Housing and Economic Research
Original research and analysis on housing trends, the economy and the mortgage market
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Research Note | December 7, 2022
The Drivers of Financial Stress and Sustainable Homeownership
This analysis explores the drivers of financial stress among first-time homebuyers. Identifying the factors leading to household financial stress is important to understanding what makes homeownership sustainable. More
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Research Note | November 9, 2022
Migration to Environmentally Risky Areas: A Consequence of the Pandemic
The pandemic amplified the exodus from large, expensive metro areas to smaller, more affordable destinations. Many such desirable destinations that are farther from the cities are not only less costly but are also closer to natural amenities. Natural amenities, however are often associated with environmental risks and moving closer to these amenities can also mean increased exposure to various natural hazards. More
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Research Note | November 3, 2022
Freddie Mac’s Newly Enhanced Mortgage Rate Survey Explained
To ensure that Freddie Mac’s Primary Mortgage Market Survey® continues to provide high-quality information on the mortgage market, we are making new enhancements to our methodology. More
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Research Brief | November 2, 2022
Homeowners Hold Positive Attitudes Toward Renovating But Cost, Financing Awareness and Emotion Hold Them Back
Older housing stock and higher levels of home equity may encourage more owners and buyers to renovate. But many are not prepared for long-term or costlier projects. More
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Forecast | October 21, 2022
Quarterly Forecast: Rapidly Rising Rates & Declining Demand Driving a Housing Market Slowdown
Mortgage interest rates have increased at the fastest rate since the early 1980s. The increase in rates has been driven by a general increase in interest rates throughout the economy, which in turn have been primarily driven by inflation. More
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Research Brief | October 5, 2022
Homeowners Are Growing More Concerned about the Effects of Severe Weather
Severe weather-related events have outsized potential to affect a homeowner’s livelihood and the livability of their home. More