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2026

Housing demand holds up despite mortgage rates at yearly highs

Weekly pending home sales show positive yearly growth but slowed recently, with last week at 70,209 compared to 69,183 the previous year. Mortgage purchase applications grew year-over-year but slowed from 12% to 5%. Mortgage rates ended the week at 6.64%, influenced by geopolitical tensions raising the 10-year yield near forecast peaks. Housing inventory is rising seasonally but at a slower rate than...

Sell, Hold or Renovate? Key Homeowner Decisions in 2026

The 2026 U.S. housing market is shifting to a cautious recovery with modest price gains, increased inventory, and more balanced buyer-seller conditions. Mortgage rates around 5-6% create a new normal, reducing speculative buying. Homeowners face choices: sell in a slower market, hold with low-rate mortgages, or renovate amid high construction costs. Regional trends and personal needs are key in deciding...

How are people affording houses in today’s market? Expert-backed tips for buyers.

Homebuyers are using strategies like adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs), rate buydowns, and low or no down payment options to afford homes amid high prices and rising mortgage rates. New government insurance rules and family financial help also aid affordability. Multi-generational and alternative housing options, negotiating prices, improving credit scores, and maintaining realistic mortgage rate...

Why San Diego Real Estate Remains a Top Pick in 2026

San Diego offers a booming economy, beaches, and year-round perfect weather. Its tech, biotech, and defense sectors provide high-paying, stable job opportunities. Residents enjoy world-class universities, cultural attractions, and diverse neighborhoods. Retirees benefit from the relaxed coastal lifestyle, healthcare access, and active community. Demand remains...

How to make your offer stand out in a competitive housing market

Spring and summer bring more homebuying options but also increased competition. To improve your chances in a hot market, have mortgage preapproval ready and work with a knowledgeable agent. Understand the market, property, and seller priorities to tailor your offer. Sweeten your bid by increasing earnest money deposits, adding escalation clauses, or offering concessions like paying certain fees or buying...

Buyers finally gain leverage as US home prices stall

U.S. home prices rose just 0.1% month-over-month and 1.9% year-over-year in February, reflecting a cooling market with more sellers than buyers. Buyers had negotiating power, often securing discounts amid limited competition. Mortgage rates hovered around 6%, affecting affordability. Price changes varied locally, with declines in some metros and gains in others. The market favors informed buyers and...

Home Sales, Prices Up in Southland, Statewide

Home sales in Southern California and statewide rose in February due to slightly better mortgage rates, with California's existing single-family home sales up 7% from January but down 0.3% from last year. Median home prices increased 0.9% statewide to $830,370. Prices varied by region, with some areas seeing declines. Mortgage rates recently hit a seven-month high, potentially affecting buyer...

Is Spring the Golden Window for Home Sellers?

Slide 1 April 12–18 is the best week to sell a home. Slide 2 Sellers may earn $26,000 more than at year’s start. Slide 3 Homes sell faster with fewer price cuts during this window. Slide 4 Tech and coastal markets should list earlier in March. Slide 5 Midwest and Northeast markets align with the mid-April peak....

Florida and California Real Estate Offer New Opportunities

Recent data shows significant declines in major markets, with Florida experiencing the largest average drop of $29,400, followed by California at $24,700. These decreases suggest challenges in real estate and economic conditions, possibly reflecting shifts in buyer sentiment and market stability. Stakeholders are advised to monitor these trends closely and consider strategic adjustments in response to...

A stronger spring housing market? Real estate agents think so

Despite a slow winter, 73% of surveyed real estate agents expect a stronger spring market due to pent-up demand. Affordability remains a key challenge, though slightly eased by better mortgage rates. AI adoption is high, with 86% using tools to enhance workflows. Economic concerns, especially job security, cause many clients to delay buying or selling, while geopolitical tensions also impact major...

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