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The resale market softened in July, but higher prices and tighter inventory keep affordability and borrower expectations front and center.
July existing home sales fell 1.7% to 4.06 million, while the median existing-home price rose 2.0% to $434,100, HousingWire reported on August 11, 2026, citing data from the National Association of Realtors.
Inventory also dipped to 1.54 million, which is the piece loan officers should pay close attention to. Softer closed sales paired with firm prices and less inventory makes buyer counseling more important, especially for clients hoping a slower market automatically means cheaper homes.