5 General Trends in the California Real Estate Market to Watch 2006
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5 Key Trends in the 2006 California Real Estate Market
California's real estate trends often predict national patterns, making it crucial for industry players to monitor the market closely. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer in San Bernardino or an investor dealing with condos in Los Angeles, understanding when to buy or sell is essential.
Purchasing a home represents a significant investment, and with careful planning, this asset can appreciate over time. Fortunately, unlike the volatile stock market, real estate trends develop slowly, allowing for predictability.
To get a comprehensive view of the market, start by examining reports and articles from sources like the California Association of Realtors and the California Building Industry Association. By analyzing the following key indicators, you can better understand the general trends in California’s real estate market.
Key Indicators to Watch
Interest Rates
Interest rates significantly influence buyer activity. When rates are high, buyers hesitate; when low, they are more inclined to purchase. In 2006, California's interest rates were climbing. For instance, the 30-year fixed mortgage rate increased from an average of 5.71% in 2005 to above 6% in January 2006. Adjustable mortgage rates also rose to around 5% from 4.12% in 2005.Building Permits
The number of building permits issued reflects the housing demand. In 2006, building permits decreased by 10% compared to the previous year?"a reduction of 1,430 permits since January 2005, as reported by the California Building Industry Association.Home Sales
This indicator tracks the number of homes sold. According to the California Association of Realtors, sales of existing single-family homes dropped by 24.1% in January 2006 compared to 2005. Additionally, an increasing inventory in certain counties is shifting the market dynamics from a seller's market to a buyer's market.Loan Defaults
A rise in loan defaults, where homeowners fail to pay their mortgage, affects the market negatively. Many Californians are opting for bad credit rather than maintaining payments on overvalued homes.Foreclosure Sales
Foreclosure activities rose by 19% in the last quarter of 2005, compared to the third quarter and were 4.6% higher than the same period in 2004, according to DataQuick Information Systems. High foreclosure rates imply reduced consumer spending and increased debt. Factors like inflation, rising gasoline prices, federal budget deficits, and higher interest rates contribute to these trends.Despite the decline in home sales, the demand remains strong and steady in California. Always conduct thorough research before purchasing property in the state to make informed decisions.
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