Back in February 2017 (same time last year), the number of new listings on the market was 10,016 listing as compared to 9,940 listing in February 2018 which is a decrease of only 76 listings or -0.8%. More concerning is the number of active listings was 22,307 listing in February 2017 as compared to 19,278 listings in February 2018 which is a decrease of 3,029 listings or -13.6%. In February 2016 there were 24,916 listing, in February 2015 there were 26,174 listings and in February 2014 there were 28,778 listing. Every year since February 2014 the number of active listings has decreased approximately 2,500 listings. As for the number of sold transactions, we had a record high of 7,073 sold transactions in February 2018 as compared to 5,519 transactions in February 2014. As more new listing come on the market the number of sold transactions also increases but if the number of new listings decreases in 2018 there will be fewer transactions which will increase the appreciation rate for the Phoenix market.
The Phoenix Housing Market ended 2017 with an overall annual appreciation rate of approximately +9.0%. If inventory remain low throughout 2018 and a strong demand for housing continues we can expect the market to continue to appreciation above the national average. From December 2017 to January 2018, the average sold price increased from $309,327 to $315,070 but we saw a decrease from January 2018 to February 2018 to $308,715 which is a -2.0% decrease. Historically, the real estate prices don’t start to increase until February or March as the buying season begins and with the low inventory of homes we can expect to continue to see the market appreciate. Another sign we are in a healthy market is the current percentage of foreclosures and short sales sold remains at only 1% of the total market. Since March 2017 (12 months ago), the average days on market has decreased approximately -2.6% (down from last month) and the number of sold transaction has decreased approximately -24.5% (up from last month).
Since March 2017 (12 months ago), the number of homes for sale on the market have decrease approximately -13.3% or 22,246 homes for sale on the market to a gradual decrease of 19,278 homes (Down 2,968 homes). Historically, 19,278 homes for sale represent the lowest number of homes this market has seen for over a decade. Property owners are not putting their homes on the market because the overall macro economy remains strong and they are holding off to accumulate additional appreciation from the market. This low number of homes for sale indicates we are in a seller’s market (low supply and increased demand).
Real estate prices will continue to increase and interest rates are planned to increase in 2018 so if you are thinking about buyer a home this year will be the time to buy before you get priced out of the market. Give us a call to discuss your best buying or selling strategy, TODAY!!
Position Realty
Office: 480-213-5251
