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National Housing Market Update – Why Now Might Be the Time to Plan Your Move

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National Housing Market Update – Why Now Might Be the Time to Plan Your Move

As your go-to real estate ally in Brentwood, Franklin, College Grove, and Thompson’s Station, I always say:

“Real estate is hyper-local.”

What’s happening nationally matters — but it never replaces a deep look into your ZIP code, neighborhood, and price point.

Here’s a big-picture national market update with a local reminder baked in. I dig into the data so you can move forward with clarity and confidence about what’s really happening in today’s real estate market.


What the National Data Is Telling Us

Mortgage Rates Eased

Rates have dropped to their lowest level in over a year, giving buyers a meaningful boost in affordability and confidence to re-enter the market.

Affordability Is Improving

With rates easing (around 6.2% nationally) and incomes rising faster than home prices, the typical monthly payment is about 1.5% lower than a year ago — the best affordability we’ve seen all year.

Inventory Remains Steady (but Elevated)

National supply is holding near 860,000 homes, roughly 17% higher than this time last year, signaling a market that’s stable but cautious heading into year-end.

Sales Are Inching Higher

Pending home sales are running 3–5% above last year’s pace, supported by improved affordability and slowly building buyer confidence.

Prices Are Holding Firm

The median contract price sits around $399,000, about 2.3% higher than a year ago. While price-per-square-foot metrics show small declines, overall disciplined pricing continues to stabilize the market.


What This Means for You (and Why It Matters Locally)

For Buyers

This moment offers a unique window of opportunity:

  • More buying power thanks to easing rates
  • More inventory than last year nationally
  • Less competition in many local markets

It’s a great time to explore, compare, and position yourself before the next market surge.

For Sellers

You’re in an ideal position to plan strategically, not rush.
With more inventory, it’s the perfect moment to:

  • Test the market
  • Position your home to stand out
  • Leverage a proven marketing plan (like our Compass 3-Phased Strategy) to capture serious buyers before activity heats up again in 2026

The Local Reality Check

Remember — the national data is a backdrop, not your specific story.

Here in the Nashville / Williamson County / Brentwood area, factors like:

  • School zones
  • Micro-neighborhoods
  • Lot size and finishes
  • Buyer migration patterns

…all play a much bigger role in determining your real estate outcome.

That’s where local expertise makes the difference.


Let’s Strategize Your Next Move

Whether you’re planning to buy, sell, or simply explore your options in Middle Tennessee, I’d love to help you understand how national trends connect to your local market.

Contact: Carrie Prickett, Compass Real Estate
Website: carrieprickett.com
Serving: Brentwood, Franklin, College Grove, and Thompson’s Station