As consumer confidence continues to increase, and jumbo loan rates look more like conventional loan rates, expensive home sales are rising. According to the National Association of Realtors the number of home sales priced at $500,000 to $750,000 grew by 15% from January 2013 to January 2014. The time it takes to sell a house has shortened recently, making this an attractive time to sell for many.  Additionally, prices for high-end homes also remain lower than in the past, according to CoreLogic economist Sam Khater. More here

The number of homebuyers who believe that now is a good time to sell a home is increasing, according to new information from a Fannie Mae survey. Mortgages are also considered much easier to get at present when compared to recent years. Fannie Mae’s Nation Housing Survey states that the number of participants who consider now a good time to sell a home jumped to 38% last month, and 52% of participants think it is easier to get a mortgage. The senior vice president and chief economist at Fannie Mae, Doug Duncan said, “we see several positive signs going into this year’s spring home buying season, compared with last year. For example, consumers are less pessimistic about their personal finances, and more optimistic about the current selling environment and their ability to get a mortgage.” More here

A recent Realtor survey suggests that many older people in or approaching their retirement years are making plans to buy a new home. The survey found that 57% of baby boomers have plans of moving out of their current residence. Boomers have, on average, become more confident about their retirement and believe they can achieve their ideal retirement plans. The survey also states that many boomers are likely to buy a second home or vacation home. Boomers are expected to fuel the housing market over the coming years. More here

Researchers at CoreLogic predict that the U.S. will see an average home price gain of 4.2% this year. The number of homes for sale is expected to increase, and construction starts are expected to rise. Experts say there is no way to accurately predict a national average for the housing market as some areas will experience higher interest rates than others. More here

According to experts this spring is shaping up to be a highly competitive selling season as the economy improves, housing confidence rises, and a growing number of homes are expected to go on the market. Experts have compiled a list of valuable tips to take notice of when putting your house up for sale, such as pricing your home correctly, sharing your listing on online sites, making small improvements and repairs, and getting inspections and key reports in advance. Research suggests that once your house is listed, 80% of potential buyers will view your listing in the first four to six weeks. More here