Is the greater Phoenix real estate market crashing?

Is the greater Phoenix real estate market crashing?  The short answer is no, but it is cooling at a much faster rate than anticipated. This chart shows you the Cromford Market Index (CMI) since 2001. Here is what you need to know about this report:

CMI of 90-110 = balanced market

CMI > 110 = favors sellers

CMI < 90 = favors buyers

The drop from May 2022 to June 2022 decreased from 385.2 to 272.2 during that time. That's the fastest decline in the history of the Cromford Market Index. This decline was impacted by rising interest rates and increasing supply. 

As you can see, sellers are losing their leverage quickly. This means sellers need to be prepared for longer days on the market, fewer offers, the possibility of having to make buyer-requested repairs and/or offering a credit, and maybe even offering a home warranty.

Buyers, don't be fooled by this weakening Seller's market. While we are presently seeing more list price reductions, this hasn't impacted the purchase price at this time. The gap between supply and demand is still great, so home prices are presently still rising. Now is a great time to take advantage of a loan program with the option to lock in an interest rate prior to finding a home. Also keep in mind, before we reach the point where home prices start decreasing, we must reach a balanced market first. 

While it's not possible to predict where the market will be a year from now, these two reports provide great indicators for what lies ahead in the coming months. 

Cindy Nelson is an Arizona native and Realtor with Realty ONE Group and serves the Phoenix Metro area and the White Mountain region. Cindy is a subscriber to the Cromford Market Report and an active Trusted Advisor University member.