease compared to September 2022. These numbers, influenced by a confluence of low inventory and economic factors, paint a vivid picture of the current real estate landscape.

Home Values & Interest Rates


National: While the overall sales volume declined, the median house sales price rose, witnessing a 2.5% year-over-year increase. All-cash purchases were 29% of total sales—the highest in nine years. This spike is presumed to be a response to rising interest rates, prompting buyers to opt for immediate transactions. This trend underscores the adaptability of the market to external economic stimuli.
 
Baltimore: In September 2023, the median price in the Baltimore metro area reached $379,900, marking a 4.1% increase from the previous year. Although a slight decrease from the record high the previous month, the median price has consistently shown year-over-year growth for the past four months. For buyers, this emphasizes the importance of strategic decision-making and being agile in a competitive market.

The Need for Speed

National: Speed has become the essence of real estate transactions. Nearly 69% of sales accepted offers in less than 30 days, reflecting a market where agility is rewarded. Moreover, 26% of properties were sold above the listed price, showcasing the competitive nature of the current landscape. The average number of offers received on sold homes was 2.6, indicating a market where multiple bids are increasingly becoming the norm.
 
Baltimore: Baltimore area buyers must navigate not only limited options and escalating prices but also the need for speed. In September, half of closed sales occurred in a mere 8 days or fewer, highlighting the fast-paced nature of the market. This urgency requires buyers to be well-prepared and decisive in their actions to secure the home they desire.

Supply & Demand Conundrum

National: The supply of listings, though slowly increasing, remains historically low. This scarcity is reshaping market dynamics, contributing to the lowest total sales over the past 12 months since the housing market recession of 2008-2011. However, amid this scarcity, there is a paradoxical trend—homes that do make it to market sell rapidly with multiple offers, showcasing the resilience of demand.
 
Baltimore: Baltimore's real estate market is grappling with a significant inventory shortage. At the end of September 2023, active listings stood at 4,201—a 13.5% drop from the same period in 2022. This shortage becomes more stark when compared to September 2019, witnessing a substantial 58.7% decrease in available properties. The current market reality leaves buyers yearning for the luxury of choice that was once more abundant.

The real estate landscape continues to evolve and the interplay of low inventory, rising prices, and swift transactions necessitates a strategic and informed approach. Navigating these trends requires agility, informed decision-making, and a trusted real estate advisor. Get in touch today!