Sales of existing homes in the United States declined in September following a stagnant August.
The National Association of Realtors says that sales fell 3.4% month-over-month and 4.1% year-over-year to 5.37 million (SAAR).
Despite a slight rise in inventory it seems that buyers are cautious about rising mortgage rates and – even with improved choice of homes available – continued tight supply.
"There is a clear shift in the market with another month of rising inventory on a year over year basis, though seasonal factors are leading to a third straight month of declining inventory," said NAR chief economist Lawrence Yun. "Homes will take a bit longer to sell compared to the super-heated fast pace seen earlier this year."
The median price of existing homes for all housing types was up 4.2% year-over-year in September and that means more pressure for first-time buyers, who made up a 32% share of buyers in September, still underwhelming.
"Rising interests rates coupled with increasing home prices are keeping first-time buyers out of the market, but consistent job gains could allow more Americans to enter the market with a steady and measurable rise in inventory," added Yun.
