Rise in home prices, slip in sales forecast
While the median price of a home in California is expected to reach a new high in 2004, home sales will decline from this year’s record pace, according to the California Assn. of Realtors.
The trade group forecasts a median home price of $414,000, up 13% from $366,450 in 2003. Home sales will slip 4.5% to 548,000 units from this year’s expected record of 574,000 units, but that still would be the third-strongest housing market in the state’s history.
CAR economists attributed the continuing spike in prices to the housing shortage statewide. California typically gains nearly 250,000 new households a year, but only 190,000 units will be built this year.
The percentage of Californians who will be able to afford a median-priced home in 2004 will fall to 19%, according to the realty trade group.
Inside the business of entertainment
The Wide Shot brings you news, analysis and insights on everything from streaming wars to production — and what it all means for the future.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
