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US Home Sales Decline to Slowest Pace in Over a Year

Thursday, September 10, 2026 · 2 sources

Sales of previously occupied US homes decreased in August due to rising mortgage rates and home prices. The National Association of Realtors reported a 2% decline from July to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 3.98 million units.

Sales of previously occupied US homes declined in August to their slowest annual pace in more than a year. The National Association of Realtors said existing home sales fell 2% last month from July to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 3.98 million units. This marks the third straight monthly decline. Rising mortgage rates and home prices have been major factors in the slowdown. The increase in mortgage rates has been partly attributed to the Iran war, which has pushed borrowing costs higher. As a result, home shoppers have been grappling with the higher costs, leading to a decrease in sales. The decline in home sales is a significant indicator of the current state of the US housing market, which has been stymied by the rising costs. The National Association of Realtors' report provides insight into the trends affecting the housing market, including the impact of mortgage rates and home prices on sales.

The housing market has been closely watched in recent months, with many experts analyzing the effects of rising mortgage rates and home prices on sales. The National Association of Realtors' report is a key indicator of the market's performance, and the decline in sales has significant implications for the US economy.

The 50+ takeaway: Rising home prices affect retirement housing plans.

Go Deeper

What is the current state of the US housing market?

The US housing market is currently experiencing a slowdown, with sales of previously occupied homes declining to their slowest annual pace in over a year. This is largely due to rising mortgage rates and home prices.

What has caused the increase in mortgage rates?

The increase in mortgage rates has been partly attributed to the Iran war, which has pushed borrowing costs higher. This has made it more difficult for home shoppers to afford homes, leading to a decline in sales.

How many months has the decline in home sales been occurring?

The decline in home sales has been occurring for three straight months, with the latest decline being 2% from July to August.

What is the seasonally adjusted annual rate of existing home sales?

The seasonally adjusted annual rate of existing home sales is 3.98 million units, according to the National Association of Realtors.

What does the decline in home sales indicate about the US economy?

The decline in home sales has significant implications for the US economy, as the housing market is a key indicator of economic performance. A slowdown in the housing market can have a ripple effect on the overall economy.