Welcome to this month’s episode of the Market Advantage podcast by Optimal Blue. Director of Data Solutions Brennan O’Connell shares highlights from February 2025 mortgage rate lock data. He and his cohost Olivia DeLancey then welcome their guest, CoreLogic Chief Economist Selma Hepp, to discuss the housing market, affordability outlooks, and more.

Key Takeaways:

• Significant jump in refinances: February saw a 40% surge in refi activity attributed to an improving rate environment, indicating potential opportunities for lenders in this segment.
• Affordability challenges: Despite some pockets of improvement, the overall housing market continues to lag, with first-time home buyers facing significant affordability challenges due to rising insurance costs and property taxes.
• Migration patterns: Emerging trends indicate a potential slowdown in migration patterns, as individuals reassess their housing decisions in light of evolving workplace dynamics and climate risks.
• Hazard risk scoring: CoreLogic’s innovative hazard risk scoring for properties allows for a comprehensive assessment of climate and insurance risk.

Links and Resources:

• Subscribe to the Market Advantage data report: https://www2.optimalblue.com/market-advantage/ 
• View the latest Market Advantage data report: https://www2.optimalblue.com/market-advantage/ 
• Follow Optimal Blue on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/optimal-blue/
• Subscribe to Optimal Blue’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Optimal-Blue
• Follow Selma Hepp on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/selma-hepp-phd-11b0773a/
• Visit the CoreLogic website: https://www.corelogic.com/
• Follow Brennan O’Connell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brennan-oconnell/
• Follow Olivia DeLancey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-delancey/

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