Part 5/9:
While some may expect a slowdown in home sales and a potential reduction in prices due to rising mortgage costs, the reality has been different. Despite some regional declines, overall home prices have continued to increase, mainly because low inventory levels—thanks to owners holding onto low-rate mortgages—limit supply. Builders have shifted focus from single-family homes to multifamily units like apartments, which alleviates rental market pressures but leaves homeownership opportunities scarce for first-time buyers.