How Our Next President Could Impact the Housing Market
The 2024 presidential election could affect mortgage rates and the housing market through new policy approaches. Even though the Federal Reserve remains the primary influence on interest rates, our next president’s economic and housing strategies could have an impact on housing supply, regulations and affordability.
This has been a stressful election cycle for many, so we’ll leave the names out and focus on what could help or hinder homebuyers in 2025.
If the Democratic candidate wins: Housing initiatives would likely focus on affordability and supply, with a commitment to build three million new homes over four years. This approach aims to alleviate housing shortages and address affordability concerns. Additional down payment assistance programs may also encourage homebuying. However, stimulating demand without fully addressing supply constraints could keep home prices elevated in the short term, particularly if construction timelines are delayed.
If the Republican candidate wins: Deregulation may be prioritized to encourage housing development and reduce construction costs. Policies might include easing restrictions on land use and incentivizing builders to increase housing stock, which may relieve supply issues more directly. Potential changes to government-backed mortgage entities, such as Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, might also impact lending terms, depending on shifts in oversight. While this approach seeks to promote market-driven solutions, the implications for affordable housing programs could vary based on broader economic conditions.
Remember to cast your vote! In addition to the presidential election, Massachusetts also has an important senate race and ballot questions to be voted on. Early voting is open throughout the state, including this weekend.
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Ready to buy a new home or refinance the one you own? Please get in touch and I’ll be happy to answer your questions and help guide you through the process. I look forward to speaking with you.
Halloween & Election Day
This year, we get a double feature: Halloween treats today, followed just five days later by Election Day.
As you’re carving pumpkins and handing out candy, it’s also a perfect time to consider what changes could be on the horizon for mortgage rates and housing.
Just as Halloween brings surprises, the days ahead may hold a few twists for homeowners and buyers alike.
Keep the spirit lighthearted and the stress to a minimum. Both Halloween and election season promise to keep things interesting!
Home Improver: Last-Minute Halloween Decoration Ideas
If Halloween has crept up on you, don’t worry—there’s still time to transform your home today with some easy, last-minute ideas to make your home trick-or-treater-friendly.
Switch to Orange Light Bulbs
A simple way to make your house look hauntingly festive is to replace your outdoor lights with orange bulbs. Orange lighting casts a warm yet eerie glow that’s perfect for Halloween night, creating instant atmosphere without much effort. Swap out the bulbs on your porch or in landscape fixtures, or even add a couple of string lights around doorways to illuminate your entryway.
Hanging Spiderwebs and Creepy Cloth
Nothing says Halloween like cobwebs and creepy cloth! Pick up a few bags of stretchy spiderweb material or black gauze cloth from any craft or dollar store, and drape them over bushes, railings, and doorways for a look that’s creepy yet welcoming. For an added touch, throw in a few plastic spiders or bats in the webbing or cloth to amp up the scare factor. This decoration is quick, simple, and can be as extensive or minimal as you want.
DIY Ghost Lanterns
This takes a little effort if you have the time. Create spooky lanterns using everyday items like empty jars. Clean out the containers, then paint or tape on simple ghost faces. Place LED candles or battery-operated lights inside to give them a glowing effect. Line them up along your porch steps or windowsills for an extra bit of ghostly charm.
There’s no need to be the unfun Halloween house on your street today. Grab some supplies, set up your space and get ready to show off your spooky holiday atmosphere without much hassle.