Mississippi Real Estate Market Overview - 2024

Mississippi Real Estate Market Overview

The Mississippi real estate market is characterized by its distinctive affordability relative to national averages. A recent review of the housing market revealed a median home value of $161,162, with a notable appreciation rate over the past year.

In Mississippi, the housing market dynamics are shaped by a combination of factors which include median sales price, volume of home sales, and inventory levels. For example, Mississippi's average median home price stands at $258,000, and it has been experiencing a marginal increase, partly attributed to the state's tight inventory, as reported by Houzeo's analysis.

The key metrics for the current real estate market indicate a median home value of $161,162, showing a significant 1-year appreciation rate of +15.3%. The median sales price stands at $254,110, with a total of 1,417 homes sold. The market exhibits a relatively low level of active listings at 3,721, alongside 2,012 new listings. This results in a tight market with a mere 1.71 months of inventory, highlighting a scenario where demand surpasses available housing supply, potentially leading to competitive conditions for buyers.

Mississippi's housing market also shows a decrease in home sales as of September 2023, with a decrease of 16.5% year over year. The state awaits predictions for the year 2024, anticipating how these patterns will evolve.

The market is influenced by varying economic factors, but it remains attractive to those seeking affordability. With active and new listings in the thousands, there's movement within the market that indicates both opportunities for buyers and challenges due to the competition for available homes.

As for the homeowners in Mississippi, they find the housing market to be an evolving landscape that demands attention to detail, timing, and trends. Real estate enthusiasts and prospective homeowners alike continue to monitor the Mississippi market for shifts and turns that might dictate their next move.

Economic Indicators Affecting Real Estate in Mississippi

The Mississippi real estate market is influenced by several key economic indicators, including interest and mortgage rates, employment statistics, and the cost of living. These factors collectively provide insight into the state's housing market dynamics.

Interest Rates and Mortgage Trends

Interest rates, particularly those for mortgages, are a critical influencer on the real estate landscape. As of September 2023, 30-year mortgage rates hover around 7.03%, impacting both buyer affordability and the volume of refinancing activity. The trajectory of mortgage rates is closely monitored, as even small fluctuations can significantly affect monthly mortgage payments and the overall demand in the housing market.

Employment and Unemployment Rate

The job market serves as a barometer for real estate demand, with employment gains and losses shaping the need for housing. Mississippi's unemployment rate directly interacts with the housing sector; higher employment leads to increased housing demand. Economic shifts in employment play into the market's vitality, with cities like Jackson featuring prominent in such assessments due to its population density and role as the state capital.

Cost of Living and Inflation

Inflation and the cost of living are intertwined factors that affect consumer purchasing power. A higher cost of living may dampen the ability to afford homes, while inflation can erode real income. Mississippi's housing prices, relative to average incomes and the national economic landscape, indicate the affordability of the market and, indirectly, the potential supply-demand dynamics at play.

Current Housing Market Conditions in Mississippi

The Mississippi housing market in 2024 exhibits distinct trends such as tightening inventory levels and increasing home prices. These conditions highlight the complexities of supply and demand dynamics across cities like Jackson and Gulfport.

Inventory Levels and New Listings

Mississippi’s real estate market grapples with low inventory levels, a trend that has continued into 2024. In cities like Jackson, new listings are not keeping pace with demand, which further exacerbates the inventory shortage. In Gulfport, the number of homes for sale has seen a decline year over year (YoY), indicating a statewide pattern that impacts both buyers and sellers.

Median Home Prices and Sales Data

As of 2024, the median home price in Mississippi has climbed to $258,000, marking a slight 1.6% increase YoY. This upward trend in home prices reflects a seller's market, with the median sales price also indicating a gradual rise. This is substantiated by reports predicting that home prices will continue to rise marginally due to low inventory in the state. Meanwhile, homes sold have tapered across Mississippi, with a noteworthy decline of 16.5% in home sales YoY as of September 2023, suggesting a shift in the market dynamics.

Supply and Demand Dynamics

The imbalance between supply and demand is evident in Mississippi's real estate market, where the tight inventory is fueling competition among buyers. This competition is driving up home values, shifting the market towards favoring sellers. Despite the low supply and high demand, the pace of sales has slowed down, possibly due to rising prices affecting affordability. The market in 2024 is described as a seller's market, although trends can differ significantly between locales such as Jackson and Gulfport.

Regional Real Estate Variations in Mississippi

Mississippi's real estate market presents a diverse canvas largely influenced by city-specific dynamics and population trends. Individuals considering a move to the state, or current residents looking to relocate, will observe distinct characteristics and trends in various cities and regions, which impact property values and living preferences.

City-Specific Markets

Jackson

Jackson, the state capital, stands as a central hub for Mississippi's administrative and cultural activities. The city attracts a steady flow of residents who aim to capitalize on its urban amenities and business opportunities. As a result, Jackson's real estate market often experiences a higher demand, reflected in property values that are generally robust relative to other regions of the state.

Gulfport

Gulfport's proximity to the coast makes it a favourite for those seeking a maritime lifestyle. It's not only the second-largest city in Mississippi but also a crucial economic artery due to its port. The real estate market here offers a blend of coastal properties that tend to fetch a premium, owing to their scenic views and access to waterfront amenities.

Brandon

Brandon is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and community-oriented lifestyle. It's a sought-after location for those who prefer suburban living with convenient access to Jackson's resources. Real estate in Brandon focuses on residential homes with a steady appreciation in property values, reflecting its popularity for settling down.

Hattiesburg

Featuring a well-balanced combination of educational institutions, Hattiesburg is often on the list for those considering higher education or careers in academia. Its real estate market varies, offering affordable housing options that cater to both students and faculty, making it a vibrant and dynamic region to live in.

Biloxi

With a rich history and a stronghold in entertainment, Biloxi's appeal includes beaches, casinos, and cultural spots. This city's unique appeal affects its real estate market, where one can find a range of properties from luxury waterfront homes to more modest inland options.

Southaven

As one of the fastest-growing cities in Mississippi, Southaven draws people with its proximity to Memphis, Tennessee and a congenial suburban setting. This growth has underpinned a buoyant real estate market, with property prices and sales reflecting the upward trajectory of the city's popularity and ensuing development.

Homeownership Details in Mississippi

This section provides an insightful look into the various aspects critical to homeownership in Mississippi, focusing on property types and values, the sales process, and crucial financial considerations like closing costs and taxes.

Home Types and Average Values

Mississippi's housing market predominantly features single-family homes with a mix of other residential properties. As of 2024, the median home value in the state stands at approximately $229,304, with an upward trajectory expected to continue.

• Single-Family Homes: $229,304 (Median Home Value)
• Condominiums & Townhouses: Varying values based on location and amenities

Home Sales Process and MLS Listings

The process of buying a home in Mississippi commences with exploring MLS listings, where potential buyers can find a comprehensive collection of available properties. Home sellers typically work with real estate agents to list their properties on the MLS, optimizing exposure to prospective buyers. Consider getting landlord insurance in Mississippi before the rental agreement starts to cover any damages.

• Listing on MLS: Essential for visibility
• Steps for Home Buyers:
• Secure financing or mortgage approval
• Search for homes within budget
• Make an offer and negotiate
• Complete the inspection and appraisal
• Finalize the transaction at closing

Closing Costs and Property Taxes

Purchasing a home in Mississippi entails additional expenses such as closing costs, typically ranging from 2% to 5% of the home purchase price. Buyers should also factor in property taxes, which are relatively low in Mississippi compared to the national average.

• Average Closing Costs: 2% - 5% of purchase price
• Property Taxes:
• Vary by county
• Include assessments for school and municipal services

Buyers often need to prepare for a down payment, with amounts differing based on the mortgage type and lender requirements. It is crucial to account for these financial aspects to ensure a transparent and successful home purchase in Mississippi.

Market Trends and Predictions in Mississippi

In the Mississippi real estate market, data-driven insights reveal significant trends and allow for reasoned predictions about future movements. With concrete figures depicting the year-on-year evolution and forecasted trajectories, stakeholders can navigate the market with greater confidence.

Year-Over-Year Comparisons

Analyzing the Mississippi real estate market reveals a nuanced picture of home values and sales. For instance, average home values have seen minute fluctuations, with a slight decrease noted around May 2022, and median sale prices in contrast increased, hinting at a complex interplay of market dynamics. As per recent data, the average home value was $169,792, marked by a -0.18% decrease month-over-month. Meanwhile, median sale price stood higher at $260,900.

The days on market (DOM) metric, an indicator of how quickly homes are sold, stood at 51 days—a figure that underscores the pace at which real estate transactions are occurring. The number of homes on the market was 5,056, feeding into an inventory of 1.71 months, indicative of the supply available against the current demand.

Mississippi Housing Market Forecasts

Looking forward, the appetite for precise predictions is addressed by drawing from several indicators—the direction of home sales and home prices are of particular interest. September 2023 data points toward a decrement in home sales by 16.5% year-over-year (YoY), suggesting a cooling phase in transactions as highlighted by Houzeo.

Forecasts for 2024 lean towards a marginal increase in median sale price due to the state's tight inventory. Supporting this, the average median home price in Mississippi has been reported at $258,000, ticking up by 1.6% YoY. Nevertheless, these predictions are tempered by existing economic factors and can be subject to shifts in broader market pressures. The Mississippi Housing Market overview adds a layer of context by indicating that the real estate climate is indeed poised for change.

By evaluating these market trends and forecasts, one gets a clear, confident understanding of the Mississippi real estate landscape. Careful scrutiny of year-over-year comparisons and market forecasts supports a measured approach to anticipation of future movements in this sector.

Investment Opportunities in Mississippi

Mississippi's real estate market presents diverse investment opportunities, with particular strengths in the rental sector and potential gains through foreclosure properties.

Rental Market Insights

Mississippi's rental market has shown consistent demand, making it an attractive avenue for real estate investment. The city of Madison is notable for its upscale homes and suburban properties, appealing to investors looking at higher-end residential options. Rental yields remain robust, particularly in areas with low crime rates and good infrastructure, such as principal highway connections and regional airports.

Key Statistics:

• Average Rent: Market data indicates a prevailing upward trend in rent prices.
• Occupancy Rates: High occupancy rates in sought-after locations underscore the rental market's stability.

Flipping and Foreclosure Rates

Flipping houses in Mississippi can benefit from a market that features a mix of residential and commercial investment opportunities. Jackson, the state capital, is a versatile market for house flipping due to its wide range of property values. Foreclosure activity, according to market forecasts, suggests a marginally increasing trend, which presents investors with opportunities to acquire properties at potentially lower costs for renovation and resale.

Foreclosure Insights:

• Foreclosure Rates: Data shows a variety of foreclosure rates across the state, offering varied opportunities for investors.
• Market Health: The Mississippi real estate market is recovering, indicating room for growth in flipping foreclosed properties.

Buyer and Seller Resources in Mississippi

In navigating the Mississippi real estate landscape, buyers and sellers are advised to utilize a variety of resources for an informed transaction. Resources such as Redfin offer comprehensive data and tools that can assist with market analysis, property listings, and trends.

For detailed property data and analytics, ATTOM serves as a valuable repository. It provides granular insights into property characteristics, ownership, and market trends. Leveraging these insights can lead to more strategic decisions whether buying or selling.

Key Statistics:

• Median Days on Market: A critical metric indicating how long homes stay available before being sold.
• Months of Supply: Helps gauge the market balance by showing how many months it would take to sell all current listings at the current sales rate.

When assessing Days on the Market, it is crucial for sellers to price their homes appropriately to avoid prolonged listing periods. Buyers, on the other hand, can use this information to gauge the competition and urgency required in making offers.

List of Resources:

• Market Analysis: Redfin, ATTOM
• Listings: Local real estate agencies
• Data Tools: Multiple Listing Service (MLS) databases

For a precise pulse on the market, the Median Days on the Market and Months of Supply indicators are tracked closely, which reflect the fluidity of the market and supply trends, respectively. Buyers should keep an eye on these metrics to understand how quickly they need to act, while sellers can adjust their strategies accordingly to the pace of the market.

Frequently Asked Questions

In this section, readers will find answers to common questions regarding the current status and future outlook of the Mississippi real estate market.

What are the current trends in the Mississippi real estate market?

The Mississippi real estate market is experiencing a marginal increase in median sale prices, with a noticeable decrease in home sales. This suggests a tight inventory environment.

How has the average home price in Mississippi changed in recent years?

Recently, there has been a moderate escalation in home prices in Mississippi, reflecting a larger trend of real estate appreciation, although the pace is more subdued compared to some other regions.

What are the predictions for the Mississippi housing market over the next five years?

Analysts predict that the Mississippi housing market will see continued growth, albeit at a marginal rate, influenced primarily by inventory levels and regional economic factors.

What factors contribute to the cost of housing in Mississippi?

Key factors influencing Mississippi's housing costs include supply constraints, economic conditions, interest rates, and demographic shifts affecting demand.

Is now a favorable time for buying property in Mississippi?

Given the current trends and market conditions, potential buyers may find opportunities due to the slower pace of price increases and less competitive market landscape.

How does Mississippi's real estate investment potential compare to other states?

Mississippi offers a distinctive real estate investment profile that may appeal to investors looking for more affordable entry points and markets that are not as volatile as those found in some coastal or major metropolitan areas.

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