By now you know that 2022 was no walk in the park for the real estate market. Rising mortgage rates, falling stocks and high inflation gave buyers and sellers the blues and brought the doom-and-gloomers out of the woodwork. But the housing bears may be a little too downbeat heading into 2023 given a number of factors supporting conditions for a decent market, if not a good one. It may not feel as euphoric as 2021, but the fact is millions of homebuyers across the country will come to the closing table this year…and live to tell about it.

Here are five reasons we feel positive about the 2023 market.

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Rising mortgage rates have been the big story in real estate this year. However, buyers are still in the market, adjusting to the “new normal” and confident their dream home is within reach. National mortgage lender – and @properties Christie’s International Real Estate strategic partner – Proper Rate, notes that thoughtful planning and a wide range of available loan products can help buyers and sellers deal with the evolving market conditions.

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Mortgage interest rates have gone up significantly over the past three months, and the changing market has certainly impacted many buyers. But being financially prepared and planning for current and future market conditions can offset much of the uncertainty that accompanies rising rates. Dan Moran, executive vice president of sales for mortgage banker Proper Rate, reminds us that a little perspective can help too. According to Moran, though the national average 30-year fixed rate is now around 6%*, that’s still more than 1.5 points below the 50-year historical average.

Following are some helpful suggestions as you embark on – or continue – the search for your dream home.

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Last month, the Federal Reserve implemented its second interest rate hike of the year and indicated there could be two more rate hikes to come in 2018. Understandably, the news created some buzz in the housing market as the Fed Funds Rate affects mortgage rates.

While mortgage rates have been gradually on the rise, it shouldn’t deter prospective buyers from purchasing a home if they have the means to do so. Here are a few things home buyers and sellers should keep in mind:

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