Prices falling in expensive cities

In two-thirds of major regional housing markets — 98 out of 148 — prices continue to drop, especially in more expensive locations.

We may see expensive markets fall further, which if that happens sooner than later, would make it an excellent time to buy into an expensive market. This wouldn’t have registered as a possibility even a few months back.

It’s difficult to predict if this will happen. And if so, whether falling prices become offset by the federal interest rate hikes practically certain to arrive in the coming months.

The only way to know for sure is to wait until the latest rate hike sets in.

Meanwhile, keep in mind that — as with any investment — it’s best time to buy is usually when prices are low.

The days of waiving contingencies such as appraisals and forgoing inspections are fading into the rearview mirror. Still, contract activity remains slightly competitive depending on your location.

At least 24% of buyers waived the inspection contingency in December 2022, according to the National Association of Realtors confidence survey, up from 16% a month prior and 19% one year ago. An additional 24% of buyers waived an appraisal contingency in December, up slightly from 16% in November and 21% a year ago.

Home inspection contingencies are particularly important because it can let you know if there’s a deal-breaking issue with the property before a purchase occurs. It can also help you negotiate repairs with the seller, which is becoming increasingly common in today’s market.

“If buyers have this short window to buy where they can get incentives to purchase, [they] would rather buy where they have an opportunity to really think about it, get an inspection, a financing contingency and not feel rushed,” Jeff Reynolds, broker at Compass and founder of UrbanCondoSpaces.com, told Yahoo Finance.