If you’ve been waiting for a sign that the housing market is thawing, December quietly delivered one.
According to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), existing-home sales rose 5.1% in December, reaching their highest level in nearly three years. That’s a meaningful shift after a prolonged period of buyer hesitation and slower activity.
Why Home Sales Are Rising Again
The biggest catalyst has been lower mortgage rates.
As rates eased toward the end of 2025, buyers who had been sitting on the sidelines began re-entering the market. Even modest rate improvements can significantly impact monthly payments — and buyer psychology.
When affordability improves, activity follows.
This is especially important because:
- Buyers are no longer waiting for “perfect” conditions
- Many are adjusting expectations and acting when windows open
- Pent-up demand from the past two years is starting to surface
What This Means for Home Sellers
This isn’t a return to the frenzy of 2021 — but it is a return to momentum.
For homeowners considering selling, rising buyer activity matters because:
- More qualified buyers are actively searching
- Homes priced correctly are seeing stronger engagement
- Timing and pricing strategy matter more than ever
Inventory remains relatively tight in many markets, which means sellers who understand current buyer behavior — and price accordingly — are better positioned to capture attention while activity is rising.
Why Pricing Strategy Matters More Than Ever
One of the biggest misconceptions among sellers is assuming that increased buyer activity automatically leads to higher prices.
In reality:
- Buyers are active, but still value-conscious
- Overpriced homes continue to sit
- Well-positioned homes are the ones selling
The recent increase in sales shows buyers are willing to move forward — but only when pricing aligns with market realities.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Housing economists expect that if mortgage rates continue to stabilize, 2026 could bring a healthier, more balanced market — one where both buyers and sellers have opportunities, but strategy matters.
For homeowners, the key takeaway is simple:
Buyer activity is rising — but success depends on timing, pricing, and preparation.
If you’re curious how these national trends apply specifically to your home and your local market, that’s where personalized data makes all the difference.
Thinking About Selling in 2026?
National trends are helpful — but your home’s value depends on what buyers are doing right now in your specific neighborhood, not headlines.
If you’re curious how rising buyer activity, mortgage rates, and current inventory affect your home’s value and timing, I’m happy to walk you through it.
Request a no-pressure home value review
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📅 Schedule a quick strategy call to talk through your options.