Housing Market Update and Economic News: April 18, 2025

At Thompson Kane, we stay ahead of shifting market trends so you don’t have to. Here’s a look at this week’s key housing market and economic updates.

Housing Market Update

• Builder Confidence Still Struggling – Builder sentiment remained in the negative zone this April, as escalating costs for construction materials and renewed concerns over tariffs dampened optimism—despite a modest lift from slightly lower mortgage rates..
• Home Purchase Applications Decline Weekly, but Up Year-Over-Year – Mortgage applications for home purchases dipped by 5% over the past week, though volume remains 13% above levels seen at this time last year.
• Adjustable-Rate Mortgages See Uptick – In response to a sharp rise in interest rates triggered by recent market volatility, more borrowers opted for adjustable-rate mortgage products last week.

Economic Insights

• Retail Surge Reflects Tariff Anxiety Consumer spending spiked last month, with retail sales marking their strongest monthly increase in over two years. Analysts suggest the rush may reflect fears of price hikes due to pending tariffs.
• Powell Signals Inflation Concerns May Delay Rate Cuts Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell emphasized the importance of keeping inflation in check, stating that potential inflationary pressures from tariffs may limit the Fed’s willingness to lower rates in the near term.
• Jobless Claims Drop to 2-Month Low New unemployment claims declined last week to their lowest level in two months, indicating that most businesses are maintaining staffing levels for now, even as trade tensions escalate.

Keeping you up-to-date with the constantly changing housing market via weekly updates

At Thompson Kane, we believe smart financial moves start with staying current. That’s why we share timely updates on housing trends, mortgage activity, and economic shifts—so you can make decisions with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re preparing to buy a home, running a real estate business, or simply keeping an eye on the market, we’ve got you covered. Keep up with our weekly insights right here on the Newsfeed, and join the conversation with us on Facebook. We’re here to be a reliable resource on your path forward.

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–John Maynard Keynes

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