In recent media coverage, you may have come across discussions about a drop in homeowner equity. It's crucial to grasp the relationship between equity and home values. As home prices appreciate, equity tends to grow, while declines in home prices affect equity as well. This article will shed light on recent equity trends and provide a comprehensive understanding of the current situation.
The Rise and Moderation of Home Prices
During the "unicorn" years, home prices experienced rapid growth, significantly boosting homeowner equity. However, as expected, this upward trend couldn't be sustained indefinitely. The market had to undergo a period of moderation, which became evident in the latter part of 2022.
A Closer Look at Homeowner Equity
Although the headlines focus on the slight dip in homeowner equity over the past year (0.7% according to CoreLogic), they fail to present the complete picture. While the depreciation of home prices in the latter half of the previous year led to a decrease in equity, the data reveals that homeowners still possess near-record levels of equity. A visual representation of tappable equity demonstrates this fact, showcasing a significant boost during the "unicorn" years and illustrating that total homeowner equity remains significantly higher than pre-"unicorn" levels.
Positive Signs of Recovery
Encouragingly, recent reports indicate that the worst of the home price declines are behind us, with prices now on the upswing. Selma Hepp, Chief Economist at CoreLogic, emphasizes that home equity closely follows home price changes. As a result, while average equity amounts experienced a year-over-year decline, they increased from the fourth quarter of 2022 due to accelerated monthly home price growth in early 2023. Furthermore, experts forecast a more normal rate of home price appreciation in the coming year, reinforcing the positive turn in the market.
Reinforcing Homeowners' Equity Position
Supporting the notion of ample homeowner equity, Odeta Kushi, Deputy Chief Economist at First American, highlights that homeowners currently possess an average of $302,000 in equity. This means that if you have owned your home for several years, your equity is likely much higher than it was before the "unicorn" years. Even if you have owned your home for a shorter period, the projected typical price appreciation over the next year should contribute to the restoration of your equity.
In order to gain a comprehensive understanding of the implications behind the headlines, it is imperative to consider the context. While there has been a slight dip in homeowner equity, it is important to note that it still remains at near all-time highs. To navigate this complex landscape and make well-informed decisions regarding your move this year, it is highly recommended to seek the guidance of an expert. Take the proactive step of connecting with Anthony Spitaleri and his team today, and unlock the full potential of your homeowner equity.
