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New Year, New Home: Albuquerque’s Real Estate Outlook for 2024

 New Mexico Real Estate Market 2024: A Comprehensive Analysis


The real estate market in New Mexico is poised for growth and stability in 2024. As we enter the new year, it's important to understand the current trends and predictions for the housing market in Albuquerque and beyond. In this article, we will delve into the key factors driving the market, including mortgage interest rates, home prices, and sales. Additionally, we will explore the impact of the unique characteristics of the Albuquerque area on the local real estate market. So, whether you're a potential buyer or seller, this comprehensive analysis will provide you with valuable insights to navigate the New Mexico real estate market in 2024.

Market Growth and Stability


Despite the challenges faced in 2023, the New Mexico real estate market has shown resilience and is expected to experience continued growth and stability in 2024. The robust economy, diverse job market, and affordable cost of living in New Mexico continue to attract businesses and individuals seeking new opportunities. Cities like Edgewood and Santa Fe have witnessed significant population growth, indicating a positive outlook for the housing market.

Mortgage Interest Rates


One of the key factors influencing the real estate market is mortgage interest rates. In 2023, mortgage rates reached a two-decade high of nearly 8%, which deterred many potential buyers from entering the market. However, towards the end of the year, the rates started to stabilize, dropping to 7.35% in November. Experts predict that mortgage rates will continue to stabilize in the second half of 2024, remaining above 6%. While these rates are higher compared to previous years, the steady stabilization provides a more favorable environment for potential buyers.

Home Prices and Sales


Home prices in New Mexico have been steadily increasing over the years, with a rise of 49.25% in the last five years. In September 2023, the median home price in New Mexico was $491,200, reflecting the high demand and low supply in the market. The scarcity of homes has made New Mexico a seller's market, with 5.60% of homes selling for more than the list price. However, the number of homes listed on the market declined by 24.6% year-over-year, indicating a lower inventory.

The median sale price in Santa Fe was $565,000, representing a 6.06% increase year-over-year. Similarly, in White rock, the median sale price was $510,000, reflecting a 7.37% increase. While there were a few markets in New Mexico where prices declined year-over-year, the overall trend points towards a growth in home prices.

Despite the challenges posed by high interest rates, the demand for homes in New Mexico remains strong. Only 22.30% of homes sold below the list price, highlighting the competitive nature of the market. For potential homebuyers, this presents an opportunity to avoid bidding wars and negotiate seller concessions.

Housing Market Predictions


Looking ahead to 2024, several predictions can be made about the New Mexico housing market. Firstly, it is expected that home sellers who chose to wait on the sidelines in 2023 will return to the market. This influx of sellers, coupled with new builds and baby boomers downsizing, will contribute to an increase in the number of homes for sale.

Secondly, mortgage interest rates are predicted to stabilize in the latter half of 2024. While rates are expected to remain above 6%, the stabilization will provide more certainty for potential buyers and encourage them to enter the market.

Thirdly, the number of home buyers is expected to rise as interest rates stabilize and inflation eases. The historically high interest rates in 2023 deterred many buyers, but the lowering of rates towards the end of the year resulted in an increase in mortgage demand. This trend is likely to continue in 2024.

Lastly, home prices are projected to continue their upward trajectory. The low supply of homes in New Mexico, coupled with high demand, will contribute to the rise in prices until the supply-demand dynamic changes.

New Home Constructions and iBuyers


In September 2023, 12.3% of homes purchased in New Mexico were new builds, the highest since 2022. Home builders offered significant concessions, such as mortgage buydowns worth $30,000, to attract buyers in 2023. This trend is expected to continue in 2024, with builders competing for buyers in the market.

On the other hand, iBuyers, who purchase homes for lower than their fair market value, have faced challenges in recent years. In 2023, iBuyers offered around 70% of the market value, resulting in significant losses for companies like Opendoor and Offerpad. As they struggle to survive, iBuyers are likely to continue making lowball offers in 2024.

Buyer Agent Commissions


A recent development in the real estate industry has been the negotiation of buyer agent commissions. Lawsuits against the Cooperative Compensation Rule, which requires listing brokers to offer competitive compensation to buyer agents, have challenged the status quo. If these lawsuits are successful, buyer agent compensation may change in the near future. While it is unlikely that buyer agents will become obsolete in 2024, they may be more open to negotiating commissions, allowing them to maintain their position in the market.

When Will the Housing Market Crash?


A housing market crash in New Mexico is unlikely in the foreseeable future. The state's robust economy, diverse job market, and affordable cost of living will continue to attract businesses and individuals, ensuring the stability of the housing market. The population growth in cities like Edgewood and Santa Fe further supports this outlook.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the New Mexico real estate market is poised for growth and stability in 2024. Factors such as mortgage interest rates, home prices, and sales trends indicate a positive outlook for both buyers and sellers. With the stabilization of interest rates and an increase in the number of homes for sale, potential buyers will have more opportunities to enter the market. Meanwhile, sellers can take advantage of the scarcity of homes and favorable selling conditions. As we navigate the New Mexico real estate market in 2024, it's essential to stay informed and adapt to the evolving trends and dynamics of the industry.

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