Good Morning! Today is Tuesday, January 18. China’s economy grew by only 4% in Q4 2021, worrying the international community. Communications to Tonga are still fraught after a volcanic eruption in the Pacific, hampering aid. Airlines warned of grounded flights this week if AT&T and Verizon deploy more 5G technology, which they say interferes with altitude readings.
And in mortgage and housing news…
Is Home Ownership More Affordable Than Renting? A report released this month suggests that despite rising home prices it is more affordable to own a median-priced home than to rent a three-bedroom property in a majority of the United States, but it all depends on where you live.
Slumping Home Sales: December homes sales saw their largest monthly decline since the pandemic began, driven by the continuing housing shortage.
JPAR President: Cairn Real Estate Holdings has appointed Mark Johnson as President of JPAR Real Estate.
With GSEs, Everything’s Complicated: Former Freddie Mac CEO Don Layton explains why ending Fannie and Freddie’s conservatorships isn’t as simple as some make it seem.
Trump’s Luxury Homes: Donald Trump announced plans to build luxury homes at one of his Miami resorts amid reports that his real estate business is struggling.
75-Year High: The prices of goods used in residential construction increased 1.5% in December as lumber price volatility hit a 75-year high.
Disparate Impact: Critics have accused Redfin’s software of “digital redlining” by withholding services to lower-priced homes in minority neighborhoods.
Choice Lease: Home Partners of America launched Choice Lease, a program designed to help address the affordable housing crisis and mortgage access challenges.
“Another Brutal Spring”: Lance Lambert takes a look at the forces shaping the spring 2022 housing market in Fortune.
Record Year: Here are 10 housing market records broken in 2021.