U.S. existing home sales are expected to fall in the fourth quarter as mortgage rates climb, according to multiple reports. One outlet projects a downturn in Q4 while citing weakening demand tied to higher borrowing costs. Another reports that sales slow in the most recent monthly data as prospective buyers face a tougher affordability environment.
Outlets also point to the broader context: the housing market has been under strain since 2022, when mortgage rates rose from pandemic-era lows. One source says September marks the second straight month in which the annualized sales pace stays below 4 million, suggesting continued soft conditions. Another notes that sales are down year over year, reflecting the combined impact of higher mortgage rates and rising home prices.
While the specific figures differ by outlet and timeframe (quarterly expectation versus monthly change), all accounts describe a market where elevated mortgage rates and prices suppress transaction activity and keep sentiment weak.
