09/15/2026
Three U.S. Housing Signals for September
As we move into September, the latest housing data reveals some notable shifts for buyers and sellers alike. Pending home sales just turned slightly negative year-over-year, breaking an eight-month streak of gains. With mortgage rates rising from around 6% earlier this year to the high-6% range, buyer energy has understandably cooled, and homes are now taking about 60 days to sell on average.
For those watching the market, it's worth noting that buyers have gained a bit of leverage: the median list price dipped to $424,500, price cuts are now seen on roughly 20% of listings, and delistings have fallen compared to last year. Active inventory is also up about 4%. Yet, even with more options on the market, national inventory remains about 11% below typical pre-pandemic levels—a reminder that the underlying housing shortage is still very real, even as some buyers hesitate.
After four decades serving clients in the Northwest Valley and across the "Valley of the Sun," I find it crucial to keep an eye on seller delistings, pricing strategies, and how regional trends are evolving. Whether you’re considering a move or simply watching the market, understanding these signals can help you make informed decisions in today’s ever-changing landscape.