Existing Home Sales Up 1.5% in September

Higher Inventory Shifts Leverage Toward Buyers

The National Association of Realtors is reporting that existing home sales increased 1.5% in September, 2026 to a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 3.99 million. Total housing inventory at the end of September was 1.60 million units, up 1.9% from August and up 4.6% from one year ago. Unsold inventory sits at a 4.8-month supply at the current sales rate. The median existing-home price for all housing types in September was $417,500 – the 39th consecutive month of year-over-year price increases. The NAR says inventory has improved:

“Higher inventory and lengthening days on market give buyers improved negotiating power. Home sellers need to be realistic about local market conditions, which could require price discounts and other incentives to attract buyers.” Said the NAR’s Chief Economist, Lawrence Yun.