In August, inflation increased, posing concerns for consumers, though it is not expected to hinder an impending Federal Reserve interest rate cut due to alarming signals from the labor market. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) report revealed a 2.9% rise in overall inflation compared to the previous year, with core inflation remaining steady at 3.1%. Despite these figures aligning with economists' predictions, the focus shifted to the labor market data, including a significant increase in weekly unemployment filings,
"The algorithm has identified building permits as the most critical economic variable for predicting recessions. And while permits had been holding up reasonably well, as builders supported sales through interest rate buydowns and other incentives, inventories of unsold homes are now high and on the rise," Zandi warned. "In response, builders are pulling back, and permits have started to slump. They are now as low as they've been since the pandemic shutdowns."
The housing market has transitioned to a more balanced state nationally, with a five months' supply reported in June, indicating a shift towards more buyer-friendly conditions as we head into fall. Seven of the top 50 U.S. metros have become buyer's markets, according to the latest report from Realtor.com economists. Miami leads the list with nearly 10 months' supply in June.
August marked the sixth consecutive month of year-over-year increases in U.S. foreclosure activity and the third straight month with double-digit annual growth, said Rob Barber, CEO of ATTOM. While overall levels remain below those seen before the pandemic, the ongoing rise in both foreclosure starts and completions suggests that some homeowners may be experiencing added financial strain in the current high-cost and high-interest-rate environment.
It's where I grew up, and we'd spent years happily raising our family there. We had a great community and liked our kids' schools - we only began thinking about leaving once my husband had to start commuting to downtown Los Angeles for work. It wasn't easy, and the appeal of a lower-cost, slower-paced life began to grow. We set our sights on Tennessee, where a lot of my husband's family lives.
San Antonio stays in the mix for both buyers and sellers, with a market that keeps moving at a steady pace. In July 2025, the median sale price was $275,250, up 2.7% year over year, and homes sold in about 58 days on average. The market is somewhat competitive, earning a Redfin Compete Score™ of 42/100, with listings typically receiving around two offers. From June through August, most Redfin.com users searched to stay within the metro, while 33% looked to move elsewhere.
With year-round warmth and world-famous attractions, Orlando has a lifestyle that appeals to families and professionals alike. The city's housing market is somewhat competitive, and homes usually sell in about 52 days. The median sale price in July 2025 was $433,000-up 4.7% year over year and 14% lower than the national average. For those looking to make a move, Orlando offers an inviting balance of value and pace. Latest Orlando listings
Bond yields tumbled as the weaker-than-expected jobs report raised expectations for rate cuts from the Federal Reserve. That sent the average rate on the 30-year fixed mortgage to the lowest level since October 2024. The steep drop could help shake up the housing market, which has seen a dearth of activity amid high home prices and borrowing costs. After a disappointing spring and summer, the housing market could start to heat up as fall approaches with the latest plunge in mortgage rates.
From corner offices to checkout lines, businesses are scrambling as shaky markets test prices, patience, and loyalty. Tech is still the flashpoint- AI is fueling record demand while doubling as cover for layoffs and financial gymnastics. IPOs are slowly coming back, but only for companies that can prove they've got the growth to back it up. Meanwhile, D.C. drama over tariffs and the Fed is shaking currencies, commodities, and investor confidence.
In 2025, Fairfield's 45014 ZIP code made the list, reflecting how affordable suburban communities near Cincinnati are drawing buyers with value and accessibility. Fairfield ranked No. 43 nationally, with homes selling in a median of 33 days from January through June 2025. That's nearly three weeks faster than the U.S. median of 53 days. The median listing price in Fairfield was $240,000, making it one of the most affordable ZIP codes on this year's list-far below the June 2025 housing market data median of $441,000.
Ashland, Ohio, has earned a place on the Realtor.com® 2025 Hottest ZIP Codes list, standing out as one of the Midwest's most competitive housing markets. Each year, the rankings identify ZIP codes where homes are attracting above-average buyer interest and selling well ahead of the U.S. pace. Article continues below this ad In 2025, Ashland's 44805 ZIP code joined the list, reflecting how this small Ohio city is drawing buyers with affordability, location, and strong community appeal.
Council Bluffs, IA homes for sale have emerged as one of the nation's hottest housing markets, earning a spot on the Realtor.com® 2025 Hottest ZIP Codes list. Each year, the list highlights ZIPs where homes are flying off the market and drawing above-average attention from buyers. In 2025, Council Bluffs ( ZIP 51503) stood out for its quick sales pace and competitive pricing, proving that smaller Midwestern cities can hold their own on the national stage.
Bloomington, IL has landed on the Realtor.com® 2025 Hottest ZIP Codes list, signaling strong buyer interest in the former stomping grounds of President Lincoln. The rankings highlight ZIP codes where listings are drawing outsized attention and moving quickly, even as much of the nation sees a cooler housing market. Bloomington's mix of affordability, steady job opportunities, and small-city amenities has placed it among the most competitive spots in the country for home shoppers. Bloomington buyers are acting fast Bloomington ( ZIP 61704) ranked No. 26 nationally, with homes spending a median of just 31 days on the market between January and June 2025. That's significantly faster than the U.S. median of 53 days during the same period.
Bristol, CT ( ZIP 06010), has secured a prime spot on Realtor.com®'s 2025 Hottest ZIP Codes list, showcasing how this Hartford County city is winning attention from buyers nationwide. Known for its suburban setting, community amenities, and proximity to the Hartford, CT housing market, Bristol blends affordability with convenience-two qualities driving demand in today's high-rate market. Article continues below this ad From January to June 2025, Bristol listings attracted 3.3 times more views per property than the U.S. average and sold in a median of just 30 days.
The fix-and-flip market is experiencing a slowdown, affecting both flippers and average home sellers. Data from John Burns Research and Consulting and Kiavi show a decline in sales, which can be attributed to economic uncertainty, higher mortgage rates, and increased material expenses. Flippers in specific regions like Florida and California face challenges due to high costs and competition, affecting their profitability and ability to secure insurance.
Gen Z and Millennials have largely come of age in a period of high housing costs and volatile mortgage rates, yet they are more likely than older generations to believe conditions will hold steady or even improve. That optimism could be a powerful driver of housing demand in the years ahead, as younger buyers remain motivated to enter the market despite ongoing affordability challenges.
Cleveland's housing market ticked up modestly in July 2025. Home prices rose 0.4% year over year to a median of $128,000, with homes selling in about 29 days on average. There were 369 homes sold in July, down from 384 a year earlier. Redfin Home Trends for Cleveland highlights the popular features buyers want most this season, with fenced yards, front patios, and crown molding ranking among the top trending features helping homes sell faster and above list price.