Each month, Fannie Mae’s Home Purchase Sentiment Index tracks how Americans feel about the housing market, buying and selling a home, mortgage rates, home prices, their jobs and financial situation. In October, the index found participants more optimistic about the market than they’ve been at any point since February 2022. Mark Palim, Fannie Mae’s senior vice president and chief economist, says the gains are encouraging but home buying sentiment still remains low. “While we have seen significant improvement in overall housing sentiment over the past two years, consumers’ perception of home buying conditions remains strained, with only 20 percent believing it’s a ‘good time’ to buy a home, primarily due to high home prices,” Palim said. On the other hand, a majority of respondents say it’s a good time to sell, with 64 percent feeling now’s the time for current homeowners to list their home. (source)
