High Prices and Rates Keep Home Sales Near Cycle Lows
Two months ago, existing home sales hit a five-month low.
Two months ago, existing home sales hit a five-month low. Last month’s report showed a minor rebound. This month’s update, released July 23, shows a return to weakness. Sales declined 2.7% in June to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 3.93 million. That leaves activity just above the recent low and still 25% below long-term norms. Year-over-year, sales were unchanged nationally. As has been and continues to be the case, zooming out on the same chart results in an entirely different impression of the home resale market. Sales levels have hovered near 75% of pre-pandemic norms for three years now. “The record high median home price highlights how American homeowners’ wealth continues to grow—a benefit of homeownership,” said NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun. “High mortgage rates are causing home sales to remain stuck at cyclical lows.” Regional Breakdown (Sales and Prices, June 2025) Region Sales (annual rate) MoM Change Median Price YoY Change Northeast 460,000 -8.0% $543,300 +4.2% Midwest 950,000 -4.0% $337,600 +3.4% South 1.81 million -2.2% $374,500 +0.3% West 710,000 +1.4% $636,100 +1.0%
Two months ago, existing home sales hit a five-month low. Last month’s report showed a minor rebound. This month’s update, released July 23, shows a return to weakness. Sales declined 2.7% in June to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 3.93 million... (read more)
Mortgage application activity managed a modest increase last week despite slightly higher rates. The Mortgage Bankers Association’s (MBA) weekly survey showed a 0.8% rise in the seasonally adjusted Composite Index for the week ending July 18, 2025. ... (read more)
It's been a pretty good run for mortgage rates since hitting their most recent highs last Tuesday. Each subsequent day saw a modest improvement. That winning streak finally ended today, but just barely. The average top tier 30yr fixed rate was only 0... (read more)
The analytical theme this week has been to observe the market movement and then go scrambling for justification. Such is the nature of a week without any actionable econ data. This morning's example involves yesterday evening's announcement of ... (read more)
The residential lending industry touches all facets of life, and the best LOs are not focused strictly about mortgages. I start off this Commentary with a note about… pets. Yep. Apparently, shelters are overwhelmed with animals. If you’re looking for... (read more)
Interest rates displayed are national averages and for informational purposes only. Actual rates from lenders may vary based on several factors including, but not limited to, credit worthiness, ability to replay, credit score, down payment, loan term, etc.
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