The Case Shiller Home Price Index, considered the ‘gold standard’ for home appreciation, indicates a 0.7% increase in home prices in September, marking a 3.9% rise from last year. The index is on track for a 6% appreciation this year.

Apartment List Rental Data’s November Rental Report reveals a 0.9% decline in new rents for November, down 1.1% from the previous year. This marks the fourth consecutive monthly drop.

This is referred to as a Shelter Cost, a substantial component of inflation, similar to the drop in oil prices this year.

What does it all mean? Inflation is continuing to decrease, surpassing the Federal Reserve’s expectations. As we reflect, we might find ourselves thinking, ‘I wish I had been more prepared for 2024.’ Consider me your time-travel buddy; 2024 has yet to arrive, so you still have time.

Below is the link to a Buy vs. Rent video I created, illustrating the advantages of purchasing a home. I’m sharing the longer 4-minute video, but the 2-minute version is also available. Feel free to forward .