Folchteam

U.S. Sellers Outnumber Buyers by 57.9%
This quarter, the U.S. real estate landscape has taken a notable turn: sellers now outnumber buyers by 57.9%—the biggest gap we’ve seen since 2013. With 1.53 million sellers and 972,300 buyers across the country, the increase in listings (up 3.9% month-over-month, the strongest jump on record) is giving buyers more options and leverage. In fact, three out of five homes sold below their original list price as inventory reached its highest since 2020. Still, affordability remains a challenge, with 30-year mortgage rates staying in the high-6% range and the national median sale price rising 2.2% year-over-year. As a real estate agent who keeps a close eye on these shifts, I’ve noticed more homeowners are feeling comfortable listing their properties now that the mortgage lock-in effect is easing, yet buyer demand remains limited—reflected in a 2% dip in existing-home sales to a 3.98M annual pace. Whether you’re thinking about selling or buying, understanding these dynamics is key to making confident, informed decisions.

US Buyers Navigate 14-Month Cost High
Lately, many homebuyers are feeling the pressure as monthly payments have hit a 14-month high—reaching $2.6K by late Q3. With mortgage costs on the rise and the national median sale price holding strong at around $399K (up about 2% year-over-year), affordability is on everyone’s mind. It’s no surprise that pending sales are staying flat month-over-month and lower compared to last year. I’ve noticed, too, that mortgage-purchase applications have dipped slightly, and while new listings slowed a bit—thanks to holiday timing—they’re still just above where we were at this time in 2025. Sellers are having to be even more strategic: about 21% of active listings cut prices recently. As an agent, I see firsthand how sharper pricing can attract the right buyers, while overpricing tends to give folks pause. On the bright side, inventory has improved slightly, with about 1.5 million homes on the market and supply near four months, though we’re not quite at a balanced market yet. In this environment, thoughtful guidance and market-savvy strategy can make all the difference for buyers and sellers alike.

What can Chicago tell us about real estate in Southern California?
Looking at Chicago’s real estate market offers some valuable perspective on what’s happening here in Southern California. While Chicago benefits from more available land and a stable population—keeping homes relatively affordable—our region continues to face high prices driven by demand outpacing supply. As a local expert with Realty One Group, Inc in Irvine, I see firsthand how these factors shape the challenges of balancing growth, affordability, and sustainable housing in our communities. Understanding these differences can help buyers and sellers make more informed decisions in our unique market.

U.S. Sellers Adjust Prices for Autumn
As we move into autumn, I’m seeing sellers across the country respond to new market realities—median listing prices per square foot have dropped by about 2% year-over-year in mid-Q3, marking ten consecutive months of annual declines. After a stretch of rapid appreciation, many homeowners are rethinking their pricing strategies, making adjustments as we head into the fall season. With higher mortgage rates and ongoing economic uncertainty, I notice that many buyers are taking their time, carefully evaluating their options and crunching the numbers before making a move. This season, sellers are showing more flexibility, often lowering prices to attract qualified buyers before the typical winter slowdown sets in. For those who are pre-approved, there’s a real opportunity right now: with more homes on the market, you can compare options, negotiate terms, and possibly revisit neighborhoods that once felt out of reach. My approach is always centered on listening to your needs and navigating these shifts together to help you find the best fit—whether you’re buying or selling.

I have a lot to say but in a few words, Martin was the right person to help us look for our dream ho...
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Regulation Adds $132K to New Homes
Did you know that government regulations now add about $132,000 to the average new home in the US? As a real estate agent serving Irvine and the surrounding areas, I see firsthand how these extra costs—ranging from updated codes and permits to impact fees, inspections, utility hookups, and required land set-asides—shape what buyers and sellers face in today's market. In fact, code changes alone can add roughly $40,000 per home, and energy requirements tack on another $9,600 to $21,400, often taking decades for homeowners to recoup. What's more, over 90% of developers experience delays averaging seven months, with more than a year sometimes passing between initial zoning and breaking ground. All these regulatory hurdles influence pricing and supply, especially when we're already short about 1.2 million homes nationwide. Whether you're buying or selling, understanding these behind-the-scenes costs is part of making informed decisions—something I always prioritize for my clients.