Foreclosure Rates on the Rise: Implications for the Housing Market

If you've been observing the housing market lately and wondering about the future of your neighborhood, you're not alone. Are you facing Foreclosure? Know you are not alone and Trusted Home Offer is here to help you navigate this difficult time. 

In May of this year, there was a noticeable increase in foreclosure rates across the United States, as reported by ATTOM. The U.S. Foreclosure Market Report revealed 35,196 properties with foreclosure filings, encompassing notices of default, bank repossessions, and scheduled auctions. While foreclosures are never a positive sign, this surge is significant, showing a 7% increase from April and a substantial 14% rise from 2022.

To understand the implications of this trend, GOBankingRates consulted real estate experts to delve into the reasons behind the surge in foreclosures and what might unfold next.

Why the Surge in Foreclosures?

The surge in foreclosures is attributed to several factors, with COVID-19 playing a prominent role. Kristen D. Conti, co-chairwoman of Default Industry Leaders, explained that the end of COVID-19-related moratoriums has unclogged the pipeline of distressed properties. Individuals who took advantage of programs allowing deferred mortgage payments now face homes with leveling prices, putting them in a precarious financial position. Home owners are turning to Trusted Home Offer to help them navigate the foreclosure process.

The escalation of home prices, especially affecting marginal buyers, is another contributing factor. Changes in household income can be catastrophic as prices stabilize or decrease. Signs point to more challenges ahead.

Increased Housing Inventory

One notable consequence of the surge in foreclosures is an increase in housing inventory. The consistent delivery of new construction to the market, combined with a decline in demand due to high-interest rates, has led to a surplus of available homes. Michael Branson, CEO of All Reverse Mortgage, Inc., suggests that this surplus could create a buyer's market, presenting opportunities for real estate investors.

Home Prices and Rental Market Shift

The increased inventory might result in stabilized home prices. This could ease the intense competition observed in recent months, making homeownership more accessible for buyers who were previously priced out of the market.

As more properties become available due to foreclosures, there might be an upswing in the number of renters. Former homeowners, facing foreclosure, may turn to renting as a more affordable housing option, potentially expanding the rental market.

Should You Worry?

According to experts, there's no need to panic just yet. While foreclosure rates are increasing, it's viewed as a return to a more normal level rather than a crisis. Kristen D. Conti anticipates a continued rise in foreclosure rates, and some experts believe it's not as alarming as it may seem.

Brian Wittman, owner/CEO at SILT Real Estate and Investments, emphasizes that the current rise is a modest 10% year over year, with approximately 100,000 foreclosure filings in Q1 of 2023, compared to around 150,000 in Q1 of 2019.

Experts suggest that a significant spike, such as a 50% increase to approximately 150,000 foreclosures in one quarter, would be a cause for concern. While there may be challenges ahead, they don't foresee a repeat of the 2008 downturn.

In conclusion, while foreclosures are on the rise, the current situation is not signaling a housing market catastrophe. Stabilization and balance are viewed as positive changes from the turbulence following the COVID-19 pandemic. Facing Foreclosure and need help? Reaching out to Trusted Home Offer, a trusted resource, can provide insight on ways to avoid foreclosure. We may or may not be the best option for you. We’ll give you resources and you can decide. We can be reached at 208-919-9579 or by email at [email protected]. Find us online at thoffers.com.