Author: Priya Jacob

September has brought some notable shifts in the U.S. housing market. Pending home sales have dipped slightly compared to last year, ending an impressive eight-month streak of gains. Higher borrowing costs are definitely making buyers pause, and we’re seeing that reflected in contract signings and longer selling timelines—homes now take about 60 days to sell. Mortgage rates have climbed from around 6% in late Q1 to the high-6% range, adding another layer of complexity for buyers and sellers alike.

For those seeking opportunities, there’s good news: buyers have a bit more leverage right now. The median list price has edged down to $424,500, about 20% of active listings have seen price cuts, and delistings are down compared to last year. Active inventory is up by about 4%. Still, even with more homes on the market, national inventory remains about 11% below typical levels from before the pandemic. This speaks to the ongoing housing shortage many of us feel, even as buyers are more hesitant.

As a Realtor who’s passionate about guiding clients through these transitions, I’m closely watching how sellers adjust their pricing strategies and how regional differences may evolve as everyone adapts to the realities of higher mortgage rates. Navigating these changes takes both knowledge and compassion—both of which are at the heart of my approach to real estate.

Homeowner Associations (HOAs) play a major role in the lives of 75.5 million Americans, shaping everything from property values to daily routines. When you purchase in an HOA-governed community, you automatically become a member—taking on responsibilities like paying monthly dues (typically $200–$300 for houses or $300–$400 for condos) and agreeing to a set of rules meant to protect your investment and maintain the community’s quality of life. HOAs are tasked with maintaining landscaping, common areas, roads, and amenities such as pools and parks. They also help resolve disputes and ensure that neighborhood standards are upheld. These associations draw their authority from governing documents, and once the initial development is finished, homeowners are given the opportunity to elect their own board. As someone who has guided many families through the purchase of HOA homes, I believe understanding these basics is essential—both for your peace of mind and your long-term satisfaction. My goal is to make sure my clients feel fully prepared for every aspect of homeownership, including what it means to belong to an HOA community.

Watching the real estate market shift is always fascinating, especially when it means new opportunities for both buyers and sellers. Lately, we've seen new listings in the US rise by 0.4% and the total number of homes for sale tick up by 0.5%, bringing both to their highest levels since late Q1 and mid Q2. At the same time, pending home sales dipped by 1.1%—the lowest in six months—as buyers weighed median prices above $400,000 and weighed the impact of financing costs that remain in the mid-6% range.

These numbers highlight how economic uncertainty and hopes for better rates have some house hunters waiting on the sidelines. But for those active in the market, growing inventory and a softer demand mean there’s more room to negotiate—whether that’s price adjustments, concessions, rate buydowns, or even repairs, especially for homes that have been listed longer.

As someone who believes in guiding clients through the major transitions that come with buying or selling a home, I see this as a window of opportunity. Sellers who price correctly from the start are finding advantages, and buyers willing to act have leverage that hasn't been seen in months. Every move in real estate carries both financial and emotional weight, and thoughtful guidance can make all the difference as the market evolves.

Labor Day in the United States celebrates the contributions of workers everywhere, while also unofficially marking the final big summer weekend before fall takes over.
It’s known for backyard barbecues, road trips, and that classic tradition of buying things you didn’t know you needed because “it’s on sale.”
Beaches, parks, and grills reach peak activity as everyone tries to squeeze every last drop of summer fun out of the long weekend.
Happy Labor Day! Wishing you a fun, easygoing weekend filled with good vibes, great food, and absolutely no thoughts about Monday.