10/21/2026
Housing Data Gives Buyers More Leverage | The right strategy for the right move-no regrets!
As we approach the close of Q3, the latest housing data is signaling a notable shift in the market dynamic—one that gives buyers a bit more leverage than we've seen in recent years. About 21% of active listings have seen price cuts, and total inventory now exceeds 1.16 million homes. That's within 9% of where we were before the pandemic changed the landscape, offering more options for those searching. Buyer activity continues to be measured, with homes under contract down roughly 4% year-over-year for the second month in a row, reflecting how higher mortgage rates are still shaping affordability and decisions.
The national median list price currently stands at about $419,000, down 1% month-over-month and year-over-year—a trend we’ve watched unfold for nearly a year. Price per square foot has also softened by about 2% compared to last year. Interestingly, sellers are staying engaged: only around 6% of listings have been delisted (holding steady year-over-year), while more homeowners are adjusting their expectations and opening the door to negotiation.
As someone who’s guided clients through many cycles in Central New Jersey, I know that these transitions are about so much more than numbers—they’re about timing, comfort, and finding your sense of home. Whether you’re considering making a move or simply watching the market, the next few months will be telling: Will further price adjustments spark more contracts, or will increased supply and cautious demand continue to define this period of change? I’ll be keeping a close eye, blending data with the human side of real estate, to help my clients feel both informed and at ease.