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Every major region posted year-over-year growth in pending sales for the week ending June 20, even with mortgage rates hovering near 6.6%. That's according to HousingWire's latest market update.
Here are the key takeaways:
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Pending sales grew everywhere — The Midwest led with 9.0% year-over-year growth, followed by the West (8.4%), South (6.9%), and Northeast (4.1%). Nationwide, pending sales rose from 70,352 a year ago to 75,489 as of June 2026.
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National inventory looks flat, but the regional picture is splitting — Active inventory was nearly unchanged from a year ago (+0.25%), masking a significant divergence. The Northeast (+7.2%) and Midwest (+5.5%) are adding supply, while the South (-0.8%) and West (-2.8%) are tightening after leading the inventory recovery over the past two years.
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The South is the market to watch — The region accounts for 55% of all active listings nationwide. Its inventory is now declining modestly year over year, which means if that trend continues, the national inventory picture could shift negative in the second half of 2026.
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The West may be further along in its recovery than most realize — Inventory is falling, pending sales are rising, and the share of listings with price cuts dropped from 38.1% to 36.3% — the biggest improvement of any region.
MY TAKE
Even with all the disruptions and uncertainties we’ve faced this year, homebuyers are still showing up. Pending sales grew across every major region last week, even with mortgage rates hovering near 6.6% — a sign that demand is broader and more resilient than many expected. But the more surprising story is inventory. It's moving in opposite directions: the Northeast and Midwest are finally adding supply after years of shortages, while the South and West are tightening again. That matters because the South alone holds 55% of all active listings, meaning its trajectory will drive the national story in the second half of the year. Watch the South.
Until Next Week,
Ken
P.S. I hope you and your family have a very happy 250th Fourth of July!
P.P.S. If you're reading this weekly market update, it likely means you're also subscribed to my FREE Homebt app. BUT IF YOU'RE NOT ... and you're a homeowner, you should most definitely check it out. Homebot is an awesome AI tool that tracks your home's value, equity, and lots of other cool and helpful stuff.
You can check it out here: www.MyHomesRealMarketValue.com
P.P.P.S. If you're looking to buy a home in the next few months, you'll want to check out my book, 'YOUR STEP BY STEP GUIDE TO BUYING A HOME.' You can find the digital version here, www.KensBuyingSecrets.com.
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