By Jonathan Smoke | realtor.com
We had great expectations for the housing market this year—and so far, 2016 has certainly delivered. Looking back at the first half of the year, it’s nothing but good news:
Total home sales are up 5% compared with the first half of 2015.
Median existing home prices are up 5% as of June, setting a new record.
Overall, we had the best spring in a decade.
Plus, continued robust appreciation has restored home equity for many homeowners—and higher home values encourage owners to invest in home improvements and even to consider selling and buying again (to move up, downsize, get into a better neighborhood, etc.).