This Week's Data Will Forecast 2H 2025
This week is shaping up to be an important one, as a stack of economic data will be released. Here are some numbers to check out.
While July's Consumer Confidence Index rose to 97.2 (1985=100), which is a two-point improvement from 95.2 in June, the Present Situation Index fell slightly. However, the Expectations Index, which reflects consumers' short-term outlook, rose by 4.5 points.
The Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Index will be updated later this week. This index reflects changes in the prices of consumer goods and services and is one of several indicators of inflation. The PCE also reflects changes in consumer behavior.
NAR will be releasing the latest pending home sales data later this week. These numbers could provide some clarity. While home sales for 2025 have been sluggish, mortgage purchase applications are ahead of 2024's pace.
The Federal Reserve is meeting this week, with Fed Chair Jerome Powell expected to discuss the overall state of the economy afterwards. While no rate cuts are expected to be announced, economists hope to be able to predict future ones.
Last but not least, Thursday July 31 is National Avocado Day.
Why Gated Communities are Popular
Gated communities first became popular during New York's Gilded Age, serving as private enclaves for wealthy homeowners. During the 1960s and 70s, these became more affordable as more retirees and middle-class buyers discovered their advantages.
While security-controlled access is a desirable feature, gated communities typically have HOAs that enforce neighborhood guidelines. These make them a popular draw for buyers who prefer well-kept exteriors and nearby amenities.
Today, Florida and California have the highest number of gated communities, with retirees still headed to the Sunshine State because of lower taxes.
One Florida community, PGA National Resort, provides six golf courses for the inhabitants of its 5,000 homes. Retirees on a budget can choose a condo unit, while wealthy buyers can spend seven figures on a 5,000 sq. ft. property.
While some homeowners avoid HOAs because they consider their fees and regulations excessive (for example, PGA National residents must have at least one palm tree on their property), homes in gated communities remain popular as their appreciation rates are often higher than non-gated properties.2
Content Ideas for Your Instagram Stories
Currently, Instagram is the third-most popular social media destination, with 50% of adults visiting. It's also the #1 destination for younger Generation Z prospects.
If you're looking for new story ideas, here are a few that you may not have tried yet.
Feature a client who's new to the community. Being the new kid on the block can be difficult, so offer some help to a recent buyer who's comfortable in the spotlight. Ask them about their interests, career plans, and why they chose your area.
Celebrate a milestone. Did you just reach 5,000 Instagram followers, or close the sale of your 50th listing? Thank your audience with an Instagram post or story.
Share your home decor expertise. Whether it's how to paint without splatters or choosing the best houseplants, just about everyone who visits your Instagram will spot something they'll appreciate.
Introduce your pet. As the nation's pet population grows, so does the interest in sharing photos or videos. You can even invite visitors to share their own favorite pet pics or tag you in their own pet posts.3
New Hampshire Attracting More Buyers
While other, bigger, states have held the title of Hottest Housing Market in years past, this year's winner is New Hampshire.
One reason for its popularity is that it's been ranked as having one of the five best economies in the nation. The state's GDP growth, low unemployment, and share of jobs in high-tech industries were factors. The state is also rated 1st in Healthcare by WalletHub, 7th in Innovation Potential, and 10th in Economic Health.
The New Hampshire Association of Realtors® reports that the median price for a single-family home reached $566,000 last month, which is up nearly 5% year-over-year.
Lisa Carter, CEO of letsmovetonewhampshire.com, said the pandemic brought new attention to the Granite State, with buyers coming from places like Colorado, Florida and Oregon.
"They're looking for space, great schools and the opportunity to work in new markets, rather, they're part of the workforce in the state or they're working remotely," Carter said.4
More Buyers Leaving the Chat
Multiple listing service Bright MLS described this trend as a "noticeable shift" towards a balanced market, with more agents in the Mid-Atlantic region reporting buyers abandoning their home search.
Reasons for the big buyer backoff have changed between now and last year. For example:
- Considerably more buyers (56.2%) were frustrated by unsuccessful offers during 2024, while only 32% of 2025 buyers have encountered this problem.
- More 2025 buyers are postponing their home search because of market uncertainty and other financial issues.
- High home prices and mortgage rates have been the most common reasons for would-be buyers to stop their home search. More 2024 buyers (almost 60%) mentioned these reasons than this year's buyers.
Sources: 1realestatenews.com, 2cnbc.com, 3blog.hootsuite.com, 4wmur.com, 5nationalmortgageprofessional.com
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