The National Association of Realtors releases existing home sales data near the end of each month. The data is derived from a sampling of MLS data across the nation. The release shows the current sales rate for existing single-family, coops, and condos. A national figure and 4 regional figures are provided. The NAR Chief Economist indicated in February the current methodology used to calculate the benchmarks will be revised in the near future. There is no timetable for the revision.
The housing market is a critical component of the US economy. A house is usually one of the largest assets a consumer owns. Housing usually leads market recoveries. Unfortunately the housing industry remains in transition as the effects of massive foreclosures still weigh heavily. Most analysts agree that the housing market will remain wobbly for some time. The important thing to remember is that housing is a “local” issue. The maxim about housing being strongly tied to “location, location, location” still holds true. The overall housing market shows signs of trouble while there are areas that don’t follow the overall trend.
While the data usually isn’t a big market mover it still has the potential to result in some market volatility. The release usually includes remarks from the Chief Economist regarding prices, inventory, and interest rates.
