Seeing U.S. active listings rise by 5.6% in late Q3 2026 means buyers finally have a bit more breathing room—a welcome shift after such a tight market! This marks the third month in a row with faster yearly growth, a definite change of pace from late Q2 when annual growth had slowed to just about 2%. (Remember, a year ago, inventory was growing at a whopping 17% rate!)
Even so, national inventory is still a touch under pre-pandemic levels, sitting at 1.16 million active listings—about 5% below the same point in 2019. With mortgage rates and long-term yields at two-year highs, demand has cooled off a bit. As we head into the slower season, buyers are finding a little more room to negotiate. I always encourage my clients to look beyond the headline numbers: if you want a sharper read on supply, try comparing active listings per 1,000 households against the 2018-2019 average. It’s a little detail that can really show whether your local market is above or below the old “normal.”
After years helping folks navigate the ups and downs of real estate (and life!), I know how much having the right info—and a bit of heart—can help you move forward with confidence. Let’s make your next chapter one you’ll love!
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