Equity Boom, “Inventory Illusion” & Build-Your-Own Homes | 2025 Housing Market & Mortgage Tips

Equity Boom, “Inventory Illusion” & Build-Your-Own Homes | 2025 Housing Market & Mortgage Tips

Episode Summary

In this Weekly Spark episode, Ryan and Jason break down some of the most misunderstood trends shaping the 2025 housing market — from record home equity to the “inventory illusion” confusing both buyers and sellers.

Despite higher rates, homeowners are sitting on historically high equity gains, boosted by long-term appreciation and inflation effects. Yet the market still feels tight because inventory numbers can be misleading. The hosts explain why listing categories are shifting, why some inventory is “hidden,” and what supply actually looks like when separating new construction from existing homes.

The episode also highlights the growing importance of construction loans, including one-time close programs and VA options that allow buyers to build rather than fight over limited resale homes. These programs are helping buyers create affordability, customize features, and access inventory that isn’t listed.

Plus, agents can take advantage of a free AI for Agents Class happening October 27–31 to save hours on marketing, descriptions, and content creation each week.

Key Takeaways

1️⃣ Record Equity Growth Even in Higher-Rate Cycles

• Homeowners continue gaining equity due to long-term appreciation

• Inflation can actually increase homeowner wealth over time

• Equity growth boosts seller confidence and refinance opportunities

2️⃣ The “Inventory Illusion” — Why Listings Feel Scarce

• Traditional listings remain tight, but overall inventory is shifting

• Some categories (new construction, build-ready land, multi-family) are rising

• Buyers feel the shortage because resale inventory is still limited

3️⃣ Key Supply Metrics to Watch

• New construction: higher months of supply, heavy builder incentives

• Existing homes: extremely low months of supply

• Builders offering rate buydowns, upgrades, and flexible terms

4️⃣ Build-Your-Own Homes: A Powerful Affordability Strategy

One-time close loans:

• Combine land purchase + construction financing

• One approval, one closing, one long-term loan

Land + build options (including VA):

• VA buyers can build custom homes

• Payment delays during construction boost affordability

• Create inventory instead of competing for resale homes

5️⃣ Free AI for Agents Class (Oct 27–31)

• Learn tools to batch content faster

• Improve listing descriptions with AI

• Streamline client outreach and social posts

• Save multiple hours weekly