October 1, 2026, EDITION

Fall buyers are gaining more negotiating room. More homes on the market and softer asking prices are giving shoppers greater flexibility when deciding where and when to make an offer.

New-home sales picked up in August despite higher borrowing costs. Builders continue attracting buyers, making new construction another option for shoppers exploring the market this fall.

Many current homeowners have substantial equity behind their next move. That financial cushion can provide greater flexibility when deciding whether to sell, downsize, or purchase another property.

Higher borrowing costs haven't brought the housing market to a standstill. Homes recently sold slightly faster than they did a year ago, showing that serious buyers are still moving forward when the right property and price come together.

Today's negotiations can involve much more than the asking price. Buyers may be able to discuss seller concessions, repairs, closing timelines, or other terms that help make a purchase work for both sides.

For sellers, understanding the competition matters. Buyers can afford to compare properties carefully, so condition, presentation, and pricing can all influence which homes make the shortlist.

DID YOU KNOW?...Pending home sales increased slightly in August despite higher borrowing costs. It's a reminder that buyers haven't disappeared from the market. Many are simply being more deliberate about when and where they make an offer.

Mortgage rates have moved higher as rising Treasury yields, inflation concerns, and expectations for additional Federal Reserve action continue to put pressure on borrowing costs. The Fed raised its benchmark rate in September, and longer-term Treasury yields have also climbed, creating a challenging backdrop for mortgage rates. For buyers, today's financing environment makes it especially important to understand how the entire transaction affects the monthly payment rather than making a decision based on the mortgage rate alone. Home price, financing structure, taxes, insurance, and potential seller concessions can all affect affordability. Remember, mortgage rates can be extremely volatile, so check with your mortgage professional for the most up-to-the-minute information.

Don't automatically rule out a home because the listing has been on the market longer than others. A longer market time may simply mean the seller hasn't found the right buyer yet, and it can create an opportunity to ask questions and explore which terms may be negotiable.

Fall buyers may be more selective, so make it easy for them to see the value in your home. Before listing, look at competing properties through a buyer's eyes. Small improvements to presentation, thoughtful pricing, and addressing obvious maintenance issues can help your home stand apart.