Core Viewpoint - The real estate market is undergoing a significant adjustment, with a shift from speculative buying to genuine demand for housing, leading to a surge in second-hand property transactions over new ones in major cities [2][20][25]. Group 1: Market Trends - Many homeowners are forced to sell properties at a loss, leading to a significant drop in prices for older, less desirable homes, which are now seen as more affordable options [2][5]. - In key cities, second-hand home transactions have outpaced new home sales, with cities like Shanghai and Beijing seeing second-hand sales at 5.3 times and 4.8 times the volume of new homes, respectively [2][3]. - The adjustment is viewed as a necessary clearing of the previous real estate bubble, allowing genuine buyers to find opportunities [2][20]. Group 2: Price Dynamics - As of July 2024, second-hand home prices in first-tier cities have returned to levels seen in 2016, indicating a significant price correction [7]. - In Guangzhou, the average price of second-hand homes dropped from 29,300 yuan per square meter to 20,900 yuan per square meter, a decrease of over 8,000 yuan per square meter [9]. - The rental yield for second-hand properties is increasing, with a notable example being a rental return rate of 4% for a property purchased for 1.2 million yuan in Beijing [11][12]. Group 3: Buyer Behavior - The current market conditions have attracted not only first-time homebuyers but also investors looking for financial opportunities in real estate [10][19]. - The increase in second-hand property listings has provided buyers with more options, allowing them to negotiate better deals [18]. - The trend of homeowners urgently selling their properties has created a favorable environment for buyers to find bargains [6][18]. Group 4: Policy Implications - The shift in the market from speculation to genuine demand supports the idea that future policies should focus on stabilizing housing prices rather than suppressing them [23][24]. - The current market dynamics are seen as a foundation for future economic recovery, with real estate stability being crucial for overall economic health [22][28].