Home Sales Rise in September 2026 Despite Rising Mortgage Rates

Home sales rose 1.5% in September 2026 to a 3.99 million annual pace despite climbing mortgage rates, but remain 2.2% below last year. Median prices increased 1.3% to $417,500, with more homes for sale and longer market times. Sales rose in the South and West, held steady in the Midwest, and fell in the Northeast. Buyers have more negotiating power, while sellers must price homes competitively and may offer incentives.