News and Info - ARCHIVE

(Dec. 17, 2025)

📊 Builder Confidence Climbs — But Challenges Remain

U.S. homebuilder sentiment rose to an eight-month high in December as measured by the NAHB index, signaling slight optimism among builders. However, the index is still below the neutral threshold, reflecting ongoing affordability pressure, rising material costs, and a surplus of unsold inventory. Builders are increasingly offering incentives to attract buyers. 

🏢 Commercial Real Estate Activity Shows Strength

Commercial leasing activity remained robust, with notable deals totaling over 65,000 square feet signed at Circle 75 Office Park — a sign that certain segments of the commercial market are still attracting tenant interest. 

📉 Mortgage Rates & Housing Costs

Recent data shows 30-year mortgage rates hovering near 6%, a potential catalyst for refinancing and renewed buying activity as lower borrowing costs take hold. 

📈 Forecast: Buyer-Friendly Market Ahead

Analyses from national housing forecasters suggest that home prices may dip in dozens of U.S. cities in 2026, creating a more balanced and buyer-oriented market — a shift from the tight conditions of recent years. 

🏠 Supply & Seller Behavior Trends

Across many markets, homeowners are pulling listings instead of cutting prices, reflecting seller confidence in maintaining value despite slower demand. This delisting trend has climbed meaningfully compared to last year. 

🌇 Regional Highlights

• New residential development is expanding in rapidly growing areas like the Houston suburbs, where a new 210-unit build-to-rent community is set to launch, underscoring sustained demand for rental inventory. 

• San Diego saw notable declines in home values during 2025, with nearly 78% of homes losing value year-over-year — even as some upscale neighborhoods bucked that trend. 

📍 Bottom Line:

National real estate markets are in transition — mortgage rates easing are helping demand, builder sentiment is modestly improving, and forecasts point toward a more balanced 2026. Still, seller behavior and regional disparities suggest local conditions will continue to shape outcomes for buyers and sellers alike.