09/24/2026
US Home Prices Face Real Value Erosion
As we move through the second half of the year, it's clear that home prices across the US are still ticking upward on the surface—even as their true value is quietly eroding. In Q2 2026, nominal home prices continued to rise, but a key federal index showed prices holding steady month-over-month from mid-to-late Q2 after seasonal adjustments. Nationally, annual appreciation reached about 1.5% in late Q2, up slightly from 1% in mid-Q2, but that still trails inflation, which sits near 3.5%. The reality: after inflation, home values have fallen for the 13th month in a row, although slower inflation and firmer nominal gains are softening the blow. Notably, one federal measure has recorded positive annual appreciation every quarter since early 2012, underscoring the resilience of nominal prices even as real purchasing power slips. For those navigating major life transitions—such as divorce, probate, or estate sales—the affordability challenge remains front and center. Rising monthly payments on existing single-family homes continue to squeeze first-time buyers, making strategic guidance and clarity more critical than ever to protect equity and achieve the best possible outcome.
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