Denise Prough Shorewest Realtors

09/25/2026

09/25/2026

New listings hit a four-year high
As someone who's been deeply rooted in Racine real estate for over 25 years, I keep a close eye on shifts like this: New US housing listings have risen by 8%, marking the highest level since August 2022. Active listings are getting closer to a balanced market, even as pending sales have reached a low point. Mortgage rates remain at 6.66%, putting some pressure on affordability, especially with a 2.2% increase in median prices. My experience has shown that understanding these trends is key to navigating the market with confidence—whether buying, selling, or simply keeping informed.


https://www.roomvu.com/agent-news/denise-prough/1967133-New-listings-hit-a-four-year-high

09/24/2026

Why Buyers and Sellers Are Stuck
I've seen our local market shift many times over my 25+ years in Racine real estate, but the current housing slowdown stands out. With mortgage rates higher than we've gotten used to, many buyers are stepping back, finding it tough to rationalize those monthly payments—so they’re holding off. At the same time, pending sales are tapering off, which tells me fewer folks are making offers after browsing. On the flip side, homeowners who locked in those lower rates aren’t rushing to list, preferring to stick with their current payments rather than start over at today’s rates. The end result is a bit of a standoff: buyers hoping for more affordable options, and sellers hesitant to part with their favorable loans. It all adds up to fewer transactions and a slower market pace than we’ve seen in quite a while.

09/23/2026

U.S. Housing Market Rebalances Slowly
As someone who's spent over 25 years immersed in real estate, I keep a close watch on the rhythms shaping our market. Nationally, active housing inventory is up about 4% from last year, but for the first time in five weeks, that growth has cooled—a hint that the market is rebalancing in a way that's a bit more favorable for buyers, but without a flood of new listings. Homes are sitting on the market for an average of 61 days, which lines up with the typical slowdown we see as late summer transitions into fall. New listings have dipped about 1% compared to last year, landing us close to 2025’s levels. That’s likely a reflection of continued affordability concerns, with some buyers stepping back and many sellers weighing whether it’s the right time to list. The median listing price is now at $419,000—down about 1%—and the price per square foot has slipped to $222, the lowest we’ve seen since early this year. While inventory is growing and higher mortgage rates are giving buyers a bit more negotiating room, the pace remains measured rather than dramatic. In times like these, having deep market knowledge is key to making informed decisions, whether you’re buying or selling.

09/22/2026

Buy and Sell a Home Simultaneously: Strategies for Success
Navigating the process of buying and selling a home at the same time can feel overwhelming. With over 25 years as a full-time real estate broker here in Racine, I’ve seen firsthand how the right strategy makes all the difference. Selling your current home first can help clarify your budget, but it often means arranging for temporary housing. On the other hand, purchasing before selling gives you more time to find the perfect place, though you may end up managing two mortgages for a while. Contingent offers can strike a balance, but they aren’t always attractive to sellers. No matter which path you choose, success comes down to careful planning and a willingness to adapt as the situation unfolds. My deep local expertise helps clients make informed choices and move with confidence through each step.