We’re seeing an interesting pattern in the housing market this year: while US home prices continue to rise on paper, their actual purchasing power is quietly slipping. In Q2 2026, home prices climbed nominally, but one key federal index barely budged month-over-month from mid- to late Q2 after seasonal adjustments. Nationally, annual appreciation ticked up to about 1.5% by late Q2—slightly better than the 1% earlier in the quarter, yet still trailing inflation, which hovered near 3.5%. That means, for the 13th consecutive month, real home values (after inflation) have edged down, though the pace has slowed as inflation cools and nominal gains steady. Despite this, one federal measure has recorded positive annual appreciation every quarter since early 2012, highlighting the resilience of nominal pricing even as buyers feel the pinch. As we move into the second half of the year, affordability remains in the spotlight: typical monthly payments on existing single-family homes rose again last quarter, putting more pressure on first-time buyers. With nearly two decades helping clients navigate fluctuating markets in Coastal Georgia, I’m always focused on education and results—especially when it comes to finding the right fit in a shifting landscape.
