“Months’ Supply of Inventory,” or MSI, shows the theoretical number of months needed to “absorb” available homes for sale in a given month based on the number of homes going into contract in a given month. The shorter the time period, the stronger the market for sellers, leading to upward pricing pressure. Longer time periods indicate slower absorption and a buyers’ market.
The chart below illustrates the dramatic difference in MSI for homes up to the median price ($1.3 million for houses, $1.1 million for condos) and in the next price segment higher, versus the luxury home segment, defined here as houses selling for $2,000,000+ and condos for $1,500,000+. (By this definition, luxury sales currently make up about 20% of San Francisco’s home sales.)
Below is a chart that shows how MSI has changed over the last three Octobers. Clearly, the luxury market has been slowing over the last few years for both homes and condos.
This final chart (below) shows the dramatic difference between MSI for homes selling above and below $2million since 2013. It also shows the much heavier seasonal effect on home sales above $2 million, as those who can afford such homes leave the market to take their summer and winter vacations. (The theory goes that the proletariat that owns homes for less than$2 million can’t afford to get away.)
Why is the High End of the Market Stalling Out?
The most likely explanation for the stall in high-end condo sales is the added inventory being built and coming on line at the top end. Witness all the high-rises sprouting South of Market and along the Market Street and Van Ness Corridors. Buyers simply have more choices. To the extent that foreign buyers – especially from China — are driving those condo sales, the summer’s turmoil in Asian stock markets may also be having an effect, though this week-end’s New York Times article suggests otherwise.
More generally, it’s certainly possible that sellers and listing agents have finally pushed the envelope on prices for high-end homes and condos a little too far. High prices have motivated some buyers to look at options outside the city, while other buyers have simply stopped looking due to fatigue.
The Take-Aways
The slowdown at the top end doesn’t portend an imminent crash, in my view. Indeed, there are plenty of “luxury” properties selling quickly and at well above asking. It’s just that less of them are doing so than previously. In a slowing market, it’s more important than ever to price your property realistically and in full awareness of your competition.
For buyers at all price points, it’s a great time to actually be out there looking! Between now and roughly March, when the spring selling season begins, you’re likely to find less competition from other buyers and plenty of sellers who are willing to strike a reasonable deal. Go for it!
As always, your questions, comments and referrals are much appreciated!
What happens between 2 and 3 MSI, neither seller or buyer market?
That would be considered a “balanced” or “normal” market or one “in equilibrium.”
It’s also worth noting that San Francisco’s MSI is far, far lower than that considered “normal” for California as a whole. According to the California Association of Realtors, an MSI of 6 or 7 would be considered indicative of a “normal” market.