More Americans Say It’s a Good Time to Sell

An improving financial picture prompted more consumers to say that they believe now is a good time to sell a home, according to Fannie Mae’s latest Home Purchase Sentiment Index, which capped off its strongest year so far. The share of consumers who reported their income was significantly higher than it was 12 months ago rose 9 percentage points on net in December.

“Consumers ended the year on an improved note with regard to their income, job security, and overall economic outlook,” says Doug Duncan, Fannie Mae’s chief economist. “Brightening economic prospects, if sustained, should stimulate demand for home ownership. However, continuing upward pressure on rental prices and constrained housing supply, particularly for starter homes, may mean prospective first-time home buyers could face affordability constraints.”

Fannie Mae’s survey found that 40 percent of 1,000 respondents surveyed said they are confident home prices will rise this year.

Also, their financial picture is improving too. Eighty-five percent of respondents said they are not concerned about losing their job, which ties an all-time survey high. What’s more, the number of respondents who say their household income is significantly higher than it was 12 months ago increased 9 percentage points to 15 percent in the survey.

Source: Fannie Mae