Homebuyers’ interest in moving to a new metro area remains elevated above pre-pandemic levels as remote work becomes the new normal. In November, Miami was the most popular relocation destination of any major U.S. metro for the fourth straight month, according to a new report from Redfin.

The median existing-home sales price for all housing types rose again on an annual basis, marking 117 consecutive months of gains.

The seasonal housing cooldown may end early this year according to Zillow’s latest market report, which found the spring market thaw may be here before winter even begins.

“The market is roaring along, with only half the seasonal slowdown we typically see from October to November.” — RE/MAX LLC President Nick Bailey

While the pandemic-induced great migration may be slowing, the demand for ultra-luxury residences in Miami from New York-based high-net-worth individuals remains strong.

The pandemic and work-from-home orders have changed where, when and why people buy homes. As a result, housing prices hit the highest median of all time in 2021, as the number of homes for sale fell to an all-time low and the demand for second homes surged, according to a new Redfin report. 

“November’s housing starts report signals strength for the housing market.”  — First American deputy chief economist Odeta Kushi

In unveiling its predictions, the National Association of Realtors also released its top 10 housing-market “hidden gems” for 2022.

After a year of price growth and record low inventory in the South Florida housing market, experts predict that home prices will continue to increase, but not at the pace they did over the last 18 months, according to a press release.

“While 2021 single-family starts are expected to end the year 24% higher than the pre-Covid 2019 level, we expect higher interest rates in 2022 will put a damper on housing affordability.” — NAHB chief economist Robert Dietz

Millennials are at the greatest risk of becoming house-rich and cash-poor as the generation is spending the highest percentage of their monthly income on homeownership costs compared to other generations, according to a new Hometap report.

Despite those challenges, there are signs the market continues to shift toward more seasonable norms.

While the real estate market is finally showing signs of cooling after a year of skyrocketing home prices and bidding wars, desirable metros across the U.S., including in Florida, Washington and Massachusetts, can expect a big year in 2022.

Home prices statewide were up 19.5% year over year in November, with several of South Florida’s metros seeing the fastest-growing prices in the state, according to a recent Redfin report. 

According to a new survey, More than 40% of employed Americans are willing to take a pay cut or accept a new job with a lower salary to move to a more affordable location.

While buyer preferences for more space — both inside and outside the home — remain and supply chain issues continue to stifle home construction efforts, other factors, such as the potential increase in interest rates, are expected to change the game in 2022.