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Realtor.com has released its 2020 Hottest ZIP Codes report, highlighting a shift in demand toward East Coast markets. The top 10 hottest ZIP codes, led by Colorado Springs, Colo., are favored by millennials seeking affordable housing and space due to rising urban costs. Homes in these areas sell 51 days faster than the national average, with millennials achieving a 53% homeownership rate. The report indicates that these markets are less dense and offer desirable amenities, reflecting a post-pandemic trend of migration from urban centers.

The realtor.com® Weekly Recovery Report, dated August 13, 2020, highlights a significant recovery in the U.S. housing market, with new listings growth surpassing pre-pandemic levels for the first time since January 2020. The Recovery Index increased to 105.6, indicating a 5.6-point rise above pre-COVID benchmarks. While new listings are down 6% year-over-year, the pace of sales is improving, with homes selling 4 days faster than last year. Median listing prices rose by 9.9%. However, total inventory decreased by 36%, keeping demand and price pressure high.

The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped the U.S. housing market, increasing interest in suburban properties as home shoppers look beyond their current metro areas. According to realtor.com®'s Cross Market Demand Report, 51% of urban residents are now searching for suburban homes. The trend shows buyers seeking more space and affordability, particularly in the Northeast and parts of the West. However, interest in larger metros like Miami and Dallas declined in July amid rising COVID-19 cases. This suggests a shift in buyer behavior influenced by remote work policies and changing preferences.

The housing market in the U.S. is experiencing a rebound as the usual May peak shifts to August, according to realtor.com®'s Weekly Recovery Report. For the week ending Aug. 1, the Housing Market Recovery Index reached 103.8, up 0.1 points from the previous week, indicating growth despite lower inventory levels. Median listing prices rose 9.4% year-over-year, with homes selling 4 days faster than last year. However, new listings declined by 11%, and total inventory is down 35%, leading to concerns about sustainability as COVID-19 cases may resurge.

In July 2020, the national median home price surged nearly to $350,000, reflecting an 8.5% year-over-year increase, the largest since November 2018. Inventory levels dropped 33% from the previous year, while homes sold in an average of 60 days, consistent with last year's performance. The Northeast outperformed other regions, with 48 out of 50 major metros reporting price gains. However, Miami and Orlando faced declines of -1.5% and -0.9%, respectively, due to COVID-19 impacts. The report highlights a sharp contrast in the housing market's recovery across the U.S. amid the pandemic.

According to a realtor.com HarrisX survey conducted in June, 63% of 2,000 active home shoppers are influenced by their ability to work remotely, with many planning to purchase a home within the next six months. 40% of remote workers expect to buy within four to six months, while 13% cite COVID-19 as a motivating factor. Key desired home features include a home office, garage, quiet location, updated kitchen, large backyard, and open floor plan. Looking ahead, over half of respondents anticipate continuing some form of remote work post-COVID.

The U.S. Housing Market has rebounded from the COVID-related disruptions, reaching pre-pandemic growth levels for the first time. The realtor.com® Housing Recovery Index rose to 101.0 points, indicating a 2.5% gain over the previous week. Demand has surged since early May, with median listing prices growing 9.1% year-over-year. However, the market faces challenges with total inventory down 33% compared to last year, and new listings falling 15%. Regions like the Northeast and West show notable recovery, while the South and Midwest continue to struggle.

Realtor.com®'s HarrisX survey reveals that homebuyers remain focused on key features, like three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and garages, despite COVID-19's impact. The survey of 2,000 prospective buyers shows over one-third are more optimistic about purchasing a home post-COVID. Many benefit from lower mortgage rates, with 75% changing their home search criteria. Notably, 84% prefer move-in-ready homes, rising from 74%. However, there are signs of financial caution, with fewer buyers planning to offer above asking price or large cash deposits.

According to realtor.com®'s Weekly Recovery Report for July 11, 2020, the U.S. housing market is nearing pre-COVID levels, with the Housing Market Recovery Index at 98.5, just 1.5 points below the baseline. The Western region leads recovery, while the South and Midwest are lagging. New listings dropped by 19% YoY, and total inventory fell 32%. Despite limited inventory, median listing prices rose by 7.9% YoY. The time on market has improved, with homes selling just 1 day slower than last year.