09/12/2026
More Homes Hit the Market as Demand Cools
We’re seeing a shift in the housing market: over the four weeks ending August 23, new US listings inched up 0.4% and total homes for sale rose 0.5%, hitting the highest inventory since early Q2. Yet, pending home sales dipped 1.1% to a six-month low, as elevated housing costs kept many buyers on the sidelines, even with more options available. The median US sale price is now up 1.9% year-over-year, tipping past $400K, and mortgage rates are hovering near 7%—the highest in over a year.
For those of us actively investing and brokering in dynamic markets like the Florida Panhandle, these numbers signal opportunity. Softer demand and rising inventory are shifting leverage back to buyers, opening the door to price negotiations and seller concessions—especially on properties that have been listed for several weeks. For sellers, realistic pricing is key; chasing last year’s numbers rarely works in today’s landscape. As always, my approach is rooted in data and long-term value, guiding clients and fellow investors to make confident, strategic moves in this evolving market.
