By the Numbers

Concerns about inflation, the labor market and the health of the U.S. economy at large could push rates higher in the coming weeks and months, economists warn.

Research from Compass’ chief economist points to slow but steady improvement next year, especially if hiring picks up and “shadow inventory” is released.

A divided Fed worried about inflation and the softening jobs market cut short-term interest rates by 25 basis points on Dec. 10 — the third such cut this year.

Investors expect the central bank to cut short-term interest rates by 25 basis points — but the Fed’s economic projections could keep mortgage rates sticky.

Economists say the market “widely expects” another rate cut — but the central bank will be making its next decision without key jobs and inflation data.

With the U.S. economy at a crossroads, real estate economists have differing home sales forecasts for 2026 — but most expect mortgage rates to continue to drop.

Though demand dropped off ahead of Thanksgiving, falling mortgage rates and an uptick in loan applications are good signs for the market’s slow season.

In Q3 of 2025, there was only a $30 difference in the monthly payments for typical new and existing homes, a new report from Realtor.com suggests.

Pending sales increased from September to October, but at the same time, delistings jumped as sellers feared taking a loss or settling for a lower price.

The BLS won’t be releasing any new inflation or jobs data before the Federal Reserve's final meeting of 2025, leaving FOMC members in the fog.

Fannie Mae’s Economic and Strategic Research Group now expects home sales to rise 7.3% in 2026 — a downward revision from earlier forecasts published this fall.

A long-awaited jobs report beat expectations, but unemployment also ticked up. Meanwhile, existing home sales have increased as mortgage rates stabilized.

Home maintenance, the costs of necessary household items and the impact of a home purchase on savings topped the list among recent buyers who did have regrets.

Sellers outnumber buyers by 36.8%, according to a new Redfin report, but affordability challenges remain. However, economists say the market may shift in 2026.

NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun is predicting a 14% rise after three years of sluggish sales — but that largely depends on what happens with mortgage rates.

Transactions should pick up as delayed closings are completed, but economic uncertainty may keep demand subdued. Still, purchase applications jumped last week.

Veterans can afford far fewer homes than they could 10 years ago, but new programs — and savvy agents — can help more veteran buyers get to the closing table.

Americans are putting off marriage, kids and careers until they can afford a home, according to a new report from Coldwell Banker Affiliates.

Cheaper loans aren’t enough to get consumers excited about a market shaken by layoffs, missing data and mixed signals.

Investors accounted for 10.8% of all buyers in Q2 — and some are driving prices up by paying far above the median purchase price, a Realtor.com report found.