When we look at US home prices, the median doesn’t always tell the whole story. In Q2 2026, the median price for a new single-family home came in at $410,700, while existing homes reached $435,700—a national gap of $25,000, and the widest we’ve seen so far. This trend, which started back in Q2 2024 when existing-home prices first edged ahead of new homes, is something I watch closely for both buyers and sellers. Many homeowners with those hard-to-beat pandemic mortgage rates have chosen to stay put, tightening supply, while builders have responded by offering smaller lots, more manageable homes, and plenty of incentives to attract buyers. But these numbers don’t capture every local market: everything from home type, lot size, and even rising construction costs can shape what the median really represents. By Q2 2026, new-home prices dipped about 1% year-over-year, while existing homes continued to climb—though more slowly—at around 2% after three years of steady increases. For anyone navigating the real estate landscape, understanding these trends is key to making informed decisions. I believe in helping my clients see the full picture, whether you’re buying or selling, so you’re never just relying on a single number.

The latest numbers show US existing-home sales dipping below 4 million in Mid-Q3, the lowest pace in 14 months at 3.98M. Month-over-month sales slipped 2%, and it’s clear buyers are taking a more measured approach across the country. With 30-year fixed mortgages averaging near 7% and supply up to 4.9 months, buyers have more listings to choose from—something I always encourage clients to use to their advantage when we’re looking for the right fit. The median price hit $429,100, a new Mid-Q3 record, with higher-priced homes leading the market. Thanks to rising wages and steady job growth, there’s still solid demand, but more inventory means more room to negotiate, especially for first-time buyers, who made up 30% of purchases. Cash offers comprised 27%, and most homes spent about 31 days on the market. Every client’s situation is unique, and in times like these, listening closely and matching people to the right opportunities becomes even more important. My goal is always to guide you through every step, whether you’re buying your first place or looking to maximize your sale.

Lately, buyers have been facing some real challenges: by late Q3, the typical monthly mortgage payment climbed to $2,600—the highest in 14 months. Even as the national median home-sale price nudged up about 2% year-over-year to around $399,000, affordability remains a real concern. That’s one reason pending sales have stayed about the same month-over-month and are down compared to last year. On the seller side, strategy is everything: about 21% of active listings cut prices recently, and sharper, realistic pricing has definitely helped listings stand out, while overpricing tends to cause hesitation among buyers. I’ve always believed listening and understanding what people need—whether buying or selling—is the key to getting results that work for everyone. Inventory is also showing some improvement, with active supply up about 2% from last year to 1.5 million homes, giving us close to four months of supply—still not quite a balanced market, but a step in the right direction. As always, my goal is to guide clients through these shifts, matching each person with the right solution and keeping their best interests at the center of every move.

Lately, I’ve noticed buyers are feeling the weight of higher monthly payments—by late Q3, the typical payment reached $2,600, a 14-month high. Even as mortgage costs climbed and the national median home-sale price edged up about 2% to $399,000, affordability remains front and center for many of my clients. It’s no surprise that pending sales have held steady month-over-month and are tracking below last year. I’m seeing a little less activity in mortgage-purchase applications and, while new listings dipped around the holidays, they’re still a touch higher than the same period last year. For sellers, a smart pricing strategy is more important than ever—about 21% of active listings made price cuts recently, and I’ve found that sharper, realistic pricing draws genuine attention, while overpricing only creates hesitation. On the inventory side, active supply ticked up about 2% year-over-year to 1.5 million homes, with supply hovering near four months—still not quite a balanced market, but showing some movement. Whether you’re buying or selling, my approach is always tailored to your needs and I’m committed to ensuring you have the guidance and attention you deserve as the market shifts.

There’s a lot of buzz about whether U.S. interest rates could remain higher into 2027—and that’s something every buyer, seller, and investor should keep on their radar. With inflation sticking around and long-term Treasury yields elevated, the days of rock-bottom rates might not return as quickly as some hope. The Federal Reserve is walking a fine line: weighing inflation risks while watching for any slowdown in economic momentum. What this means for real estate? Higher yields could keep borrowing costs up, affecting everything from single-family homes to commercial and multi-unit properties. I always encourage my clients to look at the full picture—whether you’re planning to buy or considering selling, it’s wise to factor in how this kind of rate uncertainty could shape the market. As always, a balanced, well-informed approach is the best path forward in real estate.