Keller Williams Real Estate Market Update

As we close out 2025 and step into the new year, the housing market is offering a clearer signal of what lies ahead. In this month’s market update, Ruben Gonzalez and Gabi Brennesholtz break down final 2025 NAR data, revealing a largely flat year for sales and modest price growth with meaningful regional differences. They also unpack year-end employment and inflation trends, discuss what ongoing economic uncertainty means for buyers, and share the latest outlook on mortgage rates as 2026 gets underway.In this episode, you’ll learn:What final 2025 NAR data shows about home sales, prices, and inventory nationwideHow regional price performance varied dramatically across the Northeast, Midwest, South, and WestWhy slower job growth and labor market uncertainty are shaping buyer behaviorHow inflation trends are evolving and what’s still putting pressure on household budgetsWhere mortgage rates stand today and why expectations for major drops remain limitedWhat buyers, sellers, and agents should realistically anticipate as the 2026 market unfolds—------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Timestamps:00:00 Introduction00:45 Final 2025 NAR housing numbers: sales, prices, and inventory01:19 Regional price performance and what’s driving market variation03:04 2026 home sales outlook and the role of pent-up demand04:05 Employment slowdown and how labor market uncertainty impacts buyers06:18 Inflation trends, household costs, and affordability pressures09:48 Mortgage rate movement, forecasts, and what to expect in 202611:48 Policy speculation, election-year headlines, and why buyers shouldn’t waitThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

After a highly anticipated Fed rate cut and a year defined by affordability challenges, 2025 is coming to a close with a clearer picture of where the housing market stands and where it’s headed next. In this month’s market update, Ruben Gonzalez and Gabi Brennesholtz break down the biggest trends of the past year, from rising inventory and regional price shifts to the realities of buyer hesitation. They also unpack the Fed’s latest decision and offer data-driven forecasts to help buyers, sellers, and real estate professionals prepare for 2026.In this episode, you’ll learn:What 2025’s housing data reveals about sales volume, inventory growth, and price trendsWhy affordability remains the defining challenge for buyers and how agents can address itHow the Fed’s recent rate cut impacts short-term loans but not necessarily mortgage ratesWhat a more “hawkish” Fed means for interest rates moving into 2026Why inventory is expected to keep rising and prices to grow modestly next yearHow buyers and agents can strategically position themselves ahead of the 2026 spring market------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Timestamps:00:00 Introduction00:50 Key sales, inventory, and price trends from 202501:47 Regional market differences and the “tale of two markets”02:36 Affordability challenges and evolving buyer and seller strategies05:40 December Fed meeting and what the rate cut really means07:49 Why the Fed’s hawkish tone matters for future rate cuts09:19 2026 forecasts for home sales, inventory, and prices12:30 Strategic advice for buyers and agents heading into the new yearThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

A cooling labor market, rising housing inventory, and growing uncertainty around the Fed’s next move are shaping a complex end to the year for real estate. In this month’s market update, Gabi Brennesholtz and Ruben Gonzalez break down the latest unemployment trends, what October’s existing home sales reveal about buyer behavior, and how affordability challenges are reshaping who’s entering the market. They also dig into NAR’s newest survey insights—from cash buyers to rising down payments—and explain why December’s Fed meeting could trigger meaningful rate volatility.In this episode, you’ll learn:What the latest unemployment and claims data suggest about the labor market’s directionWhy existing home sales remain flat despite easing mortgage rates—and how rising inventory is shifting buyer behaviorHow affordability challenges are pushing the average first-time buyer age to 40 and driving down-payment trends to record highsWhat the NAR’s newest survey reveals about cash buyers, investor participation, and today’s longer buying cyclesWhy December’s Fed meeting is essentially a 50/50 call—and how that uncertainty may impact mortgage-rate volatilityWhat a 50-year mortgage would really mean for buyers, equity, and long-term wealth building_______________________________________________________________________Timestamps:00:00 Introduction & overview of this month’s market update00:51 Unemployment data, claims reports, and what they signal about the labor market03:12 What the Fed will consider in the upcoming meeting and why uncertainty is unusually high04:29 October existing home sales, rising inventory, and regional price trends06:13 NAR survey insights: cash buyers, buyer age, down payments, and shifting buying cycles12:34 Upcoming Fed meeting and what to expect14:21 50-year mortgage question: viability, affordability impact, and long-term wealth concerns17:59 Final takeaways & closing remarksThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

A prolonged government shutdown is creating fresh challenges for the housing market—from delayed closings to missing economic data just as the Fed prepares for another potential rate cut. In this month’s market update, Ruben Gonzalez and Gabi Brennesholtz unpack the real-world impact on homebuyers, sellers, and real estate professionals. From stalled USDA loans to surprising strength in existing home sales, they break down how lower mortgage rates, supply trends, and economic uncertainty are shaping a complicated but opportunity-filled market.In this episode, you’ll learn:How the government shutdown is delaying closings and disrupting flood insurance and USDA lendingWhy conventional and FHA loans remain largely unaffected—and what that means for buyersHow missing data could influence the Fed’s next move and mortgage rate trendsWhy lower mortgage rates are boosting existing home sales even amid broader economic concernsWhat rising inventory and steady prices reveal about the balance between supply and demandHow buyers and real estate professionals can take advantage of today’s “market of the moment”_______________________________________________________________________Timestamps:00:00 Introduction00:47 Government shutdown and what it means for real estate05:33 The Fed’s next move: Missing data and the outlook for another rate cut08:36 Housing data recap: Rising sales, steady prices, and growing inventory11:17 What lower rates mean for Q4 and early 2025 housing activity13:27 Takeaways: Why now may be the right moment for buyers to actThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

Despite a recent dip in mortgage rates and a slight bump in new home sales, many buyers are still sitting on the sidelines—and the uncertainty isn’t just about interest rates. In this episode, Ruben Gonzalez and Gabi Brennesholtz break down what the latest Fed decision signals, how buyer psychology is shaping demand, and why pricing trends are diverging sharply by region. With affordability improving but confidence lagging, this month’s market update is all about finding clarity in a mixed market.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why falling mortgage rates aren’t immediately translating into higher home salesHow the Fed’s recent quarter-point rate cut and labor market concerns are influencing rate movementWhat to watch in the treasury markets for clues about where mortgage rates are headed nextWhy buyer psychology and economic uncertainty continue to limit existing home salesWhere price trends are diverging regionally—and what it means for buyers and investorsHow investors might capitalize on year-end opportunities, including bonus depreciation_______________________________________________________________________Timestamps:00:00 Fed rate cut recap and what it means for the economy02:40 Why mortgage rates don’t move in lockstep with Fed decisions04:11 How treasury markets provide clues about future rate movement07:28 The impact of falling rates on new home sales vs. existing homes10:44 Regional pricing trends and where affordability is improving13:50 Year-end opportunities for investors and motivated buyersThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

Despite a modest uptick in summer sales, year-over-year numbers remain nearly flat—and inventory is quietly building across much of the U.S. In this episode, Ruben Gonzalez and Gabi Brennesholtz unpack the latest housing data and dive into the broader economic forces shaping the market, from elevated mortgage rates and sticky inflation to signs of cooling in the labor market. Whether you're advising clients or planning investments, this conversation explores where to find opportunity amid uncertainty.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why home sales remain sluggish despite a rise in inventory and slight seasonal price adjustmentsHow regional variations—like the Northeast’s resilience and the South’s continued slowdown—are influencing national trendsWhat inflation and labor market data reveal about the economy’s current health and the Fed’s likely next moveHow buyer uncertainty is shaping seller concessions, new construction deals, and investor behaviorWhere real opportunities lie for both seasoned investors and move-up buyers in today’s slower-paced marketWhat to expect from mortgage rates for the rest of the year—and why major shifts likely won’t happen overnight_______________________________________________________________________Timestamps:00:00 Market Update Overview01:44 Regional Pricing Trends06:27 Labor Market Weakness Emerging08:47 Inflation and Fed Policy Outlook11:56 Where Buyers and Investors Can Find Opportunity16:23 What’s Ahead for Mortgage RatesThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

New legislation, shifting buyer behavior, and stubborn mortgage rates are all shaping the real estate landscape. In this episode, Ruben Gonzalez and Gabi Brennesholtz unpack the latest tax bill and its implications for homeowners and investors, explore emerging trends in inventory, price reductions, and new construction, and provide timely guidance for navigating today’s complex market. Whether you're advising clients or considering a move, this episode offers actionable insights to help you stay competitive and informed.In this episode, you’ll learn:What the recent tax bill means for mortgage interest deductions, standard deductions, real estate investors, and homeownersWhy increased inventory and price reductions aren’t necessarily translating into higher home salesHow shifting buyer and seller motivations are driving a rise in delistings and longer days on marketWhat new construction trends reveal about pricing strategy—and how resale homes can stay competitiveHow rising inflation and global tariffs could keep mortgage rates elevated through year-endWhat assumable mortgages are and how they can benefit both buyers and sellers in today’s high-rate environment_______________________________________________________________________Timestamps:00:27 What the new tax bill means for mortgage interest deductions and standard deductions02:19 Key tax benefits for real estate investors, including bonus depreciation and opportunity zones05:23 June housing data: Why home sales remain flat despite rising inventory07:14 The rise in delistings and what it reveals about today’s sellers10:41 How new construction is reshaping local pricing strategies and buyer expectations12:10 Inflation concerns and their impact on mortgage rates and first-time buyer affordabilityThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

Rising inventory and steady mortgage rates are reshaping today’s housing landscape. In this episode, Ruben Gonzalez and Gabi Brennesholtz break down June’s housing data, discuss the Fed’s latest rate projections, and highlight how shifting supply and demand dynamics are creating opportunities—and challenges—for buyers and sellers alike. Whether you're preparing to list or considering a move, this episode delivers timely insights and strategic guidance to help you thrive in a market defined by higher inventory, cautious buyers, and persistent affordability concerns.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why rising inventory isn’t translating into increased home sales—and what that means for market conditionsHow the latest Fed meeting impacts mortgage rate expectations for the rest of 2025What buyers should know about timing, inventory, and long-term affordabilityWhy pricing ahead of the market is now critical for sellersHow to guide contingent buyers and sellers through dual transactions with clarity and strategyThe top communication strategies real estate professionals are using to build confidence amid uncertainty_______________________________________________________________________Timestamps:00:00 Current State of Home Sales & Regional Market Trends03:16 Federal Reserve's Impact on Mortgage Rates09:01 Strategies for Buyers and Sellers in Today's Market14:12 Navigating Contingencies and Equity Challenges17:15 Final Thoughts and Market OutlookThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

As the real estate landscape continues to evolve, more regions are shifting from seller’s markets into buyer-friendly territory. In this episode, Ruben Gonzalez and Gabi Brennesholtz discuss the latest national and regional housing data, identify where inventory is rising fastest, and explore actionable strategies for both buyers and sellers. Whether you're navigating a cooling Sunbelt market or operating in the still-tight Northeast, this episode offers a timely roadmap for success in today’s shifting environment.In this episode, you’ll learn:Which regions are experiencing the sharpest shift toward buyer’s market conditionsHow sellers can adjust pricing and timing strategies to stand out in a more competitive marketWhat “reverse offers” are and how they’re being used to revive buyer interestWhy rising inventory levels are creating new opportunities for motivated buyersWhat’s driving continued mortgage rate volatility and what it means for buyers this yearHow top agents across the country are adapting their marketing, pricing, and communication strategies in response to regional trends_____________________________________________________________Timestamps:00:00 National Market Insights01:48 Regional Market Breakdown08:00 Buyer's Market Strategies & Opportunities16:11 Interest Rates and Their Impact20:08 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

As April unfolds, the ripple effects of market volatility are starting to show. With the stock market on a bit of a rollercoaster and mortgage rates staying stubbornly high, Ruben Gonzalez and guest Joy Powell dig into what it means for home sales, inventory, and the opportunities—and challenges—buyers and sellers are navigating right now.In this episode, you’ll learn:How the recent stock market crash is impacting the real estate marketWhat the unusual activity in the bond market is telling usWhat the March NAR numbers tell us about home sales, prices, and inventoryWhere inventory is rising the fastest across the countryHow buyers and sellers should adjust based on their location and current trendsWhy mortgage rates remain high and what to expect in the months ahead_____________________________________________________________Timestamps:00:00 Introduction to This Month’s Market Update00:30 Stock Market Crash and Real Estate Impact02:02 Unusual Bond Market Activity07:39 Current Home Sales, Prices, and Market Trends13:44 Future of Mortgage Rates and Fed Policy19:00 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsThis podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

As March wraps up, one thing's clear: uncertainty is the theme. From new tariffs to shifting mortgage rates, Ruben Gonzalez and this month's guest host, Jay Papasan, break down how buyers, sellers, and agents are impacted and what to watch as we head into April.In this episode, you'll learn:·       How new tariffs affect the cost of new home construction·       Why a look back at tariff history helps explain what's happening today·       What spring home sales numbers really reveal about market momentum·       Where inventory is rising, which regions are hottest, and how it affects buyers·       Why mid-6% mortgage rates may still be good news for buyers·       How shifts at Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac could reshape lending________________________________________Timestamps:00:00 Introduction to This Month's Market Update00:36 Understanding Tariffs and Their Impact07:18 Historical Context of Tariffs15:13 Current Home Sales and Market Trends21:19 Regional Market Variations25:46 Mortgage Rates and Economic Factors32:38 Conclusion and Market Outlook This podcast is for general informational purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions of the guest represent those of the guest and not Keller Williams Realty, LLC and its affiliates, and should not be construed as financial, economic, legal, tax, or other advice. This podcast is provided without any warranty, or guarantee of its accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or results from using the information.

In this special edition of Keller Williams Real Estate Market Update, we break down the key takeaways from Gary Keller’s Vision Speech at Keller Williams’ annual convention, with Nick Waltman, Chief Accounting Officer. Join Gabi Brennesholtz and Nick Waltman as they discuss:The state of home sales—why 2024 hit a historic low and what’s ahead for 2025The truth about home appreciation and how the 4% trend line impacts buyersMortgage rates, why 6% is the new normal, and how agents can guide clientsThe power of being first—why 81% of sellers hire the first agent they meetWhy younger generations are prioritizing experiences over assets—and how agents can shift the conversationWhy real estate remains one of the best long-term investments despite market uncertaintyThe market is shifting, but opportunity is everywhere. With improving affordability and rising inventory, agents who educate their clients and take action will stay ahead in 2025.

Stay ahead of the rapidly evolving housing market with Keller Williams Real Estate Market Update. Designed for real estate agents, investors, and homeowners, this podcast delivers expert insights, key trends, and timely market data to help you navigate shifts with confidence. Hosted by Ruben Gonzales, Chief Economist at Keller Williams, and Gabi Brennesholtz, KW MAPS Executive Coach, each episode breaks down the numbers, explores the latest news, and provides the context you need to make informed decisions. Tune in monthly wherever you get your podcasts.