The Fed Meets Today, Housing Market Gains Momentum

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Zillow Reports: Lower Mortgage Rates and Increased Housing Inventory Set to Boost Market Activity

In a promising development for the housing market, lower mortgage rates are expected to spark renewed activity from both buyers and sellers. A new report from Zillow shows that mortgage rates have dropped to levels not seen since December, creating opportunities for buyers to save on monthly payments and for homeowners to consider listing their properties.

As of February, over 1 million homes were available for sale, the highest number for this time of year since 2020, giving prospective buyers more options. This increase in inventory comes alongside a slowdown in competition, with homes now spending about 23 days on the market before going under contract — six days longer than last year.

Home value growth has also slowed to an 18-month low of just 2.1%, easing some affordability concerns. According to Zillow’s chief economist, Skylar Olsen, the lower rates should help energize the market, but economic uncertainty may still influence some buyers and sellers.

Despite these challenges, Zillow’s latest report suggests that sellers can expect to secure higher premiums for their properties through July. 

Source: Link

Retail Sales Fall Short of Expectations in February, Fed Meets Today to Assess Economic Outlook

Retail sales in February rose less than expected, signaling concerns that the U.S. economy may be growing slower than anticipated in 2025. The latest Census Bureau data shows that headline retail sales increased by just 0.2%, falling short of the 0.6% gain economists had predicted. January’s figures were also revised downward, now showing a 1.2% decline instead of the previously reported 0.9% drop.

This report is one of the key indicators closely watched by the Federal Reserve, which is scheduled to meet today and tomorrow to discuss its next steps on monetary policy. Despite the slower-than-expected growth, the control group, which factors into GDP calculations, rose 1%, surpassing expectations for a 0.4% increase. Retail sales, excluding auto and gas, rose 0.5%, higher than the forecasted 0.4%.

Economists, like Stephen Brown from Capital Economics, say consumer spending is expected to slow this quarter, but not as sharply as initially feared. With economic uncertainty and stock market volatility in the mix, the Fed’s upcoming meeting will be crucial in shaping their response to these shifting trends.

Source: Link

Cooper Housing Institute Grants $150,000 to Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles to Aid Wildfire-Displaced Families

And finally, in a heartening move to support wildfire recovery, the Cooper Housing Institute has awarded a $150,000 grant to Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles. The grant will assist families displaced by the recent Eaton and Palisades wildfires, offering critical housing-related services to low- and moderate-income households in Los Angeles County.

The funding will help with housing evaluations, repairs, and rebuilding efforts for families earning up to 100% of the Area Median Income. Habitat LA will also provide case management services to guide families through post-disaster housing challenges.

Will Cooper, Jr., President of the Cooper Housing Institute, emphasized the importance of restoring not just homes, but stability and resilience, saying, “A house is more than just a structure—it’s a foundation for security and hope.”

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles will work closely with affected families, ensuring they receive the resources needed to rebuild their lives and recover from the disaster.

Source: Link

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