The property market's future performance can be predicted by analyzing several leading indicators. By monitoring these leading indicators, stakeholders in the property market can make informed decisions and gain valuable insights into future market trends, enabling them to navigate the market effectively and capitalize on emerging opportunities.
Number of mortgage defaulters
The number of mortgage defaulters reflects the financial health and stability of property owners. When the number of mortgage defaulters increases, it suggests a potential strain on borrowers' ability to meet their mortgage obligations. This could be due to various factors such as economic downturns, job losses, or changes in interest rates.
Number of defaulted off-plan installments
The number of defaulted off-plan installments is an important metric in the property market, particularly for off-plan or under-construction projects. Off-plan properties are those that are sold before their completion, where buyers make installment payments based on a predetermined payment plan.
When we refer to the "number of defaulted off-plan installments," it means the number of buyers who have failed to make timely payments according to the agreed-upon payment schedule for their off-plan property. This situation may arise due to various reasons, such as financial difficulties, changes in personal circumstances, or dissatisfaction with the project's progress or quality.
An increasing number of defaulted off-plan installments can indicate potential challenges within the property market. It suggests that buyers are facing financial strains or concerns with the project, which can affect the developer's cash flow and ability to complete the construction. Additionally, it can lead to delays in project completion, impacting the overall market sentiment and buyer confidence.
Property absorption rate
The property absorption rate is a key indicator used in the real estate market to assess the rate at which available properties are being sold or leased within a specific period. It measures the demand and effectiveness of the market in absorbing the existing supply of properties.
A high absorption rate indicates a robust and healthy market, where properties are being quickly taken off the market. It suggests a strong demand for properties, which can be driven by factors such as favorable market conditions, attractive pricing, desirable locations, or innovative features. A high absorption rate is generally favorable for property sellers and landlords as it signifies a seller's market or a market with high rental demand.
Number of owners asking for prices lower than the original price
The number of owners asking for prices lower than the original price reflects the level of price adjustments and negotiation happening between property owners and potential buyers. When owners start to lower their asking prices below the original price, it indicates certain market conditions and dynamics.
This phenomenon often occurs when there is an oversupply of properties or when the market experiences a slowdown in demand. Property owners may lower their asking prices in an attempt to attract more buyers or compete with other sellers in the market. It can also be influenced by factors such as changes in economic conditions, shifts in buyer preferences, or increased competition among sellers.
A higher number of owners asking for prices lower than the original price suggests that there is downward pressure on property prices. It indicates that sellers are willing to negotiate and make concessions to secure a sale. This situation can be favorable for buyers as they may have more opportunities to purchase properties at a lower cost or negotiate better terms.
Number of days the property remains in the market
The number of days a property remains on the market provides insights into the pace of property sales and the level of demand within the real estate market. It measures the average duration from when a property is listed for sale until it is successfully sold or taken off the market.
A shorter number of days on the market suggests strong demand and a faster turnover of properties. It indicates that buyers are actively seeking properties and are willing to make offers, resulting in a quicker sales process. This could be influenced by various factors, including attractive pricing, desirable location, favorable market conditions, and effective marketing strategies.
On the other hand, a longer number of days on the market indicates a slower pace of property sales and may suggest weaker demand or pricing that is not aligned with market expectations. Properties that remain on the market for an extended period may undergo price reductions or adjustments to attract potential buyers. It could also indicate less desirable features, limited buyer interest, or specific market challenges.
Number of cancelled property sales contracts aka Form F
Various factors can lead to cancelled contracts, including financial difficulties, changes in personal circumstances, dissatisfaction with the property or its conditions, or legal issues. An increasing number of cancelled contracts may indicate challenges within the market, such as buyer hesitancy, concerns over property quality, or economic uncertainties.
For buyers, cancelled contracts can disrupt their plans and investment strategies, resulting in potential financial losses. On the other hand, sellers may face difficulties in finding new buyers and experience delays in selling their properties.
Real estate professionals and stakeholders monitor the number of cancelled property sales contracts as it provides an indication of market conditions and buyer confidence. High cancellation rates may signal a need for improvements in property marketing, clearer contract terms, or enhanced buyer-seller communication.
Understanding the number of cancelled property sales contracts can assist market participants in assessing risks, adapting strategies, and making informed decisions regarding property transactions.
Property sales flipping rate
The property sales flipping rate refers to the frequency at which properties are bought and sold within a specific period. It measures the extent to which properties are rapidly resold or flipped by investors or speculators.
A high property sales flipping rate indicates an active and dynamic market, where properties are being bought with the intention of selling them quickly for a profit. Investors or speculators typically engage in property flipping to capitalize on short-term market fluctuations or take advantage of undervalued properties. They aim to purchase properties at a lower price and sell them at a higher price within a relatively short time frame.
Sales volume
A high sales volume indicates a robust market with strong buyer interest and a healthy level of transactional activity. It suggests that properties are being bought and sold at a relatively rapid pace, reflecting a favorable market condition. A high sales volume can be influenced by factors such as low mortgage rates, favorable economic conditions, and attractive property prices. It signifies a positive sentiment among buyers, as they are actively engaging in property purchases.
Real estate professionals and investors often track sales volume to make informed decisions regarding pricing, investment strategies, and market timing. Policymakers and analysts also rely on sales volume data to assess the health of the real estate sector, identify emerging trends, and formulate appropriate policies to support market stability and growth.
Property supply
The property supply is an essential factor in determining the dynamics of the real estate market. It influences the balance between supply and demand, which in turn affects property prices, competition among sellers, and overall market conditions.
When the property supply is low, meaning there are fewer available properties compared to the demand from buyers or tenants, it often leads to a seller's market. In a seller's market, sellers have the advantage as they may receive multiple offers and have more flexibility in negotiating prices and terms. Low property supply can result from factors such as limited land availability, regulatory restrictions, or a high demand for properties.
On the other hand, when the property supply is high, meaning there is an excess of available properties relative to buyer or tenant demand, it typically creates a buyer's or renter's market. In such a market, buyers or renters have more choices and negotiating power, which can put downward pressure on prices. High property supply can occur due to factors such as overdevelopment, economic downturns, or changes in market conditions.
New nationalities of buyers
Tracking the new nationalities of buyers is important as it provides insights into the diversification and internationalization of the property market. It indicates the growing interest and investment from individuals of various nationalities in the real estate sector.
The emergence of new nationalities as property buyers can have several implications. It signifies the attractiveness and appeal of a particular market to international investors, potentially indicating factors such as economic stability, favorable investment climate, political security, or lifestyle appeal. It can also suggest the presence of specific marketing strategies or initiatives targeting buyers from those countries.
Age of the first-time home buyers
Understanding the age of first-time home buyers can provide insights into the financial readiness, life stages, and preferences of younger generations. Factors such as employment opportunities, income levels, access to credit, and changes in lifestyle preferences may influence the timing of homeownership.
For example, in a market where the average age of first-time home buyers is increasing, it may suggest challenges related to affordability or economic conditions that delay the ability of younger individuals to enter the housing market. Conversely, a decrease in the average age of first-time buyers may indicate improving affordability or changing societal norms that encourage earlier homeownership.
Moreover, the age of first-time home buyers can have broader implications for the housing market and the economy as a whole. It can influence the demand for housing, the types of properties in demand, and the overall stability and growth of the real estate sector.
Investors' confidence
Investors' confidence refers to the level of trust, belief, and positive sentiment that investors have in a particular market or asset class, such as real estate. It reflects their willingness to invest capital and make financial decisions based on their assessment of the market's stability, growth potential, and expected returns.
High investors' confidence indicates a positive outlook on the market, with investors feeling optimistic about the future prospects and opportunities it offers. They believe that their investments will yield favorable returns and that the market conditions are conducive for growth. This confidence can lead to increased investment activity, higher transaction volumes, and potentially higher property prices.
Number of delayed projects
Delays can occur due to various reasons, including construction challenges, regulatory issues, financial constraints, or unforeseen circumstances.
The impact of delayed projects on the real estate market can be significant. It affects both developers and buyers/investors involved in the projects. Here are some key points to elaborate on:
- Developer's Reputation: Delays in project completion can harm the reputation of the developer. It may lead to a loss of trust among buyers and investors, affecting future sales and the developer's credibility in the market.
- Financial Implications: Project delays can have financial implications for developers. They may incur additional costs for extended construction periods, penalties for missed deadlines, and increased holding costs. This can strain the developer's finances and potentially impact their ability to complete the project successfully.
- Buyer/Investor Frustration: Buyers or investors who have invested in the delayed projects may experience frustration and inconvenience. They may face challenges in planning their future occupancy, rental income, or resale plans. It can also lead to financial implications for them, such as paying extended mortgage installments or additional rental expenses while awaiting project completion.
- Market Perception: The number of delayed projects can influence the overall market perception of the real estate sector. If delays become widespread or prevalent, it may create negative sentiment among potential buyers and investors, affecting market confidence and demand.
- Construction Quality and Standards: Delays can sometimes be attributed to construction-related issues. It is important to note that ensuring quality construction and adherence to safety standards should not be compromised in an attempt to expedite project completion. Delays caused by such concerns may be seen as necessary to maintain the integrity and safety of the development.
Number of new project permits
The number of new project permits refers to the quantity of permits issued by regulatory authorities for the construction or development of new real estate projects. These permits signify the approval granted to developers to proceed with their planned projects, whether it involves constructing new buildings, residential complexes, commercial spaces, or other types of real estate developments.
The issuance of new project permits indicates the level of market activity and the interest of developers in initiating new real estate ventures. It reflects the confidence of developers in the market's potential and their willingness to invest in new projects.
Monitoring the number of new project permits can assist industry stakeholders, including developers, investors, and policymakers, in assessing market dynamics, planning future developments, and making informed decisions. It helps gauge the level of market activity, understand supply and demand dynamics, and identify potential areas of growth or investment opportunities.
Cost of buying vs. Cost of renting
When the cost of buying a property is relatively more affordable compared to renting, it may indicate a higher demand for homeownership. Lower interest rates, favorable financing options, or attractive property prices can make buying more financially attractive. This increased demand can positively impact the property market, leading to potential price appreciation and a robust market outlook.
Monitoring the cost of renting is equally important. If rental prices are significantly high relative to the cost of buying, it may indicate a strong rental market and increased demand for rental properties. This scenario could be driven by factors such as limited housing supply, high population growth, or transient population. A thriving rental market could attract investors, leading to increased property investment activity.
The growth of real estate agents
One notable correlation that can be also observed is the relationship between home prices and the number of property brokers operating in the market.
During periods of growth and rising home prices, there is often an increase in the number of property brokers entering the market. The allure of potential profits and commissions motivates individuals to pursue a career in real estate. This influx of agents signifies a robust market and reflects positive sentiment among buyers and investors.
Conversely, when the real estate market experiences a downturn with declining home prices, it often leads to a reduction in the number of property brokers.
The correlation between home prices and agent count highlights the interplay between market demand, buyer sentiment, and market activity. By monitoring the dynamics of the real estate agent landscape, investors and homebuyers can gain valuable insights into market conditions and make informed decisions.