The Fed once again held rates steady, labor sector data showed signs of softening, and there’s more evidence of rising home values across the country.

The progress lower on inflation remains stalled, while signed contracts on both new and existing homes rebounded in March.

Despite a pullback in sales and construction, the housing sector is showing signs of strength. Plus, Fed Chair Jerome Powell gave some hints about what may be ahead for rate cuts.

Inflation has improved significantly after peaking in 2022, but recent hotter than expected readings have stalled the progress lower.

Job growth surpassed expectations in March, while home price growth remains strong ahead of the busy spring homebuying season.

Progress on the Fed’s preferred inflation measure has stalled, while the latest data on appreciation and signed contracts show strength in the housing sector.

The Fed held rates steady, as anticipated, with their forecasts showing that three cuts are still expected this year. Plus, February saw positive momentum in home sales and construction.

Inflation was hotter than expected last month. Retail sales rebounded from January’s sharp decline, but not as much as economists had forecasted.

There are signs of softening in the labor sector, while annual home price growth continues to show signs of strength.

Annual inflation continues to progress lower. The weather and mortgage rates impacted signed contracts for homes in January. Key home price indexes revealed that 2023 was another strong year for appreciation.

Closings on existing homes picked up last month, while recent commentary shows that Fed members remain cautious about cutting rates too soon.

Wholesale and consumer inflation were both hotter than expected in January. There was also a pullback in new home construction, though home builders are feeling confident about the year ahead.

The latest appreciation and inventory data show why housing remains a great avenue for wealth creation.