Insight
Housing demand tends to soften when mortgage rates are over 6.64%, a threshold that has kept inventory growth small in 2026.
Inventory edges slightly higher year over year as rates rise
Summary
US housing inventory saw a slight year-over-year increase by mid-August 2026, reaching 871,063 homes. Mortgage rates hovering near yearly highs (around 6.64%) continue to dampen demand, impacting new listings and price cuts.
Key takeaway