How do interest rates typically affect real estate appraisals?

Higher interest rates typically have a significant impact on demand for properties. When interest rates rise, the cost of borrowing increases, making mortgages more expensive for potential buyers. This elevated cost can deter individuals from purchasing homes or investing in real estate, resulting in a decrease in overall demand.

As fewer buyers enter the market, the competition lowers, which can lead to a decrease in property values. Buyers who are sensitive to financing costs might delay or forgo their purchase entirely. Consequently, this reduction in demand can ultimately be reflected in appraisals, as appraisers consider current market conditions, including buyer affordability, when determining property values.

The influence of higher interest rates on demand highlights a crucial dynamic in the real estate market, where financing costs play a pivotal role in shaping buyer behavior and, by extension, property valuations.