## FAQ

### 1. What contributed to the acceleration in house price appreciation in the fourth quarter of 2024?
The acceleration in house price appreciation in the fourth quarter of 2024 was primarily due to persistent high mortgage rates and low inventory levels.

### 2. Which states experienced the highest and lowest house price appreciation?
Vermont topped the list of states with the highest house price appreciation, while Hawaii experienced a decline in house prices. Louisiana had the lowest house price appreciation among all states.

### 3. How did house price growth vary across U.S. metro areas in the fourth quarter of 2024?
House price growth across U.S. metro areas ranged from -4.9% to +24.7% in the fourth quarter of 2024. 18 metro areas saw negative house price appreciation, while the rest experienced positive price appreciation.

### 4. How much have house prices increased since the COVID-19 pandemic began?
Nationally, house prices rose by 53% between the first quarter of 2020 and the fourth quarter of 2024, with more than half of metro areas experiencing growth rates higher than the national average.

## Conclusion
The housing market in the United States saw a slight acceleration in house price appreciation in the fourth quarter of 2024, driven by high mortgage rates and low inventory levels. While most states and metro areas experienced positive price appreciation, there were variations in growth rates across different regions. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the housing market has been significant, with substantial increases in house prices observed since the beginning of the pandemic. It is essential for potential buyers and sellers to stay informed about these trends to make informed decisions in the real estate market.