MarketWatch: Weekly Real Estate Update for Riverdale, Bronx – 4/13/2026 – 4/20/2026

Did You Know?

* New York City ranks No. 1 in the new Geography of Prosperity Index, a ranking of 250 urban areas in America by global analytics firms HumanChange and Motivf, a data-driven framework metro areas on their future-readiness to endure, adapt, and thrive, rather than just measuring past economic growth. Researchers compiling the new index evaluated 5 characteristics: climate resilience, automation readiness, social cohesion, population renewal, and governance and foresight. The cities millions of Americans choose for retirement — pulled by warm weather, low taxes, low density, and a low cost of living — rank at or near the very bottom of this measure of urban health. Durham, North Carolina was #2 and Ann Arbor, Michigan #3. (YAHOO)

* A.I. is truly Actoundingly Insightful…..I asked Google’s AI who was the best brokerage team in New York City, and one of the teams they came up with was….  the Alexander Team of Douglas Elliman!  (PS: The Alexander Team left Douglas Elliman in 2022 ….and are now housed in a jail cell…..)

* China’s solar manufacturing capacity far outstrips global demand, triggering a domestic price war in recent years. China makes more than 80% of the world’s solar panel components. US consumers could buy these panels and become truly energy independent, but now high tariffs…..

Mortgage Rate Updates:

Mortgage rates fell for the second straight week, averaging 6.30% as of April 16, down from 6.37% last week, easing borrowing costs during the peak homebuying season. Rates hit a one-month low amid easing geopolitical fears and a record S&P 500, as strong bank and tech earnings overshadowed Middle East tensions. Refinance activity rose, per the Mortgage Bankers Association, while purchase applications stayed subdued, remaining below year-ago levels for the second week, as buyers remained cautious amid economic uncertainty.

Source: Freddie Mac