Priced Out of the Market? A Condo or Townhome Could Be Your Way In

Today’s home prices have a lot of buyers, especially first-time buyers, wondering if there’s even anything out there that’s in their budget. But owning a home may be more within reach than you think. Sometimes, it just means considering a different type of home.

Condos and townhomes can be a great way to buy without stretching every last dollar. And right now, two things make them worth a serious look.

There Are More Condos and Townhomes To Choose From

Maybe you feel like there’s just nothing out there for you, and you’ve exhausted all your options. But have you considered condos or townhomes? A lot of buyers start by looking for a single-family, detached home without even realizing what that search omits from their pool of choices.

According to HousingWire Data, nationally there were 233,030 condos and townhomes for sale this June. That’s more than any June in at least the past decade, and more than double the number available back in 2022 (see graph below):

That means there are more options out there in this segment of the market, and that’s especially good news for first-time buyers. These types of homes can be a great way to break into the market for less.

Just remember, that’s the national number. What’s available will depend on where you’re looking. But generally speaking, more options means less competition, more time to decide, and more room to negotiate.

What’s Happening with Ann Arbor Condos

Good news if you’re shopping for a condo in Ann Arbor: the market is opening up in your favor. Through the end of July, new listings climbed to 594 in 2026 from 563 last year, giving you more choices to explore. At the same time, pending sales eased to 343 (down from 389) and closed sales dipped to 345 (from 359), while homes now sit for 49 days on average versus just 29 a year ago. With median prices sliding slightly to $335,000 from $340,000, this shift toward more supply and a calmer pace means you have room to compare options, negotiate with confidence, and lean on expert guidance to find the right fit.

They Also Tend To Cost Less Than Single-Family Homes

Price is the other big draw. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the median condo price was $380,000 in June. In contrast, the median single-family home price was $446,400 (see graph below):

That’s a difference of more than $66,000.

A big reason why? Condos are usually smaller than single-family homes. And smaller homes can come with smaller price tags.

And if you don’t need all that extra space, that lower entry price could be exactly what gets you through the door.

What’s Happening with Condos vs. Homes in Ann Arbor

Here’s where the numbers get exciting for anyone eyeing an entry into the Ann Arbor market: through July 2026, the median home sold for $586,500 while the median condo came in at $335,000, a gap of over $250,000. That difference carries into averages too, with homes at $678,466 versus $448,299 for condos. Even a year ago, Ann Arbor condos began experiencing more price reductions. For you, this means a condo can be a smart, more accessible way to plant roots in a neighborhood you love, without stretching your budget to single-family territory. With expert Realtor guidance and clear market insights on your side, you can turn that price advantage into a vibrant, low-maintenance lifestyle right where you want to be.

Condo or Townhome? How They’re Different.

For buyers who feel priced out of the market, a condo or townhome could be a way in. But there are some things to know. Before you start checking out homes, it’s good to understand how these two compare to each other, and to a single-family home.

• With a single-family detached home, you own the house and the land it sits on, and you don’t share any walls with neighbors. That means the most space and privacy. But it also usually comes with a higher tag, and all the maintenance is on you.
• With a townhome, typically you own the building you live in and the lot it sits on. They’re usually multi-level, so you get more space, and you share two walls at most. You’ll also have more say over how your home looks and how repairs get done, but more of that upkeep falls on you.
• With a condo, you own just the inside of your unit and may have access to community features like a pool or gym. The building and shared space belong to everyone who lives there, which means you have less maintenance responsibilities. But you’ll also likely have more neighbors around you, less control over building decisions, and higher HOA fees since the HOA handles the exterior and common areas.

Bottom Line

Ready to make your move in Ann Arbor? A condo or townhome could be your path to owning a home without blowing your budget. The Bouma Group, Realtors knows this market inside and out, from the walkable downtown condos to the tucked-away neighborhoods you’ll love calling home. Our team pairs deep local expertise with personalized guidance, listening to your budget, your must-have features, and the lifestyle you’re after, then matching you with properties that truly fit. Whether you’re drawn to low-maintenance condo living or a place with a little more room to grow, we’ll walk you through financing options, honest market insights, and every step in between so you feel confident from first tour to closing day.

Let’s find the right spot for you together, reach out today at 734-761-3060 or info@bouma.com. Let’s turn your Ann Arbor plans into keys in your hand.

Understanding Today’s Mortgage Rates: Is 3% Coming Back?

Are 3% Mortgage Rates Coming Back?

Many buyers are holding off on their plans these days, hoping that mortgage rates will drop – perhaps even back to the historic low of 3% from a few years ago. But here’s the thing: those rates were never meant to last. They were a short-term response to a very specific moment in time. And as the market finds its footing again, it’s time to reset expectations.

Back in 2020 and 2021, 3% mortgage rates gave buyers a serious boost: more affordability, more buying power, and more opportunity. But those rates were a result of emergency economic policies during the height of a global pandemic. Now that the economy is in a different place, we’re seeing mortgage rates in the high 6% to low 7% range.

And while experts currently project a slight easing in the months ahead, most industry leaders agree: rates are not going back to 3%.

Instead, many forecasts suggest mortgage rates will settle in the mid-6% range by the end of the year, pending any major economic shifts. As Kara Ng, Senior Economist at Zillow, says:

“While Zillow expects mortgage rates to end the year near mid-6%, barring any unforeseen shocks, that path might be bumpy.”

What Buyers Should Know

Basically, waiting for 3% rates might mean waiting longer than you’d expect – and missing out along the way. Instead of putting off homebuying indefinitely, make a plan to get there and focus on what you can control: your budget, your credit, and working with a trusted professional who can explain exactly what’s happening in the current market – and how to navigate it.

Your local real estate agent and a trusted lender make all the difference in this process. The experts have insights into down payment assistance programs, alternative financing options, negotiation strategies, and overall – the experience you need on your side to understand creative ways that will make your plans work.

And here’s the biggest thing to keep in mind. Since rates are projected to ease slightly later this year, if that happens, it could bring some more buyers back into the market. Acting now gives you a head start, especially with more homes on the market than we’ve seen in years.

Think about it: if mortgage rates do come down, what do you think everyone else is going to do? That’s right – they’ll jump back in too.

Getting ahead of that rush could put you in a stronger position to find the right home with less competition. Realtor.com sums it up well:

“Staying out of the market in hopes of a rate drop that never comes can lead to missed opportunities . . . Rising home prices, rent increases, and inflation might outpace any future savings on interest. And if rates do fall sharply again, buyers could face an entirely different challenge: surging competition.”

Bottom Line

Those 3% rates everyone remembers from a few years ago were the exception, not the rule.

Now that they’re settling into new territory, it’s a good time to adjust your expectations and learn more about where things are heading as this market shifts.

A local real estate agent and a trusted lender will be your best resources, always keeping you up-to-date and informed, so you can make sense of your options and build a game plan that works for you. See Ann Arbor Condo complexes here and start dreaming about your new home! Contact The Bouma Group today at 734-761-3060 or info@condohotline.com.

Ann Arbor Condo Market Update – First Quarter 2025

Condo Sales Recap for the First Quarter 2025

Are you thinking about buying or selling a condo in Ann Arbor this year? Understanding the latest market trends can help you make informed decisions, whether you’re a first-time buyer, seasoned investor, or looking to sell your property for the best price.

The first quarter of 2025 painted an exciting picture of Ann Arbor’s dynamic condo market. With an impressive variety ranging from luxury properties to affordable co-ops, there’s no shortage of opportunities for buyers and sellers alike.

Here’s a detailed look at key market stats, standout sales, and insights to guide your real estate plans.

Key Market Trends in Q1 2025

Before we break it down, here are some highlights from the first quarter of the year:

• Average sale price: $410,270
• Median sale price: $342,500
• Average price per square foot: $302
• Median price per square foot: $277
• Days on market (on average): 43
• Number of sales: 100
• Quick movers: 61 condos sold in 30 days or less!

Ann Arbor’s real estate market continues to provide diverse opportunities for both buyers and sellers while maintaining healthy activity levels.

Now, let’s take a closer look at the highest, average, median, and lowest-priced condo sales in the first quarter 2025.

The Most Expensive Sale

• Location: 3231 Ardley Avenue, Ann Arbor, MI 48105
• List Price: $1,129,995
• Sale Price: $1,114,995
• Square Footage: 2,740 sq. ft.
• Price Per Square Foot: $406.20
• Bedrooms/Bathrooms: 3 beds, 3.1 baths
• Days on Market: 14

This luxurious condo in the exclusive North Oaks community offered its buyers spacious, modern living, coupled with a prime location. Selling slightly under asking price in just 14 days, it’s a shining example of Ann Arbor’s luxury real estate appeal.

The Average Condo Sale

• Location: 443 Sumark Way, Ann Arbor, MI 48103
• List Price: $409,000
• Sale Price: $415,000
• Square Footage: 1,693 sq. ft.
• Price Per Square Foot: $245.17
• Bedrooms/Bathrooms: 2 beds, 2.1 baths
• Days on Market: 5

This property in Oakbrook highlights the perfect balance of space, price, and location in Ann Arbor’s competitive market. Buyers didn’t hesitate, making this sale happen in just five days and even slightly over asking price.

The Median Condo Sale

• Location: 5588 Arbor Chase Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48103
• List Price: $359,000
• Sale Price: $340,000 – Sold by The Bouma Group
• Square Footage: 1,395 sq. ft.
• Price Per Square Foot: $243.73
• Bedrooms/Bathrooms: 2 beds, 2 baths
• Days on Market: 58

This sale reinforces the steady demand for mid-market condos in Ann Arbor. With a practical layout and competitive price, this Arbor Chase condo is the type of property buyers seek for quality and convenience.

The Least Expensive Sale

• Location: 2116 Pauline Blvd #201, Ann Arbor, MI 48103
• List Price: $180,000
• Sale Price: $167,500
• Square Footage: 929 sq. ft.
• Price Per Square Foot: $180.33
• Bedrooms/Bathrooms: 2 beds, 1 bath
• Days on Market: 172

This affordable condo at Walden Hills demonstrates that even budget-conscious buyers can find options in Ann Arbor. While it spent more time on the market, its eventual sale highlights opportunities for entry-level buyers or investors.

What These Trends Mean for Buyers and Sellers

Whether you’re thinking about buying or selling, here’s why the Ann Arbor condo market works for you:

• For Buyers: From high-end excellence to affordable finds, the Ann Arbor market fits a variety of budgets and lifestyles.
• For Sellers: Properties priced competitively and marketed effectively continue to move swiftly, with over half of Q1 listings selling in under 30 days.

These trends reiterate that Ann Arbor is the place to get value on both sides of the deal.

What’s Next?

If you’re looking to enter the Ann Arbor condo market or explore its potential for your current property, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact us at The Bouma Group, Realtors today at 734-761-3060 or info@condohotline.com for expert advice and personalized solutions.

There’s no better time to make your move in Ann Arbor! See Ann Arbor condo complexes and units for sale here.

Time in the Market Beats Timing the Market

Timing the Market – Is it Possible?

Does it make more sense to buy a home now or wait? There’s a lot to consider, from what’s happening in the market to your changing needs. But generally speaking, timing the market isn’t a good strategy – there are too many factors at play for that to even be possible.

That’s why experts usually say time in the market is better than timing the market.

In other words, if you want to buy a home and you’re able to make the numbers work, doing it sooner rather than later is usually worth it. Bankrate explains why:

“No matter which way the real estate market is leaning, though, buying now means you can start building equity immediately.”

Benefits of Buying Now vs. Later

Here’s some data to break this down so you can really see the benefit of buying now versus later. Each quarter, Fannie Mae releases the Home Price Expectations Survey. It asks over one hundred economists, real estate experts, and investment and market strategists what they forecast for home prices over the next five years. In the latest release, experts are projecting home prices will continue to rise through at least 2029 – just at a slower, more normal pace than they did over the past few years (see the graph below):

But what does that really mean for you? To give these numbers context, the graph below uses a typical home value to show how it could appreciate over the next few years using those HPES projections. This is what you could start to earn in equity if you buy a home in early 2025.

 

In this example, let’s say you go ahead and buy a $400,000 home this January. Based on the expert forecasts from the HPES, you could gain more than $83,000 in household wealth over the next five years. That’s not a small number. If you keep on renting, you’re losing out on this equity gain.

And while today’s market has its fair share of challenges, this is why buying is going to be worth it in the long run. If you want to buy a home, don’t give up. There are creative ways we can make your purchase possible. From looking at more affordable areas, to considering condos or townhomes, or even checking out down payment assistance programs, there are options to help you make it happen.

So sure, you could wait. But if you’re just waiting it out to perfectly time the market, this is what you’re missing out on. And that decision is up to you.

Bottom Line

If you’re torn between buying now or waiting, don’t forget that it’s time in the market, not timing the market that truly matters. Let’s connect if you want to talk about what you need to do to get the process started today. Contact us today at The Bouma Group, Realtors and let’s discuss what timing makes sense for your next move! 734-761-3060 or info@bouma.com.

This Is the Sweet Spot Homebuyers Have Been Waiting For

Today’s Market is a Sweet Spot for Condo and Homebuyers

After months of sitting on the sidelines, many condo and homebuyers who were priced out by high mortgage rates and affordability challenges finally have an opportunity to make their move. With rates trending down, today’s market is a sweet spot for buyers—and it may not last long.

So, if you’ve put your move on the back burner, here’s why maybe you shouldn’t delay your plans any longer.

As you weigh your options and decide if you should buy now or wait, ask yourself this: What do you think everyone else is going to do?

The truth is, if mortgage rates continue to ease, as experts project, more buyers will jump back into the market. A survey from Bankrate shows over half of homeowners would be motivated to buy this year if rates drop below 6% (see graph below):

With rates already in the low 6% range, we’re not terribly far off from hitting that threshold. The bottom line is, that when they drop into the 5s, the number of buyers in the market is going to go up – and that means more competition for you.

That increased demand will likely push home prices up, which could potentially take away from some of the benefits you’d gain from a slightly lower interest rate. As Nadia Evangelou, Senior Economist and Director of Real Estate Research at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), explains:

“The downside of increased demand is that it puts upward pressure on home prices as multiple buyers compete for a limited number of homes. In markets with ongoing housing shortages, this price increase can offset some of the affordability gains from lower mortgage rates.”

So, while waiting to buy may seem like a smart move, it could backfire if rising prices outpace your savings from slightly lower rates.

What This Means for You

Right now, you’ve got the chance to get ahead of all of that. Today’s market is a buyer sweet spot. Why? Because a lot of other buyers are waiting – which means not as many people are actively looking for condos and homes. That means less competition for you.

At the same time, affordability has already improved quite a bit. Recent easing in mortgage rates has made homeownership more accessible. As Mike Simonsen, Founder of Altos Research, says:

“Mortgage payments on the typical-price home are 7% lower than last year and are 13% lower than the peak in May 2024.”

And while the supply of homes for sale is still low, it’s also higher than it’s been in years. According to Ralph McLaughlin, Senior Economist at Realtor.com:

“The number of homes actively for sale continues to be elevated compared with last year, growing by 35.8%, a 10th straight month of growth, and now sits at the highest since May 2020.”

This means you now have more options to choose from than you’ve had in quite a while.

With fewer buyers in the market, improving affordability, and more homes to choose from, you have the chance to find the right one before the competition heats up.

Why Waiting Could Cost You

If you’re waiting for the perfect time to buy, it’s important to understand that timing the market is nearly impossible. The longer you wait, the higher the risk that market conditions will shift—and not necessarily in your favor. As Greg McBride, Chief Financial Analyst at Bankrate, says:

“It’s one of those things where you should be careful what you wish for. A further drop in mortgage rates could bring a surge of demand that makes it tougher to actually buy a house.”

Bottom Line

Don’t wait until you have to deal with more competition and higher prices – you already have the chance to buy a condo or home while we’re in the sweet spot today. Let’s connect to make sure you’re taking advantage of it. 734-761-3060 or info@condohotline.com.

Ann Arbor Condo Spring 2024 Market Update

Ann Arbor Condo Spring 2024

The Ann Arbor condo market is buzzing with activity as we advance into the Spring of 2024. The city, always evolving and dynamic, showcases its versatility in the real estate market. With a diverse range of available properties, from the most accessible to the pinnacle of luxury, there is movement across all segments.

Active listings sit at a substantial 80 condos. The market’s temperature can be further inferred from the 52 of these condos are already under contract, hinting at the high demand for living spaces in this vibrant city.

For those on the lookout for affordable options, Ann Arbor extends an inviting hand. Of the 25 condos listed under the $300,000 mark, a striking 80% are under contract—a clear message about the competitive nature of this price segment. The fact that the lowest-priced condo at $178,000 is also under contract is a testament to the allure of more reasonably priced homes, encouraging quick action from buyers.

The luxury market stands strong at the opposite end of the spectrum. A condo boasts the highest price tag at a whopping $1,950,000, setting a benchmark for the opulence available within Ann Arbor’s condo offerings.

New Construction Condos

New construction continues to play a significant role in Ann Arbor’s real estate narrative with 44 condos listed for sale. This marks an encouraging sign of growth, ensuring the market remains vibrant and caters to modern tastes and standards. Most remarkably, an overwhelming majority of these new properties—27 out of 44—are already under contract, a nod to their desirability and the city’s relentless appeal.

Sold Condos

So far this year, 111 condos have already sailed past the sold status. These units ranged from a more affordable $130,000 to a grand $1,400,000, indicative of the diverse buyers in the Ann Arbor market. For those eyeing the statistics, the average sale price sits at $411,611, with the average price per square foot rounding out at $301. These numbers aren’t just digits; they’re a benchmark of the value that Ann Arbor condos hold and a metric for prospective investors or homeowners to consider.

In summary, the Spring 2024 Ann Arbor condo market is lively and diverse. With a strong start to 2024, and the trend showing a weighted distribution towards seller advantage, now might be the perfect time to consider stepping into or moving up within this dynamic market. Whether you’re searching for affordability or opulence, Ann Arbor’s condos are opening their doors to meet you halfway. Contact us today for a curated list of units as soon as they hit the market at 734-761-3060 or info@condohotline.com.

People Are Still Moving, Even with Today’s Affordability Challenges

People Are Still Moving, Even with Today’s Affordability Challenges

If you’re thinking about buying or selling a condo or home, you might have heard that it’s tough right now because mortgage rates are higher than they’ve been over the past few years, and home prices are rising. That much is true. Take a look at the graph below. It breaks down how the current affordability situation stacks up to recent years.

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) explains how to read the values on the graph:

“To interpret the indices, a value of 100 means that a family with the median income has exactly enough income to qualify for a mortgage on a median-priced home.”

The black dotted line represents that 100 value on the index. Essentially, the higher the bar, the more affordable homes are. As you can see, the orange bar for today shows higher mortgage rates and home prices have created a clear challenge. But, while affordability is definitely tighter right now, that doesn’t mean the housing market is at a standstill.

According to NAR, based on the pace of sales right now, just under 4 million homes will sell this year. With some simple math, let’s break down what that really means for you:

• 3.96 million homes divided by 365 days in a year = 10,849 houses sell each day
• 10,849 divided by 24 hours in a day = 452 houses sell per hour
• 452 divided by 60 minutes in an hour = about 8 houses sell each minute

So, on average, over 10,000 homes sell each day in this country. Whether you’re a buyer or a seller, this goes to show there are still ways to make your move possible, even at a time when affordability is tight.

An Agent Can Help You Make Your Move a Reality

You may be wondering how other homebuyers and sellers are making this happen now. One of the biggest game-changers in today’s market is working with a trusted local real estate agent. Great agents are helping other people just like you navigate today’s market and the current affordability situation, and their insight is invaluable right now. See what our clients have to say about us!

True professionals will be able to offer advice tailored to your specific wants, needs, budget, and more. Not to mention, they’ll also be able to draw on their experience of what’s working for other buyers and sellers right now. This could mean broadening your search, if needed, to include other housing types like condos, townhouses, or neighborhoods a bit further out to help offset some of the affordability challenges today.

Bottom Line

You might think there aren’t many people buying or selling condos or homes right now since affordability is tighter than it’s been in quite some time, but that’s not the case. It’s true that buying a home has become more expensive over the past couple of years, but people are still moving.

If you’re hoping to buy or sell a condo today, know that other people are still making their goals a reality – and that’s happening in large part because of the help and advice of skilled local real estate agents. Want to talk to a trusted professional about your own move? Let’s connect today at 734-761-3060 or info@condohotline.com and together we’ll find your best path to homeownership!

Have You Considered Adding Condos to Your Home Search?

Reasons To Consider Condos in Your Home Search

Are you having trouble finding a home that fits your needs and your budget? If so, you should know there’s an option worth considering – condominiums, also known as condos. According to Bankrate:

“A condo can be a more affordable entry point to homeownership than a single-family home. And as a homeowner, you’ll build equity over time and have access to tax benefits that a renter wouldn’t.”

That’s why expanding your search to include additional housing types, like condominiums, could help you accomplish your homeownership goals this spring, especially if you can be flexible about the space you need. Condos are typically smaller than a single-family home, but that’s part of what can make them more budget-friendly (see graph below):

In addition to providing more options in your home search and possibly your price point, there are several other benefits to condo living. They tend to require less upkeep and lower maintenance – and that can give you more time to spend doing the things you enjoy. Plus, since many condos are in or near city centers, they offer the added benefit of being in close proximity to work and leisure.

Condo Price vs. Home Price in the Ann Arbor Area

In the Ann Arbor Area, we are seeing the median sales price a bit lower than nationally. For sales in 2023 Year to Date, condos have a Median Sales Price of $269,500 vs. $350,000 for Single Family Homes.

Remember, your first home doesn’t have to be your forever home. The important thing is to get your foot in the door as a homeowner so you can start building wealth in the form of home equity. In time, the equity you develop can fuel a future purchase if your needs change.

Ultimately, owning and living in a condo can be a lifestyle choice. And if that appeals to you, they could provide the added options you need in today’s market.

Bottom Line

It could make a lot of sense to add condos to your home search. Let’s connect today at 734-761-3060 or info@condohotline.com if you’re ready to check out the options in the Ann Arbor area!

Mortgage Rates Are Dropping. What Does That Mean for You?

Is the Real Estate Market Slowing Down, or Is This a Housing Bubble?