The housing market is set to have its best year since 2007, largely due to an improved economy and labor market. But, despite the gains, home price increases are outpacing income growth and causing prospective buyers to remain cautious, according to the latest Home Purchase Sentiment Index from Fannie Mae. The Index – which measures Americans’ attitudes toward buying and selling a home – fell slightly in November, though it remains at a high level. Doug Duncan, Fannie Mae’s senior vice president and chief economist, said the results are not a surprise. “The latest reading of the Home Purchase Sentiment Index remains near the survey’s high witnessed in June, exemplifying the theme we laid out at the beginning of the year: the economy drags housing upward,” Duncan said. “While aggregate income growth has gradually picked up with a continually improving labor market, consumers’ assessment of their income over the past year has not yet shown sustained improvement, partially weighing on overall sentiment.” Duncan feels that, until Americans feel more financially confident, they may be hesitant to buy. More here.
