Housing and Economic Research
Original research and analysis on housing trends, the economy and the mortgage market
-
Insight | November 17, 2020
Mortgage Forbearance Rates during the COVID-19 Crisis
Bob and Jane purchased their home three years ago. Now, in the midst of the pandemic, Jane is furloughed from her job as a purchasing manager, and Bob is working fewer hours as a mechanic. They are wondering how long their savings will last. Postponing mortgage payments would make their reserves hold out a lot longer. More
-
Forecast | October 14, 2020
Quarterly Forecast: Housing Market Continues to Rebound as Mortgage Rates Hover at Record Lows
Economic activity stalled in early July. Even with many businesses reopening, unemployment claims remained high through September. Total jobless claims were about 26 million in the second week of September. More
-
Research Note | September 10, 2020
Unravelling Perceptions of Flood Risk: Examining Changes in Home Prices in Harris County, Texas in the Aftermath of Hurricane Harvey
If you want to buy a home, is living near the water on your wish list? If so, how much do you worry about flooding? More
-
Insight | July 16, 2020
Granny Flats, Garage Apartments, In-Law Suites: Identifying Accessory Dwelling Units from Real Estate Listing Descriptions Using Text Mining
As the nation’s affordable housing crisis intensifies, there is a growing movement in high-cost areas for the legalization and expansion of accessory dwelling units (ADUs)—also referred to as granny flats, garage apartments, and in-law suites. More
-
Research Note | July 6, 2020
Refinance Trends in the First Quarter of 2020
American homeowners have many options when it comes to mortgage financing. Most homeowners with a mortgage opt for a fully pre-payable 30-year fixed rate mortgage. The fixed rate locks in a fixed payment for the life of the loan, while the 30-year term lowers the required monthly payment. More
-
Forecast | June 16, 2020
Quarterly Forecast: The Economy is Recovering from a Deep Contraction and Housing is Rebounding, but the Outlook Remains Highly Uncertain
The effect of COVID-19 has been felt around the world and across the United States. As states have begun easing restrictions, the economy is rebounding but continues to be constrained. More
