Existing-Home Sales Increased 1.5% in September, According to NAR Report

Existing-home sales increased 1.5% month-over-month in September 2026 but declined 2.2% year-over-year to 3.99 million units. Rising mortgage rates (6.86%, up from 6.35% a year ago) are reducing buyer qualification, while higher inventory and longer days on market are giving buyers improved negotiating power. The median home price reached $417,500, up 1.3% year-over-year, marking the 39th consecutive month of price increases.