Karen R. Laurence - Realtor

Builders Adapt Homes to Buyer Payments | Watch this video. Then call me to ask questions. I am here to help you have a seamless real estate experience. .
We're seeing a notable adjustment in new home offerings: in Early-Q3 2026, 53% of new single-family homes across the US sold for under $400,000, up from 50% a year earlier. The median price landed at $393,800, and the average remained higher at $508,800. This isn’t a simple price drop—builders have shifted toward more entry-level homes with smaller footprints, while luxury sales continue to influence the average price. Interestingly, homes in the $300K–$399.9K range made up approximately 34% of Early-Q3 sales, up from about 28% in Late-Q2. Meanwhile, the $400K–$1M bracket saw a dip, and properties above $1M gained some ground.

When considering new construction, it’s essential to look beyond the listing price. Factors such as price per square foot, lot size, HOA dues, property taxes, insurance, finishes, builder incentives, appraisal support, and the cash required to close all play a role in the overall value. With ongoing pressure on monthly payments and new-home inventory outpacing resale supply, we can expect builders to keep broadening options below $400K nationwide. Having guided clients through new builds, luxury homes, and transition scenarios for over two decades, I know these market shifts offer both opportunities and challenges—especially for first-time buyers and those navigating complex transitions.

Homebuyers Poised to Enter Market as Affordability Improves
With over two decades immersed in real estate consulting, I’ve seen market cycles shift, but the current landscape is especially challenging for many would-be buyers. The latest data shows that average mortgage payments have climbed to $2,641—the highest in 14 months—driven by escalating home prices and mortgage rates. As a result, pending sales remain low, new listings are declining week by week, and more sellers are adjusting prices to attract buyers. Homes are now taking an average of 46 days to sell. These trends can feel daunting, particularly if you’re navigating a transition, facing probate sales, or helping someone find their first home. My experience working alongside attorneys, guardians, and financial advisors continually reminds me how important it is to approach each situation with both market insight and compassion.

Discover this property for $2,000,000—a great opportunity that truly stands out.

Seller Concessions Reach a New US Peak | Watch this video. Then call me to ask questions. I am here to help you have a seamless real estate experience. .
There’s been a noticeable shift in seller concessions across the U.S. housing market: in the rolling three-month period ending mid-Q3, sellers provided concessions in about 45% of all home sales—the highest mid-Q3 level recorded since at least 2020. That’s a clear uptick from roughly 43% a year ago, signaling that buyers are gaining more leverage as inventory rises and competition softens nationwide. These concessions aren’t just about price cuts; sellers are also assisting with repairs, covering closing costs, or offering mortgage-rate buydowns—creative options that can make a real difference in reducing buyers’ overall costs. In fact, approximately 16% of homes sold in mid-Q3 included both a price reduction and a concession, giving buyers even more ways to manage entry costs. After years consulting on everything from first-time home purchases to probate properties and complex transitions, I’ve seen how a flexible negotiation can help clients move forward with confidence. Today’s market is reshaping deal structures, and it’s essential to understand all the avenues available when planning your next move.

Discover this property for $360,000—a great opportunity that truly stands out.

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