As someone who's guided buyers and sellers through changing markets since 1985, I always keep a close eye on home price trends to help you make smart, confident decisions. In July 2026, the U.S. median price for single-family homes reached $418,610—up 3.93% from last year—even as mortgage rates climbed to 6.66%. Washington, D.C. currently tops the list with a median price of $1,342,343. Whether you're preparing to sell, searching for the right home, or considering your options as a senior or downsizer, understanding these numbers can make a real difference in your strategy. My commitment is to keep you informed and protected at every step, so you feel secure in your real estate choices.

As someone who has spent decades guiding home buyers and sellers through the changing real estate landscape, I keep a close eye on metro areas like Columbus, GA-AL, where home prices are showing remarkable resilience and variety. Prices in this region currently span from $57,000 to $393,000, with some communities experiencing declines, yet others have seen impressive growth—up to 13.2% in just one year. Over the past five years, values have climbed by 41.9%, all while mortgage rates have been on the rise. These numbers highlight how dynamic and localized real estate trends can be, and why staying informed is key to making smart decisions about your next move or investment. My approach has always been to protect and guide my clients—especially those navigating big life changes—so they can move forward with confidence, even as the market shifts.

One trend that's important for home buyers and sellers to understand: in Q2 2026, the median price for a new single-family home was $410,700—actually $25,000 less than the median price for existing homes, which stood at $435,700. This might surprise those who assume new always means pricier. This shift is largely due to a tight inventory of existing homes and a move by builders to focus on more modest, affordable new builds, especially in the South and West. As someone who has spent decades guiding clients through these changes—whether you're seeking your first home, downsizing, or exploring new construction—I'm here to help you navigate what these numbers mean for your next move. Smart real estate decisions start with understanding the stories behind the statistics.

Navigating the real estate market can feel overwhelming, especially when economic uncertainty and affordability concerns are making headlines. Recently, sales of new single-family homes dropped by 10.5%, reaching 607,000—the slowest pace since January. Higher mortgage rates and questions about the economy are certainly shaping decisions for both buyers and sellers right now. Inventory has ticked up by 1.9% to 488,000 units, giving us a 9.6-month supply, while the median price has eased by 2.3% to $393,800.

As someone who has guided clients through many market cycles since 1985, I believe informed, careful decisions are always the strongest foundation. Whether you’re considering a move, thinking about new construction, or just trying to understand what these numbers mean for your plans, my focus remains on protecting your interests and providing clarity. Every shift in the market is an opportunity to plan wisely and move forward with confidence.

Navigating the world of first-time homebuyer assistance can feel overwhelming, especially with the wide variety of programs offered across different states. Some states provide generous forgivable loans and grants, while others only offer limited, repayable aid—each with its own set of loan terms, income restrictions, and sometimes even benefits like student debt relief. Having been in real estate since 1985, I know firsthand how important it is for buyers—especially first-timers—to understand these differences early on. My focus has always been to protect and guide my clients, making sure you have the information you need to make wise decisions. If you’re considering your first home purchase in 2026, taking the time to compare your state’s assistance options can make a real difference in your buying journey and your financial peace of mind.

As someone who’s watched the real estate landscape shift over decades in the Northeast Atlanta area, I always keep a close eye on what’s happening with new construction. This August, U.S. home builder sentiment edged up slightly to 35, but it’s clear that builders are still facing real challenges. Economic uncertainty, high mortgage rates, rising construction costs, and increased fuel prices continue to weigh heavily on the industry. To help buyers, many builders are offering price cuts—especially important when inventory is tight and affordability is a concern. When I guide clients through the process of considering a new build, I focus on making sure they know what these numbers mean for their investment and how to navigate today’s unique market pressures with confidence.