Housing Market Stabilizes as Rates Drop Below 6 Percent Amid Winter Recovery cover art

Housing Market Stabilizes as Rates Drop Below 6 Percent Amid Winter Recovery

Housing Market Stabilizes as Rates Drop Below 6 Percent Amid Winter Recovery

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 In the past 48 hours, the US housing market shows signs of stabilization amid winter weather recovery, with mortgage rates easing slightly to 5.997% for 30-year conventional loans as of February 19, down from 6.033% a week earlier.[3] Inventory rose modestly to 690,547 active listings by February 13, up 8.24% year-over-year but below historical norms, while new listings hit 54,324, down from 56,558 last year.[2] Price cuts affected 32.13% of homes, improved from 33% in 2025, signaling buyer sensitivity as demand normalizes post-snowstorms.[2]

Pending sales totaled 59,469 for the week, slightly below 2025's 60,316, though total pendings grew year-over-year before disruptions.[2] Days on market lengthened in areas like D.C., with mid-range homes lingering 30+ days versus a week previously, due to cold snaps delaying construction and showings.[1] Underwater mortgages climbed to 2.1% nationally, up from 1.3% a year ago.[8] Consumer sentiment dipped to 56.6 in February per Michigan data, reflecting economic caution.[11]

No major deals, partnerships, or product launches surfaced in the latest reports. Regulatory shifts include D.C.'s RENTAL Act of 2025, effective December 31, easing evictions and notices, with a proposed two-year rent freeze ballot initiative stirring debate.[1] Leaders like sellers are responding by pulling listings or accepting short sales to avoid losses, as seen in D.C. rowhouses selling 14% below ask.[1]

Compared to early 2026, sales fell 8.4% month-over-month in January, worse than expected, but weekly data now rebounds from weather hits, unlike elevated price cuts earlier.[2][9] Michigan forecasts 3-5% price growth into 2026 amid rising inventory.[5] Overall, high rates near 6% curb activity, but fading disruptions hint at spring upticks if inventory builds seasonally.[2][3]

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