Existing-Home Sales Rose 5.1% in December

Washington, DC, January 14, 2026-Existing-home sales increased by 5.1% in December to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.35 million, according to the National Association of Realtors Existing-Home Sales Report. 

This represents a 1.4% increase year over year.

Month-over-month sales increased in all regions. 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,” said NAR chief economist Lawrence Yun. "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 added. "With fewer sellers feeling eager to move, homeowners are taking their time deciding when to list or delist their homes. Similar to past years, more inventory is expected to come to market beginning in February."