Industry News
Existing-home sales posted a modest increase in February, according to the latest National Association of REALTORS® Existing-Home Sales Report, signaling gradual movement in the housing market as affordability improves and mortgage rates trend lower.
A Small Uptick in Sales
Existing-home sales increased 1.7% month-over-month, reaching a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.09 million in February. Despite the monthly improvement, sales remain 1.4% lower than one year ago, reflecting a market that is still adjusting to higher costs and limited inventory.
Sales activity rose in the Midwest, South, and West, while the Northeast experienced a decline month-over-month.
Inventory Slowly Improving
There’s a lot of industry conversation around “coming soon” listings and private listing networks. NAR this week reaffirmed it doesn’t have a national policy governing “coming soon” listings. Listing rules and marketing parameters are largely set and enforced by local MLSs. In its statement, NAR noted its long-standing support for MLS systems and the role they play in providing broad, transparent access to listing information.
For more information, please visit: https://www.inman.com/2026/03/05/nar-releases-statement-on-coming-soon-listings-and-public-marketing/
Recent industry surveys from Real Estate News and RISMedia show that an overwhelming majority of MLS and association executives broadly align with NAR’s three-year strategic plan and its direction.
Brokerage executives reviewing NAR’s 2025 Annual Report noted progress in modernization, governance reform, and member value initiatives, while emphasizing that sustained execution and tangible results will ultimately define success.
The industry is aligned on direction but focused on delivery. Strengthening communication, implementation support, and measurable member value remains central to maintaining trust across the three-tier system.
The U.S. House of Representatives just passed the Housing for the 21st Century Act, marking a significant step toward addressing the nation’s housing shortage. The legislation takes a comprehensive approach aimed at removing barriers to housing development at all levels of government.