Existing-home sales increased by 5.1% in December, according to the “Existing-Home Sales Report” from the National Association of Realtors (Washington, D.C.). Month-over-month sales increased in all regions, while year-over-year sales increased in the South, remained flat in the Midwest and West, and decreased in the Northeast.
“2025 was another tough year for homebuyers, marked by record-high home prices and historically low home sales,” NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun said. “However, in the fourth quarter, conditions began improving, with lower mortgage rates and slower home price growth. December home sales, after adjusting for seasonal factors, were the strongest in nearly three years. The gains were broad-based, with all four major regions improving from the prior month.”
Inventory levels remain tight, Yun noted. “With fewer sellers feeling eager to move, homeowners are taking their time deciding when to list or delist their homes,” he said. “Similar to past years, more inventory is expected to come to market beginning in February."
