The Lansing area housing shortage continues with higher mortgage rates having reduced the number of qualified buyers who are able to invest in a home purchase. Unlike last year’s market, when the monthly mortgage payment considerably cheaper, homes are taking longer to generate an offer. Entering the winter market, sellers listing their home above market value may have few showings.

If you’re looking to buy a home, the days of low interest mortgages below 4% have passed. Recent inflation has translated into higher interest rates with increased monthly payments. Mortgage rates have increased consistently since the start of 2022 when they were at 3.5%.
As of October 31st, the rate for a 30-year conventional mortgage has climbed to 7.08%.

Inflation, home prices and higher mortgage rates are impacting affordability. Causing many homebuyers to stop looking. Buyers who made unsuccessful offers during the Spring 2022 market may need to adjust their budget and their expectations. The table below illustrates the difference in monthly mortgage payments for a few common mortgage amounts.

Home sales in the Lansing area market remain normal for this time of year and the statistics are consistent with previous years. Of course, things may change, but rents have been steadily increasing, making it economically cheaper to buy than to rent.

Lansing Area Market View – November 1, 2022
• 717 currently listed homes for sale in the five county greater Lansing area.
• 250 homes with accepted offers. Awaiting inspections and/or appraisal.
• 302 homes listed as Pending. Have completed inspections and will soon close.
• 5684 homes that have closed since January 1, 2022.
• 7051 homes that have closed in the past 12 months.

Mortgage interest rates
30-year fixed – 7.08% ($6.71 per $1000)
15-year fixed – 6.36% ($8.63 per $1000)