Elevated wage growth and persistent high inflation at the start of the year are likely to influence the Federal Reserve's decision to raise rates in the coming week. This article discusses the latest wage and inflation trends and their potential impact on the real estate market, given that the central bank's target federal funds rate is between 4.75% and 5%.
Wage Growth Trends
According to the Labor Department, employers spent 1.2% more on wages and benefits in the first quarter compared to the previous three months. Year-over-year, the employment-cost index advanced by 4.8% last quarter, which is a slight decrease from the 5.1% gain observed at the end of the previous year.
Inflation Dynamics
The central bank's preferred consumer inflation gauge, the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) price index, showed signs of cooling in March. Despite the recent easing in inflation, the overall levels remain high, which could impact the Federal Reserve's decision-making process.
Impact on the Real Estate Market
As the Federal Reserve prepares to make its upcoming rate decision on May 3rd, it will consider the implications of wage growth and inflation trends on the real estate market. The central bank's target federal funds rate of 4.75%-5% could have a significant impact on mortgage rates, affecting homebuyers' affordability and demand for housing.
Even though the yield curve is inverted, higher short-term interest rates can lead to increased mortgage rates, which in turn may result in reduced affordability for potential homebuyers. This could lead to a slowdown in the real estate market, as fewer buyers are able to afford the higher monthly mortgage payments. If fixed income markets begin to see inflation as persistent then longer term rates will increase to more normal historic levels.
On the other hand, increased wage growth may partially offset the impact of rising mortgage rates on home affordability. With higher incomes, some potential buyers may still be able to afford homes despite the increased mortgage rates. However, this will largely depend on the rate at which wages grow compared to the rise in mortgage rates.
Fed's Upcoming Rate Decision (5/3/2023)
As the Federal Reserve weighs its options for the next rate decisionit remains keely aware of the real estate market. Much of the inflationary pressures in our economy have been driven by the meteoric increases seen in many real estate markets across the country. By closely monitoring wage growth, inflation, and the targeted federal funds rate, the Fed will attempt to balance economic stability and growth in the face of evolving inflationary challenges.
