Still, homes are taking longer to sell as inventory floods the market
The United States housing market showed fresh signs of resilience in October, with home sales rising 3.2% year over year across 51 major metro areas, according to the latest REMAX National Housing Report.
It marked the fifth time in 2025 that monthly sales outpaced last year’s levels, defying the usual autumn slowdown and offering hope to mortgage professionals watching for signs of market stability.
While sales activity picked up, homes lingered longer on the market—averaging 50 days, up from 43 a year ago.
Inventory remained elevated, with 15.9% more homes for sale than in October 2024, giving buyers more choices even as the pace of new listings cooled slightly from September.
“October’s numbers show a market that’s adjusting but remains active,” said REMAX CEO Erik Carlson.
“Sales are up compared to last year, prices are steady and inventory is giving buyers more options. While homes are taking longer to sell, that can create opportunities for both sides to negotiate and find the right fit.”
The median sales price reached $445,000, up 2.2% from a year earlier and matching the median listing price for new homes.
Sellers accepted 98% of asking price on average, a slight dip from 99% in October 2024, but unchanged from September.
Among standout markets, Burlington, Vermont saw a 27.5% jump in closed transactions and a 21.6% surge in new listings.
“Sales have climbed year over year while prices have remained stable, and the added inventory has taken some pressure off buyers,” said Rich Garder, Broker/Owner of REMAX North Professionals near Burlington.
“Even with slightly longer days on market, well-priced homes are still moving, and the extra breathing room is creating healthier negotiations for everyone involved.”
Other regions also posted double-digit sales gains, including Honolulu (+20.9%) and Omaha (+20.7%). Meanwhile, some markets, such as Anchorage and Trenton, saw double-digit declines in transactions, highlighting persistent regional disparities.
Mortgage Bankers Association showed mortgage applications remained subdued in October, reflecting ongoing affordability challenges even as inventory improved. However, the US housing market is expected to make incremental progress in 2026, with affordability inching higher and regional differences persisting, according to First American.
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