America’s property market suggests recession is on the way

The collective wisdom in America’s property market is beginning to suggest that a recession may be in the offing. After years of a boom market, investors, developers, and customers alike are starting to see the financial writing on the wall. From coast to coast, there is evidence for a looming recession and the article below will explore how the property market is suggesting that a new economic cycle may be upon us.

1. America’s Property Bubble: Warning Sign of a Recession?

The US economy and housing market are currently experiencing a property bubble which could be ringing alarm bells for the prospect of an impending recession. Affecting the real estate market, and by proxy the rest of the economy, this bubble is foretelling a worrying future.

What are the signs of an impending recession? Home prices are increasing at an unsustainable rate, as well as personal debt levels becoming unmanageable. The economy and stock markets have become increasingly volatile, with rapid fluctuations in major financial assets. Banks are also increasingly engaging in loan practices which could be considered risky.

• Sales are slowing – selling rates of existing homes have dropped significantly
• Tax revenue is decreasing – the amount of taxes being collected by the government is going down
• Credit is tightening – lenders are becoming more strict in granting loans

The looming danger that a recession could cause is more than apparent, making it crucial for the public and private sectors to take precautions. Financial advice and increased economic caution at a personal level are becoming more and more important as the property bubble shows an ever-increasing warning sign of a recession.

2. Examining Possible Causes of the U.S. Property Market Slump

Much of the reason behind the slump in the U.S. property market is complicated, but here are some key factors that analysts point to:

• Credit Standards: During the mid to late 2000s, lenders were too eager to loan money to borrowers who had little to no evidence that they could afford the loan. Years of irresponsible lending put a burden of debt on the market and were a major contributor to the downturn.
• Economic Conditions: A weakening economy and a lack of employment opportunities caused the job market to stagnate. Low wages, low resources, and high unemployment made it difficult for people to satisfy their mortgages.
• Tax Regulations: Adjustments to tax regulations and policies have made it harder for property developers to maximize their growth and development. Government-imposed limits on loan sizes and interests, profit amounts, and other restrictions have made it more difficult for those in the real estate sector to enjoy success.

In addition to the previously mentioned factors, speculation and overvaluation of the market have also been blamed for its reduction in value. While real estate still has the potential to be a lucrative investment, its instability has made many hesitant to enter the market.

3. Potential Recessionary Consequences of a Falling Property Market

The recent drop in the property market can have serious consequences on an economic level. Nations across the globe rely on the market of real estate to bolster their finances, but when it falls, trouble can brew.:

• Financial Woes: Without the value of real estate to prop up local economies, factories and businesses could suffer. People may choose to stop investing in properties, resulting in a domino effect that could cause unemployment, stagnation, and anything from a minor recession to a full-on depression.
• Lifestyle Choices: With money tight and economies on the rocks, people may be hesitant to make big changes in their lives. Moving towns to start new jobs or businesses may become too expensive as rental and new real estate prices drop. Furthermore, banks may become increasingly reluctant to offer mortgages, creating a ceiling of affordability that could make property unaffordable for many.

Additionally, people may choose to spend less, further decreasing the value of real estate and making the economic impact of a falling property market even more severe. All in all, no government or economy is completely impervious to the aftershocks of a sinking market.

4. Planning Ahead: Navigating a Recession-Affected Property Market

No one can deny that recessions have a significant impact on the property market. Prices can drop drastically, the demand for property can evaporate, and the usual rules may no longer apply. That’s why it’s vitally important to plan ahead when navigating a recession-affected property market. With the right plan and preparation, you can come out of the other side in a position of strength.

Here are some tips to take into consideration when planning ahead:

• Do your research: You need to understand the local market, demand and factors driving house prices. Get to know the trends, and adjust expectations accordingly.
• Consult the right people: Evaluate the economic situation and draw up a realistic budget – consulting with a mortgage advisor and real estate professional can help.
• Be flexible: In times of a recession, you may have to reassess any plans you had regarding the type of property you wanted. Adjust your goals, and be ready to compromise.
• Stay positive: Despite the difficult situation, remind yourself of the opportunities available. Think of it as an opportunity, rather than a challenge.

Having a plan in place will help you to be prepared, no matter what the economic climate. A recession-affected property market presents challenges, but with the right strategy and preparation, you will be ready and able to take advantage of the opportunities.

As market analysts pay close attention to their property stock, the warning signs of an impending recession in America continue to mount. As demonstrated by the skyrocketing property market, the risks of an economic slow-down are real and very tangible. Parting with sage words, Robert Shiller, the Nobel Prize-winning economist, left us with this message: “As people observe that the stock market is not so hot, people will start to make changes in their lives – and those changes may be reflected in the property market.” The only way to prepare ourselves for an economic downturn may just be to keep our eyes on the market and pay close attention to its movements.