Housing and Economic Research
Original research and analysis on housing trends, the economy and the mortgage market
Granny Flats, Garage Apartments, In-Law Suites: Identifying Accessory Dwelling Units from Real Estate Listing Descriptions Using Text Mining
As the nation’s affordable housing crisis intensifies, there is a growing movement in high-cost areas for the legalization and expansion of accessory dwelling units (ADUs)—also referred to as granny flats, garage apartments, and in-law suites.
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Research Note | Jul 6, 2020
Refinance Trends in the First Quarter of 2020
American homeowners have many options when it comes to mortgage financing. Most homeowners with a mortgage opt for a fully pre-payable 30-year fixed rate mortgage. The fixed rate locks in a fixed payment for the life of the loan, while the 30-year term lowers the required monthly payment. More
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Forecast | Jun 16, 2020
Quarterly Forecast: The Economy is Recovering from a Deep Contraction and Housing is Rebounding, but the Outlook Remains Highly Uncertain
The effect of COVID-19 has been felt around the world and across the United States. As states have begun easing restrictions, the economy is rebounding but continues to be constrained. More
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Forecast | Apr 13, 2020
Quarterly Forecast: The Housing Market Faces Challenges Amid Economic Uncertainty
As large swathes of the U.S. economy shut down to battle the COVID-19 pandemic, the housing market faces its greatest challenge in over a decade. More
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Insight | Feb 27, 2020
The Housing Supply Shortage: State of the States
The United States suffers from a severe housing shortage. In a recent study, The Major Challenge of Inadequate U.S. Housing Supply, we estimated that 2.5 million additional housing units will be needed to make up this shortage. Our earlier study used national statistics, treating the United States as a single market. What happens when we look closer, basing the analysis at the state level? More
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Consumer Research | Feb 11, 2020
New Survey Shows Affordability Continues to Drive Purchase and Rental Decisions
A new Freddie Mac survey shows that affordability remains top of mind for those individuals looking to rent or purchase a home. In fact, Freddie Mac’s “Profile of Today’s Renter and Owner” shows vast majorities of both renters and homeowners believe their current living situation is the most affordable option. More
Opinions, estimates, forecasts, and other views contained in this document are those of Freddie Mac's Economic & Housing Research group, do not necessarily represent the views of Freddie Mac or its management, and should not be construed as indicating Freddie Mac's business prospects or expected results. Although the Economic & Housing Research group attempts to provide reliable, useful information, it does not guarantee that the information or other content in this document is accurate, current or suitable for any particular purpose. All content is subject to change without notice. All content is provided on an “as is” basis, with no warranties of any kind whatsoever. Information from this document may be used with proper attribution. Alteration of this document or its content is strictly prohibited. ©2020 by Freddie Mac.