The Housing Market Hotness Index inched up to 96.80 for the week ending May 11, 2025, from 96.49 the previous week. Despite the recent uptick, the index has risen only 2 points over the past eight weeks (up from 94.65 on March 24, 2025), highlighting a largely stagnant market. Elevated mortgage rates—driven by persistent inflation, trade tensions, financial market instability, and recession concerns—continue to sideline many potential buyers, making homeownership seem increasingly out of reach. As a result, rising inventory is not translating into increased sales.
The most active housing markets were found in Monroe County (NY), Kent County (MI), Erie County (NY), Snohomish County (WA), and Pierce County (WA). In contrast, the slowest market activity was observed in several Florida counties, including Broward, Miami-Dade, Lee, and Palm Beach.
*Index values are subject to revision as deemed necessary, contingent upon the receipt of new or updated data.
