U.S. housing market: how to read the numbers where you live
There is no single U.S. housing market. Prices, supply and speed change from city to city and street to street. These are the numbers that tell you what is really going on near you.
Six numbers to watch
Median sale price
The middle price of homes that sold. Watch the trend over months, not one week.
Months of supply
How long it would take to sell every home for sale. About six months is often called balanced.
Days on market
How long homes sit before going under contract. Fast means sellers have the edge.
Sale-to-list price
Homes selling over list price favor sellers. Under list favors buyers.
Price cuts
Lots of price cuts mean sellers are feeling pressure.
Mortgage rates
Rates change what buyers can afford each month. What moves rates →
What the numbers mean for you
Your agent pulls these for your exact area and price range, free.
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Buying? How to tell if it is a buyer's market, then get pre-approved.
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Selling? When to list your home and how to price it right.
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Moving states? Relocation buyer's guide.
Local market guides
Housing market questions
Is it a good time to buy a house?
It depends on your local market and your own budget, not national headlines. If the home fits your needs and the full monthly payment fits your budget today, it can be a good time for you. Nobody can reliably predict rates or prices.
Are home prices going down?
Prices move differently in every city and even every neighborhood. Ask a local agent for recent sales in your area and price range to see which way your market is moving.
What is months of supply?
It is how long it would take to sell every home for sale if no new ones were listed. Around six months is often called balanced. Less favors sellers, more favors buyers.
Where can I see prices in my area?
Search homes for sale on this page, or ask a local AXEN agent for a free report on recent sales near you.
NEXA Mortgage, LLC (NMLS #1660690) is the lender; AXEN Realty does not make loans. AXEN Realty and NEXA Mortgage are affiliated companies. You are never required to use NEXA Mortgage or any AXEN-affiliated lender. Compare lenders, and ask your agent for the written Affiliated Business Arrangement Disclosure before you choose. Rates, programs and approval depend on your credit, income, property and lender guidelines. Equal Housing Lender.