In May 2024, existing-home sales in the USA fell by 0.7%, indicating a slight decrease in market activity. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reported this decline, noting a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.13 million units, down from 4.16 million in April. Factors contributing to this drop include rising mortgage rates, limited inventory, and high prices, which have deterred potential buyers. Despite the overall decrease, sales in the Midwest and Northeast experienced slight gains, while the South and West regions saw declines. Median home prices rose by 3.1% to $405,400, reflecting ongoing affordability challenges. The housing market continues to face headwinds from economic uncertainty and fluctuating interest rates. Inventory levels remain low, with only 1.1 million units available, representing a 2.9-month supply at the current sales pace. Analysts predict that market conditions may improve later in the year as inflationary pressures ease and mortgage rates stabilize. However, the pace of recovery will largely depend on broader economic trends and consumer confidence.
