JANUARY 8, 2026, EDITION

Sales of pre-owned homes grew in November, hitting a nine-month high. The median price was just 1.2% higher than a year ago, good news for buyers, as more inventory hits the market. 

Sales gains should continue. The index that tracks signed contracts on pre-owned homes shot up almost 3% annually in November—the strongest performance of the year, and the best in nearly three years.

Home price increases continue to slow, with the October Case-Shiller Index up just 1.4% nationally, and some markets posting small declines. Housing affordability is improving, with wage growth rising faster than home prices. 

2025 was a year of normalization for the U.S. housing market. 39% of listings saw price cuts, while active inventory rose more than 16%, as conditions shifted toward balance between buyers and sellers.

The National Association of Home Builders confidence index inched higher in December, and the report notes, "future sales expectations have been above the key breakeven level of 50 for the past three months."

Realtor.com reports homebuyers now need about 7 years to save for a down payment. Timelines have shortened considerably from a peak of 12 years in 2022, varying from under 2 years in affordable metros to longer in pricier cities.

DID YOU KNOW?... A new survey found that among buyers and sellers planning to enter the market soon, about 86% think 2026 will be a good year to make their move—and 75% of the agents surveyed agree.

Freddie Mac reported that last week the national average 30-year fixed mortgage rate "moved to its lowest level in 2025...an encouraging sign for potential homebuyers." Remember, mortgage rates can be extremely volatile, so check with your mortgage professional for up-to-the-minute information. 

The first step in the home buying process is to get pre-approved for a mortgage, where a lender reviews your finances and tells you how much they're willing to loan you. You'll know what you can afford, and sellers will know that you're a qualified buyer. We're happy to refer you to a loan officer who can get the process started. 

Now is an opportune time to sell. Mortgage rates are down, so buyer demand has picked up—and buyers are serious at this time of year. Inventory has increased, but there are still fewer listings for you to compete with than there will be in the spring. We’re happy to explore the opportunities with you.