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The U.S. housing market has thrived amid the pandemic, with realtor.com®'s Housing Market Recovery Index reaching 101.6 as of March 6, 2021. Median listing prices surged by 14.3% year-over-year, while new listings fell 27% compared to the previous year. Overall active inventory dropped by 51%. Despite strong demand, a limited supply continues to challenge the market dynamics. Chief Economist Danielle Hale indicates that while the demand remains robust, rising mortgage rates may test buyer interest, particularly as the vaccine rollout could encourage more sellers to enter the market.

According to a recent analysis by realtor.com®, buying a home is becoming more affordable in many of the nation's largest cities, despite rising home prices. In January 2021, 15 out of the 50 largest metros had buying costs that were equal to or cheaper than renting, up from 13 a year prior. The monthly cost of purchasing a median-priced home rose only 0.2% year-over-year to $1,988, while renting increased 2.4% to $1,727. Notably, markets like Cleveland and Chicago showed lower median listing prices making buying preferable, whereas tech hubs like San Jose saw higher costs associated with buying.

HarperOne announced the publication of AMERICAN PORTRAIT: The Story of Us, Told by Us on June 15, 2021, as a companion book to the PBS documentary series. This project captures the experiences of 14,000 Americans from diverse backgrounds during a historic year. Judith Curr, President of HarperOne, noted its growing significance during 2020's turbulent events. The book, featuring over 400 stories and priced at $29.99, showcases reflections on family, challenges, and dreams, resonating with the nation's spirit.

Creatd, Inc. (Nasdaq CM: CRTD) announced a partnership with Decider.com to launch the "If This, Then That" Vocal Challenge. This initiative invites creators to submit recommendations for streaming content, enhancing engagement with audiences. Decider aims to help viewers discover top shows and movies. The challenge offers substantial cash prizes: $10,000 for first place, $2,500 for second, and $1,000 for third. The challenge is open for submissions until March 30, 2021. This collaboration exemplifies Creatd's ongoing commitment to community engagement through innovative platforms.

The realtor.com® Monthly Rental Report released on February 18, 2021, indicates a shift in rental trends as renters favor smaller markets with quality amenities. The U.S. median rent rose by 0.8% to $1,442 in January 2021, marking a potential floor for growth. Notably, New Orleans saw an 18.2% increase in median rent, while tech hubs like San Francisco experienced significant declines, including -12.6%. The report highlights that remote work flexibility is driving demand toward affordable markets, with several smaller cities witnessing double-digit rent increases.

Realtor.com® reports that young adults moving back home during the pandemic can save for a home down payment more easily. Paying the U.S. median rent of $1,533 allows them to save $17,000 in 11 months, equating to a 5% down payment on a $340,000 median-priced home. In the top 20 metro areas, it takes an average of 15 months to save for this down payment. Cities like Chicago and Philadelphia offer the quickest savings, while areas such as Los Angeles and San Francisco take the longest, up to 22 months.