Jessica Lautz

Jessica Lautz, Deputy Chief Economist and VP of Research at the National Association of Realtors, brings data-driven perspective on home prices, buyer demographics, and spring market trends. She discusses falling mortgage rates and signs of an earlier spring, regional variation between cash and first-time buyers, shifts in seller willingness, and how policy and aging-in-place issues affect inventory.

In this discussion, Dr. Jessica Lautz, Deputy Chief Economist at the National Association of REALTORS®, explores the evolving market dynamics for first-time homebuyers, noting a record low of just 24%. She highlights the significant demographic and financial shifts affecting young buyers, including their reliance on assets like stocks for down payments. The conversation also touches on the rising influence of pets in homebuying preferences and the challenges older buyers face as they seek community-driven amenities.

Jessica Lautz, Deputy Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors, shares her insights on the housing market's current state. With mortgage rates recently dropping, she explains President Trump's plan to buy $200 billion in mortgage-backed securities to lower borrowing costs. Lautz also discusses the idea of using 401(k) funds for home down payments, highlighting its risks. Additionally, she addresses the impact of institutional investors on the housing market and the necessity of increasing supply to improve affordability.