Market Pulse April 2025: Tariffs, rates, and what they mean for buying and selling a home

The evolving tariff situation has caused ripple effects across global markets, adding uncertainty for consumers considering plans to buy or sell real estate. A 90-day pause on most new tariffs (excluding a steep hike on Chinese imports) has brought temporary relief, but volatility continues to influence consumer confidence.

If tariffs ramp up again, according to Dominic Villa of Castle Hill Mortgage, “We’re going to see appliance costs, drywall costs, and lumber costs all go up, which is going to make new home builds expensive, as well as renovations.”

As buyers and sellers navigate fluctuating mortgage rates and rising material costs, staying informed and having conversations with a trusted real estate agent is more important than ever.

Key Takeaways:

• Tariff pause impact: A 90-day tariff pause helped stabilize markets—China remains an exception with 125% tariffs.

• Volatility continues: Market volatility continues to impact 10-year Treasury yields and mortgage rate trends.

• Mortgage rates dip: 30-year mortgage rates dipped slightly to around 6.62%, holding under 7% for the 12th week.

• Credit matters: Mortgage rates also depend on credit health—higher scores mean lower rates.

• Costs could rise: Construction and renovation costs may rise if tariffs continue, putting pressure on home prices and buying/selling strategies.

• Agent expertise counts: Though uncertainty is high, expert guidance from your real estate agent is more valuable than ever in navigating market challenges and achieving your real estate goals.

Sources: Dominic Villa – Castle Hill Mortgage, Realtor.com, The Real Deal

 

East Bay Market Snapshots: Single family homes, condos, and townhomes as of April 2025

Here are the latest market stats from around the East Bay for single family homes, condos, and townhome sales as of April 2025.

Alameda County - Single Family Homes

Alameda County - Condos & Townhomes

Contra Costa County - Single-Family Homes

 

 

Contra Costa County - Condos & Townhomes

 

Sources: Bay East Association of Realtors and Contra Costa Association of Realtors.

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