You ever notice how talking about the housing market over Thanksgiving dinner is basically a tradition at this point?

This year, in between mashed potatoes and helping my nephew set the table, I fielded a steady stream of questions — from “Why is Aunt Sally’s condo still on the market?” to “Is now a terrible time to buy?”

And here’s the thing: once we got past the headlines and looked at the actual numbers, you could see the tension leave people’s faces. (I swear, one person even looked younger after I showed them the real data.)

So if you’ve been wondering what’s really going on in the housing market — whether you’re thinking about buying, selling, or just staying informed — here’s my Q4 market Q&A, updated with the latest numbers and plain-English context.

So… how’s the market right now?

Let’s zoom out for a second. Nationally, existing home sales ticked up 1.2% in October, according to the National Association of REALTORS®. That brings us to a 4.10 million annual pace — and it’s also 1.7% higher than this time last year.

The median home price hit $415,200, which is a 2.1% increase from 2023.

Inventory remains tight, sitting at 4.4 months of supply. That’s just low enough to keep prices firm, even with interest rates slowing some buyer activity.

Are home values dropping? Should I be worried about equity?

This one comes up a lot, especially after a Zillow report recently claimed that 53% of homes have dipped in value over the past year.

Sounds alarming, right?

Here’s the fuller picture:

• Home values had an explosive run for six years straight. A small step back? Totally normal.

• The average dip from peak values is just 9.7%, which is nowhere near the 27% crash we saw in 2008.

• Only 4.1% of homes are valued below their last purchase price. That means nearly 96% of homeowners still have equity.

• The typical homeowner has seen their home appreciate 67% since they bought it.

So if you're looking at your Zestimate and feeling uneasy — remember, it’s just a moment in time. If you're planning to stay put or sell smart, you're likely in great shape.

I heard foreclosures are rising. Is this another 2008 situation?

You're not wrong — foreclosure activity has increased this year.

In October, there were about 36,766 foreclosure filings, which is up 3% from September and 19% year-over-year.

But here’s the context the headlines leave out:

• We’re climbing from historically low levels.

• Even now, activity is well below pre-pandemic norms.

• Only 3,872 homes were actually repossessed by lenders in October.

• And in some cities, the uptick is due to reporting delays, not a sudden wave of defaults.

That said, I never want to downplay what some families are facing. With insurance, taxes, and basic living costs rising faster than many incomes, it can feel like the market is more fragile than it really is.

🔍If it feels personal: I help homeowners in Brevard who are under pressure make smart, informed choices — whether that’s accessing equity, restructuring a plan, or selling on your terms. If that’s you (or someone you love), don’t hesitate to reach out.

What’s with the 50-year mortgage everyone’s talking about?

You may have seen this floating around online — a 50-year mortgage that promises lower monthly payments.

Sounds like a quick fix, but…

• It’s not legal under current federal rules.

• The Qualified Mortgage (QM) rule caps loans at 30 years.

• Even if it became legal, you'd gain affordability, but lose equity-building power — and pay more in total interest.

So for now? It’s a headline, not a real option. But if something shifts, I’ll let you know.

Can I take my low interest rate with me when I move?

Wouldn’t that be nice?

The idea of “portable mortgages” — carrying your low rate to your next home — is getting more attention. FHFA officials are even studying the concept.

But at the moment:

• Most current mortgages don’t allow for portability.

• Policy changes would be needed to make it happen.

It’s not impossible, but it’s definitely not available… yet.

What’s the outlook for 2026?

The National Association of REALTORS® just shared their latest forecast, and here’s what they expect:

• Existing home sales up 14%

• Home prices rising 3% by end of 2025, and another 4% in 2026

• Mortgage rates easing from 6.7% to closer to 6%

Fun fact: Mortgage applications are already up 31% year-over-year — a clear sign that buyer interest is building.

If you’re picturing your next move, imagine walking into a home you love, knowing you made the decision with confidence and clarity. That future is still very much in reach.

Want to talk through your plans?

Whether you’re buying, selling, downsizing, or just mapping out your next steps, I’m always here to help. There’s no pressure — just real conversations, backed by data, to help you feel informed and supported.

Send me a message if you’re curious about the numbers in your neighborhood, or want to know where you stand.

Sources: NAR, Zillow, ATTOM, BAM1, BAM2, BAM3, BAM4, BAM5